CHAPTER XIII. PREPARING FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT.
When Saturday dawned, the weather was promising and the members of the plebe class on board the old Monongahela were as happy as hearty, good-natured boys can be.
On board a vessel of war Saturday is regarded as a holiday. Only the necessary work, such as cleaning decks and bright work, is done.
Quarters are held at the usual hour, then Jack’s time is his own. The “smoking lamp” is lighted, and those who care to indulge in a pipe are permitted to do so. In passing it may as well be understood that naval cadets are forbidden to smoke, a wise government deeming it unnecessary for their health or pastime.
Clif and his friends set to work immediately after quarters. The forward part of the gun deck was turned over to them, and a stage prepared by the ship’s carpenter. A curtain was extemporized of bunting and canvas, and the space about the stage tastefully decorated with flags of all nations.
“Now, fellows,” said the young leader, cheerfully, “we must have just one more rehearsal before the grand event.”
“I thought we had the last one yesterday,” grumbled Toggles.
“We did until this morning. Come, Toggles, exert yourself. Remember the importance of the occasion. We’ve got to do our level best and turn out a good show or the upper classes will have the laugh on us. Get out your big horn and try that solo again.”
The affair was to be on the lines of a minstrel performance, but with novel features. Instead of the familiar, old-time black faces and negro costumes, Clif had provided different ideas.