But who are you ?" "An officer of the American army, come to you with a message from its commanding General." "Have you credentials or despatches by which you may be known ?" "Only this, sir." Here Ridge lowered his voice and gave, for the second time since landing in Cuba, the secret countersign of the Junta.
"It is sufficient," said the General, smiling and holding out his hand.
"Now what is your message ?" "That the American army of invasion, having sailed from Tampa, is due within the next two days to arrive off Santiago; and General Shafter, who commands it, is desirous of an interview with you before landing his troops.

He asks you to name the place of meeting." "Thank you, sir, for bringing me this great news, and gladly will I meet your General whenever he may choose to come.

Also I will fix the place of meeting down yonder at Aserraderos.

From this station I will watch day and night for his ships, and when they come will be ready to receive him." "Very good, sir.

I will so report to my General." "But how do you expect to communicate with him ?" asked Garcia, curiously.
"I propose to go from here to Enramada, to which place I was about to ask you to favor me with a mount and a guide.