"The fort is ours!" cried Young Glory.
"The guns must be destroyed," shouted Mr. Tyler. "My lads, those breech-loaders can be easily rendered unfit for use. To the work!"
Rapidly the destruction went on. When it was finished the American tars poured down the hill again, took to their boats, and departed without opposition.
When they reached the cruiser they found that the tide had flowed so fast that the ship was no longer aground.
In a few minutes the vessel left the shores of Cuba behind, and was steaming with all speed for Key West.
The gun-boat having already arrived at the last named place, the story of the gallant fight at San Juan de Porto Rico was already public property. A great reception was given to the Cristobal Colon as she steamed into port.
Young Glory was fairly worshiped, for he was justly regarded as the hero of the battle.
However, he was not inactive long.
In a few days he sailed with an expedition.