Against the strong ebb tide R.A.F. 1164 B rubbed alongside the pier. The men were ascending the steps when the Officer of the Watch appeared.
"What's that kitten doing on board?" he enquired; then, without waiting for an explanation, he continued: "Sergeant Jenkins, hand that animal out."
The harassed instructor obeyed, although there were strong indications of repugnance as he handled the inoffensive little kitten.
The Officer of the Watch caught Derek's eye. The officers winked at each other, for each knew Sergeant Jenkins's antipathy.
"That's the stuff to give 'em," murmured the O.W.
[1] Bête noire.
CHAPTER XXI
An Independent Command
Training under war-time conditions must necessarily be as brief as possible, consistent with a certain degree of efficiency; and the period of instruction at Sableridge was no exception. As quickly as raw material could be fashioned into fairly competent motor-boatmen, drafts were sent away and recruits brought in to fill their places, in order that the R.A.F. marine might relieve the Royal Navy of a certain branch of its work—namely, attending upon sea-planes and coastal airships.