On the afternoon of Saturday, February 25, when I was Acting Secretary, Lodge called on me just as I was preparing the order, which (as it was addressed to a man of the right stamp) was of much importance to the subsequent operations.

Admiral Dewey speaks of the incident as follows, in his autobiography: "The first real step [as regards active naval preparations] was taken on February 25, when telegraphic instructions were sent to the Asiatic, European, and South Atlantic squadrons to rendezvous at certain convenient points where, should war break out, they would be most available.
"The message to the Asiatic squadron bore the signature of that Assistant Secretary who had seized the opportunity while Acting Secretary to hasten preparations for a conflict which was inevitable.

As Mr.Roosevelt reasoned, precautions for readiness would cost little in time of peace, and yet would be invaluable in case of war.

His cablegram was as follows: "'Washington, February 25, '98.
"'_Dewey, Hong Kong_: "'Order the squadron, except the Monocacy, to Hong Kong.

Keep full of coal.