losed by the
rising sun--a palm-shaded city of red-tiled roofs, dominated by a fine,
double-towered cathedral, and a broad, land-locked bay set in a circle
of rounded hills and rugged mountains. On the placid bosom of the bay
rode Cervera's proud squadron of war-ships--five mighty cruisers, four
of which were of the latest model and most approved armament; two
wicked-looking torpedo-boat destroyers, each claimed to be more than a
match for any battle-ship afloat, and a few gunboats that had been used
for coast patrol. From the war-ships came the cherry notes of bugles,
and from the Plaza de Armas, in which a regiment was passing in review,
swelled the inspiring music of a full military band. Beyond the city
every near-by elevation was occupied by a stout block-house, each
displaying the red and yellow flag of Spain, and forming the nucleus
for radiating lines of rifle-pits. Far down at the entrance to the bay
rose the grim walls of Santiago's Morro Castle, and beyond it floated
against the blue sky soft smoke clouds that Ridge felt sure must come
from the American ships on blockade.

This was Santiago. This the peaceful scene that was soon to be
transformed into a battle-field. Here, within a few days, victory and
defeat would meet face to face. Which side would claim the former?
Until this moment Ridge had never doubted. He had often heard the
boast that his own regiment could drive every Spaniard out of Cuba, and
had believed it. Now he knew that here alone was work cut out for an
army.

These reflections of our young trooper were interrupted by his
companion, who said, "It is a wonderful picture; but I am too hungry to
gaze on it any longer; so let us hasten into the city, with the hope of
finding a breakfast."

Both the young men wore Spanish uniforms that Navarro had brought with
him, and, protected by these, they rode boldly down to the nearest
outpost. Here the lieutenant demanded that they be conducted to
headquarters, to which they were accordingly sent under guard.

Many of the narrow streets through which they passed were indescribably
filthy, but these became cleaner as they neared the Casa Municipal.
Here they were graciously received by General Linares, to whom they
were presented by one of his staff, who recognized Navarro as a friend.
The General complimented them on having eluded the Cubans, and was much
gratified to learn that Pando's army was on its way from Holguin to
reinforce him. A