"It is quite clear that the spike was thrown at you from the superstructure. By the way, where's the spike?"
"I have it," said Sam, extending the spike to the petty officer.
"I will take care of this. Say nothing about what has occurred, but keep your eyes open. If you have reason to suspect any one, let me know at once. I can hardly believe that we have a man on board the 'Long Island' desperate enough to attempt a crime like this. If ever there was an attempted murder this is one. Go to your quarters now."
In the excitement following the attempt on his life, Dan had forgotten all about the letter he had written to his mother. It did not occur to him until the boys were at gun practice with the seven-inch piece the following morning. He turned to Sam at the first opportunity.
"What did you do with my letter?" he demanded.
"I put it in my ditty box last night. I was too excited to remember that it belonged to you. I'll give it to you when we are piped down for mess."
"All right; I want to add something to it."
"Say, Dynamite," said a companion, "where did you get the game ear?"
"It was hurt," answered Dan evasively.
"It looks as if a bulldog had been chewing at it. You never did that of your own accord, did you?"