Christy had been concerned in the capture of a considerable number of such.

On the wharves were stacks of cotton which had been landed from these vessels, and several of them were engaged in transferring it to small steamers, for large ones were unable to cross the bar.

But the visitors had no business with the vessels thus engaged, for they had completed their voyages, and were exempt from capture.
"I have taken not a few prisoners in or off Southern ports, and it would not greatly surprise me if I should meet some one I had met before," said Christy, in French, as he resumed his seat by the side of the detective.
"Then I fear that your coming with me was a mistake," replied M.
Rubempre.

"You must be extremely cautious, not only for your own protection, but because you may compromise me, and cause me to fail in the accomplishment of my mission here." "I should be sorry to interfere with your work, and I think we had better separate," replied Christy, very much disturbed at the suggestion of his friend.

"If I can do no good, I certainly do not wish to do any harm." "No, my friend; I cannot desert you, especially if you are in peril," protested the detective.