On Monday the scouts went out to the front, and a small brush was had with a number of the insurgents in the vicinity of San Miguel de Mayumo. They reported that the Filipinos had a number of intrenchments placed across the roads, but seemed to be retreating toward San Isidro. "If Aguinaldo makes a stand anywhere, it will be at San Isidro," said Ben to Major Morris, as the two discussed the situation. "Oh, but I do wish we could have one big battle and finish this campaign!" "How about the big battle going against us?" demanded the major, but with a twinkle in his eye. "It would never go against us," answered the young captain, promptly, "and the insurgents know it. That is why they keep their distance." The scouts had brought in a dozen or more prisoners, and among them were a Filipino and a Spaniard, both of whom could speak English quite fluently. As soon as he could obtain permission, Ben hurried over to have a talk with the prisoners. He found that the Filipino had belonged to those having some of the American prisoners in charge. "And do you know anything of my brother?" he asked eagerly. "He is a young sailor from the _Olympia_, and his name is Larry Russell." "Yes, yes, I know him," answered the Filipino, nodding his head. "He was at the cave where they have kept some of the prisoners for a long time." And he described Larry so minutely that Ben felt there could be no mistake about the matter. "Is my brother well? How do they treat him? Please tell me the truth." "You may not believe it, but we treat our prisoners good," said the Filipino. "And when I saw your brother last he was very well." "And where is this prison cave?" At this the insurgent shrugged his shoulder. "Now, _capitan_, you are asking me too much. I am pleased to tell you that your brother is safe. More than that I cannot tell, for it would not be right." This was not encouraging, yet Ben could not help but admire the prisoner's loyalty to his cause. "Very well," he said. "I am thankful to know that my brother is well. I was afraid that prison life might make him sick." A little later the young captain got the chance to talk to the Spanish prisoner, who was making an application for his release, claiming that he was friendly to the United States and had never encouraged the rebels. Seldom had the young captain met more of a gentleman than Senor Romano proved to be. "Ah, the war is terrible! terrible!" said the senor, after Ben had introduced himself. "It is bloodshed, bloodshed, all the time. Where it will end, Heaven alone knows--but I am afraid the Filipinos will be beaten far worse than was my own country." "I think you are right there," replied Ben. "But we can't do anything for them now until they lay down their arms."