A call, and exclamations in feminine voices attracted Dave's notice.
"Mr. Darrin, Mr. Darrin!" called four women at once, as they waved their handkerchiefs to him. Dave, cap in hand, returned their salute.
"Thank you again, Mr. Darrin."
"We won't say good-bye," called Mrs. Carmody, "for we shall hope to meet you and your splendid boat-crew again."
At that the jackies on the forecastle set up a tremendous cheering.
Not until Dave had gone off duty did another launch put out from the "Long Island." That craft bore to one of the docks two metal caskets. Brief services had been held over the remains of the sailor and the marine killed the night before, and now the bodies were to be sent home to the relatives.
After luncheon a messenger summoned Ensign Darrin to Commander
Bainbridge's office.
"Ensign Darrin," said the executive officer, "here are some communications to be taken ashore to the office of the American consul. You will use number three launch, and take a seaman orderly with you."
"Aye, aye, sir."
Darrin went over the side, followed by Seaman Rogers, who had been in the landing party the night before, Both were soon ashore. Rogers, who knew where the consul's office was, acted as guide.