"Of course he is. What would he make by proving false to us?"
"Nothing, that I can see. Still, if he should do so, it might upset our plans. The boy could afford to pay him well for releasing him."
"That is true," returned Brown, thoughtfully. "On all accounts it will be necessary for us to expedite matters. I sha'n't waste any time once we are in St. Louis."
"You mean in disposing of the cargo?"
"Precisely. I am in no position to haggle about prices. I'll offer it at a bargain to some large dealer. He will naturally think I'm a country gentleman, and clinch the bargain at once. Do you see?"
"Yes, Brown. You've got the right idea."
"Of course I have," said Brown, complacently. "It takes a long head to outwit me. Got another cigar, Minton?"
Minton drew out one and handed to his confederate, and presently took his turn at the rudder.
So time passed, the boat making good progress, and about three o'clock in the afternoon the boat reached an obscure pier in the lower part of St. Louis.
There were some interested persons watching its arrival. Among them were Bob and his friend Clip, and a small squad of policemen. Not suspecting anything, Brown and Minton busied themselves in bringing the boat to anchor. Meanwhile Bob, without being observed, stepped aboard.