A moment later Number Eight went into action once more, and we worked the breechloader without cessation until the conclusion of the bombardment, which came a half hour later.
The fortifications ashore had entirely ceased firing, and at ten o'clock a signal to stop bombarding appeared on the flagship.

It was obeyed with reluctance, and it was evident the crews of the various ships were anxious and eager to continue.

As the fleet drew off there was a puff of smoke in one corner of Punta Gorda battery and a shell whizzed over the "Massachusetts." A second shot came from one of the earthworks, and still another from Punta Gorda; then the firing ceased again.
"Didn't I tell you so ?" quietly remarked Tommy.

"The beggars ain't licked yet." "But they got a taste of Uncle Sam's strength," said Flagg.
"And I'll bet anything they haven't enough whole guns left to equip one small fort," added "Stump." "I heard the skipper say the destruction of life must be enormous," spoke up the "Kid," stopping on his way aft to deliver a message.

"He watched the whole thing with his glass.