kily, "although I don't see how we are ever to get back to town if we
lose our animals. I wouldn't walk to Ballarat for half of Australia."

"Can't we manage to make the horses walk the bridge, and keep them on
the island with us?" I asked.

"A good idea," cried the red-haired genius, suddenly starting up, "and
the only wonder is I never thought of it. There is some danger in the
attempt, but nothing compared to stealing a body in a graveyard in the
heart of London."

CHAPTER LXX.

THE GHOST AND THE BUSHRANGERS.

The shepherd, who seemed to weigh all emotions by the scale of a body
snatcher, appeared to be delighted at the prospect of enjoying a little
excitement, and began to examine the priming of his long gun with a
degree of attention that showed how much reliance he intended placing
upon it in case of emergency.

"I look upon you two coveys in the light of visitors to my possessions,
and my honor is engaged to see that you come to no harm," cried the
undertaker's apprentice, with a wave of his right hand, as dignified as
though he owned the many acres indicated, instead of receiving only
about fifty pounds per annum, not including his sugar and coffee.

I think that I expressed a proper degree of gratitude for the shepherd's
promised protection, but I intimated that I had lived long enough in
Australia to learn how to protect myself.

"Never you mind that," continued the red-haired man, busying himself
with the bullock's head. "I shan't be wanting if a little fighting is to
be done."

"Then lend us your aid in leading the horses over the bridge, and don't
let us lose time in debating the project," I said, preparing to
undertake the expedition in company with Mr. Brown.

"Don't be in a hurry. Wait for me, 'cos I'm the most important one here
at present," continued Day, still working over the head which had so
frightened my friend and myself.

"If you think that your presence is so necessary, we will convince you
to the contrary by going without you," replied Mr. Brown, rather tartly.

"There you go," exclaimed the fellow, with perfect composure; "when I
intend to do all that I can to save you coveys from being shot and then
hung, you get as mad as foaming beer, and don't want to listen to
reason. Be guided by me, and things will come out all right."

"I am not so sure of that," I replied, with an incredulous air.

"Seeing is believing then. You ain't got some strings in your pocket,
have you