I felt but slight interest in the conversation just exchanged, nor did the memory of it abide for long in my mind.

I had not been close enough to observe Beaucaire, or glimpse his character, while the presence of a gambler on the boat was no such novelty in those days as to chain my attention.

Indeed, these individuals were everywhere, a recognized institution, and, as Thockmorton had intimated, the planter himself was fully conversant with the game, and quite able to protect himself.

Assuredly it was none of my affair, and yet a certain curiosity caused me to observe the movements of the two so long as they remained on deck.

However, it was but a short while before both retired to the cabin, and then my gaze returned once more to the sullen sweep of water, while my thoughts drifted far away.
A soldier was within a few feet of me, and had spoken, before I was even aware of his approach.
"Lieutenant Knox." I looked about quickly, recognizing the major's orderly.
"Yes, Sanders, what is it ?" "Major Bliss requests, sir, that you report at his office at once." "Very well.