at such short range was tremendous: earthworks were simply blown to
pieces, and the Spanish gunners soon forced to stop firing. The Estrella
fortification, which was probably the strongest one there, was given
particular attention by Schley's column. The fort offered great
resistance, but when the vessels had moved to closer range the heavy
guns of the _Texas_ and _Marblehead_ were turned upon it. The Spanish
guns were soon silenced and the fortification set on fire. The Cayo
battery was silenced by the _New York_ and _New Orleans_ after a
terrific fire of about half an hour. Many of the American shells were
wasted for the reason that the fortified points on the shore could not
be accurately located in the thick weather. There was a heavy rain and
fog at the time, and this made marksmanship much less accurate. Shortly
after nine o'clock the firing from shore ceased, and a signal was
hoisted by Admiral Sampson to cease firing. It was then seen that the
earthworks and the Estrella and Catalina fortifications were so damaged
that it is doubtful whether the Spaniards will be able to use them
again.

[Illustration: CHART OF SANTIAGO HARBOR.]

Reports of the engagement make particular mention of the good showing
made by the naval militia on the _Yankee_. They worked like old
blue-jackets, pouring a savage fire into the enemy, and it was accurate
too. They kept close in shore and paid particular attention to the
batteries near the beach. This was their first experience under fire,
and they showed the stuff they are made of. Indeed, they proved
themselves so fond of that sort of thing, that when orders were given to
stop the engagement, there was a great deal of amusement on board the
larger vessels when it was seen that they hammered away with their stern
guns as long as they were within range; even after the order had been