The petty officer fixed him with a stern eye.
“Don’t ask unnecessary questions, young man,” rebuked the officer, whereat Sam subsided.
“Is there any system, other than what you have spoken of, for stowing the clothes, sir?” questioned Dan respectfully.
“Yes. I’ll explain. Place the blue clothes and cap in the bottom of the bag, white clothes and hats next, small bags, socks and other articles on top. Secure the bag with two turns of the lanyard as close down on the contents as possible—this way. Do you understand?”
“Yes, sir; thank you, sir.”
“That will be all for the present. Have you had your breakfast?”
“No, sir, and we’re half starved,” spoke up Sam Hickey quickly. “I could eat a horse.”
“No comments, please. Remember, men, you are now full fledged rookies. You are in the service of the United States Government and you must remember to conduct yourselves accordingly. I will see that you get further instruction after breakfast.”
The bugle was blowing the breakfast call at that moment. The quartermaster conducted the lads outside the building and around into another apartment where a group of white-uniformed young fellows were standing about waiting for the command to seat themselves at the tables.
“Fall to!” commanded the officer.