RUNNING THE BLOCKADE.
"Mr. Swayne, you will get the ship under way at once," said Somers, as he turned from the crew, and walked aft.
The first lieutenant gave his orders, and the crew were soon walking round the capstan. The officers of the Tallapoosa had certainly used their time to advantage, for the crew was well disciplined, though the twenty-four petty officers and seamen from the Chatauqua were the spice of every movement.
"Where is the pilot, Mr. Swayne?" asked Somers.
"We have one on board, sir. He berths in the steerage. Shall I send for him, Captain Pillgrim?"
"If you please, do so."
A master's mate was ordered to find the pilot.
"Is he up to his business?" continued Somers, to whom the pilotage of the vessel was of the last importance.
"Yes, sir; he is the best pilot in these waters. He has taken out a great many vessels on worse nights than this."
"I could take the vessel out myself, so far as that is concerned," said Somers, nervously. "Does he know how to get through the obstructions?"