The men were glad enough to get ashore, for they have been cooped on the
transports most of the time since April 22d, knocking about on the
ocean. In that hot climate it is not over-agreeable to be on ship-board,
even with ample room to move about in; but when crowded as the men on
transports are, there is no end of discomfort.

All Friday afternoon and evening the men worked away at their camp, and
were tired enough when they were ordered to turn in for the night.

Every precaution was taken to guard against a surprise, although no
attack was expected. Saturday the men continued their work, which was
getting along finely and almost completed, when late in the afternoon,
while a large number of men were hauling water up the hill, and others,
who had been working hard all day, were taking a swim in the bay, there
was suddenly heard the sharp crack of Mauser rifles, and the men knew
that the Spaniards were there.

As a matter of course, the attack came from the thick underwood
surrounding the rear of the camp, and soon the air was filled with
bullets whistling around the heads of our men.

As soon as the shots were heard the men came running to aid their
comrades. Many of them who had been swimming grabbed up their rifles and
cartridge-belts, and began firing, without waiting to dress.

With great coolness the men were formed and soon repulsed the Spanish
force. Firing was kept up until midnight. In the darkness the Spaniards
became bolder and attacked the camp, the white tents making a good mark.
If their marksmanship had been better, our losses must have been
serious. As it was, however, but four men were killed--Assistant Surgeon