about
six o'clock
`` On , on , we went , urging our panting , tired beasts without mercy ; and just as we thought we should have to halt , to allow the animals a resting spell , we reached the large cattle station of Witon Martells . Here we found every thing in confusion ; and although usually half a dozen men were employed at the station , only two came out to greet us , and they wore frightened visages . `` We soon heard their story . The murderers had rode up to the hut about six o'clock the evening before , and wished to exchange horses . The stockmen refused ; and hardly were the words from their mouths before one of the convicts drew a revolver , and fired upon those standing in front of him ; and while he was thus amusing himself , his companion sat on his horse , and laughed to see those not instantly killed endeavor to get away ! Three men fell under the fire , and hardly knew what caused their death , it was so sudden . One man , mortally wounded , was just dying as we rode up ; and the two that came to greet us had saved their lives by taking to their heels , and entering the bush .