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THE ADVANCE UPON MAASIN.
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have any ill feeling because somebody offered him a suggestion. "We'll go that way." And he immediately gave necessary orders.

But the advance was by no means easy, and soon the battalion found itself under such a galling fire that the men were glad enough to seek the shelter of every rock and bush which came handy. The battery could not do everything, and afraid of having his pieces taken from him, the captain had called upon several companies of the Filipinos to assist him in maintaining his position.

"Down!" suddenly shouted Gilbert Pennington, and down went the men, and the next instant a shell burst directly over their heads.

"This is hot and no mistake," murmured Ben. Then he turned to his command. "Forward, men, the sooner we take that position the better it will be for us." And up the hill he dashed, with Casey, Stummer, and the rest following as best they could, for the way was steep and uncertain. At last the very edge of the big rock was gained, and Company D poured around its left side, to find themselves suddenly confronted by a body of Tagalos fully a hundred strong. In the meantime the other companies under Major Morris were com-