Some one knocked at the door.
"Well?"
"Orderly, sir."
"Yes, what is it?"
"The master-at-arms reports that twelve men are ashore, having overstayed their leave, sir."
"Thank you. Send the executive officer here to me."
"Aye, aye, sir."
"Davis, go to the canteen at once, and procure your uniform. See that your rating badge is sewed on the sleeve; then report back to me here."
"Aye, aye, sir."
Dan hurried away, delivering the captain's order to the keeper of the canteen. He was quickly furnished with a new uniform and a rating badge, the latter showing that he was a petty officer. This rating badge consisted of two white crossed cannon with three red chevrons beneath, all surmounted by a white eagle, worn on the sleeve.