the heavy head-sea. In
this state of affairs it was found necessary to abandon the previous
intention of making for Barbados, as there was not sufficient coal on
board to last the distance. This project, therefore, was given up, the
vessel's head turned from the sea, the fires let down, the ship got
under sail, and a new course shaped for Curacao. Here it was hoped that
a fresh supply of coal might be obtained, and the little Sumter
staggered along under a press of canvas towards her new destination, the
violent motion causing great distress to the captain, who was still
confined to his cabin, and almost entirely to his hammock.

On the 15th July, the weather moderated for a time, and a warm sunny
afternoon, with comparatively little sea, gave an interval of rest. The
next morning saw the wind again blowing freshly, but at 9 A.M. land was
seen on the starboard bow, and at four in the afternoon the Sumter
passed the north end of the island of Curacao, running down the coast to
within about a mile of St. Anne's, where she arrived at a little after
seven o'clock. A gun was fired as a signal for a pilot, and soon after
one came off, promising to return again in the morning, and carry the
vessel into harbour.

Morning came, and, true to his word, the pilot once more made his
appearance upon deck. But the remainder of his promise he was unable to
fulfil. "The Governor regrets," he said, in reply to Captain Semmes'
inquiries, "that he cannot permit you to enter, he having received
express orders to that effect." A little diplomacy, however, soon
removed the difficulty, which had arisen from the urgent representations
of the United States consul on the previous evening, aided, no doubt, by
a defective description of the vessel from the pilot. Lieutenant Chapman
was sent on shore with the following letter to the Governor:--

C.S. steamer Sumter, off St. Anne's,
Curacao, July 17th, 1861.

HIS EXCELLENCY GOVERNOR CROL:

Sir,--I was surprised to receive by the pilot this morning a message
from your Excellency to the effect, that this ship could not be
permitted to enter the harbour unless she was in distress, as your
Excellency had received orders from your Government not to admit vessels
of war of the Confederate States of America to the hospitality of the
ports under your Excellency's command. I must respectfully suggest that
there must be some mistake here, and I have sent to you the bearer,
Lieut. Chapman, C.S. Navy