I continued the chase, and rapidly gained upon the suspicious vessel.
Knowing the slow rate of speed of the Hatteras, I at once suspected that deception was being practised, and hence ordered the ship to be cleared for action, with everything in readiness for a determined attack and a vigorous defence.
When within about four miles of the vessel, I observed that she had ceased to steam, and was lying broadside and awaiting us.

It was nearly seven o'clock, and quite dark; but notwithstanding the obscurity of the night, I felt assured, from the general character of the vessel and her manoeuvres, that I should soon encounter the rebel steamer Alabama.
Being able to work but four guns on the side of the Hatteras--two short 32 pounders, one 30 pounder rifled Parrot gun, and one 20 pounder rifled gun,--I concluded to close with her that my guns might be effective, if necessary.
I came within easy speaking range--about seventy-five yards--and upon asking "What steamer is that ?" received the answer, "Her Britannic Majesty's ship Petrel." I replied that I would send a boat aboard, and immediately gave the order.

In the meantime the vessels were changing positions, the stranger endeavouring to gain a desirable position for a raking fire.

Almost simultaneously with the piping away of the boat the strange craft again replied, "We are the Confederate steamer Alabama," which was accompanied with a broadside.

I at the same moment returned the fire.