n Sandy Graham's shoes, I would have done the same."

There was a half murmur, which seemed like approval.

"And after all," continued Ring, "though Sandy Graham was in fault, he
is not the first man that has been beguiled by a fair face."

"No, no!" was heard from several of the bushrangers.

"I don't wish to speak ill of the dead, but he drew the reins too tight
at times. He forgot that we have rights."

Again there was a murmur of assent. It was evident that he was carrying
his comrades with him.

"I move, therefore, that we pass over Robert Graham's deed as one to
which he was impelled by brotherly affection, and that we restore Sandy
Graham to his place in our ranks, on condition that he does not repeat
the offence. Those who agree with me, hold up their right hands."

All hands were raised except that of Fletcher.

"Release the prisoner," said Ring, turning to the two attendants.

Instantly the rope was cut, the dark cloth was removed, and Sandy
Graham, a tall, athletic, good-looking fellow, stepped forth, his face
pale from the terrible strain to which he had been subjected.

"Comrades, brothers," he said, in a voice indicating deep emotion, "I
thank you for giving me back my life. It shall be devoted to your
service."

The first to press forward, and grasp his hand convulsively was his
brother, Robert Graham.

"Robert," said Sandy, "but for your brave act I should have been lying
dead instead of him," and he pointed, with a shudder, to the dead
captain.

"For your sake, Sandy," said Robert solemnly, "I have shed human blood.
To save your life, I have become a murderer."

"No, Robert, you cannot be called that any more than if you had shed
blood in self-defence."

Their conversation was interrupted by Rupert Ring.

"Comrades," he said, "the captain is dead. We can do nothing without a
leader. We should appoint one at once."

Here Fletcher pushed forward.

"I am the oldest in service among you," he said. "I was the trusted
friend of Captain Stockton. I submit that I have the best claim to be
your leader."

But among bushrangers, as in other communities, the man who is the most
anxious to secure office is very apt to be left in the lurch. Now, it
happened that Fletcher was by no means a favorite in the band. He was
sly and sneaking in his methods, currying favor with the captain, even
at the expense of manliness and self-respect, and there were serious
doubts as to his courage. If he had bee