Promptly obeying this summons, Ridge was conducted to a large after-cabin which he found occupied by two officers.

One, with stern features, iron-gray beard, deeply lined forehead, and piercing eyes, he instantly recognized as Admiral Sampson.

The other he guessed to be Captain Chadwick, commander of the ship.
"Well, sir," began the former, sharply, as the new-comer was left standing, cap in hand, before them, "I understand that you wish to make a private communication of importance.

What is it?
Are you desirous of deserting your countrymen and joining us?
If so, I would advise you to go elsewhere before declaring your intention, because on board this ship we have very little sympathy for deserters." "Seeing that I am an American soldier, sir, belonging to Colonel Wood's First Volunteer Cavalry, and am here by special order from General Miles, I don't think there is much danger that I shall desert," replied Ridge.
Both of his hearers uttered exclamations as he announced his nationality, and Captain Chadwick muttered, "I should never have suspected it." At that moment Ridge caught sight of his own face in a mirror, the first he had seen in two weeks, and was startled to note how very Spanish he looked.
In a few minutes he had explained the situation, and given General Garcia's message appointing Aserraderos as a meeting-place to the American commander.

When his report was finished, he added: "Now, sir, can't I remain here until the army arrives?
I never realized until to-day how humiliating it is to be a spy." "I wish I might say yes," replied Admiral Sampson, meditatively, "but fear I cannot.