direct you to the office of the superintendent's aide."

"Thank you," replied Dave, with a bow, and led the way upstairs.

Near the head of the stairs another marine, in spick-and-span
uniform, wearing white gloves and with a bayonet at his belt,
called out quietly:

"Candidates? First two, step this way please."

He swung open a door. Dave and Dan stepped into an office where
they found a young-looking though slightly bald gentleman in uniform,
seated behind a flat-top desk.

"We have come to report, sir, according to our instructions,"
announced Dave Darrin, happily.

"You are candidates, then?" asked Lieutenant-Commander Graham,
reaching for a pile of bound sheets.

"Yes, sir."

"Names?

"David Darrin and Daniel Dalzell, sir."

"Have you your papers, Mr. Darrin?"

"Yes, sir."