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 hand and assures him that he is honored by his prospective entrance into the family.

"As for Cuba," declares the Don, his eyes lighting with a trace of their old-time fire, "the cause of the patriots was never brighter. To be sure, I am a fugitive, and El Terredo yesterday suffered a severe defeat, the Pearl of the Antilles having been destroyed in an unequal engagement with three Spanish cruisers and gunboats. But General Masso is advancing upon Santiago, with 10,000 revolutionists, and the fall of the city is looked for within forty-eight hours. Already the Spanish warships are gathering preparatory to shelling the place should it come into the hands of the patriots, and foreign vessels are preparing to leave the harbor."

"I believe I will take Murillo's advice for the present," reflects Ashley, "but I shall return to-morrow with the cruiser and be in at the death." Then he goes in search of Juanita.

"Now," says that young lady, "if you have finished squeezing my hand before all these officers and seamen, come below and I will introduce you to—to 'Miss Carlos'."

"All right, sweetheart," replies Jack, gayly. "Let me see. I believe you remarked early this morning that you would never doubt me again."

"Yes?" responds the young lady, inquiringly.

"Then, after you have introduced me to 'Miss Carlos' will you leave us alone for a short time?"

"What a strange request! But it is granted."

"Good. And now let us go below."

The interview, whatever its nature, has a peculiar effect upon Ashley. Upon returning from it he is saying to himself, sotto voce.

"By Jove! This case has taken a turn that I little looked for. I'd give four dollars to see John Barker, detective, at this moment."