CHAPTER XVII.
A Hero of the Olden Days--Cruise of the _Constitution_--Her Capture of the _Cyane_ and _Levant_--Reminiscences of Admiral Stewart--His Last Days.
During the early days of President Lincoln's administration, before the firing upon Fort Sumter by the Confederates, the all-absorbing question was as to whether or not the fort should be reinforced by the Government.

A good many opposed, because it was known that the attempt would bring on a conflict, and, if war was to come, each was anxious that the other side should strike the first blow.
It was amid those times of excitement, doubt and trouble that Commodore Charles Stewart left his modest home near Bordentown, N.J., and went by train to Washington.

From the station he made his way straight to the White House and sent in his name to President Lincoln.

As usual, the Executive had a swarm of visitors, but he directed the distinguished caller to be admitted at once.

As the tall, sad-faced man rose from his chair he towered fully two feet above the diminutive form of the naval officer in his blue swallow-tail, who took the proffered hand, and, after a few conventional words, looked up and said in his brisk manner: "Mr.President, I'll reinforce Fort Sumter." "You, Commodore! We are just discussing the question." "There's no need of discussing it; it must be done! Give me the men and ships--there won't be many required--and I'll do it." The President saw that his caller was in earnest, and he respected him too highly to indulge in anything like jesting.
"I am inclined to think as you do, Commodore, but--" "But _what_ ?" impatiently interrupted the veteran.
"You have already done so much for your country that it seems only fair that we should give the younger men a chance." "Younger men! What's the matter with me?
I'm not old enough yet to need a cane." "I observe that; you are wonderfully spry for one of your years.