Barrett was the first to appear and soon after, his four associates emerged from the bush. Dickie rubbed his jaw where he had been struck, even through his beard a red welt was evidence of the blow. His jacket hung awkwardly, shredded by knives and a thin smear of blood stained his shirt from his abdomen. With suspicion, the men approached the hut. Missy, who sat on her log, puffed away on her pipe with calm and unconcern as Barrett walked towards her. His eyes blazed in anger.

"What ...