[Dave Darrin at Vera Cruz by H. Irving Hancock]@TWC D-Link book
Dave Darrin at Vera Cruz

CHAPTER IX
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From away over on the horizon an answering rocket was seen.
Forty minutes later the "_Long Island_" lay to close by.

Cantor's launch was the first to go in alongside.
"Were you successful ?" hailed the voice of the executive officer from the bridge.
"Ensign Darrin was, sir," Cantor replied, through the megaphone.
"Are all the missing Americans safe ?" "Yes, sir," Cantor continued.
"And all our own men ?" "Two killed, sir, and four wounded, through what I believe to be disobedience of orders." Instructions came for Lieutenant Cantor's launch to lay alongside.
Soon after the men were on deck and the launch hoisted into place.
Then, under orders, Darrin ran alongside.

First of all his wounded men were passed on hoard, being there received by hospital stewards from the sick bay.

Then, amid impressive silence, the two dead men were taken on board.
"Ensign Darrin," directed the officer of the deck, from the bridge, "you are directed to report to Captain Gales, at once." Saluting, and holding himself very erect, Dave Darrin stepped proudly aboard.

His face was white and angry as he neared the captain's quarters, but the young ensign strove to command himself, and tried to keep his sorely tried temper within bounds.
"You will pass inside, sir, at once," directed the marine orderly, as the young officer halted near the door.
Acknowledging the marine's salute, Dave Darrin passed him and entered the office.
Lieutenant Cantor, erect and stern, faced Captain Gales, who looked the sterner of the two.
"Ensign Darrin," began the battleship's commanding officer, rising, "most serious charges have been preferred against you, sir!".


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