"But, when you are more accustomed to reciting here, I shall hope for a little more speed in answering." As Dave was returning to his seat Lieutenant Bradshaw marked him 3.8 per cent on the day's work.
That was an excellent marking, 4 being the highest.

The lowest average in a study which a midshipman may have, and hold his place in the Naval Academy, is 2.5.

Anything below 2.5 is unsatisfactory, which, in midshipman parlance is "unsat." Taking 4 to represent 100 per cent., 2.5 stands for 62.5 per cent.

This would not be a high average to expect, as courses are laid down in the average High School of the land; but as most of our American High Schools go 2.5 at Annapolis is at least as good a marking as 90 per cent would be in a High School.
"Good old Dave leaks too slow at the spout, does he ?" chuckled Dan to himself, as he waited at parade rest.

"When it comes my turn, then, as I happen to know my problem as well as the fellow who wrote the book, I'll rattle off my explanation at a gait that will force the lieutenant to stand on his feet to hear all I say." Dalzell was the fourth man called upon at the blackboard.
Taking a deep breath, and assuming a tremendously earnest look, Dan plunged into the demonstration of his problem as fast as he could fire the words out.
Lieutenant Bradshaw, however, listened through to the end.
"Your demonstration is correct, Mr Dalzell," said the instructor quietly.