"If necessary."
"But Mr. Pillgrim has the steamer. He has boarded her."
"We will wait and see," answered Somers, evasively; for it was expected and intended that the second lieutenant should "hang himself," on this interesting occasion.
Before the second cutter could reach the steamer, Mr. Pillgrim had completed his examination on board of her, and descended to his boat. As he gave the order for the cutter to shove off, Somers's boat shot in alongside of her.
"She is all right, Mr. Somers," said the second lieutenant.
"All right?" exclaimed Somers; and, in spite of himself, he actually trembled with emotion, being conscious that a very trying scene was before him—one which would require all his skill and all his energy.
"I say she is all right, Mr. Somers," repeated Pillgrim, sharply, for he did not appear to like the tone and manner of the fourth lieutenant.
"What is she?"
"She is an American steamer from Baltimore, bound to Havana."
"What is she doing in here, then?" demanded Somers.