rwood. One kind set the other a-going, and the
alarm and consequent noises proceeding from it spread to a far distance
through the forest.

I thought it less probable that I should be followed through the woods,
than down the stream itself. When missed, a canoe was most likely to be
brought into requisition--perhaps the royal galley itself, with his
majesty to guide the pursuit. They would remember that I had
disappeared just at the moment the barque weighed anchor, and would
suspect that I had gone aboard at once. It was far more likely,
therefore, the search would be made upon the water, and the pursuers
would paddle their craft directly for the barque. Under this belief I
gave uneasy glances up the river, whenever I could command a view of it.
As yet no pursuers appeared.

Another consideration troubled me. The Kroomen had gone to the river's
mouth to watch the movements of the cruiser and report whether she had
launched any boats. Now these fellows were entirely in the interest of
King Dingo. They might see me as I swam to the barque, and, taking me
into their boat, carry me back to the factory. They had been present
when the bargain was made, and knew all about it. I must, therefore,
look out for their boat and avoid it.

With such thoughts and resolves passing through my mind, I once more
marked the progress of the vessel and, diving into the underwood, kept
on.

At length I reached a point where there was a bend in the river. It was
not far from its mouth. Beyond this place the stream widened into a
sort of bay.

It would not do for me to go beyond. I should have too long a swim for
it; besides, the barque was about being got under sail--her canvas was
already loose; and once the sails were sheeted home, they would catch
the wind and carry her rapidly through the water--so rapidly that I
might not be able to get aboard.

I had gone far enough. I had reached the point where it was best for me
to take to the water; and, flinging off my shoes and most of my
clothing, I stepped down to the water's edge and plunged in.

CHAPTER THIRTY SEVEN.

The barque was not yet opposite me; but, by the rate at which she was
moving, I calculated she would be so by the time I could arrive in
midstream.

Brace had told me to swim for the bows--for he would be there with his
rope; while, in case I should not be able to lay hold of it another
would be ready at the gangway ports with a second rope. One or