"Well, if there is no higher consideration," argued Dave, "at
least you must remember that the number of demerits fixes your
conduct grade. If you want such liberties and privileges as are
allowed to new midshipmen, you'll have to keep your name away from
the pap."

"Humph! Setting your course toward the grease mark are you?"
jeered Dan.

"Think it over!" urged Dave Darrin patiently.

Before August was over the new fourth class men marched "like
veterans." They had mastered all the work of drill, marching and
parade, and felt that they could hold their own in the brigade when
the upper class men returned.

On the 28th of August the three big battleships were sighted coming
up the bay in squadron formation. A little more than an hour
later they rode at anchor.

It was not, however, until the 30th of August that the upper classmen
were disembarked.

August 31 was devoted to manifold duties, including the hurried
packing of light baggage, for now the members of the three upper
classes were to enjoy a month's leave of absence before the beginning
of the academic year on October 1.

Then, like a whirlwind mob, and clad in their "cit." clothes, the
upper class men got away on that hurried, frenzied leave.