e. The reconnoitring parties were sent
out more frequently now, and every one hoped each time that they would
return with news of the rebels, but they were always disappointed. The
admiral now determined to steam ahead more rapidly, so that they might
get around the western end of the island. It was evident that there were
no insurgents along this shore, and as there were no villages of any
consequence, either, he was anxious to reach the southern shore, where
it was known the rebels had recently been gathering. The towns, too,
were very numerous here on account of the excellent fishing, and it was
hoped that some good work might be accomplished for Uncle Sam before
another week passed.

Subsequent events soon proved the wisdom of the admiral's plan. The
cruiser, it seemed, had no sooner rounded the western point than signs
were visible of rebel activity ashore. It was one Tuesday morning that
a village was sighted, built around a narrow inlet of the sea. When the
binoculars were levelled upon this harmless-appearing settlement, it was
soon perceived by the admiral that there were soldiers in the streets
with the rebel uniform, and that the insurgent flag was flying from the
administration building in the village square. All this was just what
had been expected, and there was great rejoicing aboard the cruiser.
Every man, without exception, almost, was anxious to be one of a party
to be sent ashore to attack the rebels, but the admiral hesitated before
sending any one at all. "It is impossible to tell from here," he said,
"how numerous the rebels are, and it is quite possible that they may
have a large force of men in the village. If the appearance of the
streets is any sign, there must be quite a force of them in the place."
But every one laughed at the very idea of there being a rebel company of
any consequence in the place, and the admiral was finally prevailed upon
to send a boat ashore, armed with thirty men.

"Remember," he said, "if you come to grief, that I advised against this
venture. Don't be too bold, or risk too much, for though I can shell the
place, that won't help you any, once you are captives."

But every one was anxious to be one of the party in the boat, and the
officers had a hard time making selections. "You can go, Archie, because
you're a correspondent," said the captain, "and you can go, Mr. Hickson,
because you're a brave man," and then he continued to pick out men until
the required number w