Presently he heard a voice he recognised as that of Jim Peetree, saying: 'This is the spot, boss; I've seen him here scores o' times.

If he ain't here I give it up.' Dick heard the jingle of spurs, and an authoritative voice.
'Search all about amongst the scrub and the rocks.

Keep my horse ready in case the boy makes a bolt for it.' There were three or four men, Peterson and McKnight amongst them.

They searched industriously, coming pretty close to Dick's hiding place more than once.
'We should have let the other lad go and have followed him,' said the authoritative voice.

'Fancy three troopers being kept a whole day and half the night dancing after a bit of a kid.' Dick's heart thrilled at this.
'Well, he's not here, that's certain sure,' said Peterson.