"Excuse me, sir; I would rather not introduce the matter on deck."
"Well, come to my state-room."
"To my state-room, if you please, Mr. Hackleford."
"Why not mine?"
"I am afraid the person most deeply concerned will overhear me. His room is next to yours."
"Mr. Pillgrim?" exclaimed the first lieutenant.
"Yes, sir."
"Mr. Somers, I have a high regard for you as an officer and a gentleman, and I am not unacquainted with your past history. I hope you have nothing to say which will reflect on a brother officer."
"I have, sir."
"Then I advise you to think well before you speak."