"Why, my dear fellow," exclaimed his newly-made acquaintance, "you will pardon me for my inadvertent remarks--but suppose we take a walk; come over to my rooms, and if you feel like it talk things over with me--I don't know you, but I want to know you. I don't believe I see anything bad in your face, though I imagine there is sadness there." These kind words were to Bligh like heaven-sent manna. Until this moment he had no conception of how he yearned for just one single friend, one person who believed there was good in him, one to whom he could open his heart and pour out its griefs. Instantly this newly-made friendship became precious, and he felt brighter and happier than he had for months. Sincerity and kindness were written in the features of this new friend. Bligh spent several hours with him in his rooms, and acquainted him with the troubles, mistakes and heartburnings that were his daily portion in his now unfortunate condition; in doing this he saw himself in a new light; and now when his new friend pointed out where he was blameworthy, where he had been wrong, he eagerly assented. For this grave friend, sympathetic though he was to the sad story that rushed from Bligh's lips, in a kindly spirit severely criticized Bligh for his wrong actions. He laughed heartily at Bligh's woeful story of how he had lowered himself in the ventilating shaft. "That was good, Mr. Bligh," he said; "but it's a great pity that you were caught." When Bligh returned to his quarters he was like a different man; more happiness to his wounded spirit had come to him this day than he had had for months. "If I had only had a friend like this when the year commenced," he reflected, "my life here would have been different. But now I'm afraid it's too late; I'm pretty sure to bilge." CHAPTER XVII AN ILL-FAVORED, RED-BEARDED ROGUE "Bob, I think I've got the flag this year," remarked Cadet Lieutenant Blair, to his fellow three striper, Robert Drake; "everybody says my company is better than yours in artillery; I've an even chance with you at infantry--members of my company have had part in baseball and football games, fencing, rowing, tennis, gymnasium and all other contests. The second company, I think, will get the most points in seamanship, and I have more trained marksmen than you have. I've got you beaten, Bob, old boy." "Don't you be too sure of that, Sam; the first company has a notion it wants to carry the colors next year; and look here, Sam, I'll put you on to something if you'll agree to keep quiet about it." "What is it, Bob? I'll keep mum," replied Blair expectantly, impressed by Robert's earnest manner. "The first company is going to try to win the flag, and I'm going to spring a big surprise on you." "Pshaw! Is that your news? Perhaps I'll spring a surprise on you."