"And who may you be, my hearty?" asked Sam Buller
"I am Captain Stewart of the United States navy; who are you?"
Captain Stewart did not wait for a reply, but entered the boat which awaited him and was soon rowed across to his ship.
Every one knew Charles Stewart's character for bravery, for in the year 1800, when in command of the schooner Experiment, he captured the French privateers Deux Amis and the Diana. In 1804 he commanded the Siren, and went with the American squadron against Tripoli, and achieved several victories.
"I only wish I could get on board the Essex. I'd be pleased to call Farragut my superior," said a young man, whose build and manner were those of an educated sailor.
"Why don't you?" asked one of the crowd.
"I have tried, but they told me they were full."
"Do you want to fight?"
The inquirer was one whose appearance invited confidence. He was well dressed, and had a good honest face.