"I have a suggestion to make: which is that Baskirk take one of the steamers." "That is exactly my own idea; from what I have seen of him, there is no more devoted officer in the service." "I have known him for many years, and I believe in him.

McSpindle is almost as good, and has had a better education than Baskirk.

I don't think you could find two better men in the navy for this duty." "Very well; then I will appoint them both." Flint was instructed to communicate their appointment to Baskirk and McSpindle, and make all the preparations for the departure of the Escambia and the Ocklockonee.

Christy went to his state room, and wrote his report of the capture of the two steamers, in which he commended the two officers who were to go as prize masters, and then wrote a letter to his father, with a strong appeal in their favor.

Then he wrote very careful instructions for the government of the officers to be sent away, in which he directed them to use all necessary precautions in regard to the prisoners.