A ray of sunlight slanted across the hand as he stood there. Sam caught his breath sharply, then an eager look overspread his face. He hesitated a moment; then, springing over to where Flink was standing, Sam grabbed the hand, jerking it sharply down, examining it briefly in the few seconds that elapsed ere Flink could resist.
“Attention!” commanded Lieutenant Commander Devall. “What does this mean?”
“If you will examine this man’s hand, I think you will understand, sir,” answered Sam, saluting.
The lieutenant commander stepped over to Flink.
“Let me see your hands. Palms up!”
The palms were smeared with red.
“Is that your sea bag yonder?”
Flink nodded.
“So, you are the man who is responsible for this, are you? What have you to say for yourself?”
The apprentice hung his head, making no reply.