side and the gangway was lowered. A consultation seemed to be going on upon the bridge, and after a few moments a man was seen to ascend and descend the steps leading to it. Five minutes later two men passed down the gangway, and once more our boat put off to us.
When she had overcome about half the distance I chanced to look forrard. To my surprise the raffle, which a few moments before had been disfiguring the side, was gone, and even the bulwark itself had recovered its proper shape and comeliness. Moreover, the tarpaulin which had hitherto covered the centre of the deck was being removed, and by the time the boat bad completed three parts of the distance that separated us from the steamer, a funnel had been uncovered and erected. The chief officer came aft.
"Is everything prepared, Mr. Patterson?" inquired Alie.
"Everything, madam," replied the officer, looking at the boat.
"Steam up?"
"It has been for the last five minutes."
"Very well then, pipe all hands to quarters, and stand by to receive the boat when she comes alongside."
As she finished speaking the officer blew a whistle, and immediately the crew, who had hitherto been ordered to remain below, appeared on deck and placed themselves at their respective posts. Against the foremast I noticed a curious mechanical contrivance, the use of which at any other time I should have inquired. Now, however, there was a look upon Alie's face that warned me not to be too inquisitive.
