The executive officer saluted and left the captain's cabin. He had been gone but a few moments when there came another knock at the door.
"Seaman Davis, sir."
"Come in."
Dan Davis, in his new uniform, stepped into the room, looking very handsome and manly. He stood erect, with shoulders well back, in perfect military position.
The captain surveyed him with critical but approving eyes.
"I wish you to perform a service, Davis," announced the captain in a business-like tone.
"Aye, aye, sir."
"I am giving you this detail that you may get the experience. By rights, the marines should do it, though it is discretionary with me to send whom I choose. I have decided to send you."
Dan did not reply. He could not imagine what was wanted of him.
"You will take a detail of six men, armed, carrying five rounds of ball cartridges. Proceed ashore in steamer number one, and round up the delinquents. Bear in mind that you are on foreign soil, and that any indiscreet act on your part might involve the United States in trouble with the French government."