y was overcast and
lowering, and gave promise of a dark night. Fully convinced that the
time for action was at hand, Somers called together the handful of
brave fellows who were to follow him, and briefly addressed them. He
told them he wished no man to go with him who did not prefer being
blown up to being captured. For his part, he would much prefer such a
fate, and he wished his followers to agree with him. For answer the
brave fellows gave three cheers, and crowded round him, each asking to
be selected to apply the match. Somers then passed among the officers
and crew of the "Nautilus," shaking hands, and bidding each farewell.
There were few dry eyes in the ship that afternoon; for all loved
their young commander, and all knew how desperate was the enterprise
in which he had embarked.

It was after dusk when the devoted adventurers boarded the
powder-laden ketch, as she lay tossing at her anchorage. Shortly after
they had taken possession, a boat came alongside with Decatur and
Lieut. Stewart in the stern-sheets. The officers greeted their
comrades with some emotion. They were all about of an age, followed
one loved profession, and each had given proofs of his daring. When
the time came for them to part, the leave-taking was serious, but
tranquil. Somers took from his finger a ring, and breaking it into
four pieces, gave one to each of his friends. Then with hearty
handshakings, and good wishes for success, Decatur and Stewart left
their friends.

On the ketch was one man who had not been accepted as a volunteer.
This was Lieut. Israel of the "Constitution," who had smuggled himself
aboard. With this addition to his original force, Somers ordered sail
made, and the "Intrepid" turned her prow in the direction of the
Tripolitan batteries.

As far as the harbor's mouth, she was accompanied by the "Argus," the
"Vixen," and the "Nautilus." There they left her, and she pursued her
way alone. It was a calm, foggy night. A few stars could be seen
glimmering through the haze, and a light breeze ruffled the water, and
wafted the sloop gently along her course. From the three vessels that
waited outside the harbor's mouth, eager watchers with night-glasses
kept their gaze riveted upon the spectral form of the ketch, as she
slowly receded from their sight. Fainter and fainter grew the outline
of her sails, until at last they were lost to sight altogether. Then
fitful flashes from the enemy's batteries, and the harsh thunder