The clergyman who performed the ceremony explained that John Tempest and Bertha Decatur had been legally married at sea by the gallant commander of the man-of-war _United States_, but the contracting parties desired the blessing of the Church upon their union. So, on New Year's Day, in the eventful year Eighteen hundred and thirteen, John Tempest was again married to the object of his choice, and this time not on the high seas, but with all the grandeur and _éclat_ of marriage in the residence of the chief magistrate of a great nation. The sun shone brightly as the bride and groom left the house and walked across the park. "It is an omen," said Tempest. "Yes, the sun shines on us, and may it shine on our country's cause." "Amen!" Even as he made the response he trembled, for in a few days he was to part with his wife and rejoin the _Lively Bee_. He dreaded that moment, not because he was afraid, but he had formed a sweet binding tie, and he disliked breaking that tie, even to obey his country's call. CHAPTER XXVII. AN UNEXPECTED PLEASURE. "To-morrow, Bertha, I must leave the city to rejoin the _Lively Bee_," said Tempest to his bride, on the evening of the fifth day of January. "Alas! that it should be so," responded Bertha. "You would not wish me to neglect my duty?" "No, dear, a thousand times, no. I have loved you because you were so true. Your country is your first love, and were you false to your flag I should even doubt your love for me." She had spoken bravely, but her heart was full of grief. She knew too well what dangers he would have to encounter, and the _Lively Bee_, though almost invincible, was so small to grapple with such an enemy as the British. While yet they talked, Lieutenant Hamilton of the _United States_, with face all beaming, interrupted their tearful talk. "I have sold the prizes. Everything is adjusted," he said. "That is good news." "Indeed it is, for I must rejoin at once and you----" "Shall journey with you." "That is good news, though I am sorry you have to leave your young wife." And the young naval officer bowed most courteously to Bertha Tempest. "I would not wish my husband to fail in his duty," she answered, blushing as she mentioned the word "husband," it sounded so new and strange to her. "Bertha will be in good hands," said Tempest. "She has made such lots of friends, and Mrs. Madison declares she will have her as a frequent visitor at the White House." "I am very glad." "So am I." The words were not spoken by either of the three. It was a new voice which chimed in, and one that all three easily recognized, for no one could be deceived who had ever heard Harry Vernon of the _Lively Bee_ speak. But how came he in Washington? What new business had brought him there? He must have followed quickly on their heels, for traveling was slow work in those days. "Well, Hamilton, how have you succeeded?" "Well, passing well; that cargo of the _Caroline_ was a rich one."