He adjusted his dress and hastened to the quarter deck, where he reported in due form to the captain.

Mr.Ballard was relieved of his duties as acting executive officer, and went to his proper station to take command of his division.
Christy took a careful survey of the situation, and saw that the Bellevite had gained at least two knots on the chase.

The Holyoke and the West Wind were no longer in sight, though the fog seemed to be still hanging about the entrance to Mobile Bay.
"The Tallahatchie has fired two shots at us, Mr.Passford; but she wasted her ammunition," said the commander.

"I am inclined to agree with Mr.Ballard that she cannot swing her Armstrong gun so as to cover the Bellevite." "She has stopped her screw, sir!" exclaimed the first lieutenant, who was looking at the chase through the best glass.
"Make the course west, Mr.Passford!" said the captain with energy.
"Quartermaster, make it west!" shouted Christy.
"West, sir!" repeated the quartermaster, as he caused the helmsmen to heave over the wheel.
Directing his glass to the chase again, Christy saw the Tallahatchie swing around so that she was broadside to the Bellevite.

Almost at the same moment the smoke rose from her deck, and the sound of the gun reached the ears of the officers and crew.