The Mena weekly star., 1896-10-07

gave way to a look of excitement. Jumping up, he shouted to his la2ier mess-mates who had not yet emerged from their state-rooms: Boys, the war is on."
 In a second, heads were thrust out, some of the possessors even venturing into the ward-room considerably more en deshabille than custom regulations permitted. But Dclafeld's telegram was of so much interest and importance that such trifiing conventionalties were forgotten, and his curious brother-offi- cers crowded around him, clamoring loudly for the news.
 Listen" snid the lieutenant, I'll read it to you:
 Washington, D. C.. Oct. 20. lso-. To Lieut.. John Delafield, U. s. N, U. s. S. Idaho. San Francisco Harbor: Regard yourself detached from Idaho. Proceed immediately to Mare island navy yard. Take command of the Bainbridge, and prepare for active service at earliest pns- sible moment Commandant ordered 10 place at your disposal every available
 Secretary"
 What do you fellows think of that?" said Jack.
 Lucky dog"
 ''Wish were in your place"
 They ali seemed pleased at Delafield's stroke of luck. Fortune was truly smil- ing on him, for he had been selected for this hazardous and important duty out of half hundred other officers of his own rank, each one as eager as himself T Al. f4 4f.. bridge, of which wonders were ex- pected.
 He had been chosen by the secretary of the navy and had received his prepar- atory orders, which were to the effect that he would be retained on board the Idaho until hostilities were imminent, when he would be given his new com mand. Meanwhile the work of fitting her for sea had been pushed at the navy yard with all dispatch. The Bainbridge was the first of our new semi-submarine magnetic torpedo-boats, those marvels of American ingenuity and skill.
 Jack started for the nayy-yard at once. and en arriving reported te the commandant, Admiral Dana, who told him in his bluff, kindly way to go ahead and fit out his craft as rapidly as possi- ble, taking whatever was necessary for her equipment without the usual for malities, adding cheerily: We can at tend to all that after you come back, Delafeld.'
 As he stands there before the admiral. receiving his instructions, let us glance at the officer upon whom, perhaps, will hang the result of the battle very soon to be fought outside the Heads. Tall. erect and finely formed, Lieut.. Delaiield impresses one instantly as man of no mean physical strength. His face gives evidence of courage, firmness and great will power-just the attributes. in fact, which should most properly be- long to the man ordered to command an unknown quantity like the Bainbridge, yet to be tried by the test of actual bat tie. When he leaves. the office of the admiral. his elastic step and easy car riage show that his task has not over- bnrdened him with anxiety. but. on the contrary, indicates confidence in him self and assurance of his ability to car " the work before him to successful issue.
 On his way down to the wharf where the Bninhridge lay. he passed groups of officers eagerly discussing. the latest news. All had some friendly or con- gratulatory remark for him; but, scarcely stopping to reply, he hurried on board his new command. The Bain- bridge was one Of the latest additions to onr fleet, and while ii was anticipated