Then Jack
Benson stepped out, and, heading his comrades, went up over the side.
At the head of the gangway a corporal and four marines stood drawn up.
At a low-voiced command from the corporal the marines presented arms,
standing thus until the three new young officers, saluting, passed.
Just beyond the marines, stood an officer of the Navy. He brought his
hand to his cap in a smart salute.
"Lieutenant Benson?" inquired this officer.
"Yes."
"I am Ensign Fullerton, executive officer of this vessel."
They shook hands and Jack presented his comrades.
"I think I had better show you to your cabin, sir," suggested Ensign
Fullerton.
"As you please," nodded Jack.
The way was actually led, however, by three of the marines, who, at a
word from the corporal, had possessed themselves of the limited baggage
of the new arrivals.
In Jack's cabin was a broad double berth, two deep wardrobe closets, a
book-case, desk and several chairs.
"I had no idea junior officers had such roomy quarters," murmured Jack.
"They don't, usually, sir," smiled Fullerton. "But it's different, of
course, in the case of the commanding officer.
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