De Guy, on pretence of further private
conversation, induced Jaspar to forsake his post as sentinel over Emily,
and join him in a walk. For half an hour the attorney in his silky tones
regaled the ears of Jaspar with various strange schemes, until the bell
of the steamer announced her near departure. Even then De Guy seemed in
no haste, and assured his companion the boat would not start without
them. But the second bell admonished them that the steamer was already
getting under way. The passengers were all on board, and, as they heard
in the distance the tinkling of the engineer's bell, they started at a
run to reach her. By some accident, De Guy's foot got between Jaspar's
legs, and he fell. The attorney stooped, as if to assist him up, but, in
reality, struck the fallen man a blow, which rendered him insensible. De
Guy hurried towards the boat, leaving the watchful uncle to shift for
himself. He reached the landing in season to jump upon the stern of the
boat as it swung in shore. Pushing through the crowd which had gathered
to witness his exploit of getting on board, he retreated to his
state-room, and locked the door.
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