CHAPTER XXII.
THE ISABEL RUNS THE GANTLET.
Dan heard the words of the gentleman on the boiler deck of the Terre Bonne,—for that was the name of the steamer,—and at once recognized his master. The worst fear that he had entertained was fully realized. That unfortunate calm had betrayed him into the hands of his enemy. But he was fully determined to carry out his resolution, and fight for life and liberty, even if he had to contend against the whole force of the steamer.
It appeared that the request, or rather the command, of Colonel Raybone to stop the boat was not immediately complied with; for she continued on her course for several minutes before her wheels ceased to revolve, and when she did stop she was fully a quarter of a mile from the Isabel. By this time Cyd returned with the bird which the sportsman had killed, and Dan announced the appalling fact that Colonel Raybone was on board of the steamer, and had recognized him and the boat.
"Possifus!" exclaimed Cyd, leaping upon the deck of the Isabel. "Wha—wha—what we gwine to do?"
"Take this gun, and do as I do," replied Dan, as he went into the cabin after the rifle.
"Gwine to shoot him!" groaned Cyd. "Hossifus! gwine to shoot ole Massa Raybone!"
"Do you want to go back to Redlawn with him, Cyd?" demanded Dan, with compressed lips.
"Don't want to go back, for shore. Gossifus! Dis chile's a free man now."
"Then use your gun when I tell you."