There was a rattling of drums, a hissing of steam, and energetic commands heard as soon as the Judith was made out in the darkness, and doubtless a vision of prize-money flitted through the brains of officers and seamen.

But Christy soon impaired the vividness of these fancies by ordering the foresail of the schooner to be taken in, and then the fore topmast staysail.

The expectant ships' companies were not willing to believe that the vessel had come out for the purpose of surrendering.
"Schooner, ahoy!" shouted the officer of a boat sent off by the nearest blockader.

"What vessel is that ?" "The Judith, prize to the United States steamer Bellevite," replied Christy, "Kindly inform me where the Bellevite lies." In another half-hour, Christy had dropped his anchor a cable's length from the Bellevite.

Instructing Flint to ascertain the condition of Lonley, the lieutenant went on board of her to make his report, using the boat they had captured at Mobile, pulled by two of the negroes.
"I have come on board, Captain Breaker," said Christy, as he met the commander, who had come on deck at the alarm.
"I see you have," replied the captain, grasping him by the hand.