It was enough to tell him that they were fast leaving New York behind, and that now the chances of his rescue upon a lone ocean were, in truth, very small.

But once more he refused to despair.
He did not believe the slaver would keep him shut up in the cabin, since they were no longer where he could be seen by friends or those who might suspect, and his opinion was soon justified.

In a half hour the door was opened by the man himself, who stood upon the threshold, jaunty, assured and triumphant.
"You can come on deck now, Peter," he said.

"We've kept you below long enough, and, as I want to deliver you to the plantations strong and hearty, fresh air and exercise will do you good." "I'll come willingly enough," said Robert, resolved to be jaunty too.
"Lead the way." The captain went up the ladder just outside the door and Robert followed him, standing at first in silence on the swaying deck and content to look at sky and ocean.

How beautiful they were! How beautiful the world was to one who had been shut up for days in a close little room! How keen and sweet was the wind! And what a pleasant song the creaking of the ropes and the slatting of the sails made! It was a brilliant day.