Clip took a broom and began to sweep energetically. Bob could not explain this sudden fit of industry till he saw Clip slyly slip the broom between Wolverton's legs as he was hurrying along, thereby upsetting the unfortunate agent, who tumbled sprawling on the deck.
"Why, you black imp!" he exclaimed, furiously, as he picked himself up, "what made you do that?"
"Couldn't help it, Massa Wolverton! I 'clare to gracious I couldn't!" said Clip, rolling his eyes in a most wonderful manner. "Are you hurt, Massa Wolverton?"
"I most broke my knee!" growled Wolverton, as he rose and limped towards the other end of the boat. "I may be laid up for a week."
"It was de ol' broom did it," said Clip, innocently. "Never see such a broom!"
Bob had hard work to keep a straight face, as he heard Clip's odd accusation against the unoffending broom.
This accident seemed to dampen Wolverton's enthusiasm, and the pain in his knee increasing made him desirous of getting home as soon as possible. Besides, he began to suspect that he was on a wrong scent, as he had thus far found no traces of his runaway nephew. He never once noticed the barrel, over which the piece of sail-cloth had been thrown so carelessly.
"Well, did you find Sam?" asked Bob, composedly.
"No!" snapped Wolverton.
"I seed him jest before you came, Massa Wolverton," said Clip.