Nothing of interest occurred, however, until early next morning.

The ship was ploughing along at a steady gait, and those of the watch who were not on actual duty were snatching what sleep they could in out-of-the-way corners, when suddenly the call to "general quarters" was sounded.

Long practice caused prompt obedience, and the various guns' crews were soon ready for action.
Very few of us knew just what was on foot until the "Kid," in passing, contrived to convey the interesting information that a big Spanish fleet had been sighted dead ahead.
"That's funny," remarked "Stump," trying to peer from the port.

"We are not changing our course any.

Surely the 'old man' doesn't intend to tackle them alone." "I guess the 'Kid' is 'stringing' us," observed Tommy, sagely.