“Stand by the starboard anchor chain!”
The command was given from the bridge as the lads emerged from the forward hatchway. Glancing up they saw several officers in their white uniforms standing on the bridge of the ship.
“I guess we must be going to get under way, sir,” said Dan.
“Yes.”
The “Long Island” had swung with the tide until she was headed down the river. Groups of expectant jackies thronged the forward deck. To one side stood the members of the ship’s band, instruments in hand.
“Stand clear of the starboard anchor chain,” came the second command from the bridge. “Up with the starboard anchor.”
A rattling of chains followed instantly as the anchor was quickly raised by electric power until its stock was level with the forward deck.
“Starboard anchor shipped, sir,” was the answer from the forward deck.
“Aye, aye!”
The captain, who had been standing looking over the forecastle from the bridge, now turned to the midshipman at the bridge telegraph, from which signals are transmitted to the engine room.