in a cramped atmosphere. With fifteen hundred officers and men
abroad there is barely elbow room at any time, and sometimes not
that."

"This ship looks big enough to carry a small city full of people,"
Darrin smiled.

"See here!" Trent stepped to the starboard rail, looking forward.

"Just look ahead, and see the magnificent distance to the bow,"
continued the officer of the deck. "We call a ship 'she,' Darrin,
and let me assure you, 'she' is some girl! Look at the magnificent
length and breadth. Yet, when we are at sea, you will soon begin
to realize how cramped the life is."

After chatting a little longer with Lieutenant Trent, Ensign Darrin
started forward along the decks, taking in all he could see of this
huge, floating castle.

Presently he returned to the quarter-deck, but Lieutenant Trent
was busy with a lieutenant of the marine guard. Dave stepped
inside. Almost immediately he heard a step at his side. Glancing
around, Dave looked into the face of Lieutenant Cantor.

"A while ago I noticed you talking with Trent," Dave's division
officer remarked, in a low voice.

"Yes, sir."

"Did you discuss me?"