"You are Sergeant Norris of the Rough Riders, I believe?"
"Yes, sir," replied Ridge, saluting, and overjoyed at being recognized.
"I looked for you at Daiquiri," continued the General, "and hope you can give good reason for not reporting there as ordered."
"I believe I can, sir."
"Then come in with me and give it to Major-General Wheeler, who is at present in command."
Within half an hour the young scout had been complimented by both Generals on the success of his recent undertaking, and had furnished them with information of the utmost value concerning the obstacles to be encountered between Siboney and Santiago. The first of these he stated would be found at Las Guasimas, where the two trails from Siboney to Sevilla on the Santiago road formed a junction some three miles inland. A little later he had the honor of guiding General Wheeler on a reconnoissance over one of these trails, and pointing out the location of a strongly intrenched Spanish force, posted to oppose the American advance.
When they returned to Siboney the sun had set, and Ridge, faint for the want of food, was wondering where he should find a supper, when a mighty cheering, mingled with wild cowboy yells, rose from a point where the Daiquiri road entered the village.
"It sounds as though your irrepressible comrades had arrived," said the little General, turning to his young guide with a quizzical smile, "though I did not expect them before to-morrow. Perhaps you would like to go and welcome them."
"Thank you, sir. Indeed I should," and in another moment Ridge was hastening in the direction of the familiar sounds.
How his heart swelled with loving pride, as he sighted the red and white guidons of the on-sweeping column; and when the one bearing the magical letter "K" came into view, he could have wept for very joy.