“Sir, are we entitled to ask any questions?”

“I will answer any questions that I may properly,” smiled the executive officer.

“We are going to Mexico, sir, in fighting trim, are we not?”

“I think what I have already said will indicate that,” came Commander Bainbridge’s reply.

“Has anything happened in Mexico,” continued Denton, “which makes it imperative for us to fight there?”

“Nothing, so far as I know,” answered the executive officer, “other than the usual daily outrages that are disgracing the fair name of Mexico.”

“Then nothing of unusual importance has happened, which would make us sure that we are heading for Mexico on a definite fighting errand?”

“I have no knowledge that we are actually going to fight in Mexico,” replied Commander Bainbridge.  “It has occurred to me that this ship, and others of the line, are being ordered to Mexico as a 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!”

Both Darrin and Dalzell had already been notified that they were detailed to “day duty” for that day.  This meant that they would have no watch duty to stand, but would be employed through the day, while watch duty fell to the lot of others.

While Dalzell was to go below, with Trent, aiding in the storage of shells in the magazine, Darrin was ordered to report to Lieutenant Cantor to supervise the oiling of mechanisms of the guns of Cantor’s division, and, later, to perform other important duties.

“Your face is flushed,” sneered Cantor, when he found an opportunity to speak aside with Dave.  “You are dreaming of active service in war, perhaps.”

“Yes, sir,” said Dave, simply.