When Scobell entered the structure which the stranger had left, he found that it comprised but a single room, and immediately proceeded to make a thorough examination of its interior. A small fire-place on one side, which showed no signs of having been recently used, and a number of benches, were scattered about. In the corner of the room he saw the pack and several articles that had been worn by the peddler, which left no further room for doubt in his mind as to the character of the individual he had been watching for so long a time.
He accordingly set out for Glendale, where he arrived just as the sun was sinking behind the western horizon. He narrated the particulars of his chase to Mrs. Lawton, who was convinced that the peddler was a rebel spy; but the question was—Was he upon their track? Did he suspect them? and if so, by what means had he discovered who they were and what their destination was?
Without attempting to settle these questions, however, they concluded to set out at once for the landing. The horses were brought to the door by Uncle Gallus, who was closely questioned as to whether a horseman answering the description given by Scobell had passed through the village that afternoon, did not remember having seen such a person. Believing that possibly the man might really have gone on to Richmond they concluded to start that night and hazard the consequences.
Both of them were well armed and were therefore fully prepared to defend themselves, unless attacked by numbers. They rode swiftly along at the free and sweeping gallop for which the southern saddle-horses are so famous, and feeling quite secure, they conversed pleasantly together on their way.
"I guess we will get through all right, notwithstanding our fears to the contrary," said Mrs. Lawton.
"I dunno about that," replied Scobell; "we're not through with our journey yet, and there's plenty of time for trouble yet. Perhaps we had better walk the horses a spell."
"That is a good suggestion," assented Mrs. Lawton, "we will walk them a mile or two, and then we will be enabled to go the faster."
"I tell you, missus," said Scobell, "I wish we was at the landin'; somehow I feel that there is yet danger ahead."
"What makes you think so?" inquired Mrs. Lawton.
"Well, I am afraid that confounded peddler will turn up before we get through."