The attorney was also bound for his plantation, whither he was taking William Bowen, who was henceforth to act as his overseer. Augustus Horton was elated at the success of his villainous plot. He had lodged the only rival whom he feared in a felon's jail; he felt that Camillia Moraquitos might now be easily won; but his heart--if the profligate who yields only to the dictates of passion can be said to have a heart--was full of the image of Cora the Octoroon. Just as the boat was about pushing off, two young men stepped on board. The first was Mortimer Percy, the second Gilbert Margrave, the young engineer and artist, who carried a sketch-book under his arm. He saluted Augustus and his sister with a grave bow of recognition. "So! Gilbert," said Mortimer, "you come armed with your pencils and sketch-book, in order, I suppose, to catch some of the beauties of the Mississippi banks as we glide past them." "To tell you the truth, my dear Mortimer, I have far graver reason for being here. I come to meet some one." "A lady?" "Yes." "And her name is--?" "Miss Cora Leslie." "Good Heavens, my dear Gilbert, are you in earnest? You know this girl's history?" "I do; and in my eyes that very history renders her even more sacred than a defenseless woman must ever be to the mind of an honorable man. I received a message this morning from Mr. Leslie's old slave, Toby, informing me that his young mistress is to come on board the boat at the first station, and begging me to be there to meet her, as she might have need of my services." "And you took the hint?" "Gladly--proudly." "My dear Gilbert, I'm afraid you're very far gone," exclaimed Mortimer, laughing. Adelaide Horton's heart sank as she received the young engineer's cold salutation. She felt that he despised both herself and her brother for their conduct to Cora. Mrs. Montresor and Adelaide soon withdrew to the saloon, for the sight of Gilbert Margrave was painful to the impetuous girl. The scene on board the Selma was a gay and animated one. In the centre of the deck a German band was stationed, and every now and then some sprightly waltz or polka sounded on the summer air. Close against one of the paddle boxes a group of eager gamblers had seated themselves round a card-table, and it was amongst these that Mr. William Bowen planted himself, while Silas Craig conversed in an undertone with Augustus Horton. Gilbert Margrave and Mortimer Percy stood near the side of the vessel talking on indifferent subjects. Presently the bell rang again, and the steamer stopped at the first station, which was situated at a short distance from Gerald Leslie's plantation. "Miss Leslie knows nothing as yet of the fatal truth," said Gilbert. "I tremble lest she should ever learn it." "Then tremble for her to-day on board this steamer," replied Mortimer, "these people know all, and they are pitiless."