We are to carry all the large and small arms ammunition that we can stow away.
We are to take on food supplies to our fullest commissary capacity.
In a word, we are to go prepared for any emergency.
"Now, gentlemen, on account of our departure at the earliest moment, every officer will be needed on board all the time.

Unless for some extraordinary reason, shore leave will not be granted to any officer.

The watch-word will be 'hustle.' Thank you, gentlemen, for your attention." In an instant there was clamor in the wardroom.

Twenty officers spoke at once, then subsided.

Finally only the voice of Lieutenant Commander Denton was heard as he inquired: "Sir, are we entitled to ask any questions ?" "I will answer any questions that I may properly," smiled the executive officer.
"We are going to Mexico, sir, in fighting trim, are we not ?" "I think what I have already said will indicate that," came Commander Bainbridge's reply.
"Has anything happened in Mexico," continued Denton, "which makes it imperative for us to fight there ?" "Nothing, so far as I know," answered the executive officer, "other than the usual daily outrages that are disgracing the fair name of Mexico." "Then nothing of unusual importance has happened, which would make us sure that we are heading for Mexico on a definite fighting errand ?" "I have no knowledge that we are actually going to fight in Mexico," replied Commander Bainbridge.