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ON BOARD THE FLAGSHIP "OLYMPIA"
203

"There is no telling where we are to go to, lad. The Spaniards may lead us a long chase, and the commodore is not one to give up until he has accomplished his mission."

"You are right there," said Striker, nodding vigorously, as he swallowed his last mouthful of pudding. "I knowed him as a captain before he came out here, and he is just the commander for the work they cut out for him in these parts." He turned to Larry. "How is it—full?"

"Yes, and waiting for you."

"Then we won't keep the commodore waitin'—'tain't manners nohow. Jest show the way, sergeant, and we'll be on your heels."

In a few minutes more they were at the after-cabin of the Olympia. Here they had to wait a quarter of an hour, for Commodore Dewey was in consultation with several other officers. At length the officers took their departure, and they were told to go in.