It was impossible, of course, altogether to conceal from the diligent researches of Mr.Adams' spies the fact of her destination.

But beyond having a strong suspicion that the vessel so rapidly approaching completion in Messrs.

Laird's yard was intended for the Confederate States, these astute gentlemen were altogether at fault.
This, however, was enough, and on the application of Mr.Adams an order was despatched to the Customs' authorities at Liverpool to seize the ship, and prevent her from going to sea.
Fortunately for the Confederate vessel her friends were equally on the watch, and tidings of the projected seizure were promptly conveyed to Birkenhead.

It was necessary now to act with promptitude, and the final preparations were pushed on with the utmost speed.

At length, at a quarter past nine on the morning of the 29th July, 1862, the anchor was got up for the first time since she had been afloat, and the "No.