"Port the helm!" The Young America was clear of the ground.

The fore topsail, which had been trimmed to the fresh breeze, was full, and the ship began to gather headway.

Two seamen had been placed at the wheel, under the charge of the quartermaster.

The boys had often "made believe" do these things, but now they were real.

The vessel was actually moving through the water, and they could hardly contain themselves, so exhilarating was the scene.
"Steady!" said the first lieutenant, when the ship had come up to her intended course.
"Steady, sir," repeated the quartermaster in charge of the helm.
"Stand by to set the spanker," added the first lieutenant.