But war was there, and the scenery appealed to few.
There was more interest in the drab hulls of the fleet and the outward reaching of the mighty guns.
That evening--the evening of June 3d--the "Yankee's" decks presented an animated spectacle.

The novel surroundings and the prospect of action kept the boys interested.

The "Rumor Committee" was in active session, and one of its principal members, the captain's orderly, brought the news forward that the auxiliary cruiser would surely lead a procession of battleships into Santiago harbor the following day.
This was a little too strong for even the marines to swallow.

We lay down by our loaded guns that night, feeling that it was well to be within easy reach of our defenders.
Hammocks were laid on the deck close to each five-inch breechloader, and the regular watch was doubled.

Lack of experience made all these warlike preparations very impressive, and it was some time before the boys fell asleep.