the brighter light, with admirable
control, he slowed down to a sauntering stroll, looking smilingly
about as though his whole mind were on the scenes of gambling before
him.

A moment or two later Darrin's eyes caught sight of Dan Dalzell, as
that young officer bowed the Countess Ripoli to a seat.

In vain did the Countess use her prettiest smiles to hold Danny Grin
by her side as she played. Dalzell had been schooled at Annapolis and
in the Navy itself, and knew how to take his leave gracefully, which
he did, followed by the pouts of the Countess. As soon as she saw that
the ensign's back was turned, a very unpleasant frown crossed her
beautiful face.

Dave continued his stroll until he met Dan at a point where none stood
near them.

"Keep on smiling, Dan," urged Dave, in an undertone. "Don't let that
grin leave your face. But it's back to the ship for us on the
double-quick! I may be dreaming, but I think I have found out the
meaning of Mr. Green Hat's strange activities. I believe there is a
plot on foot to bring England and our country into war with each
other. One thing is certain. It's my duty to get back on board as fast
as possible. I must tell the admiral what I have overheard."

Dan did not forget the injunction to keep on smiling. He proved so
excellent an actor that he laughed heartily as Dave Darrin finished
his few but thrilling words.

"Tiresome here, isn't it?" murmured Dan, aloud. "We might as well go
back on board ship."

CHAPTER VII

THE ADMIRAL UNLOADS HIS MIND

Reporting their coming aboard to the officer of the deck, Dave and Dan
hastened to their respective quarters.

While Ensign Dalzell performed a "lightning change" from "cits" to
uniform, Dave first seated himself at his desk, where he wrote a note
hurriedly.

This done, he passed the word for an orderly, who promptly appeared.

"Take this note to the Captain," ordered Darrin.

"Aye, aye, sir," said the messenger.

Dave then hastened to make the necessary change in his own apparel. So
quickly did he act, that he had his uniform on and was buttoning his
blouse when the messenger returned.

"The Captain will see Ensigns Darrin and Dalzell immediately,"
reported the orderly.

Returning the orderly's salute, Dave buckled on his sword belt, hung
on his sword, drew on his white gloves, and started. He found his
chum ready.

Together the young officers reported at the Captain's quarters.
Captain Allen was already sea