"Oh, I am glad to see you, Lieutenant Cantor," was the captain's
greeting, as that officer appeared, after having sent in his
compliments. "You have both reports?"

"Here they are, sir," replied the younger officer, laying them
on the desk.

"Be seated, Lieutenant. I will go through these papers at once."

For some minutes there was silence in the room, save for the rustling
of paper as Captain Gales turned a page.

At last he glanced up from the reading.

"I note, Lieutenant Cantor, that you are still of the opinion that
the fight could have been avoided."

"That is my unalterable opinion, sir," replied the lieutenant.

"You are aware, of course, Mr. Cantor, that your report will form
a part of the record that will go to the Navy Department, through
the usual official channels?"

"I am well aware of that, sir."

"Have you any other papers to submit in connection with Ensign
Darrin?"

For the barest instant Lieutenant Cantor hesitated.