The intelligence is too important to be trifled with; and after having brought the fleet north, to be in readiness to serve the state in this emergency, it would be rare folly to leave the ministry in ignorance of the reasons why I have done it." "Nevertheless, they would be almost as well-informed, as I am myself," returned the rear-admiral, with a little point, but quite without any bitterness of manner.

"The only advantage I have over them is that I _do_ know where the fleet is, which is more than the First Lord can boast of." "True--I had forgot, my friend--but you must feel that there _is_ a subject on which I had better not consult you.

I have received some important intelligence, that my duty, as a commander-in-chief, renders it necessary I should--keep to myself." Sir Gervaise laughed as he concluded, though he seemed vexed and embarrassed.

Admiral Bluewater betrayed neither chagrin, nor disappointment; but strong, nearly ungovernable curiosity, a feeling from which he was singularly exempt in general, glowed in his eyes, and lighted his whole countenance.

Still, habitual submission to his superior, and the self-command of discipline, enabled him to wait for any thing more that his friend might communicate.