noon
Mr. Brown had become so interested in his subject that his bodily pains were forgotten . We should have been willing to have listened to him for hours , for his remarks showed a good knowledge of the country , and what it required to make it great and prosperous ; but we were close to Ballarat , and issuing from the town we saw a squad of mounted police , who quickened their pace when they saw us . `` I will wager an ounce of gold that my men have become alarmed at my prolonged absence , and are just starting in search of me , '' said the inspector . The surmise was correct , for Mr. Brown had left word that he should be back by noon , and it was now past three o'clock . The guard of police looked surprised when they saw their chief , who certainly appeared somewhat the worse for his trip ; but their discipline was too good to permit them to ask questions , although I could see that they were anxious to . `` I have met with a slight accident , men , '' Mr. Brown said , after exchanging a word with the sergeant of the corps , `` and to these two gentlemen am I indebted for my life . Look at them well , and remember that they are my friends for life , and if you can ever benefit them in any way , you are to do it .