CHAPTER XXVI
COMMANDER DALTON BECOMES ANGRY
"This matter isn't settled yet, sir," continued Stonewell. "A man accused has a right to offer a defense: I insist on that right. First, I am not guilty. I shall have no trouble in proving my innocence. I shall leave your office for a few minutes and will return with the proof of that innocence. And as I have been charged with scandalous acts in the presence of everybody here in your office, I have to request that they all remain until I return and that no further action be taken until I am back."
"Just a moment, Mr. Stonewell," called out the commandant, but the former, paying no attention to this order, hurriedly left the office.
Commander Dalton looked undecided. "I don't understand this at all. Mr. Stonewell should not have left at this time."
"I think you had better let him go, Dalton; he is entitled to present a defense if he has one," observed Captain Blunt.
"Of course, but he had the opportunity right here; Blunt, do you wish to question your son?"
"After Mr. Stonewell returns I would like a chance to talk privately with Harry and with Mr. Drake."