The Bushranger of Van Diemen's Land (Volume 1) (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1846. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... chapter ii. suspicion and distrust breed fear and treachery. They had not proceeded far before they came to a huge blue gum-tree, on which was fastened, by a wooden pin, another copy of the proclamation which the Bushranger and his companion had seen at the entrance of the cave. Grough read it over again, and seemed to dwell rather meditatively on the reward of "dollars" and "pardon."--Brandon marked his fellow's look, but said nothing. The sight of this second handbill, however, made Brandon for the moment more suspicious Vol. m. c of other enemies than of his companion, and he looked about uneasily: --"The enemy seems to be on this track," he said; "we must shift a little more to the coast." Grough was rather inclined to proceed in a northerly direction towards the town; but this manoeuvre was gently opposed by Brandon. They continued their course to the coast, therefore, for about half a mile, when, fastened on a peppermint tree, they beheld another copy of the Governor's proclamation. Grough cast his eyes round on all sides with an odd and doubtful expression: Brandon looked to the primings of his fowling-piece, and kept to the right of Grough so that his barrel thrown over his left arm might naturally point towards his companion. "Proclamations seem to grow in these parts," remarked Grough. "I don't think this is the best way for us after all," said Brandon. "They will be looking out for me near the coast." "And for me too." "And for you too," repeated Brandon, thoughtfully. Turning sharp round, he retraced his steps, with Grough by his side. He thought that his comrade seemed inclined to stick to him more than ever.--But he was determined to follow out his own plan. He then made a start in the direction of the north-west, keeping ...