The captain paused to give his words force.
"Aye, aye, sir."
Dan's eyes were sparkling, strive as he might to appear as if it were nothing unusual to be sent ashore at the head of a patrol.
"Twelve delinquents are ashore, having overstayed their leave. Bring in all you can find, reporting to the American consul as to those whom you fail to round up. Do you understand?"
"Yes, sir."
"You will use no unnecessary force, but simply bring in the men. You will remember that you are clothed with no little power. Exercise it discreetly. I know that I can depend on you. That will be all. Report at once to the master-at-arms, who has instructions and orders in this matter. Make all possible haste, as I desire to sail this afternoon, or as much earlier as is possible."
"Aye, aye, sir. Is that all, sir?"
"Yes."
The Battleship Boy saluted and retired. Proceeding directly to the forecastle, he reported to the master-at-arms, who had already ordered out the men who were to constitute the patrol.
Dan's companions were looking on smilingly, for the lad was popular among his fellows.