"That's for Dick at this end. Now for another at the other end," and he sat down and wrote:
"I am very much obliged by your coming. Did you ever hear of a case in which a swindler was swindled? This is one. Remember honesty is the best policy.
"The first I will post to-night, and the second I will leave at the hotel to be called for."
About eight o'clock Terence turned up, and reported having shadowed Dick first to the Telegraph office, then to the Gaiety, and out to the Cumberland, before he came back to the stand. This seemed satisfactory news to the boys, and they again tipped Terence, and after giving him a few further instructions, let him go.
They found the _Pateena_ was advertised to leave at noon for Launceston, and were successful in securing a couple of good berths. In the midst of their packing the following morning, it flashed upon Hal that he had made no arrangements whereby Terence could communicate with them, so they walked towards his stand, but finding both Dick and Terence there, they passed on. As a young urchin calling out "Monthly Guide" passed by them, Reg stopped him, and told him to follow them to the hotel.
Shortly after the youngster joined them, and Hal gave him a note for Terence, instructing him where to write.
"Take this," he said, "to the second cab on the stand, with the black horse, No. 1974, and here's a shilling for you."
"Eight you are, boss; but I suppose yer going to shout."
"Certainly, what will you have--lemonade, ginger-pop?--"
"Go along with yer. A glass of beer, and not too much froth on it is my style. Ginger-pop, indeed! Do you take me for a temperance lecturer? Here's to yer, governor. I'll fix yer note for yer: never fear. Good-day."
"Now we can catch the boat nicely, Reg," said Hal, when they had done laughing over this depraved juvenile.
"I say," said Reg. "Did it strike you that Wyck might have crossed in the same boat? We may be able to pick up something from some of the officers. I suppose we are free from the 'lords in disguise' business this time?"
"We can feel safe on that score. The Tasmanians are too slow to trouble about us; and not only that, but it might be dangerous to mention it."
"What time do you expect to make Launceston, Mr. Wilson?" asked Hal, of the chief officer of the _Pateena_ during his watch.