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168 but could they do it practically? Some of the Tagals in the cities are educated up to it, but not the great masses. What would be the best, it seems to me, would be for Uncle Sam to take hold, but with the understanding that the Filipinos could do for themselves as soon as they were capable of handling the reins of government. They might—What is it, Gilbert?"

Ben broke off short, as the young Southerner came rushing up, with a Manila newspaper in his hand—one of the new sheets recently established and printed in English.

"Have you heard the news about the Central?" asked the lieutenant, anxiously.

"No; has she arrived?"

"She has, but—but— It's too bad, Ben, but I reckon you and Larry have got to be told."

"Something has happened to Walter?" cried both of the Russells, in a breath.

"I'm afraid so. The newspaper says the Central, while on her way to Manila, was caught in a storm, and had to put into a bay on the north coast of this island for repairs. While at anchor a number of the men were allowed a run on shore. When the main body came back from a long walk, two