my had done better service, marched more
cheerfully, or fought harder than this veteran seaman. The men on the
forecastle generally agreed with him in his propositions, but the
obstinate old carpenter, with the characteristic tenacity of the
ancient tar, maintained the discussion forward, until the sharp voice
of the officer of the deck sent all hands to the braces. The ship was
brought to the wind on the starboard tack, a manoeuvre which was
followed in succession by the other vessels of the squadron, which had
been previously directed to keep, though still within signal, at long
distances from each other during the day, closing up at night, in order
to spread a broad clew and give greater chance of meeting the enemy.

The young captain paced the quarter-deck alone--no man is ever so much
alone among his fellows as the commander of a ship--a prey to his own
sad thoughts. Those who had known him the gayest of gay young sailors
in Philadelphia were at a loss to account for the change which had come
over him. He had become the gravest of the grave, his cheery laugh was
heard no more, and the baffled young belles of Charleston had voted him
a confirmed woman-hater; though his melancholy, handsome face, graceful
person, distinguished bearing, and high station might have enabled him
to pick and choose where he would. But there was room in his heart for
no more passions. Even his love of country and liberty had degenerated
into a slow, cold hate for the British, and a desperate resolve to do
his duty, and make his animosity tell when he struck. A dangerous man
under whom to sail, gentleman of the Randolph, and a dangerous man to
meet, as well. He could not forget Kate, and, except in the
distraction of a combat, life was a mere mechanical routine for him.
But because he had been well trained he went through it well--biding
his time.

CHAPTER XXXI

_Seymour's Desperate Resolution_

Six rather uneventful days passed by, during which prizes to the number
of five fell to the lot of the squadron, one loaded with military
stores, and another with provisions of great value. The lively little
Fair American, being far to windward of the fleet, had also a smart
action with a heavily armed British privateer, which struck her flag
before the others could get within range, and was found to be loaded
with valuable portable goods, the siftings of a long and successful
cruise. Young Wilton had manoeuvred and fought his sh