"There is no help for it; but, Somers, I have invited a few friends to my house this evening, and you must be with us." "Will Miss Portington be there?" "She has been invited, with her mother." "I will go," replied he, still carrying out his principle that it is always best to "face the music." He did go. The few friends were about fifty--to celebrate the birthday of the commandant's lady. There were music, and dancing, and revelry; and Kate Portington was there, with her mother. He saw the fair girl; saw her smile as pleasantly and unconcernedly as though nothing had happened. He met her face to face; she bowed coldly, and passed on. Mrs. Portington was not quite so "chilly," but not at all as she had been in former times. "Mr. Somers, we shall always remember you with gratitude, for the service you so kindly rendered us," said she. "It is hardly worth remembering, madam, much less mentioning," replied Somers. "It shall always be gratefully remembered, and cordially mentioned. You cannot yourself regret more than I do, that anything should have occurred to disturb the pleasant relations which formerly existed." "I regret it very much, madam; but as I think I have done my duty to my country and to my friends, I must regret it without reproaching myself for my conduct in that which has proved so offensive." "Was it your duty to sign that vile paper?" asked the lady, in excited tones. "I think it was." "I must take a different view of the matter; but, Mr. Somers, I shall still be interested in your success." "Thank you, madam." And the lady passed on. Somers looked at Kate. She was dancing with a young officer who had greatly distinguished himself in the waters of North Carolina. She looked happy. Was she so? She certainly had a wonderful command of herself if she was not. Somers retired at an early hour. Did Kate think he was an adventurer? His superior officer had directed him to sign the bond, as a "war measure." He had done so with regret and disgust. The paper meant nothing to him. Why should it mean anything to her and her mother? The next day, Somers returned to Pinchbrook, where he found certain official documents in the post office, directed to him. He was appointed to the command of the Firefly, which was the new name given by the department to the Ben Lomond. The steamer had been duly condemned, and purchased by the government, her great speed admirably adapting her as a cruiser for rebel pirates. Somers was generously rewarded for his zeal and success in the capture of the twin steamers, which had been intended to prey on the commerce of the country. Acting Ensign Longstone was appointed second lieutenant of the Firefly. The third and fourth lieutenants, and the sailing master, were acting ensigns, like Tom Longstone.