flagship. We've been down to Port Arthur twice, and I
reckon we'll go again before long."

"Perhaps we'll go up to Vladivostok next time," came from Bob Stanford.
"I've heard something of bombarding that Russian port."

Colton and Stanford had a couple of hours to themselves and Larry and
Luke invited them over to the _Columbia_. In return they were asked to
come over to Admiral Togo's flagship, the gunners having the privilege
of bringing their friends aboard during the brief stay in Nagasaki
harbor.

"You can come aboard to-morrow," said Steve Colton. "They have an
inspection and drill, and you can see how they do it in the Japanese
navy--not but what it's a good bit like it's done on Uncle Sam's
warships."

Larry and Luke were very willing to go aboard of the Japanese warship,
and were taken out by Colton the next day, and introduced to several
gunners and others who could speak a little English. They were also
taken before the head gunner, who took them to the commander of the
warship.

"They both served under Admiral Dewey at Manila," said the head gunner,
and this made the commander smile quietly as he shook hands and told
them to make themselves at home.

"Everything is as clean as a whistle," was Larry's comment, as they
walked around the forward part of the warship and through the gun decks.
"The Japs certainly know how to take care of things. Luke, just look at
how the brasswork shines!"

"That's the way it ought to be," was the Yankee tar's reply. "No
slackness, an' I'm glad on it. I love a clean ship above all things."

Steve Colton and Bob Stanford were enthusiastic over the gun they
commanded and explained how it worked. It was certainly an effective
weapon and Larry and Luke were thoroughly interested.

"I could handle sech a gun myself," said Luke. "An' do some damage, too;
eh, Larry?"

"Anyway, I'd like to try it," returned the youth.

Orders were now being issued for the inspection and drill, and presently
nearly all on board of the flagship hurried to the main deck. Here the
marines were drawn up in long lines, with the officers in their proper
places. The sailors and gunners were also at hand, each togged out in
his best, for inspection by an admiral on any warship means a great
deal.

Presently Admiral Togo appeared, followed by several other naval
officers of lesser rank. He was in full dress, with many decorations on
his breast, and carried his sword. He proved to be a man well al