their
portmanteaus in the little cabin in which they were to sleep. The
prospect of the journey certainly had no attraction for Mr. Peacocke. His
companion was most distasteful to him; the ship was abominable; the
expense was most severe. How glad would he avoid it all if it were
possible! "You know it all as well as if you were there," said Robert,
"and were standing on his grave." He did believe it. The man in all
probability had at the last moment told the true story. Why not go back
and be married again? The Doctor could be got to believe it.

But then if it were not true? It was only for a moment that he doubted.
"I must go to 'Frisco all the same," he said.

"Why so?"

"Because I must in truth stand upon his grave. I must have proof that he
has been buried there."

"Then you may go by yourself," said Robert Lefroy. He had said this more
than once or twice already, and had been made to change his tone. He
could go or stay as he pleased, but no money would be paid to him until
Peacocke had in his possession positive proof of Ferdinand Lefroy's death.
So the two made their unpleasant journey to New York together. There was
complaining on the way, even as to the amount of liquor that should be
allowed. Peacocke would pay for nothing that he did not himself order.
Lefroy had some small funds of his own, and was frequently drunk while on
board. There were many troubles; but still they did at last reach New
York.

Then there was a great question whether they would go on direct from
thence to San Francisco, or delay themselves three or four days by going
round by St. Louis. Lefroy was anxious to go to St. Louis,--and on that
account Peacocke was almost resolved to take tickets direct through for
San Francisco. Why should Lefroy wish to go to St. Louis? But then, if
the story were altogether false, some truth might be learned at St. Louis;
and it was at last decided that thither they would go. As they went on
from town to town, changing carriages first at one place and then at
another, Lefroy's manner became worse and worse, and his language more and
more threatening. Peacocke was asked whether he thought a man was to be
brought all that distance without being paid for his time. "You will be
paid when you have performed your part of the bargain," said Peacocke.

"I'll see some part of the money at St. Louis," said Lefroy, "or I'll know
the reason why. A thousand dollars! What are a thousand do