orth on each side, and
the whole was flanked by a sailor on one side and a soldier on the
other. His arms were tattooed with various small designs of crossed
swords, flags, mottoes, the title of his regiment, and other such
devices. The boatswain now thought that his task was complete, but Sam
insisted on having his back decorated as well, altho this was rather
unusual. The general stock of subjects had been exhausted, and Cleary
suggested that a representation of Sam himself, striking off the
fetters of a Cubapino, would be most appropriate. After discussing a
number of other suggestions offered by various friends, this one was
finally adopted and successfully carried out. The operation was not
altogether painless and produced a good deal of irritation of the skin,
but it served to pass Sam's time and allay his impatience to be in the
field, and Cleary became so much interested that he consented to allow
the artist to tattoo a few modest designs of cannon and crossed
bayonets on his own arms. Sam's comparatively high rank among officers
who were, many of them, his juniors in rank but his seniors in years,
might have made his position at first a difficult one had it not been
for his entire single-mindedness and loyalty to his country. If the
powers that be had made him a captain, it was right that he should be a
captain. He obeyed implicitly in taking his seat near the head of the
table, as he would have obeyed if he had been ordered to the foot, and
he expected others to accept what came from above as he did.

One afternoon a report sprang up that land was in sight, and soon every
eye was strained in one direction. Sam's eyesight was particularly
good, and he was one of the first to detect the white gleam of a
lighthouse. Soon the coast-line was distinct, and it was learned that
they would arrive on the next day. By daybreak Sam was on deck,
studying as well as he could this new land of heroism and adventure.
Cleary joined him later, and the two friends watched the strange
tropical shore with its palm-groves and occasional villages, and a
range of mountains beyond. A bay opened before them, and the ship
turned in, passing near an old fortification.

"This is just where our fleet went in," said Cleary, examining a
folding map which he held in his hand. "They passed along there single
file," and he pointed out the passage.

"Wasn't it glorious! Just think of sailing straight on, no m