The Yarraman Mercury printed a special paper this mornin', with all about the outbreak of a new gang o' bushrangers in great big type, an' every one's near mad about it, 'sept those what's laughin'.' The boys gazed at each other for a few moments in silence.

It took some time to grasp the astounding facts.

They were real bushrangers, their escapades had been printed in the papers, they were actually being pursued by bona fide troopers on flesh-and-blood horses--what more could ambitious youth demand?
Dick's unconquerable romanticism upheld him; he had achieved distinction, and the prospect of deluding and outwitting the police after the manner of his most brilliant heroes filled him with delight; but Billy Peterson was awed and out of spirits.
'It's all right, Billy,' said Dick, 'they'll never find us here.

We can defy 'em all fer weeks.' 'Yes,' said Billy bitterly, 'but I'm hungry!' 'You didn't bring no crib, Parrot.' Dick had made it a rule that the necessities of a shareholder temporarily in difficulties and hiding in the mine were to be attended to by the free members of the Company or others who, like Parrot Cann, were admitted to the Company's councils.
'Wasn't game,' answered Parrot; 'they'd 'a' watched me.

Had to sneak away as it was.' Dick puckered his face wisely.