DECEMBER 13, 1864: Semmes described the night crossing of the Mississippi River in a crowded skiff: "Our boat was scarcely able to float the numbers that were packed into her.... As we shot within the shadows of the opposite bank, our conductor, before landing, gave a shrill whistle to ascertain whether all was right.
"the proper response came directly, from those who were to meet us, and in a moment more, we leaped on shore among friends."
Federal forces on the river had been alerted in an effort to capture the elusive Captain Semmes of the CSS Alabama, but he succeeded in getting home, and later to Richmond, to receive the thanks of the Confederacy and promotion to the rank of Rear Admiral.
--Old B-Runner
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