Jasper County Democrat, Volume 20, Number 1, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 31 March 1917 — HE GOT IT A LITTLE MIXED [ARTICLE]

HE GOT IT A LITTLE MIXED

Youthful Nava! Officer Had Difficulty Giving First Order When Left in Command. Clothing the immature in a little brief authority and responsibility is frequently attended with results the reverse of impressive, as in the case of one of Uncle Sam’s youthful officers below set forth. While a certain war craft was lying at the Brooklyn navy yard a young ensign was placed in command of the "deck. It happened that only’ orrtf item remained on the list of the morning’s duties, and that was to sweep decks at seven bells. It was not a very martial command to give, but as the time approached, the officer of the deck waxed nervous. He imagined that the eyes of aIL hands were on him, and that the safety of tbe_ship depended upon his giving the order in the proper voice. At three minutes to seven bells he again scanned the order book. It read; “Seven bells ; Pipe sweepers.” It was plain enough, and the young officer took bis stand near the mainmast, and Called out in a very weak voice: “Bo’s’n's mate!” ■"f The man addressed sprang to his feet with finger touching cap. “Aye, aye, sir,” he replied. Glancing hastily around, the scared officer muttered hoarsely, “ Swipe peepers!” . It was an entirely new order to the boatswain’s mate. He touched his cap inquiringly: The ensign, more confused than ever, stammered desperately : “Peep swipers, my man.” The words were overheard, and the laugh which followed proved the last straw. The ensign drew himself up, and with withering scorn explained:, ‘^5 weep pipers, and be quick about itTtoo!” This time his order was obeyed, the grinning boatswain’s mate having fathomed his meaning.