er whom we have before quoted
tells how the night before a battle is spent by brave men not afraid
of death:--

"At sunset the last order had been issued. Every commanding officer
knew his duty, and unusual quiet prevailed in the fleet. The waters of
the Gulf rested for a time from their customary tumult, a gentle
breeze relieved the midsummer heat, and the evening closed upon us as
peacefully as if we had been on board a yachting squadron at Newport.
During the early part of the night, the stillness was almost
oppressive. The officers of the 'Hartford' gathered around the
capacious wardroom table, writing what they knew might be their last
letters to loved ones far away, or giving to friends messages and
instructions in case of death. There were no signs of fear; but, like
brave and intelligent men, they recognized the stern possibilities of
the morrow, and acted accordingly.

"But this occupied but little time; and then, business over, there
followed an hour of unrestrained jollity. Many an old story was
retold, and ancient conundrum repeated. Old officers forgot for the
moment their customary dignity, and it was evident that all were
exhilarated and stimulated by the knowledge of the coming struggle.
Capt. Heywood of the marines proposed a final 'walk-around;' Tyson
solemnly requested information as to 'Which would you rather do or go
by Fort Morgan?' and all agreed they would prefer to 'do.' La Rue
Adams repeated the benediction with which the French instructor at the
naval academy was wont to greet his boys as they were going into
examination: 'Vell, fellows, I hope ve vill do as vell as I hope ve
vill do.' Finally, Chief Engineer Williamson suggested an adjournment
to the forecastle for a last smoke, and the smoking club went forward;
but somehow smoke had lost its customary flavor, and, after a few
whiffs, all hands turned in, to enjoy what sleep would come."

When the morning dawned, the men were called to quarters, and the
advance upon the forts was begun at once. It was a foggy morning, and
the ships looked like phantom vessels as they moved forward in line of
battle, with the "Brooklyn" in the van. Second came the "Hartford,"
with the admiral high up in the rigging, where he could overlook the
whole scene.

"Nearly every man had his watch in his hand, and waited for the first
shot. To us, ignorant of every thing going on above, every minute
seemed an hour; and there was a feeling of great relief when the