I replied, smiling.

"She went all the way to New Orleans with him on a raft, and so did that
Sim Gwynn," interposed the captain.

"Well, there's no end of wonders with bad boys. But where's Flora now?"
asked Mrs. Fishley.

"She's at the hotel in Riverport, with Clarence and his wife."

My female tyrant wanted to know all about it, and I told her; but I will
omit the torrent of snapping, snarling, and abuse she poured out upon me
for my base ingratitude to her who had always treated me like a son. By
this time the news had begun to circulate in the village that "the mail
robber" had been caught, and men, women, and children came to see the
awful monster. It was an awkward and uncomfortable situation for me; but
I consoled myself by anticipating the triumphant acquittal which
awaited me. When the people had gazed at me to their satisfaction, the
constable conducted me to the jail. I did not shudder, as I supposed I
should, when I was cast into the lonely cell, for I knew I was innocent.

I had been there but a couple of hours, when the door was opened, and
Clarence came in. Sim had succeeded in navigating the boat back to the
hotel, and the story of my mishap had been told by Flora.

"The steamer arrived just before I left," said my brother. "A gentleman
came to the hotel inquiring for you. Who was he, Buck?"

"He will tell you himself, if he chooses. I suppose he is the person I
wish to see."

"Buck, I have had my doubts from the beginning; but I feel more
confident now that you are innocent," he added, taking me by the hand,
and exhibiting much emotion. "I have given bail for your appearance
before the magistrate in the morning, and you may come with me now."

"I just as lief stay here as not; I am innocent," I replied.

"I have been talking with the post-office detective, who appears to be
a very fair man. He says a valuable letter, which failed to reach its
owner, has been traced to this office since you went away. Of course you
could not have taken that."

"Nor the other."

We left the jail and went to the hotel in Torrentville, where we met the
detective. I gave him some information in regard to Ham Fishley's
habits, and he called in the keeper of the livery stable connected with
the hotel. This man assured him that Ham had paid him over thirty
dollars within two months for the use of his best team. I suggested that
he should visit Crofton's, and ascertain what presents Miss Elsie had
received from h