This place had been shelled several days before, in
order that the Spaniards should have no fortifications to aid them in
preventing this landing.
No Spaniards appeared, however, and our men had soon landed tents and
the necessary implements with which to make an encampment. The site
chosen was the hill where the blockhouse had been, as this high spot was
considered the most healthful position.
Orders were given to destroy the few houses and huts, to prevent all
possibility of catching yellow fever from any germs which might have
been lingering there. These hovels made a fine bonfire, as they were
built of light materials with thatched roofs.
The men were glad enough to get ashore, for they have been cooped on the
transports most of the time since April 22d, knocking about on the
ocean. In that hot climate it is not over-agreeable to be on ship-board,
even with ample room to move about in; but when crowded as the men on
transports are, there is no end of discomfort.
All Friday afternoon and evening the men worked away at their camp, and
were tired enough when they were ordered to turn in for the night.
Every precaution was taken to guard against a surprise, although no
attack was expected. Saturday the men continued their work, which was
getting along finely and almost completed, when late in the afternoon,
while a large number of men were hauling water up the hill, and others,
who had been working hard all day, were taking a swim in the bay, there
was suddenly heard the sharp crack of Mauser rifles, and the men knew
that the Spaniards were there.
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