Before I was well-seated again the captain was beside me.

"Now for it, then," said I; and away we went.

What might be the nature of his feelings I cannot pretend to state, but my own were a strange _melange_ of wild, boyish enthusiasm, revenge, and recklessness.

For my own neck I cared little,--nothing; and as I led the way by half a length, I muttered to myself, "Let him follow me fairly this day, and I ask no more." The dogs had got somewhat the start of us; and as they were in full cry, and going fast, we were a little behind.

A thought therefore struck me that, by appearing to take a short cut upon the hounds, I should come down upon the river where its breadth was greatest, and thus, at one coup, might try my friend's mettle and his horse's performance at the same time.