I was still bleeding, and the exertion of running had started the blood afresh.

_"Come back! Come back!"_ vociferated Covey, with threats of what he would do if I did not return instantly.

But, disregarding his calls and his threats, I pressed on toward the woods as fast as my feeble state would allow.

Seeing no signs of my stopping, Covey caused his horse to be brought out and saddled, as if he intended to pursue me.

The race was now to be an unequal one; and, thinking I might be overhauled by him, if I kept the main road, I walked nearly the whole distance in the woods, keeping far enough from the road to avoid detection and pursuit.