He went to the quarters of the men where he had concealed his valise, and carried it back to the cabin, where he proceeded to make the change.

In a short time he had put himself in proper condition to take his place on the quarter-deck in command when his presence was required.

He had nothing to do at present, and he concluded to write his report of the remarkable proceedings on board since the Bronx left the station.

He wanted his desk, and he went to the stateroom.
"Well, Dave, how is your prisoner ?" he asked, halting at the door.
"I got him safe, Massa Cap'n," replied the steward, exhibiting most of the teeth in his mouth, for he was pleased with himself after he had executed the commission assigned to him, and did not feel as much like a contraband as he might.
"I am in command, Dave, and there must be no more 'massa' now," added Christy.
"I done forget all about my talk, Captain Passford," replied Dave.
"That is bad grammar," said the commander, laughing, for he was in an exceedingly pleasant humor, as may well be supposed.

"You know what is right, and you must not talk like a contraband." "I won't do so any more, Captain Passford," protested the steward, showing his ivory, though he was not a very black man, and the contrast was not as great as in many instances.
"How do you find yourself, Corny ?" asked the captain, turning to the berth.
"I am all right, Corny; but I should like to have you or some one tell me what has been going on in this steamer, for this black rascal will not say a word to me," replied the prisoner.
"I don't blame him, if you call him a black rascal," added Christy.