As it was probable that Miss Collingsby would be compelled to sleep on board, I satisfied myself that everything in and about the berths was in good order. I took a pair of rifles from one of them, where Mr. Waterford kept them for his hunting trips, and set them up near the companion-way. While I was about it, I explored the cabin in order to ascertain its resources. I found almost everything there which could make the voyagers on the lake happy and comfortable. There was plenty of whiskey and wine, as well as other liquors, which could possibly make the owner happy; but they had no allurements to me.
Having finished my examination, I went on deck, and relieved Marian at the helm, though she declared that she was not tired. I thought it best for her to save her strength, for I did not know what she might be called upon to endure before we returned to Chicago.
"I have put the cabin in order for you, Miss Collingsby," said I, as I seated myself.
"For me? I am very grateful to you, but I don't think I shall have any use for it."
"We may have to sail all night."
"If we do, I will stay here with you. I could not sleep in such a place as that."
"I think it is a very nice place."
"So do I; and under other circumstances I should be very happy there. Do you suppose Julia or Florina Lord is with Mr. Whippleton?"
"I am satisfied that neither of them is with him."
"Mr. Waterford said they were; but that was a part of his deception."