Such were their suspicions, that they would not
be satisfied until they had opened a few boxes and bales that were
stowed away in the hold. This done, the schooner was permitted to
continue her voyage, and the stranger, unmolested, continues his
walks about the city. A few days pass and the excitement has calmed
down. Pringle Blowers, although chagrined at the loss of his
valuable piece of woman property, resolves to wait the issue with
patience and forbearance. If she, fool like, has made away with
herself, he cannot bring her to life; if she be carried off by
villainous kidnappers, they must eventually suffer the consequences.
Her beauty will expose their plots. He will absorb his usual
requirement of spirit, keep the nerve up, and never despond of
regaining her while his reward of three hundred dollars stands
before a money-loving public. He would rather have lost two dozen
common niggers than this one he set so much by, intended to make so
much of, and upon whom he had set his very heart, soul, and burning
passions. But there is no profit in grief, no use in giving way to
disappointment. Philosophers bear disappointments with fortitude; he
must be a philosopher, keep a sharp look out and not despair.
How different is the scene presented at Rosebrook's Villa! There,
Annette is seen, prepared to take her departure. Dressed in male
attire, with frock coat and trousers setting so neatly, dress boots,
white vest, and brightly arranged shirt-bosom, she is the type of
perfection of a youthful southron.
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