"I have not," replied Mr. Pillgrim.
"I have heard it said that she was going to the Gulf," added Somers.
"Very likely; there are two points where extensive naval operations are likely to be undertaken—at Mobile and at Wilmington. The rebellion has had so many hard knocks that the bottom must drop out before many months."
"I am afraid the end is farther off than most people at the North are willing to believe," said Mr. Pillgrim.
"Every thing looks hopeful. If we can contrive to batter down Fort Fisher, and open Mobile Bay, the rebels may count the months of their Confederacy on their fingers."
"I think there is greater power of resistance left in the South, than we give it the credit for."
"The rebels have fought well; what of it?" continued the commodore, who did not seem to be pleased with the style of the lieutenant's remarks.
"As fighting men, we can hardly fail to respect those who have fought so bravely as the people of the South."
"People of the South!" sneered the commodore. "Why don't you call them rebels?"
"Of course that is what I mean," answered Mr. Pillgrim, a slight flush visible on his cheek.