They were fortunate enough to reach the station fifteen minutes before the eastern train departed.
Herbert bought a ticket for Columbus, fifty miles distant, and entered the train.
“Good-by, Herbert,” said Ralph, from the platform.
“Good-by,” said Herbert. “Thank you for all your kindness to me. Shall I not see you again?”
“I do not know,” said Ralph, musing. “I have no wish nor intention of going to New York at present, yet I have a feeling that we shall meet again.”
“I hope it may be so,” said Herbert. “I shall be glad to see you again.”
While he spoke the shrill sound of the railway whistle was heard, the train started, and Herbert was fairly off on his journey.
Just as he was leaving the depot, a wagon drove hastily up to the station, and Abner Holden jumped out. Herbert saw him as he looked from the window, and for a moment he was apprehensive, but the train was fairly on the way.
“Stop! stop!” vociferated Abner. “Stop, I say!” for he had also caught sight of his bound boy on the way to freedom.
“You don't think they will stop the train for you, you fool!” said a man standing by. “You ought to have come sooner if you wanted to go by this train.”