As the Ensign appeared to be at least twenty-five years old that respectful "sir" struck young Benson's ear queerly.
"Pardon me, gentlemen, but be seated," suggested Lieutenant Jack, suddenly, as he realized that his chums and this one sure-enough naval officer were all standing.
"You have been aboard naval vessels before, sir, haven't you?" asked
Ensign Fullerton.
"Oh, yes; but never in the present way," smiled Benson.
"Then, no doubt, you understand, sir, that the 'Sudbury' is under steam, only awaiting your order to put to sea."
"The last part of these orders," replied Jack, picking up the telegram, "advises me that sailing orders will be wired soon."
"Then may I make a suggestion, sir?"
"Of course," nodded young Benson.
"At your direction I will have Mr. Hastings and Mr. Somers shown to their cabins. Then I will send for the one other young man left of the gunboat's old equipment of officers, and present him to you. After that I would suggest, sir, that I have the crew piped to quarters for brief inspection by the new commanding officer."
Hal and Eph were quickly made acquainted with their own cabins, which were on the port side of the gun-deck, Jack's being on the starboard.