being descended from a very ancient civilization, are not only
very ingenious but also very thrifty. They were burdened with
two hundred pounds of evidence on the premises. In their extremity
the two survivors cut up their late partner, cooked him, and disposed
of the flesh at meal times."

From the gravity of the narrator's expression he appeared to be
reciting a wholly true story.

"Now, then," rasped out Midshipman Trotter, "that being the state
of affairs at the laundry--_what was the telephone number_?"

Trotter's gaze was fixed on Dan Dalzell's face almost accusingly.

"How the--" began startled Dan gruffly. Then, instantly realizing
that he was making a mistake, he broke in hastily:

"Beg your pardon, sir, but I don't understand how to get at the
telephone number."

"You try, mister," ordered Midshipman Trotter, turning to the
plebe next to Dalzell.

"I can't solve the problem, sir."

So it ran, straight down the line, each confessing his ignorance,
until finally Mr. Trotter glared at Dave Darrin.

"Come, come, mister, from the very exact narrative that I have
given, can't you deduce the telephone number of that laundry?"