“There is bad blood between you and this man, is there not?”
Sam looked surprised. He was not aware that the executive officer knew anything about that.
“I don’t like him, sir, if that is what you mean.”
“Why not?”
“I would rather not say, sir.”
“Has he done anything to you?”
“I can’t say, sir.”
“You mean you will not?”
“I would rather not, sir.”
“Young man, you are new here, else I should be inclined to treat you with great severity. I am satisfied that you threw the man Flink out of the drill hall with malicious intent. That, of itself, is sufficient to merit calling you before the mast for examination and sentence. I do not wish to do that, in view of the fact that you do not fully understand the ways of the school. But discipline must be maintained. I will see to it that no marks are laid against you in this instance. However, as soon as you have finished your routine, you will take an extra duty tour of two hours, carrying a rifle. You will so report to your commanding officer.”