Part 38 (2/2)

The men were astounded to see him walk up to the door in the rampart, insert the key in the lock, and open it. Madly they rushed through into the fort.

The Spaniards were standing at the guns when this sudden attack took place, thinking that the enemy was in front. They had no time to rally.

Young Glory leading, the American sailors pressed forward, cutting down all in their path. A few of the Spaniards resisted for a few minutes.

Then they threw down their arms in token of surrender.

A number of them saved themselves by jumping off the rampart and flying through the woods.

”The fort is ours!” cried Young Glory.

”The guns must be destroyed,” shouted Mr. Tyler. ”My lads, those breech-loaders can be easily rendered unfit for use. To the work!”

Rapidly the destruction went on. When it was finished the American tars poured down the hill again, took to their boats, and departed without opposition.

When they reached the cruiser they found that the tide had flowed so fast that the s.h.i.+p was no longer aground.

In a few minutes the vessel left the sh.o.r.es of Cuba behind, and was steaming with all speed for Key West.

The gun-boat having already arrived at the last named place, the story of the gallant fight at San Juan de Porto Rico was already public property. A great reception was given to the Cristobal Colon as she steamed into port.

Young Glory was fairly wors.h.i.+ped, for he was justly regarded as the hero of the battle.

However, he was not inactive long.

In a few days he sailed with an expedition.

His daring deeds will be related under the t.i.tle of YOUNG GLORY IN CUBA.

[THE END.]

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