"He didn't, though," replied Dan contentedly.
Now another set of footsteps passed hurriedly along the "deck" outside.
"What's that?" questioned a voice sharply. "You say that you saw some one entering a room from the upper end of the terrace?"
"Oh, by George," groaned Dan Dalzell, now beginning to shiver in earnest. "Some meddling marine sentry has gone and whispered tales."
"Keep a stiff upper lip," Dave whispered hoarsely, encouragingly.
"If the officer returns don't give yourself away by your shaking."
"But if he asks me?"
"If you're asked a direct question," sighed Dave mournfully, "you'll have to give a truthful answer."
"And take my medicine!"
"Of course."
That annoying discipline officer was now on his way back, opening doors once more. Moreover, the two very wide-awake midshipmen could hear him asking questions in the rooms further along the "deck."