But the prisoner knew that the Snapper was to run the blockade, and was bound to Mobile, for the captain had told him so himself.
The commander could now see the folly of his boast.

He had not expected to encounter a United States man-of-war in the Bahamas.

His prisoner was a naval officer, and would be a strong witness against him.

Upon his testimony, and such other evidence as the cargo and other circumstances might supply, the captain of the steamer in the channel might feel justified in making a prize of the Snapper.

It was necessary, therefore, to remove this witness against him.