The commandant listened with an attention that revealed the deepest interest, for it was something so thoroughly out of the usual run for one who was to become an officer in the navy to be accused of theft.
Mischief untold, hazing, and even insubordination, might be charged against the jolly young tars, but anything against their honor was a stigma too serious to be lightly thought of.
At last the commandant spoke, and in a low, earnest tone:
“You requested Cadets Nazro and Dillingham to watch Breslin’s movements?”
“I did, sir, as his actions toward me were curious, and I caught him trying to slip something in my pocket. It was done so slyly that had I not been on the watch I would not have known it, but both Cadets Nazro and Dillingham saw him do it, and, of course, when I was challenged to do his feat I accepted and the coin rolled out.”
“Did he challenge you?”
“No, sir, Clemmons did.”
“And who accused you?”
“I continued my hand-walk around the track, sir, and Cadet Clemmons asked me to explain how it was I had his luck coin.”
“And your answer?”