"We must find out whether the man is alive or dead," said Vernon, as the story of Bob's danger was again thought of.
"How?"
"We must go to the navy yard."
"Will not the morning do?"
"No. Why delay? I am sure Mistress Tempest will excuse you."
"I was not thinking of myself," answered Tempest; "but shall we not appear overanxious?"
"Zounds, man! I'd drag the President from his bed if I could save Bob."
And Tempest could well believe his captain capable of doing so.
The two visited the navy yard, and the officer on duty received them courteously.
He, however, declined to answer the question respecting the man who had been struck by Bob.