At the end of this time he was satisfied that the three-masted steamer was gaining very decidedly upon the Snapper.

He began to cherish a very lively hope that the sail would prove to be the Chateaugay.

Captain Flanger remained on deck all the forenoon, and every hour that elapsed found him more nervous and excitable.
"I reckon that's a Yankee gunboat astern of us, Mr.Passford; but I am going to get away from her," said the captain, as they sat down to dinner.
"Is she gaining upon you, Captain ?" asked Christy.
"I don't think she is; but if she does get any nearer to us, I shall give her the slip.

The Snapper is going into Mobile Bay as sure as you live.

You can bet your life on it," insisted the captain.
Christy was not disposed to converse on the subject, and he began to wonder in what manner the Snapper could give her pursuer the slip.