"We've made too much racket. Let's go into the after wheel-house."

"We must be quiet about it," spoke up the "Kid," warningly. "'Cutlets'
is chasing around to-night, and if he catches us in there he'll raise
Cain."

"All right," replied Bill. "And I'll finish that story if I have to stay
up all night."

"Same here," retorted Tom, with evident determination. "Come on."

And we all followed the twain.


CHAPTER X.

WE BOMBARD SANTIAGO DE CUBA.

The after wheel-house on board the "Yankee" was a round structure of
steel built on the spar deck directly over the counter. It contained a
steering wheel to be used in case the wheel in the pilot-house should be
disabled. When the chill winds of May and early June were blowing off
the northern coast during the "Yankee's" period of cruising in that
vicinity, the after wheel-house formed a snug and comfortable retreat
for the men of the watch.

It was freely used for that purpose until the navigator chanced to
discover the fact. He forthwith issued orders forbidding any person to
enter the house, except on duty. His order, like many others, received
respectful consideration--when he happened to be looking. In the present