Then the balance of the brigade under arms.
When the word was given a drum or two sounded the step, and off the brigade marched, slowly and solemnly.

A cornet signal, followed by a drum roll, and then the Naval Academy Band crashed into the joyous march, consecrated to this occasion, "Ain't I glad I'm out of the wilderness!" "Amen! Indeed I'm glad," Dave Darrin murmured devoutly under his breath.

"There has been many a time in the last four years when I didn't expect to graduate.

But now it's over.

Nothing can stop Dan or myself!" Crowds surrounded the entrance to the handsome, classic chapel, though the more favored crowds had already passed inside and filled the seats that are set apart for spectators.
Inside filed the midshipmen, going to their seats in front.