"The trouble is that we are short of
officers, though all that could be spared for this vessel were sent on
board of her. As the matter now stands, Dr. Spokeley and I are the only
idlers on board in the cabin and ward room. The first lieutenant has to
keep a watch, which is not at all regular, and I foresee that this
arrangement will be a very great disadvantage to me. It could not be
helped, and the Bronx was evidently regarded as of no great importance,
for she is little more than a storeship just now, though the flag
officer in the Gulf will doubtless make something more of her."
"We have a big crew for this vessel, but we are short of officers,"
added Flint.
"From the best calculations I have been able to make, with my father to
help me, we ought to fall in with the Scotian and the Arran; and in view
of such an event, I propose to prepare for the emergency by appointing a
temporary third lieutenant."
"I think that would be a very wise step to take," added Flint very
cordially.
"Of the men you mentioned to me, who is the best one for this position?"
asked Christy.
"I have no hesitation in saying that Baskirk is the right man for the
position.
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