Among all that throng of men on the Texas hardly a word was spoken as the Merrimac slowly got under way. Every one remained silent as if under the spell cast by the bravery of those who were literally taking their lives in their hands that the starry flag might wave triumphant.
Boldly the collier steamed in toward the coast, being lost to view immediately she got under the shadow of the high hills at the entrance of the bay, and a mile or more astern the tiny launch puffed her way along as if conscious that this morning's work was of extreme importance.
Then both craft were swallowed up by the gloom, and yet that throng of men overhanging the Texas's rail remained motionless, waiting with an anxiety that was most intense for some sign which would give token of their shipmates' fate.
During half an hour every man waited in keenest suspense, never one venturing to so much as speak, and then from the heights at the entrance of the harbour the flash of a gun streamed out.
It came almost in the nature of a relief, for every one knew that the Merrimac was nearing her destination at last.
The suspense was at an end, whatever might be the result, and even Teddy Dunlap believed he could predict the close of that most desperate venture.
Within ten seconds after the first flash, another was seen, then a third, and a fourth, until it was no longer possible to count them.
The heights guarding the channel appeared to be ablaze; but yet not a sound could be heard.
The blockading squadron were so far away that the reports were lost in the distance.
Then the eager men found tongue, and it was as if each spoke at the same instant, giving no heed as to whether his neighbour replied.