Ned nodded, rather embarrassed.
“That’s all right, sir,” he said. The boy had supposed that this concluded the interview, but in this he was mistaken. Fingering some papers which lay on his desk Lieutenant Timmons went on.
“I am especially glad that your officer and you have this bond between you, Strong, for this reason:—when we reach our destination,—which you may, or may not know?——”
Ned nodded to show that he was aware of the objective point of the voyage.
“When we reach Costaveza, I say, I have some special duty outlined, which I have already explained to Mr. Stark. He will command such men as he thinks he requires to assist him. I do not think, and he shares my opinion, that he could make a better choice than you and your companion, Hercules Taylor.”
“Of course, we’ll do our best, sir,” said Ned simply, though his heart was beating high at the distinction which his commander was conferring on the Dreadnought Boys.
“I know you will, Strong,” said his superior crisply, “and that is why I selected you for the duty. There is no need to explain it in its details, which will largely be governed by the conditions we may find existing in the republic. Of course, from reading the papers, you are familiar with the fact that there is a revolution there, which is antagonistic in the extreme to American interests.”
“Yes, sir,” rejoined Ned, debating within himself whether he would tell his commander about the dark-skinned man outside the navy yard. He finally decided not to, deeming it the wisest course not to speak on such an indefinite subject.
“Very well, Strong, you may go. You and Seaman Taylor will be notified when you are wanted.”
Ned clicked his heels together, placed his hand to his bandaged head, and left the cabin. As he walked forward the last vestige of his dizziness was gone. He felt capable of tackling a whole ship’s company single-handed. As soon as he found an opportunity he related what had passed in the commander’s cabin to his chum. Herc was as overjoyed as his companion at the opportunity that appeared to be held out to the Dreadnought Boys for distinguishing themselves.