you should be in shape to resume your duties. Meanwhile, I must make one
condition.”

“It will not be necessary, sir, to make any conditions with us,” Jack
replied. “Your instructions will be sufficient.”

“While you are on this present tour of duty, I shall ask Mr. Benson and
Mr. Hastings not to leave the ’Farnum’ without my consent.”

As soon as Mr. Mayhew had left the “Farnum” Eph Somers cried bitterly:

“You heard the verdict in the case! A great verdict! Not guilty—but don’t
do it again!”

At half past eight the next morning a section of cadets, under the command
of Ensign Trahern, came aboard the “Farnum.”

“The lieutenant commander sends word, with his compliments,” reported
Trahern, “that after leaving the bay the formation will be as usual. The
signal to halt and be ready for the tour of instruction will be given when
we’re about ten miles off shore.”

Six of the cadets, of the engineer division, went below to the engine
room. To one of the ten left on deck Jack turned and said:

“You will take charge, Mr. Surles. Assume all the responsibilities of the
officer of the deck.”

In all, five of the midshipmen had commanded briefly before the laying-to
signal was given. Hal Hastings then appeared on deck.