"Why, after the narrow escape we had from being caught and reported, an hour or so ago, I shall ask that the fight be held where we are not so likely to be caught at it. I don't care about being dropped from the Naval Academy, nor do I believe you do."
"It would be a good thing for the service, if one of us were to be dropped," sneered Pennington.
"Yes! Oh, well, you can easily procure writing materials from the captain's clerk," volunteered Dave generously. "On a cruise, I believe, a resignation is sent direct to the commandant of midshipmen."
This ridicule served only to fan the flame of Pennington's wrath.
"Darrin," he hissed, "the Academy isn't big enough to hold us both!"
"But I've already told you how to get out," protested Dave coolly.
"I don't intend to get out!"
"No more do I," rejoined Dave. "I won't even toss pennies with you to find out who quits the service."
"Mr. Darrin, you are merely seeking to divert my mind from what I have said."
"What did you say—particularly?"