"Gentlemen," announced Lieutenant Jack Benson, "Ensign Somers will show you all that is possible about the deck handling and the steering below the surface, and then Ensign Hastings will explain the mechanical points of this craft. When both are through, if you have any questions. I will endeavor to answer them."
In a few minutes the "showing" had been accomplished.
"Any questions, gentlemen?" inquired Lieutenant Benson.
Dave was ready with three; Farley had four and Jetson two. Lieutenant Benson looked particularly pleased as he answered. Then, at last, he inquired:
"What's your name?"
"Darrin, sir," Dave replied.
The other midshipmen present were asked their names, and gave them.
"Gentlemen," continued youthful Lieutenant Benson, "this present squad impresses me as being more eager and interested in submarines than any of the squads that have come aboard."
"Thank you, sir," Dave replied for himself and the others.
"Are you really exceptionally interested?" inquired Benson.