Reuben soon checked the speed of his horse.

Anxious as he was to arrive as soon as possible, he might, for aught he knew, yet have occasion to try the animal to the utmost; and he therefore reduced the almost racing pace, at which he had started, into an ordinary steady gallop.

The horses were fresh and in good condition, and for several miles kept up the pace without flagging.

Then they were allowed to ease down into a walk, until they got their wind again; and then started at the pace, half canter, half gallop, which is the usual rate of progression of the colonial horses.

They drew rein at last on a slight eminence, from which the Donalds' station, a mile or so distant, could be perceived.
"Thank God," Reuben muttered to himself, "I am back here, at last.
There is no occasion for further hurry;" and the horses were allowed to go at an easy walk.
"Man on horseback," Jim suddenly said, touching Reuben's arm.
"Where--where, Jim ?" "Gone from de house, sah, trough dem trees.