“You cannot pass here,” he said, putting him back as he, in his eagerness, pressed on.
“But I tell you I have a matter of importance to speak to the commander about,” said Denham boldly. “It will be at your own risk if you stop me.”
“You can tell one of the other officers in the gun-room,” said the sentry.
“No; it is for the commanding officer alone,” responded Denham. “I will speak to him only.”
Just then the first lieutenant himself appeared at the door.
“I want to speak to you, sir,” said Denham eagerly.
“Come in. What is it about?” inquired the first lieutenant.
“If you will go where no one else will hear me, I will tell you, sir.”
The lieutenant retired into the inner cabin.
“Now, what is it, my lad?” he asked.