If Henry could have heard Mr. Sharp’s report to Captain Hardwick, he would have been pleased, indeed. For the chief electrician went immediately to the captain’s cabin when the watch was ended.
“Does he know anything about wireless?” asked the commander, when the chief radio man told him the examination was over.
“He’s a dandy, Captain,” smiled the wireless man. “So far as the matter of wireless comprehension and ability to receive and send are concerned, he’s easily superior to my regular assistants, much superior. But what I like about him is his spirit and his comprehension. He’s anything but a dumb-bell. I think he’s fairly entitled to a grade of 97 on his examination.”
The captain smiled. “I guess you are favoring him a bit,” he said.
“No, I am not. You see he has had an excellent training. He was a substitute operator in the Frankfort government station for a time. They employ only first-class men in such a station, you know.”
“I’m glad to have such a favorable report of him. I’ve taken a great fancy to the lad, and wish he could be one of your assistants.”
“So do I,” said the chief electrician.
“You might coach him a little and help him get ready for his second examination. He’ll be taking it somewhere sometime.”
“I’ll be glad to do so, Captain.”
When Henry came to the cabin for the next meal, the captain said, “Mr. Sharp tells me your work was sufficiently good to pass you. I am glad. I wish there were a vacancy here to which I could appoint you. I hope you will keep on studying and practicing so as to acquire real proficiency. If you do, I shall be glad to do all I can to help you get a job.”