The Argosy — page 229: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

212 The Cruise of the Reserve Squadron. I could not betray his confidence.) A serious consultation ensued as to whether he should not be voted the Black Sheep of the ward- room ; but this being his first offence (in the way of fans), the matter was condoned on condition that the article should not again be brought forward. ‘The committee then broke up, and, with the help of the windsail, the atmosphere of the ward-room was changed. That afternoon in Santiago, we spent some time, as well as money, | in the fan-shop—as may be supposed: then crossed over to the club. Here we inspected the ball-room, where Spanish beauties flash their bright glances and flirt their own fans at susceptible Dons, and behave in an altogether light and frivolous fashion, after the manner of human nature: just as if Santiago de Compostella were an ordinary town : instead of being surrounded by an atmosphere steeped in the odour of sanctity, with streets pilgrim-worn and Pope-blessed, and protected by the lofty image of St. James the Elder. There was little to see beyond: and we had no time left for exploring, and less desire. So, in the sober hours of the afternoon, we turned towards the station, through the blooming Public Gardens that crowned the hill, gorgeous and gay with flowers; down the white dusty road, now comparatively deserted ; finally finding our- selves on the platform. The train waited. Ere long we were steam- ing over the viaduct ; admiring the position of the town; again watch- ing the transformation ; noting the fine effect of the cathedral towers that stood out against a sky so blue, so ethereal, so transparent. Then, passing on, we lost sight of all that recalled Santiago. Once more bound for Carril, Through the undulating scenery, with its olive groves and palm trees and long stretches of aloes. But the train this evening was in a slow and stately mood, and we three were in a hurry; Pyramid especially, who was under an engage- ment to dine that night with Captain Jago, and whose hour was approaching. Therefore, when the train stopped within two hundred yards of the station: and so much nearer the pier where the steam pinnace of the Defence was in waiting: we three got out, crossed the lines, and reached our boat almost before the train had slowly puffed into Carril. The full glare of day had left earth and sky; the sun was de- clining ; a cool breeze—the usual evening experience—had sprung up; the surrounding calm and quiet were conspicuous after our late hours in the Holy City. Santiago de Compostella, perhaps, for our especial benefit, had overspread these waters with the sanctity of its religious atmosphere. ‘The eight vessels of the Fleet, riding at anchor in the landlocked waters of Arosa Bay, looked dignified, and worthy of England. And our credit was saved by our manceuvre. As we stepped on board, the first bugle sounded, and instead of being half- an-hour behind time, we had fifteen minutes to spare for shifting into war paint. During the cruise each vessel has to be inspected once by the Gomicbooksnco m