“But, if I promise that you not only will not be court-martialed, but will receive the commendation of the President, and the Secretary of the Navy, will you go?”
“If you could guarantee this, ladies, why, damn me!—I beg your pardon—I would do it, just to please two such lovely girls as honor my cabin by their presence to-day; but, of course, you cannot do it.”
“But I can!” cried Mollie, “and your promise is given. I am Miss Mollie Craft, the President’s daughter: in his name, I guarantee approval of your action.”
The beautiful girl arose from her chair, and stood proudly before the old sailor.
Without moving a muscle of his face, Captain Gordon slowly said:
“Pardon me, ladies, but any woman could have uttered those words.”
Crushed, and with a sinking feeling at her heart, Mollie nearly fell at his feet. He doubted her, and she had nothing to prove her identity.
Deliberately came the words:
“Have you anything to prove your relationship to the President?”