But you lost all your commissioned officers but one in the affair on board of the Bronx, Captain Passford." "I did, sir; and I was obliged to fill their places;" and Christy described the men he had appointed.
"There are no officers here that I can give you in their places, and I am obliged to order you away immediately on another expedition.

The Floridian is a valuable prize; and I must send her to New York, for I am confident the government will purchase her for the navy.

Your acting lieutenants must continue to serve as such for the present." "I ask for no better officers, sir.

They are well educated, and have had a great deal of experience as sailors outside of the navy," replied Christy.
At this time the preparations for the reduction of the forts on the Mississippi were in progress, and every available vessel was called into activity.

The Bronx had been built for a blockade-runner, and for a steamer of her size she was of exceptional speed.