_Hfff_!" He drew in his breath, making a peculiar sound, and then, as if satisfied with the course he meant to pursue, he went back to the fire and continued his preparations for his meal, apparently paying no heed to the party of mounted police till they cantered up and came to a halt by the wagon.
"Hallo, constables!" cried Anson boisterously; "who'd have thought of seeing--Why, it's you, Mr Norton!" "Yes," said the superintendent.

"You seem surprised!" "Why, of course I am.

Got something on the way?
Anyone been smuggling stones ?" "Yes," said the officer shortly.
"Sorry for them then, for I suppose you mean to catch 'em." "I do," said the officer warningly.
"That's right; I'm just going to have some breakfast: will you have a snack with me ?" "No, thank you.

I'm on business." "Ah, you are a busy man, Mr Norton; but let bygones be bygones.

Have a snack with me! You're welcome." "I told you I was on business, Master Anson.