through the bush, when unexpected assistance appeared; for two fleet dogs passed in full chase and were soon alongside the wounded emu. One of the dogs being a young one, fell into the same error as Hugh, and was soon rendered hors-de-combat by a kick; the other dog, more experienced, still continued the chase, and in the excitement of it, Hugh soon forgot his accident. The old dog headed the bird, turned it, and running alongside, brought it again near the travellers. When both dog and bird were nearly exhausted, with a sudden spring the dog made a snap at the neck of the emu, and in a moment or two it lay dead.
The friends were congratulating themselves on their success, when they observed a human form slinking about amongst the trees, and evidently not caring to approach them nearer.
"The owner of the dogs, I expect," said Slinger; "he must have his share of the spoil. Come on friend," shouted Slinger encouragingly, as he observed the stranger hesitated;—"come on; we are not cannibals."
"What the devil do you mean by trespassing on my ground?" roared the stranger.
This was a novel question to be propounded in a district where the only landmarks were provided by nature, such as a range of hills or a river, and both Hugh and Slinger could not refrain from a good laugh.
"Ah you may laugh," cried the stranger; "but I should jest like to know who you are—I jest should; and what you are doing in these parts."
"Now I'll tell you," said Slinger, "we are looking for a cattle run, and we want to find a Mr. Dodge's station."
"Oh! you want to beat up the quarters of that respectable old gentleman, do you?" said the stranger ironically; and after taking another scrutiny, he sidled up to the sportsmen.
