Returning the ensign’s salute, the executive officer next regarded Darrin’s untidy appearance with some displeasure.

“Mr. Darrin,” Commander Bainbridge continued, “I note that you must have been on hard duty.  No officer, after being relieved, is entitled to retain an untidy appearance longer than is necessary.  You should have bathed, sir, and attired yourself becomingly.  Neatness is the first requisite in the service.”

“I shall be glad to do that sir,” Dave answered, respectfully, “as soon as my baggage comes aboard.  At present this is the only uniform I have.”

“That alters the case, Mr. Darrin,” replied the executive officer, kindly.  “In case, however, your baggage does not arrive between now and dinner-time, you will not be warranted in going to the ward-room, unless you can borrow a uniform that fits you as well as one of your own.”

“I shall be very careful on that point, sir,” Dave answered, respectfully, with another salute, returning which Commander Bainbridge departed.

Ten minutes later Darrin’s baggage was delivered.  In their proper places the young ensign hung his various uniforms, placed his shoes according to regulation, and stowed his linen and underclothing in the wardrobe drawers.

After this a most welcome bath followed.  Dave then dressed with care in a fresh blue uniform, stepped to the executive officer’s office and signed for his evening orders.

There was time for fifteen minutes in the open air, after which Dave returned to his quarters to dress for dinner.  This done, he stepped outside, knowing that the summons to the wardroom would soon come.

At first Dave was the only officer at that point.  Commander Bainbridge soon joined him.

A desperate thought entering his mind, Dave addressed the commander as soon as his salute had been returned.

“Sir, may I ask you a question connected with my own personal affairs?” he asked.

“Certainly,” replied the executive officer.

“I was wondering, sir, if it would be wise for me to seek counsel from an older officer if at any time I found myself threatened with trouble, or, at least, with unpleasantness.”

“It would be a very wise course on your part, Darrin,” replied Commander Bainbridge, though he regarded the ensign’s face with keen scrutiny.  “An older officer should always esteem it a pleasure, as well as a duty, to advise a younger officer.  I take an interest in all the officers of this ship.  If there is anything in which I can advise you, you may command me.”

“Thank you, sir.  But, if you will permit me to frame an instance, if the advice that I asked of you might tend to prejudice you against one of your subordinate officers, would it be wiser for me to seek counsel of some officer not higher in rank than the officer whom I have just supposed?”