The ports were opened, ammunition made ready for both the main and secondary batteries, and the crew stood at their guns in readiness for action.

It was a very impressive sight, the grim weapons just showing in the dim lantern light, the great cartridges standing close to the breeches, the men quiet and steady, their faces showing anxiety but perfect self-control.
I was proud to belong to such a crew, for the majority thought that an action was imminent, and perhaps a superior foe to be fought, yet there was no sign of that fear which is supposed to attack the novice in battle.

It was a convincing proof of American bravery and self-reliance.
In the meantime the engines had been called on for full speed, and the ship throbbed and swayed with the increased power.

Extra men were presently sent below to the fire room, and it soon became evident that we were in actual chase of the suspicious vessel.

From my station at the after port gun I was enabled to catch an occasional glimpse of the sea through the open port.
The squall had passed in part and the night was growing lighter.