hen it was possible,
and were, sometimes, not overscrupulous in their transactions.

It was the effect of a system which belonged exclusively to Australia,
and the jealousy of a government that did not recognize talent unless
backed by influence. The police were not looked upon as men of character
and trust; and they retaliated by making money as fast as possible, so
that they could leave the force, and enter into business more in
accordance with the feelings of gentlemen.

We hinted to the inspector our opinion, and he frankly acknowledged that
such was the case, but he offered a plea in extenuation.

Mr. Brown had become so interested in his subject that his bodily pains
were forgotten. We should have been willing to have listened to him for
hours, for his remarks showed a good knowledge of the country, and what
it required to make it great and prosperous; but we were close to
Ballarat, and issuing from the town we saw a squad of mounted police,
who quickened their pace when they saw us.

"I will wager an ounce of gold that my men have become alarmed at my
prolonged absence, and are just starting in search of me," said the
inspector.

The surmise was correct, for Mr. Brown had left word that he should be
back by noon, and it was now past three o'clock.

The guard of police looked surprised when they saw their chief, who
certainly appeared somewhat the worse for his trip; but their discipline
was too good to permit them to ask questions, although I could see that
they were anxious to.

"I have met with a slight accident, men," Mr. Brown said, after
exchanging a word with the sergeant of the corps, "and to these two
gentlemen am I indebted for my life. Look at them well, and remember
that they are my friends for life, and if you can ever benefit them in
any way, you are to do it. They are Americans, and strangers in
Ballarat, and must be protected in their business if every other firm is
ruined.

"Jackson," the inspector said, "get a team, and take six men with you,
and proceed immediately to 'Snake Paradise.' In the ravine you will find
two wounded and two dead bushrangers. Bury the latter, and bring the
former to the prison, where their injuries can be attended to. Lose no
time, but start immediately."

The corporal addressed as Jackson stopped only long enough to detail six
men, when he starred towards the town at a brisk gallop, which raised a
cloud of dust that resembled a fog bank.

"Two of you take t