Tempest soon explained the awkward situation to Vernon, who undertook to pacify the angry naval officer.
[CHAPTER XXIV.]
MARRIAGE AT SEA.
To Vernon's astonishment, he recognized Decatur in the boat.
No sooner did he recognize the honor than he ordered a salute to be fired, and the flag dipped.
The naval officer swung himself on deck, and eyed Vernon for a moment before speaking.
"Who are you, sir?"
"Harry Vernon, Captain Decatur, and I welcome you to as fine a prize as was ever taken from an enemy."