A bayou comes within a hundred yards of the rear of the house, so concealed by trees and weeds as to be almost invisible until you stand on the banks.

We are only a little over twenty miles from the Gulf.

Altogether this would make an ideal hiding place for Mobile or New Orleans thieves.

I don't say this is the solution, but it may be.

More likely they will prove to be a local gang, smugglers, or moonshiners with a touch of modern piracy on the side." "What do you mean to do ?" The question was asked quietly, and I glanced at her, noting the color had returned to her cheeks.
"I?
Why remain and ferret it out, I suppose," and I laughed.