As I said before, I think my first duty--a duty committed to
me by the Almighty, which takes precedence over all other duties--is,
within reasonable limits, to my own family. I will not spare myself or
my son, but I must save Florry and my brother's family."
"I think you are right, Horatio."
"On my return I shall present the Bellevite to the Government, which
is in sore need of suitable vessels at the present time, and offer my
services in any capacity in which I can be useful," continued Captain
Passford. "Captain Breaker," he called to the commander.
"Here, sir."
"Pipe the entire ship's company on the forecastle, and see that no one
from the tug is near enough to hear what is said there."
Captain Breaker had formerly been a lieutenant in the navy, and the
forms and discipline of a man-of-war prevailed on board of the
steam-yacht. In a minute more the pipe of the boatswain rang through
the vessel, and all hands were mustered on the forecastle. The tug was
made fast on the quarter of the steamer, and no one from her had come
on board.
Captain Passford and Christy walked forward, leaving the lady with her
own thoughts. She was a daughter of a distinguished officer in the navy,
and she had been fully schooled in the lesson of patriotism for such an
emergency as the present. She was sad, and many a tear dropped from her
still handsome face; but she was brave enough to feel proud that she had
a husband and a son whom she was willing to give to her country.
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