“He has been pointed out to me as number one man in the second class, sir.”
“Do you know his name?”
“I have heard it was Osborn, sir.”
“When did you last see him?”
“I caught a glimpse of him the other evening, sir,” replied Chappell in a hesitating way.
“Be very careful in your answers, Mr. Chappell; no candidate is ever admitted as a midshipman whose truthfulness is questioned.”
Mr. Chappell fidgeted nervously, twirling his hat in his hand.
“Did Mr. Osborn stand you on your head Monday night, last?”
“It was just a joke, sir; I met another midshipman a few minutes before who——”
“Never mind about the other midshipman; answer the question.”