As my position was in one of the last files, I had ample time in which to gaze about, and take note of my surroundings.

Except for the presence of the prisoners the deck presented no unusual scene.

The _Romping Betsy_ was a large, full-rigged brig, not overly clean, and had evidently been in commission for some time.

Not heavily loaded she rode high, and was a broad-nosed vessel, with comfortable beam.

I knew her at once as a slow sailor, and bound to develop a decidedly disagreeable roll in any considerable sea.