Rtant part in the great struggle between North and South. Arrived in New
Orleans, Captain Semmes at once proceeded, in company with Lieutenant
Chapman, to inspect his new command--of which he speaks with evident
satisfaction as a "staunch and well-built" vessel. In her then
condition, however, she was by no means fitted for her new duties; and
he accordingly devoted all his energies towards effecting the
alterations necessary for that purpose. The first step was to
disencumber her decks of the long range of upper cabins, thus materially
increasing her buoyancy as a sea-boat, and diminishing the area exposed
to the enemy's shot and shell. Then a berth-deck was laid for the
accommodation of officers and crew, and the main deck renewed and
strengthened to carry the heavy 8-inch shell-gun, mounted on a pivot
between the fore and mainmasts, and the four 24 pounder howitzers of 13
cwt. each, to be mounted as a broadside battery. Additional coal-bunkers
were also constructed, and a magazine and shell-room built in a suitable
position, and these and a few other less important changes effected, the
transformation was complete, and the little Sumter ready to proceed upon
her work of devastation. It must not, however, be imagined that all this
was done without many and vexatious delays. The emergency had found the
new Confederation altogether unprepared, and trouble and confusion were
the inevitable result. Hitherto, everything had been done by the North.
Up to the very last moment it had b
