"I'm not a soldier. I am a civilian."
"A likely story," snapped the officer, who chanced to be an ensign.
"I can't help how likely it is," snapped Donald in return. "It's true, and I want to be put ashore as quickly as possible. I have an important message and the safety of one of his staff is involved. There is also a plot on foot to capture the general himself."
"Nonsense! And besides, I can't put you ashore. I am carrying a message to Admiral Fletcher."
"But my business is important," insisted Donald.
"So is mine," declared the ensign.
He ordered his launch full speed ahead in the direction of the flagship.
"It's pretty tough," commented Donald, "but I'll prove I am right when I get to the ship."
"I hope so," was the reply. "I haven't anything against you and you may be telling the truth, but I can't take any chances."
Fifteen minutes later they drew up beside the flagship.