H Irving Hancock

Dave Darrin on the Asiatic Station H Irving Hancock

Publisher Marketing: "I am delighted to have had the privilege of meeting you, Miss Chapin," said Ensign Dave Darrin, lifting his uniform cap and bowing low at the end of the brief conversation. "And my thanks to you, Captain Chapin, for having afforded us the great pleasure." Ensign Dan Dalzell, U. S. Navy, delivered himself in similar fashion. The two young naval officers turned and were about to resume their stroll over the Punta de Espana, or Spanish bridge, which, crossing the Pasig River, separates Old Manila from New. Just as suddenly, however, the pair checked their progress, to stare across the bridge. On the opposite side, leaning against the rail, stood a Chinaman in rather rich apparel, with a decidedly sinister cast of countenance. "Why is Old 'Burnt-face' staring so hard after Miss Chapin and her brother?" muttered Dalzell. "I'm blessed if I know," returned Dave Darrin. "I've a good mind to cross over and put your question to the Chinaman." "I've a greater mind to throw him into the Pasig," growled Dalzell. "I'm not strong on race lines or color, but I don't believe that any yellow man has a right to glare like that at an American girl." Dalzell took a step forward, as though to cross the bridge, but Darrin promptly caught his wrist.