Part 11 (1/2)
The scheme was successful. The sentry told him to advance, keeping his rifle on him the while, until he had satisfied himself of the truth.
One look seemed to give him confidence.
”You are from Monterey, capitan?”
”Yes. I am Captain Ruiz Calderon.”
”Pa.s.s, capitan.”
One obstacle was surmounted. The rest was easy. In a few minutes Young Glory found himself in Valmosa.
There all was excitement.
Instantly Young Glory went to the commandant of the garrison.
”If he knows Ruiz Calderon, I'm lost,” was Young Glory's reflection as he entered the commandant's room.
”A dispatch from General Lopez,” said Young Glory, saluting.
The commandant took the letter and tore it open, scarcely giving Young Glory a glance.
”So you are Captain Calderon?” he said, after reading the dispatch.
”Yes, colonel.”
”General Lopez says you are a brave and energetic soldier.”
Young Glory bowed.
”To-night you have work before you that will prove your strength. You are to command the expedition that starts for Monterey.”
”So the general told me.”
”Everything is in readiness. There is no reason for delay.”
”I think you are right, colonel. There seems to be every reason for hurrying. You spoke of danger.”
”Yes.”
”From what quarter do you expect it?”
”From the Americans. The rebels are on sh.o.r.e. They can do us no harm.”
”How can the Americans do so?”
”They have a cruiser in these waters.”
”She will not see us.”
”Who knows? Those s.h.i.+ps carry great searchlights now, and they can light up the water.”