"There is a cruiser on the coast threatening a little town where some government stores have been placed for safety. Will you undertake the defence of the town?"
"Certainly; I will do the best I can; but success will depend on my means."
"How many men have you?"
"One hundred and fifty."
"I will send fifty marines with you."
"But artillery?"
"There are some nine-pounders and one long thirty-two at the village. Muster your men, hasten there at once, and do the best you can."
"But, general, you have not yet told me the name of the village."
"Mariana."
"What?" gasped Fernando, starting to his feet. "Did you say Mariana. Perhaps I misunderstood you."'