It will be seen that the task was of the most dangerous nature conceivable, and yet when Captain Preble called for volunteers it seemed as if every one was eager to go.
The command was given to Master-Commandant Richard Somers, who was of the same age as Decatur and Stewart, and had established a reputation for coolness and intrepidity in the operations of the fleet.

Midshipman Henry Wadsworth, an uncle of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, the poet, was the second in command.

They were accompanied by another midshipman named Israel, who begged so hard to be allowed to go that he could not be refused, and ten of the best seamen.
After waiting for several days, the night of September 4 was found to be just what was desired.

A fog lay like a blanket on the sea, but it was so clear overhead that the stars shone with brilliant splendor.

Before the start was made, Decatur, Stewart and Somers, all the most intimate of friends, had a long talk in the cabin of the ketch, no one else being present.