I almost wish I were not an engineer, for then I might be sent home once in a while in charge of a prize." Christy had only time to tell very briefly the story of the adventure with Corny, and the capture of the Floridian, which he did for the purpose of introducing a matter of business in the line of his profession.

The officers from the Bellevite asked him a great many questions, though he felt obliged to cut them short before they were half done with them.
"You must excuse me, Mr.Blowitt, for I am sailing under sealed orders, and the commodore hurried me off as soon as I returned with the Bronx from St.Andrew's Bay; and I do not know that my mission admits of any delay," said Christy.

"I have a prisoner on board, and I want to get rid of him, for he is a dangerous character;" and he briefly related the incident of the evening with Captain Flanger.
"He is a tough sinner," added the first lieutenant of the Bellevite.
"Of course I cannot take him without an order from Captain Breaker; but I will return to the ship, and put the matter before him." "I don't know where I am ordered, and this Flanger is capable of making mischief if I should happen to get into a tight place," added Christy.
"I suppose you are returning to the station off Mobile Bay, and you can dispose of him better than I can." "If Captain Breaker decides to take your prisoner, I will send a boat for him so as to make no unnecessary delay for you.

Mr.Vapoor may remain, and return in the boat I send, for I am confident the commander will accede to your request.

Good-by, Captain Passford," said Mr.
Blowitt, offering his hand to Christy, who pressed it most earnestly.
"What is the Bellevite doing off here, so far from her station, Paul ?" asked Christy.
"We chased a good-sized steamer out last night, and she gave us a long run; but we picked her up, and she is now on her way to New York.