As we hurried to our stations I saw the entire blockading fleet moving slowly shoreward.
"We are going to bombard the Dagoes this trip for sure," observed the first captain of Number Eight as we lined up.

"I see their finish." "Don't be too sure," said "Stump." "There's many a slip between the muzzle and the target.

Maybe we won't do much after all.

Just to make it interesting I'll bet you a dinner at Del's that we will only chuck a bluff.

What d'ye say ?" "Done, if you make it for the whole ship's company," chuckled the first captain.
"Stump" shook his head.
"A dinner at Del's for over two hundred hungry Reserves, and on a salary of $35 per month.Nope.Not on your life." "Cast loose and provide," came the order.
There were a few moments of rapid work, then the battery was reported in readiness for firing.