in imposing array, lay the great battle-ships
_Iowa_, _Massachusetts_, _Texas_, and _Oregon_, the last of which had
recently hurried to the scene of conflict from San Francisco, making a
record voyage of 13,000 miles by way of Cape Horn. Besides these there
was the _Brooklyn_, swiftest of American cruisers, together with half a
dozen more--cruisers, gunboats, yachts, and torpedo-boats--all in
war-paint, all ready for instant action, and all flying the banner of
stars and stripes. At the wonderful sight Ridge's heart glowed with
patriotism and a new courage. How impregnable looked the huge
battle-ships!--how terrible! Nothing could withstand them! He felt
sure of that.

The young Spaniard who sat beside him gazed on the outspread American
fleet in silent amazement. He had thought Cervera's ships formidable,
but now it seemed to him they would be but playthings for these modern
leviathans.

As the Spanish launch ranged alongside the flagship, an object of
curious attention to all on board, it was courteously received; but, to
Ridge's disappointment, only the officer in charge was permitted to
leave it. A few minutes later, however, a cadet tripped lightly down
the side ladder to say that the gentleman who spoke English was
requested to report on deck. As in obedience to this order our young
trooper followed him up the ladder, he found opportunity to say in a
low but earnest voice:

"I must see the Admiral, alone if possible. Have important
communication for him. Try and arrange an interview."

The cadet looked back in surprise, and then nodded his head. The next
moment they were on deck, when the "Senor Remelios" could barely
control his joyful emotions at finding himself once more among his
countrymen and beneath his country's flag.

After a brief transaction of business the guests were invited into the
ward-room, which they had scarcely entered when word was passed that
the one speaking English was again wanted on deck. Promptly obeying
this summons, Ridge was conducted to a large after-cabin which he found
occupied by two officers. One, with stern features, iron-gray beard,
deeply lined forehead, and piercing eyes, he instantly recognized as
Admiral Sampson. The other he guessed to be Captain Chadwick,
commander of the ship.

"Well, sir," began the former, sharply, as the new-comer was left
standing, cap in hand, before them, "I understand that you wish to make
a private communication of importan