Near the head of the stairs another marine, in spick-and-span
uniform, wearing white gloves and with a bayonet at his belt,
called out quietly:
"Candidates? First two, step this way please."
He swung open a door. Dave and Dan stepped into an office where
they found a young-looking though slightly bald gentleman in uniform,
seated behind a flat-top desk.
"We have come to report, sir, according to our instructions,"
announced Dave Darrin, happily.
"You are candidates, then?" asked Lieutenant-Commander Graham,
reaching for a pile of bound sheets.
"Yes, sir."
"Names?
"David Darrin and Daniel Dalzell, sir."
"Have you your papers, Mr. Darrin?"
"Yes, sir."
Dave drew an official-looking envelope from an inner pocket and
handed it to Lieutenant-Commander Graham.
These the Naval aide scanned closely, after which he looked up.
"You have your papers, Mr. Dalzell?"
"Yes," nodded Dan.
A more than perceptible frown flashed across the face of the officer.
"Mr. Dalzell, whenever you answer an officer you will say 'yes,
sir,' or 'very good, sir.
Pages:
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33