And so it wasn't long until the two chums were friendly with all on
board, and after awhile things went along as though Archie and Bill
had never lived elsewhere than aboard ship. There was nothing exciting
for nearly a week. The cruiser steamed slowly along the shore,
sometimes stopping entirely, while the officers levelled their glasses
upon the beach, to see whether there were any signs of the rebels
being there. Sometimes, if things looked suspicious, parties were sent
ashore to reconnoitre, but they seldom returned with news that would
encourage the admiral to investigate further. The days passed quietly,
and the two convalescents enjoyed themselves well enough. They were
both much improved already by the trip, and felt almost as well as
ever. They each had a steamer chair, and hour after hour they sat upon
the deck and watched the ever-changing panorama of the tropical shore.
Now the beach would descend slowly to the sea, and there would be
numerous palm-trees and luxuriant vegetation growing close within
view, but again there would be steep clips, which looked menacing to a
ship in the dark. But it was all beautiful, cliffs or sandy beach, and
Archie thought he had seldom passed such a wholly delightful week.
But, of course, it all became monotonous in time, and every one, even
the officers, longed for a change. The reconnoitring parties were sent
out more frequently now, and every one hoped each time that they would
return with news of the rebels, but they were always disappointed.
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