"You see the Jacksons might at any moment learn that she is here, and then she might be questioned whether she had seen you since your escape; and it would be much better for her to be able to deny having done so.

But you shall see her next time you come, whether I am able to make any arrangements for your escape or not.

I will let her know to-morrow morning that I have seen you, and that you are safe at present." The next morning Vincent rode over to City Point, where ships with a large draught of water generally brought up, either transferring their goods into smaller craft to be sent up by river to Richmond, or to be carried on by rail through the town of Petersburg.

Leaving his horse at a house near the river, he crossed the James in a boat to City Point.
There were several vessels lying here, and for some hours he hung about the wharf watching the process of discharging.

By the end of that time he had obtained a view of all the captains, and had watched them as they gave their orders, and had at last come to the conclusion as to which would be the most likely to suit his purpose.