Still, again, in the ward-room it was Cantor who suggested that the officers' quarters be searched.

Can it be that Cantor is the scoundrel?
I hate to believe it.

But then I hate equally to believe that Darrin could have done such a treasonable thing as to steal a copy of our landing instructions, prepared by the admiral and sent aboard through the consular office, so that the Mexicans ashore would not observe a great deal of communication between our ships." After some moments of thought Captain Gales announced: "Darrin, this thing is one of the most complex puzzles I have ever been called upon to solve.

Your conduct and answers have been straightforward, and I am unable to believe that you had any hand in the stealing or handling of that accursed envelope." "Thank you, sir!" Dave Darrin cried, in genuine gratitude.
"At dinner in the ward-room to-night I shall have Commander Bainbridge make announcement before all your brother officers of what I have just said," continued Captain Gales.

"You may go now." Yet, as he spoke, the captain rose and held out his hand.