Discretion is the better part of valor, even in the navy." Suddenly we began to notice a peculiar glow tinging the darkness, and reflecting from the polished parts of the gun.

It came suddenly and with a spurt of ruddy light unmistakable.
"It's a fire somewhere," exclaimed Flagg.

"Look! it's getting brighter." "It comes from this ship," cried "Stump," edging toward the port.

"Is it possible the old hooker is on fire ?" We waited for the ringing of the alarm bell, or the call to "fire quarters," but the minutes slipped by without the summons.

Outside, the ruddy glare tinged the surface of the sea, sparkling from foam-crested waves, and forming a circle of dancing light through which the "Yankee" speeded on in her flight for safety.
Our curiosity increased apace, and we watched eagerly for passing messengers or for some stray word that would explain the peculiar phenomenon.