A number of hooks were then
procured, so as to fasten it upon the inner side. By this arrangement,
the occupant of the box would not be dependent upon exterior aid for
egress. When once on board the steamer, he expected he should be able to
leave his hiding-place in the night, and perhaps at other times.
Upon the outside the box was similar to the others, and was duly marked
and consigned.
Hatchie's quarters were near the depot from which the coffins were to be
shipped, and Pat, watching his time, had wheeled his own charge down in
season to be shipped with the others. In the haste of embarking, the
clerk had not noticed that one box more had been brought on board than
his manifest indicated.
Hatchie was not aware that Emily and her uncle were passengers on the
same boat till the moment of the accident. He had before released
himself from his prison-box, and was enjoying the fresh air, which the
closeness of his box rendered particularly desirable, when he heard the
scream of his mistress. Her voice was familiar, and even in the scream
of terror he recognized it.
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