I addressed myself directly to Captain Clarke:
"My uncle has forwarded me letters from home, requiring my presence there as shortly as possible. The letters do not enlighten me as to the reasons for haste, and I am naturally beset with some misgivings, but I hope all is well with my family."
My captain smiled inscrutably.
"Set your anxieties at rest, my lad. I also found a letter awaiting me from your father. It explains the reasons for haste, but wishes them kept from you for the present; but they are of the most agreeable nature, and all is well at home."
I was greatly relieved, and so expressed myself.
"But why start immediately?" my captain continued. "You will have to wait for a boat, and the waiting had best be done here."
"I have found one, sir," I answered. "It is expected up the river this afternoon, and goes as far as Clarksville. My instructions are to go by way of Washington, and call on Mr. Jefferson, so nothing could suit me better, for I find the road from Clarksville to Washington is comparatively short, and the boat is a small keel-boat and likely to make good time."
"Well, well!" said my captain, pleasantly, "you must have been hard at work to find out all this between landing and dinner; but I know the reasons for haste are imperative, and you are quite right to set off at once."
Then suddenly mademoiselle spoke up:
"Mon Capitaine, if monsieur is going just where I must go, why do not I and Clotilde go with him?"