"Ensign Darrin," directed the officer of the deck, from the bridge, "you are directed to report to Captain Gales, at once."
Saluting, and holding himself very erect, Dave Darrin stepped proudly aboard. His face was white and angry as he neared the captain's quarters, but the young ensign strove to command himself, and tried to keep his sorely tried temper within bounds.
"You will pass inside, sir, at once," directed the marine orderly, as the young officer halted near the door.
Acknowledging the marine's salute, Dave Darrin passed him and entered the office.
Lieutenant Cantor, erect and stern, faced Captain Gales, who looked the sterner of the two.
"Ensign Darrin," began the battleship's commanding officer, rising, "most serious charges have been preferred against you, sir!"
CHAPTER X
DAVE IS STUNG TO THE QUICK
Ensign Darrin bowed, then awaited further communication from his commanding officer.
"It was particularly set forth in the orders," resumed Captain Gales, "that any form of conflict was to be avoided by the expedition of which you commanded a part, was it not?"