As the side of the Beale was reached, and the officers disembarked, Ned touched Lieutenant Timmons’ elbow.
“I beg your pardon, sir,” he said, in a low voice, “but could you send for me in a short time?”
“Why, certainly, Strong,” said the lieutenant, looking astonished at this extraordinary request, “but——”
“I think I can tell you where the rebels are getting their arms, sir,” remarked Ned quietly, touching his cap and sinking back to his oars.
Lieutenant Timmons was, like all navy men, trained to repress all show of emotion under any circumstance. Now, however, his eyebrows raised involuntarily, and he gave a surprised whistle. Aloud he said, in a dry, ordinary tone:
“Very well, Strong, I will have it attended to.”
CHAPTER IX.
ON SPECIAL DUTY.
“You are sure of this, then?”