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Captain Thockmorton informs me that he will be prepared to depart within an hour. You can be ready in that time?" I smiled. "In much less. I have little with me but a field kit, sir. It will not require long to pack that." "Then return here at the first whistle, and the letters will be ready for you. That will be all now." I turned toward the door, but paused irresolutely.
The very fact that no effort was made to stop was sufficient proof that Thockmorton in the wheelhouse remained unconscious of what had occurred on the deck below. My fate might never be discovered, or suspected. I was alone, submerged in the great river, the stars overhead alone piercing the night shadows.
"My grandfather arrived at Beaucaire Landing during the old French regime; but doubtless you know all this?" "No, Judge," I answered, recognizing the egotism of the man, but believing frankness to be the best policy. "This happens to be my first trip on the upper river, and I merely chanced to know your name because you had been pointed out to me by Captain Thockmorton.
"Listen, men," and I fronted them, looking straight into their eyes. "You have a right to ask that question, and I'll tell you who I am. I am not here in uniform, but I am an officer of the United States Army. Captain Thockmorton will vouch for that. I pledge you my word that this affair does not end here.
I had not been close enough to observe Beaucaire, or glimpse his character, while the presence of a gambler on the boat was no such novelty in those days as to chain my attention. Indeed, these individuals were everywhere, a recognized institution, and, as Thockmorton had intimated, the planter himself was fully conversant with the game, and quite able to protect himself.
Then what is it we ought to do? Why I say, make the thief disgorge and hanging won't do the business." "Well then, what will?" "I confess I do not yet know. I want to talk with Thockmorton first. He may know something." There was a moment's silence, then a suspicious voice, "Who the hell are you? How do we know you ain't in on this yerself?"
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