For half an hour the fourth lieutenant of the Chatauqua sat at his desk, in deep thought. Though in the matter of which he was thinking, he had not sinned against his country, or the moral law, he was sorely troubled. He could not conceal from himself the fact that he was afraid of Pillgrim. The dread of having his name connected with any treasonable transaction was hard to overcome. That oath of allegiance, with his signature forged upon it, haunted him like an evil demon. He felt more timid and fearful than ever before in his life. His faith in Him who doeth all things well, seemed to be momentarily shaken, and he was hardly willing to do justly, and leave the consequences to themselves.
He felt weak, and being conscious of his weakness, he looked upward for strength. Leaning on his desk, he prayed for wisdom to know the right, and for the power to do it. He was in earnest; and though his prayer was not spoken, it moved his soul down to the depths of his spiritual being.
Three bells struck while he was thus engaged. He rose from the desk, and walked up and down the state-room several times. Suddenly he stopped short. A great thought struck him. In an instant it became a great resolution. Before it had time to grow cold, he put on his coat and cap, and went out into the ward-room. Mr. Transit, the master, Mr. Grynbock, the paymaster, and Dr. De Plesion, the surgeon, were there, discussing the anticipated attacks on Mobile and Wilmington. Somers felt no interest in the conversation at this time. He went on deck, where he found Captain Cascabel and the first lieutenant, smoking their cigars. Waiting till the captain went below, he touched his cap to Mr. Hackleford.
"Mr. Somers?"
"Yes, sir."
"Not turned in, Mr. Somers? You have the mid-watch."
"If you will excuse me, sir, for coming to you at such a time, I wish to have half an hour's conversation with you."
"With me?" said Mr. Hackleford, apparently much surprised at such a request at such an hour.
"Yes, sir. It is a matter of the utmost consequence, or I would not have mentioned it at this time."
"Very well, Mr. Somers; I am ready to hear you."