"We are to march as soon as we have had breakfast," Trent told his two junior officers. "We are to take position a mile and a half south-west of the advanced line, and there wait to protect, if necessary, the Navy aviators, who are going out soon on a scouting flight. At the same time, we are to keep a lookout for the appearance of one of the airships that the Huerta forces are supposed to possess. If we see one, we are to try to get it with the machine guns or rifles. And here is a piece of news that may interest you youngsters. If requested by either of the Navy aviators, I am to allow one of my junior officers to go up in the airship to help with the preparation of field notes to be used in making a military map. If such a demand be made upon me, which of you young men shall be the one to go?"
Ensigns Dave and Dan had turned glowing faces to Trent. Then they glanced at each other. A scouting trip in one of the Navy aircraft would be an unqualified delight to either.
"Let Darrin go," urged Danny Grin.
"I withdraw, in favor of Dalzell," spoke Dave, with equal quickness.
"Which shall it be, then?" Trent demanded quizzically.
"Dalzell," said Dave.
"Darrin," decreed Danny Grin.
"How am I to decide?" asked the lieutenant, smiling at the two eager faces. Then, suddenly he added: "I have it! Which excelled the other in map work at Annapolis?"
"Darrin had the higher marks! I defy you to dispute that, David, little giant."
As Danny Grin's statement was true, Dave could not dispute it, so be contented himself by saying: