Finders keepers losers weepers

Ephraim had acquired some tools and whether by fair means or foul it is impossible to tell. A witness has given evidence that they were purchased but there were witnesses of doubtful honesty at Stringy Bark Forest. He was very lucky to get away with this, it being only three days after his previous court appearance. These would have been very useful tools for cutting  and smoothing timber and would have been put to good use.
In a remote area, Ephraim had been gaining reputation rather on the shady side. Either the police were being very vigilant or he was on their list for regular surveillance.