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Constable
Michael Scanlon was chosen by Kennedy as his
second in charge. “Kennedy
took good care in organising the party. His first choice was an
old comrade, Mounted Constable Michael Scanlon, a former prospector
and crack shot who knew the Mansfield country. Scanlon was temporarily
relieved at Mooroopna. Constable Lonigan, of Violet Town, the one
who had grabbed Ned’s testicles in the bootmaker’s
shop, was included because he knew the Kellys. Constable McIntyre,
an Orangeman who had a reputation as a camp cook, made the fourth
member of the party. Disguised as prospectors, the four troopers
set out with considerable secrecy from Mansfield on Friday morning,
25 October. Kennedy
and Scanlon evidently decided to split the reward, for they said
nothing of any plan, but instead vacated camp at six the next morning,
leaving Lonigan and McIntyre to keep watch and prevent their mounts
from straying.” |