I have already commended French to your attention, Captain, as a faithful and reliable man, and I think he deserves promotion." "Your recommendation will go a great way to procure it for him," added the commander with a significant smile.
"He is a thorough seaman, has been the mate of a large coaster, and would have become master of her if his patriotic duty had not led him to ship in the navy." "He is a resolute and brave fellow in action, as I have had occasion to observe, and I shall remember him.

When you are writing to your father it would be well for you to mention him; and the thing will be done at your request if not at mine." "It certainly would not be done without your indorsement, for my father will not indulge in any favoritism aside from real merit," protested the lieutenant, with some warmth.
"You are quite right, Christy.

We must go on deck now," added Captain Breaker, as he moved towards the door.

"You have been up all night, my boy; it will be some hours before we come within reach of the chase, and you can turn in and get a little sleep before anything stirring takes place on board." The excitement which had animated the young officer during the night had subsided with the rendering of his report, and the responsibility of a command no longer rested upon him, and for the first time since he embarked in the whaleboat, he began to feel tired and sleepy.

He went on deck with the commander, and took a survey, first of the chase, then of the Holyoke, and finally of the West Wind.
Captain Breaker thought the Tallahatchie was about five miles distant.
Seen through the glass, for the fog had all blown away, and the daylight had begun to obscure the stars, the steamer seemed to be doing her best.
The Holyoke was headed to the eastward, evidently intending to chase the West Wind, for she could not yet make out her flags, indicating that she was already a prize.