18th September 1862---Commences with fresh breeze & squally weather from the S. W.-- took in topgallant sails & jib standing to the Westward at 7:30 a.m. Sail oh is again heard from the mast head and as usual everybody anxious to know where away, when she is reported on our weather bow we hauled up for her and gave chase, shortly after 8 a.m. we cme up with her as she was on the opposite tak standing in for the Island of Flores as we got her abeam she backed her man topsail and hove too [sic] waiting for us to board her or hail we then called away the whale boat and snet Lieut Low on board, as we were opposite tacks both hove too we had reached from each other when the vessel wore round and stood in the same direction as ourselves upon Lieut Low boarding her the Capt of her was very much surprised when he waas informed that he was a prize to the C.S. Steamer Alabama, and very naturally his countenance fell, she was the American Bark Virginia of New Bedford on a whaling voyage. Lieut Low took charge and sent the Capt a& his papers on board, hands were then employed in receiving on board the prisoners & baggage and such articles out of the prize as were useful for the Ship---4: 30 p.m. fired the prized at 5:30-- made all sail and stood to the N. W. With fine fresh breeze -- By order of Commander Semmes Lieuts Kell & Low were appointed to value Schr Courser & Barque Virginia and appraised them the first at $7000 dollars & latter $25,000 dollars-- Lat this day at noon 39 [degrees] 29' N. Long 33 [degrees] 20' W
Source: Logbook of Lt. John Low, CSS Alabama Collection, William Stanley Hoole Special Collections Library, The University of Alabama
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