VERNON'S SUCCESS.
Intoxicated with success, the crew of the Lively Bee urged Vernon to make one more voyage.
But he had given his word that he would retire, and though only to himself, it was binding.
"I would like the Lively Bee to make another cruise," he said, "and if Lieutenant Tempest will take command I shall be delighted."
Tempest was still thirsting for glory, and accepted the offer.
"Go, my friend!" said Vernon, as the new captain of the Lively Bee was leaving Baltimore to join the famous privateer—"go, bring back prizes if you can, act with honor, as I know you will, but above all remember that I would rather hear that the Lively Bee was at the bottom of the sea than that she was captured by the British."
A number of privateers were in the Chesapeake Bay at the time, and many friends of the crews had assembled on the docks.
Those who heard the speech of Vernon cheered lustily.
"Never give up the ship!" cried one old salt.
"No, that I swear!" assented Tempest, solemnly.