Phil had been alone with his thoughts for nearly an hour when he heard a bugle call ring out sharply on the deck above him, followed by hoarse commands. Putting his head out of his air port, he saw the sailors on the battle-ships manning the rail, their guards and bands falling in on their quarter-decks. He knew the import of this formation at once: the president of Verazala was on his way to visit the admiral. Sydney came rushing in for his sword, giving the news which Phil had already surmised. “If Captain Garcia comes with him,” Phil pleaded, “don’t let him go without seeing me. Tell him I am still a prisoner.” Sydney declared he would see to that as he buckled on his sword and made for his station. The roaring of many guns in salute from the men-of-war, told the imprisoned midshipman that General Barras was on board the “Connecticut.” Five minutes later Phil received a summons from the admiral, which he obeyed with alacrity. On entering the cabin the astonished boy found himself in the presence of General Barras and Admiral Spotts. The midshipman drew himself up stiffly to “attention,” not daring to glance at these important men; his heart beat wildly. The admiral held Phil’s sword in his hand. “I take great pleasure in restoring you to duty,” he said handing the confused lad the badge of honor. The admiral turned toward General Barras, inclining his head in Phil’s direction. “This is Mr. Perry,” he added. The president acknowledged the introduction with a cordial hand shake. “I have already had the honor of meeting Midshipman Perry,” he exclaimed, “but I could not then thank him appropriately, for I knew only a part of his splendid service to us.” Then turning an admiring glance at the embarrassed boy: “Señor Perry,” he continued, “your gallant deeds will ever be remembered by true patriots of Verazala. Please convey my personal thanks to your two companions.” Phil found voice to stammer his gratitude for this unheard of honor; then he withdrew from the cabin. As he closed the door behind him, the knob was wrenched from his hand and he found himself in Captain Garcia’s strong embrace; that officer had been an unobserved witness to the lad’s happy discomfiture. While the two friends walked arm in arm to Phil’s room, where Sydney was awaiting them, the boy poured out his heartfelt thanks to the naval man for his zealous work in his behalf. “I am further in your debt than I can ever repay,” exclaimed Captain Garcia, refusing to listen to the earnest words of his young friend. “What I did last night was nothing; and moreover, it has led to the unmasking of a traitor to my country.” “O’Neil has told us,” replied Phil. “Did you capture him?” he asked eagerly.