A shadowy figure is lurking on the dark riverfront near the Christina, and Libby Norstad is sure it must be the cruel slave trader Riggs, who has vowed that no slave of his will ever escape alive. Does Riggs suspect that the runaway Jordan Parker is hiding on Captain Norstad's riverboat?
Fearful that Riggs may try to board the Christina in disguise, Libby and her friend Caleb scan the crowds of passengers bound for Minnesota Territory. Has Riggs slipped by unnoticed? Knowledge of a fugitive slave law adds to their worries. Riggs can bring Jordan back into slavery even from a free northern
state if Riggs can find him. Can Jordan manage to escape discovery?