As promised, a negro was dispatched after to take charge of his horse, and for some time we all listened in great anxiety. If Bradley should miss the boat, he would be sure to come back to the house and perhaps remain there waiting for another. This would be a serious interference with our plans, and might end in altogether defeating them, by his discovering of our presence upon the plantation!
It was a pleasant sound, that continued hissing of steam, that came borne upon the breeze from the direction of the river.
It told us that the boat was laying to, to take on board a passenger, who could be no other than Nat Bradley.
This was soon after confirmed by the return of his horse, ridden by the darky with the saddle stripped of its bags.
The planter pirate had posted to New Orleans to dispose of his late capture, perfectly unsuspicious that the owner was so near, and at the same time taking measures for the recovery of the spoil.
CHAPTER XXIV.
THE WHITE KERCHIEF.
While thanking the Yazoo City for having so opportunely disembarrassed us of the presence of Nat Bradley, we felt that he must be followed as speedily as possible.
If the flat had been taken on direct after leaving Devil's Island—and in all likelihood it had—it should reach New Orleans in four days at the furthest. Its crew would convey it as fast as possible, knowing the danger of delay. They could assist the current with a pair of sweeps, with which the craft was provided.