Some conversation concerning Armstrong guns followed; but both of them were well posted in regard to this long-range piece.
Christy read the satisfaction with which the captain heard his statements on his face.
A knock at the door of the cabin disturbed the conference, and the lieutenant was directed to open the door.

The shaking and straining of the ship had for some time indicated that Paul Vapoor was fully alive to the importance of getting the Bellevite's best speed out of her on the present occasion; and he did not intrust the duty to his subordinates.
Christy opened the cabin door, and Midshipman Walters asked for the commander, and was admitted.
"Mr.Ballard directs me to inform you, sir, that we are gaining on the chase," said the young officer.

"The fog has lifted again, and we can make her out very clearly.

The Holyoke has abandoned the chase, and appears to be headed for the schooner that came to on the starboard of the ship." "Tell Mr.Ballard to keep the ship as she is, headed for the Tallahatchie," replied Captain Breaker.
"The Tallahatchie, sir ?" queried the midshipman.
"Formerly the Trafalgar," added the commander.
The young officer touched his cap and retired.
"This Captain Sullendine is still secured in his stateroom on board of the West Wind, is he ?" asked the captain, rising from his arm-chair.
"He was when I left the schooner, sir," replied Christy.

"French, the captain of the forecastle, is in charge of the vessel, with orders to anchor her a couple of miles to the eastward of the lighthouse.