"All we men" wanted to go in swimming, and that right away.

In a jiffy, white figures began to drop over the side with a splash, and soon shouts of glee filled the air.

The water was warm and clear as crystal, and so dense with salt that a man diving, came up like a cork.

In fifteen minutes the order "Knock off swimming" was passed, and though we left the water with reluctance, obedience was prompt, lest the privilege might not again be accorded us.
After hammocks had been given out, boats hoisted--all the work of the day finished, in fact--most of the men gathered aft to hear the band of the "Oregon" play.

It was a volunteer band; that is, the musicians were enlisted men, not assigned for the band.