"Unfortunately, I am obliged to do so," Dave answered. "I am aware that German officers consider themselves to be of a brand of clay much superior to that used in making their men."
"But we officers are gentlemen!" retorted the ober-lieutenant, drawing himself up stiffly.
"It's a point that might be argued," returned Darrin, lightly. "Yet there is no other course, for we have no detention space apart from the main one on board, so it is the only place that we can use for confining German officers—and gentlemen."
"May I request the privilege of a few words with you before you send me below?" requested the ober-lieutenant, unbending a trifle.
"Certainly," Dave assured him, and the guard that was marshaling the prisoners below permitted the recent German commander to step out of the line.
"I will see you in my chart-room," said Dave. Lieutenant Fernald, who had been standing by, caught Dave's signal and entered with his chief.
Once inside Ober-Lieutenant Dreiner turned and gazed at Fernald.
"I had expected a private interview, Herr Darrin," he said, rather stiffly.
"Lieutenant Fernald is my executive officer, and nothing goes on board with which he is not familiar," Darrin replied. "Have a seat, Herr Ober-Lieutenant."
"And must I speak before—before your subordinate?" asked the German, as he dropped into the chair that had been indicated.