"Colonel Richard Pierson; and he is my father."
"Your father!" exclaimed the other, evidently impressed with the fact, and his tone was more respectful.
"You can come on board and see her for yourself," suggested Percy, prompted by the commander; for there was nothing on board to betray her true character, the guns having been concealed.
"I will not do that, as the commander of the fort will soon be here, and he may make the examination for himself. But perhaps you will be willing to give me your name?" added the captain.
"My name is Percy Pierson; and, as I told you, I am the son of Colonel Richard Pierson."
"Then you are the brother of Major Pierson, who is in command of Fort Gaines. I think it must be all right."
"Of course it is all right. Do you think I would bring a vessel into this bay if she were not all right?" inquired Percy with becoming indignation.
"I suppose you have heard there is going to be a war, and it is necessary to find out what vessels go into the bay," said the captain of the tug, when he had brought his craft quite near the steamer. "That is a very fine vessel."
"It is the fastest and strongest steamer that floats, and she will give a good account of herself when the trouble begins in earnest."
"Here comes the boat from the fort, and I see that Major Pierson is in the stern sheets. I have no doubt he will find you all right," said the captain.