The messenger fled like the wind. He knew the Captain, but failed to recognize this mood. Ordinarily the Captain would have said, “Ask the Engineer-Commander....”
The Engineer-Commander, stirred to unwonted activity by the boy’s breathlessness, came quickly.
“You sent for me, sir?”
“Engineer-Commander, are you personally responsible for the routine of midshipmen performing Engine-room duties?”
“Mr. Aggett is directly responsible, sir—under me, of course.”
“They are keeping watch and watch night and day. Are you aware of that?”
“The Afternoon is regarded as kept, sir.”
“So I am told.... In addition to their watch-keeping they do an Engineering sketch each week?”
“Almost inconsiderable, sir.”