"However while speed in recitation is of value, in the future try to speak just a little more slowly and much more distinctly.
You are fitting yourself to become a Naval officer one of these days.

On shipboard it is of the utmost importance that an officer's voice be always distinct and clear, in order that every word he utters may be instantly understood.

Try to keep this always in mind, Mr.Dalzell, and cultivate the habit of speaking distinctly." The rebuke was a very quiet one, and courteously given.

But Dan, who knew that every other man in the section was grinning in secret over his discomfiture, was quickly losing his nerve.
Then, without favor, Lieutenant Bradshaw questioned Dan searchingly on other details of the day's work.

Dan stammered, and forgot much that he had thought he knew.
Lieutenant Bradshaw set down a mark of 2.9, whereas Dalzell, had he stuck sensibly to the business in hand, would have been marked as high as Dave had been.
As the section was marching back to Bancroft Dan whispered: "Dave, did you hear the old owl go 'too-whoo' at me in the section room ?" "Stop talking in section!" ordered Dave crisply.
"Blazes! There isn't a single spot at Annapolis where a fellow can take a chance on being funny!" muttered Dalzell under his breath.
"Dave, old chum," cried Dan tossing his cap on the bed as they entered their room.