They discussed the matter for some time, though it was impossible to arrive at any conclusion for the want of data on which to base their reasoning.
"All ready, sir," reported Beeks, coming up to them at this moment.
"How far is the entrance to the sound from Fort Pickens, Mr.Passford ?" asked Flint.
"About four miles." "Then why should they choose such a night as this for their work ?" "The Bellevite, floating in four fathoms of water on the other side of the island, could shell them out if they were seen, as they certainly would be from Fort Pickens," replied Christy.
"That makes it plain enough," added Flint, as they walked towards the boat.
"But I am not quite willing to believe yet that the Teaser will go out through the sound.

If she could get through at all, it would only be after getting aground no end of times, and if to-morrow should be a clear day, she could be seen anywhere on her course," persisted Christy.
"She cannot expect to make eight or ten knots an hour in that shallow water." The lieutenant ordered the men into the boat, after she was shoved off the beach.

They worked with such care that not a sound came from her.
The oars were shipped, and the sailors began to row.

As instructed, they pulled very slowly, though such work could not be done in perfect silence.
"Look out for that binnacle, Beeks," said Christy.

"The light from it may betray us." "You have not given me the course, sir," replied the coxswain, as he obeyed the order.
"North-northeast," added Christy, as he settled back in the stern sheets.
No one was allowed to speak in the boat, and the lieutenant set the example of silence.