hint to Federals and rebels alike that the United States possesses
force enough to bring all Mexicans to their senses."

Having made this last reply, Commander Bainbridge touched a button.
The ward-room door was thrown open, and the mess-servants once
more entered.

But now a new note crept into the talk. The fact that the "_Long
Island_" was to carry to Mexican waters full supplies of all kinds,
including small and large ammunition, was enough to satisfy these
officers of the Navy that the government at Washington had an
important move on hand, and that move was expected to bring about
armed conflict between the two countries.

"Now, am I a dreamer?" demanded Lieutenant Holton of those about
him.

The two most excited officers present were also the newest on
hoard the "_Long Island_." At the thought of active service against
an enemy, Dave Darrin and Dan Dalzell fairly tingled.

"This is the greatest news we could possibly get," beamed Danny
Grin, turning to his chum.

"It seems too great to be true," replied Ensign Darrin. "Danny,
the Mexicans have been boasting that we don't _dare_ tackle them and
stir up that Mexican hornet's nest. If we get a chance, the American
Navy will show them---and the world---something well worth
remembering!"