In the midst of this medley of wealth and luxury, appeared the frowning appendages of war.  The cabin included four of those dark cannon whose weight and number had been first to catch the attention of Wilder.  Notwithstanding they were placed in such close proximity to the articles of ease just enumerated, it only needed a seaman’s eye to perceive that they stood ready for instant service, and that five minutes of preparation would strip the place of all its tinsel, and leave it a warm and well protected battery.  Pistols, sabres, half-pikes, boarding-axes and all the minor implements of marine warfare, were arranged about the cabin in such a manner as to aid in giving it an appearance of wild embellishment, while, at the same time, each was convenient to the hand.

Around the mast was placed a stand of muskets, and strong wooden bars, that were evidently made to fit in brackets on either side of the door, sufficiently showed that the bulkhead might easily be converted into a barrier.  The entire arrangement proclaimed that the cabin was considered the citadel of the ship.  In support of this latter opinion, appeared a hatch, which evidently communicated with the apartments of the inferior officers, and which also opened a direct passage into the magazine.  These dispositions, a little different from what he had been accustomed to see, instantly struck the eye of Wilder, though leisure was not then given to reflect on their uses and objects.

There was a latent expression of satisfaction, something modified, perhaps, by irony, on the countenance of the stranger in green, (for he was still clad as when first introduced to the reader,) as he arose, on the entrance of his visiter.  The two stood several moments without speaking, when the pretended barrister saw fit to break the awkward silence.

“To what happy circumstance is this ship indebted for the honour of such a visit?” he demanded.

“I believe I may answer, To the invitation of her Captain,” Wilder answered, with a steadiness and calmness equal to that displayed by the other.

“Did he show you his commission, in assuming that office?  They say, at sea, I believe, that no cruiser should be found without a commission.”

“And what say they at the universities on this material point?”

“I see I may as well lay aside my gown, and own the marling-spike!” returned the other, smiling, “There is something about the trade—­profession, though, I believe, is your favourite word—­there is something about the profession, which betrays us to each other.  Yes, Mr Wilder,” he added with dignity motioning to his guest to imitate his example, and take a seat, “I am, like yourself, a seaman bred and happy am I to add, the Commander of this gallant vessel.”

“Then, must you admit that I have not intruded without a sufficient warrant.”

“I confess the same.  My ship has filled your eye agreeably; nor shall I be slow to acknowledge, that I have seen enough about your air, and person, to make me wish to be an older acquaintance.  You want service?”