"Quiet," said Jack. "We don't want to have any trouble with them. Besides their words do not apply to you. You are American."
"You are right," said Frank, and turned away.
Suddenly Captain Dreyfuss' voice rang out on the bridge. Instantly all became bustle and confusion. The Marie Theresa was about to get under way. Not yet having been assigned to their duties, Jack and Frank stood a little to one side.
Slowly the big battle cruiser got under way. With her flag flying proudly, she turned her stern toward the shore and made for the open sea. Soon she was heading southward at full speed.
Now a second midshipman approached the lads.
"I am instructed to show you your duties," he said, without enthusiasm, and the boys could see that he was not well pleased with his task.
Frank stepped up to him and held out his hand. "See here," he said, "why can't we be friends?"
The Frenchman took the proffered hand and shook it half-heartedly. He glanced furtively about, evidently in fear that some of his comrades might see him in this compromising situation. Then, as rapidly as possible, he instructed the lads in their tasks.
"And now," he concluded, "dinner is ready. You will mess with the other midshipmen. Come, will show you the way."
Without a word the lads followed him. The long table was already filled. + But there were still some vacant seats. Frank and Jack dropped into these.