69

 “Over this way,” directed the petty officer as he led the squad of recruits into the well-kept grounds, Ned and Frank following the others, and, like them, looking curiously about. 

 “What are those buildings?” asked one of the young fellows, pointing to a row of buildings, at the upper windows of which could be seen a number of faces of men and youths in blue uniforms. 

 “The barracks—where you sleep,” replied the petty officer. 

 “Sleep in barracks!” cried one. “Why, I thought we’d be put on board a battleship! That’s what I enlisted for. I can sleep on land in a building, any night.” 

 The petty officer smiled. Doubtless he was used to hearing that. 

 “You’ll only sleep in barracks while you’re training here,” he answered. “You have to be shown something about a battleship and other naval matters before you’re qualified to go on 70 board. Don’t worry, you’ll have all the sleeping aboard a ship that you want. It will all come in time.” 

70

 “That’s good news,” said Ned to Frank. 

 “Oh, I knew this was only temporary,” was the answer. 

 “It takes about four months,” the petty officer said, overhearing Frank’s remark. 

 “Thank you.” 

 A little later the two brothers, as well as the other recruits, were led into the presence of the medical officer and his assistants. 

 “Strip!” came the order, and soon the rigorous examination was under way. 

 Ned and Frank need have had no fears, for they were very promptly passed. Some of their mates, however, did not fare so well, and one or two were rejected, having to leave the prospective service, much to their regret. But our heroes were found physically fit, and, having previously taken the oath of allegiance to the United States, they were now fully qualified and admitted apprentice seamen. 

 “That’s all,” the medical officer said to them, as he motioned to them to dress. Once more they were taken in charge by a petty officer, a different one this time. 

 “What’s next?” asked Frank. 

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