Then he could explain in what manner he had been robbed of his papers with some chance of having his statement accepted.
The prisoner walked up and down the lower deck, doing his best to conceal the agitation which had taken possession of him.

No one took any notice of him, for the seamen had become accustomed to the presence of the captive officer.

While he was struggling to contain his emotions, he heard the rattle of the cable again, and saw the chain descending to the locker below.
"What does that mean, my man ?" asked Christy of one of the men near him.
"They appear to be weighing the anchor." "That is what they are doing," replied the man indifferently.
"What is that for ?" "The flag officer has not told me yet what he is about, and I am not good at guessing, though I am a Yankee," replied the man chuckling, as though he believed he had said something funny.
"The flag-officer has signalled for the Vernon to come alongside," interposed another seaman who had heard the question.
"Thank you, my man," replied Christy, beginning at once to consider how this change would affect him.
"The Bronx is getting under way also," said the civil tar, who evidently had some sympathy for the prisoner.

"Probably she is also ordered alongside.

Twenty-five of us have been detailed to serve on board of her, and I am one of them." "Then I may see you again, my friend.