"Danny Grin is a good chum," reflected Darrin, "but in this affair
he can't advise me any better than I can advise myself. I wish
I could talk freely with some older officer, who knows shipboard
life better. But if I were to go to any older officer with such
a tale as I have, it would-----"

"In, Mr. Darrin?" sounded a cheery voice, and Commander Bainbridge,
the executive officer, stood in the doorway, bringing young Darrin
to his feet in prompt salute.

"I was passing, Darrin, and so I called," announced the executive
officer. "Otherwise, I would have summoned you to my office.
Lieutenant Cantor has secured shore leave until eleven o'clock
to-night. As we are busy aboard, Mr. Cantor's division is due
for watch duty at eight bells this evening. As Mr. Cantor has
shore leave you will report as officer of the deck until relieved
by Lieutenant Cantor on his return to the ship. At any time between
now and four bells report at my office and sign for these instructions."

"Aye, aye, sir."

Returning the ensign's salute, the executive officer next regarded
Darrin's untidy appearance with some displeasure.

"Mr. Darrin," Commander Bainbridge continued, "I note that you
must have been on hard duty. No officer, after being relieved,
is entitled to retain an untidy appearance longer than is necessary.
You should have bathed, sir, and attired yourself becomingly.
Neatness is the first requisite in the service."