Harry Vernon was very jolly—no other word aptly describes his state of mind.
Perhaps the generous dinner of which he had just partaken, or it may be the fact that he was the bearer of such good news, affected him; whatever the cause, the fact was unaltered, he was lively and merry, and sang the song with the fervor of a man before the mast.
"You will remember," commenced Vernon, "that Captain Hull resigned his command of the Constitution in order that some other officer might win laurels with the noble frigate.
"In his place, Bainbridge was appointed, and of course you know, Tempest, that there is not a better or braver man in the entire navy than that same Bainbridge."
"I have heard of his gallant conduct in the wars against France and Tripoli," answered Hamilton.
"Was the Hornet with the Constitution when the fight took place?" asked Tempest, almost impatiently.
"No. It appears not. The Hornet was blockading the Bonne Citoyenne, but I must go back or you will not understand.
"Fill up, men, and let one night at least be devoted to patriotism and King Bacchus. Bertha—I beg pardon, Mistress Tempest—will excuse you for one night," and Vernon laughed heartily, as though he had perpetrated a joke.
"The Hornet and Constitution were to cruise in company, while Porter was to waylay West Indiamen, and after a certain time proceed southward, calling at several South American ports, with a view to join Bainbridge.