"This is the only uniform I have." In his perturbed state of mind, it did not occur to the young ensign that he could draw dungarees---the brown overall suit that is worn by officers and crew alike when doing rough work about the ship, from the stores, nor did Cantor appear to notice his reply.
The messenger came, and brought Riley, the coxswain of one of the gigs.
"Coxswain, Ensign Darrin will take charge of the shipping of the stores in number four hold," Cantor announced.

"Show him the way to the hold and receive his instructions." Dave was speedily engaged between decks, in charge of tire work of some twenty men of the crew.

At the hatch above, a boatswain's mate had charge of the lowering of the stores.
"It would be a pity to spoil your uniform, sir," declared Coxswain Riley.

"If you'll allow me, sir, I'll spare you all of the dirtiest work." "To shirk my duty would be a bad beginning of my service on this ship," smiled Darrin.

"Thank you, Coxswain, but I'll take my share of the rough work." The hold was close and stifling.