Page:Cruise of the Dry Dock.djvu/352

 assumed command of the tug when he found out war was declared.”

“Smith was part of his name,” explained Gridson. “Caradoc Smith-Wentworth was the way he signed the register. He's of the Sussex Smith-Wentworths. His brother took the title, you know.”

“Just fancy!” marveled Ponsonby. “Cashiered six months ago, comes back chasing submarines on a tug, a hero, from boot strap to helmet—a bloody hero——”

“Hold there, Ponsonby,” cautioned another officer named Appleby. “The chap may be hurt seriously—you oughtn't to laugh.”

“Just look at the old man shaking his hand!” ejaculated Gridson, as a very erect gray-headed officer came down off the bridge and extended his hand. “You wouldn't think he had cashiered him six months ago.”

“I hope he gets his commission back,” said Ponsonby, “but he will likely lose it again from tippling.”

“I believe he is cured,” said Madden.

Appleby made some reply as the little group moved forward to meet the wounded man.