Jack and Frank flushed with pleasure, but there was nothing either could say. From the Navy Department, the lads were escorted to the White House immediately across the street, where President Wilson was found in his office. The President was reached with little ceremony, and Secretary Daniels himself made the introduction.
"So," said the President, "these are the young officers who commanded the British destroyer Essex, which accounted for two of the enemy's submarines? They look rather young for such important posts." He gazed closely at Frank. "Surely," he said finally, "surely you are an American."
"Yes, sir," said Frank. "Born in Massachusetts, sir."
"Chadwick," mused the President. "Not, by any chance, related to Dr. Chadwick, of Woburn."
"He is my father, sir."
The President seemed surprised.
"But I didn't know my old friend Chadwick had a son of your age," he said.
"Well, he has, sir," replied Frank with a smile.
"But how do you happen to be in the British service?"
Frank explained briefly.