"When I am four or five miles out I will hoist my owner's flag at the fore-masthead.

It is a red flag with a white ball, so you will be able to make it out a considerable distance away.

You must not be less than ten or twelve miles out, for the pilot often does not leave the ship till she is some miles past Fortress Monroe, and the official will not leave the ship till he does.

I will keep a sharp lookout for you, but I cannot lose any time in waiting.

If you do not come alongside I shall suppose that you have met with some interruption to your plans." "Thank you very much, sir.