"If this steward is the man we think he is, then his right name is
Arthur Miller," finished the boatbuilder.
"Why, I remember that case. I read of it in the newspapers," replied Admiral Bentley. "Jove, gentlemen, but I hope your guess is a correct one. There must always be a satisfaction in catching so great a rogue so easily."
Only those at the admiral's end of the table had heard this dialogue.
Other guests present continued eating, or chatting with their neighbors.
Other stewards were entering and leaving in the discharge of their
duties.
Some time passed. Farnum was fidgeting, though he strove to conceal the fact. Jack looked quiet, but his heart was thumping.
"Steward Dugan!" called the admiral, rather sharply, and the man stepped over quickly.
"I sent Hecht after that new steward," declared the admiral. "Hecht hasn't come back. Find him on the jump and learn his reason for the delay."
In something like a minute more both Dugan and Hecht returned.
"I couldn't find Dudley, sir," reported Hecht. "I've looked for him everywhere that he ought to be."
"Then find the first officer on duty that you can, and, with my compliments, ask him to report instantly," ordered Admiral Bentley.
In barely more than a jiffy a young lieutenant of marine stepped into the room, saluting the admiral.