“I didn’t tell you to walk your post, blockhead!” scowled Mr. Merriam.
“Stand still when at attention.”

Jack tried, but of course made a ludicrous failure of standing still on
his hands. So did Hal and Eph. The latter, truth to tell, didn’t try very
hard, for his freckled temper was coming a bit to the surface.

“You’re the rawest recruits, the worst landlubbers I’ve ever seen,”
declared Cadet Midshipman Merriam, with severe dignity. “Rest, before you
try it any further.”

The smile had all but left Jack Benson’s lips, though he tried to keep it
there. Hal Hastings made the most successful attempt at looking wholly
unconcerned. Eph’s face was growing redder every minute. It is a
regrettable fact that Eph was really beginning to want to fight.

“See here,” ordered Mr. Merriam, suddenly, taking Jack by the arm, “you’re
a horse, a full-blooded Arab steed—understand!”

He gave young Benson a push that sent that youngster down to the ground on
all fours.

“You’re General Washington, out to take a ride on your horse,” announced
Mr. Merriam, turning to Hal. “It’s a ride for your health. Do you
understand? It will be wholly for your health to take that ride!”

Hal Hastings couldn’t help comprehending. With a sheepish grin he sat
astride of Jack Benson’s back as the latter stood on all fours.

“Go ahead with your ride, General,” called Mr. Merriam.