of different sorts. A train was laid in the trunk,
or tube, and fuses were attached in the proper manner. In addition to
this arrangement, the other small room mentioned was filled with
splinters and light wood, which, besides firing the train, were to
keep the enemy from boarding, as the flames would be apt to induce
them to apprehend an immediate explosion."

Such was the engine of death prepared. The plan of operations was
simply to put a picked crew on this floating volcano, choose a dark
night, take the "infernal" into the heart of the enemy's squadron,
fire it, and let the crew escape in boats as best they might.

The leadership of this desperate enterprise was intrusted to Lieut.
Richard Somers. Indeed, it is probable that the idea itself originated
with him, for a commanding officer would be little likely to assign a
subordinate a duty so hazardous. Moreover, there existed between
Decatur and Somers a generous rivalry. Each strove to surpass the
other; and since Decatur's exploit with the "Philadelphia," Somers had
been seeking an opportunity to win equal distinction. It is generally
believed, that, having conceived the idea of the "infernal," he
suggested it to Preble, and claimed for himself the right of
leadership.

But ten men and one officer were to accompany Mr. Somers on his
perilous trip. Yet volunteers were numerous, and only by the most
inflexible decision could the importunate ones be kept back. The
officer chosen was Lieut. Wadsworth of the "Constitution," and the men
were chosen from that ship and from the "Nautilus."

As the time for carrying out the desperate enterprise drew near,
Preble pointed out to the young commander the great danger of the
affair, and the responsibility that rested upon him. Particularly was
he enjoined not to permit the powder in the ketch to fall into the
hands of the Tripolitans, who at that time were short of ammunition.
One day, while talking with Somers, Preble burned a port-fire, or
slow-match, and, noting its time, asked Somers if he thought the boats
could get out of reach of the shells in the few minutes it was
burning.

"I think we can, sir," was the quiet response.

Something in the speaker's tone aroused Preble's interest, and he
said,--

"Would you like the port-fire shorter still?"

"I ask no port-fire at all," was the quiet reply.

At last the day of the adventure was at hand. It was Sept. 4, the day
following the last attack upon Tripoli. The sk