"That would make us rivals.
Dick and I don't want to be rivals." "Then where do you come in ?" asked Belle, glancing curiously at Darrin.
"Whisper!" replied Dave, looking mischievously mysterious.

After a pause he continued, almost in a whisper: "At just about the same time there will be a vacancy at Annapolis.
So while Dick is trying to get a job carrying the banner for the Army, it will be little David trying for a chance to be a second Farragut in the Navy." Dick winced at his chum's rather slighting allusion to an Army career, but on this one point of preference in the way of the service, the two chums were willing to disagree.

Darrin wouldn't have gone to West Point if he could.

Dick admitted the greatness of the American Navy, but all his heart was set on the Army.
"Both of you boys, then, are planning to give up your lives to the Flag ?" exclaimed Laura.
"Yes," nodded Dick; "do you think it's foolish ?" "I think it's glorious!" breathed Laura.
"So do I," agreed Belle heartily; "though, like Dave, I should think the Navy would be the more attractive." "Oh, the Navy is all right," gibed Dick.

"It would never suit me, though.