"I was, sir, to have my wounds dressed."
"From your appearance I should say that was the place for you, not the quarter-deck."
At that juncture the captain strode across the deck.
"Davis, what are you doing here?" he demanded.
"Finishing my watch, sir," answered the boy, saluting.
"Did I not order you to the sick bay?"
"You did, sir, but you did not order me to stay there."
"I do so now, then. You will report at the sick bay at once, and remain there until you are released by the surgeon." The command was delivered sternly.
"Aye, aye, sir," answered the Battleship Boy, saluting.
"Boatswain's mate, order out another man to take Seaman Davis' watch until eight bells. Come here, my lad."