Would I have saved the envelope and by so doing taken a chance that could only ruin me?
Of what service could the letter be to me, sir?
I could not take it ashore, sir, for instance, to dispose of it to the Mexican officials, who probably would pay handsomely to get hold of the American naval plans.

I have not asked for shore leave, sir.

May I ask, sir, how many officers received shore leave, and used it, after I returned to the ship ?" "Only one, Darrin; that was Lieutenant Cantor." Dave bit his lips; he had not intended to try to direct suspicion from himself to any other officer.
"So it might seem possible," mused Captain Gales, aloud, "that Lieutenant Cantor might have obtained the letter and turned over the envelope to you to destroy, Darrin.

I am stating, mind you, only a possibility in the way of suspicion." "Lieutenant Cantor and I are not on friendly terms," Dave answered, quickly.

Then once more he bit his lip.
But the Old Man regarded him keenly, asking: "What is wrong between Cantor and yourself ?" "I spoke too quickly, sir," Dave confessed, reddening slightly.
"I have no complaint to make against Lieutenant Cantor.