"That's true enough," Frank admitted, "but at the same time you are considerably more fit for the job than I am. Another thing. I don't know that I would trade my berth here for a command of a ship."
Jack looked his surprise.
"Why?" he asked.
"Because it would separate us," was Frank's reply. "We've been together now since the war began, almost. I hope that we may see it through together."
"Here, too," declared the commander of the Brigadier, "but at the same time you should not let a matter of friendship stand between you and what may be your big opportunity."
"Oh, I'd probably take the job if it were offered me," said Frank. "I'm just hoping the offer will not be made; that's all."
The lads conversed for some moments longer. Then Frank looked at his watch.
"My watch," he said quietly. "I'll be going on deck."
"Right," said Jack. "Call me if anything happens."
"Yes, sir," said Frank, saluting his commander gravely.