CHAPTER XVII
JOB DOWLING SENDS A LETTER
It was three days later, and the American troops occupied all the territory south of Manila to Bacoor. The enemy had retired to Imus, a small town inland, having given up entirely the possession of the territory fronting Manila Bay.
There was no more fighting in sight for the time being, and Ben and Larry, with their friends, were glad enough to take it easy in the shade of some tall trees overshadowing the hut which the young captain had made his temporary quarters.
All of the soldiers were waiting for the mail from Manila, which was expected on an early wagon train. Soon the mail came in, bringing with it several letters for our friends.
"A letter from Uncle Job," said Larry, on receiving the missive. He tore the envelope open and read aloud, for Ben's benefit:—
"My dear Boys," the old man wrote, " I was very glad to get your last letter, but sorry to learn
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