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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6833f05 --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,3 @@ +* text=auto +*.txt text +*.md text diff --git a/14626-0.txt b/14626-0.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f15b633 --- /dev/null +++ b/14626-0.txt @@ -0,0 +1,7488 @@ +*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 14626 *** + +The Boy Allies +With the Victorious Fleets + +OR +The Fall of the German Navy + +By ENSIGN ROBERT L. DRAKE + +AUTHOR OF + +"The Boy Allies With the Navy Series" + +[Illustration: A.L. BURT COMPANY NEW YORK] + +The Boy Allies + +(Registered in the United States Patent Office) + +With the Navy Series + + * * * * * + +By Ensign ROBERT L. DRAKE + + * * * * * + + The Boy Allies on the North Sea Patrol + or, Striking the First Blow at the German Fleet + + The Boy Allies Under Two Flags + or, Sweeping the Enemy from the Sea. + + The Boy Allies with the Flying Squadron + or, The Naval Raiders of the Great War. + + The Boy Allies with the Terror of the Seas + or, The Last Shot of the Submarine D-16. + + The Boy Allies in the Baltic + or, Through Fields of Ice to Aid the Czar. + + The Boy Allies at Jutland + or, The Greatest Naval Battle in History. + + The Boys Allies Under the Sea + or, The Vanishing Submarine. + + The Boy Allies with Uncle Sam's Cruisers + or, Convoying the American Army Across the Atlantic. + + The Boy Allies with the Submarine D-32 + or, The Fall of the Russian Empire. + + The Boy Allies with the Victorious Fleet + or, The Fall of the German Navy. + +Copyright, 1919 + +By A.L. BURT COMPANY + + * * * * * + + + + + +THE BOY ALLIES WITH THE VICTORIOUS FLEET + + + + + +CHAPTER I + +ABOARD U.S.S. PLYMOUTH + + +"Sail at 4 a.m.," said Captain Jack Templeton of the U.S.S. Plymouth, +laying down the long manila envelope marked "Secret." "Acknowledge by +signal," he directed the ship's messenger, and then looked inquiringly +about the wardroom table. + +"Aye, aye, sir," said the first officer, Lieutenant Frank Chadwick. + +"Ready at four, sir," said the engineer officer, Thomas; and left his +dinner for a short trip to the engine room to push some belated repairs. + +"Send a patrol ashore to round up the liberty party," continued Captain +Templeton, this time addressing the junior watch officer. "Tell them to +be aboard at midnight instead of eight in the morning." + +"Aye, aye, sir," said the junior watch officer, and departed in haste. + +There was none of the bustle and confusion aboard the U.S.S. Plymouth, at +that moment lying idle in a British port, that the landsman would commonly +associate with sailing orders to a great destroyer. Blowers began to hum +in the fire rooms. The torpedo gunner's mates slipped detonators in the +warheads and looked to the rack load of depth charges. The steward made a +last trip across to the depot ship. Otherwise, things ran on very much as +before. + +At midnight the junior watch officer called the captain, who had turned in +several hours earlier, and reported: + +"Liberty party all on board, sir." + +Then he turned in for a few hours' rest himself. + +The junior watch was astir again at three o'clock. He routed out a sleepy +crew to hoist boats and secure for sea. Seven bells struck on the +Plymouth. + +Captain Templeton appeared on the bridge. Lieutenant Chadwick was at his +side, as were Lieutenants Shinnick and Craib, second and third officers +respectively. Captain Templeton gave a command. The cable was slipped from +the mooring buoy. Ports were darkened and the Plymouth slipped out. A bit +inside the protection of the submarine nets, but just outside the +channel, she lay to, breasting the flood tide. There she lay for almost an +hour. + +"Coffee for the men," said Captain Templeton. + +The morning coffee was served on deck in the darkness. + +Lights appeared in the distance, and presently another destroyer joined +the Plymouth. Running lights of two more appeared as the clock struck 4 +a.m. + +Captain Templeton signalled the engine room for two-thirds speed ahead. +Running lights were blanketed on the four destroyers, and the ships fell +into column. + +Lieutenant Chadwick felt a drop on his face. He held out a hand. + +"Rain," he said briefly. + +Jack--Captain Templeton--nodded. + +"So much the better, Frank," he replied. + +The four destroyers cleared the channel light and spread out like a fan +into line formation. + +"Full speed ahead!" came Jack's next command. + +The Plymouth leaped ahead, as did her sister ships on either side. + +"We're off," said Frank. + +Away they sped in the darkness, a division of four Yankee destroyers, +tearing through the Irish sea on a rainy morning; Frank knew there were +four ships in line, but all he could see was his guide, a black smudge in +the darkness, a few ship lengths away on his port bow. Directly she was +blotted from sight by a rain squall. + +"Running lights!" shouted Frank. + +The lights flashed. Frank kept an eye forward. Directly he got a return +flash from the ship ahead, and then picked up her shape again. + +Morning dawned and still the fleet sped on. Toward noon the weather +cleared. Officer and men kept their watches by regular turn during the +day. At sundown the four destroyers slowed down and circled around in a +slow column. The eyes of every officer watched the clock. They were +watching for something. Directly it came--a line of other ships, +transports filled with wounded soldiers returning to America. These must +be safely convoyed to a certain point beyond the submarine zone by the +Plymouth and her sister ships. + +On came the transports camouflaged like zebras. The Plymouth and the other +destroyers fell into line on either side of the transports. + +"Full speed ahead," was Captain Templeton's signal to the engine room. + +"Take a look below, Frank," said Jack to his first officer. + +"Aye, aye, sir." + +Frank descended a manhole in the deck. He closed the cover and secured it +behind him. At the foot of the ladder was a locked door. As it opened, +came a pressure on Frank's ear drums like the air-lock of a caisson. +Frank threaded his way amid pumps and feed water heaters and descended +still further to the furnace level. + +Twenty-five knots--twenty-eight land miles an hour--was the speed of the +Plymouth at that moment. It was good going. + +Below, instead of dust, heat, the clatter of shovels, grimy, sweating +fireman, such as the thought of the furnace room of a ship of war calls to +the mind of the landsman, a watertender stood calmly watching the glow of +oil jets feeding the furnace fire. Now and then he cast an eye to the +gauge glasses. The vibration of the hull and the hum of the blower were +the only sounds below. + +For the motive power of the Plymouth was not furnished by coal. Rather, it +was oil--crude petroleum--that drove the vessel along. And though oil has +its advantage over coal, it has its disadvantages as well. It was Frank's +first experience aboard an oil-burner, and he had not become used to it +yet. He smelled oil in the smoke from the funnels, he breathed it from the +oil range in the galley. His clothes gathered it from stanchions and +rails. + +The water tanks were flavored with the seepage from neighboring +compartments. Frank drank petroleum in the water and tasted it in the +soup. The butter, he thought, tasted like some queer vaseline. But Frank +knew that eventually he would get used to it. + +"How's she heading?" Frank asked of the chief engineer. + +"All right, sir," was the reply. "Everything perfectly trim. I can get +more speed if necessary." + +Frank smiled. + +"Let's hope it won't be necessary, chief," he replied. + +He inspected the room closely for some moments, then returned to the +bridge and reported to Captain Templeton. + +The sea was rough, but nevertheless the speed of the flotilla was not +slackened. It was the desire of Captain Petlow, in charge of the destroyer +fleet, to convoy the transports beyond the danger point at the earliest +possible moment. + +The Plymouth lurched up on top of a crest, then dived head-first into the +trough. On the bridge the heave and pitch of the vessel was felt +subconsciously, but the eyes and minds of the officers were busied with +other things. At every touch of the helm the vessel vibrated heavily. + +Eight bells struck. + +"Twelve o'clock," said Frank. "Time to eat." + +The bridge was turned over to the second officer, and Frank and Jack went +below. + +"Eat is right, Frank," said Jack as they sat down. "We can't dine in this +weather." + +It was true. The rolling boards, well enough for easy weather, proved a +mockery in a sea like the one that raged now. Butter balls, meat and +vegetables shot from plates and went sailing about. It was necessary to +drink soup from teacups and such solid foods as Jack and Frank put into +their stomachs was only what they succeeded in grabbing as they leaped +about on the table. + +The two returned on deck. + +The day passed quietly. No submarines were sighted, and at last the +flotilla reached the point where the destroyers were to leave the homeward +bound transports to pursue their voyage alone. The transports soon grew +indistinguishable, almost, in the semi-darkness. The senior naval officer +aboard the Plymouth hoisted signal flags. + +"Bon Voyage," they read. + +Through a glass Jack read the reply. + +"Thank you for your good work. Best of luck." + +From the S.N.O. (senior naval officer) came another message. Frank picked +it up. + +"Set course 188 degrees. Keep lookout for inbound transports to be +convoyed. Ten ships." + +Again the destroyer swung into line. It was almost seven o'clock--after +dark--when the lookout aboard the Plymouth reported: + +"Smoke ahead!" + +Instantly all was activity aboard the destroyers. Directly, through his +glass, Jack sighted nine rusty, English tramp steamers, of perhaps eight +thousand tons, and a big liner auxiliary flying the Royal Navy ensign. + +Under the protection of the destroyers, the ships made for an English +port. The night passed quietly. With the coming of morning, the flotilla +was divided. The Plymouth stood by to protect the big liner, while the +other three destroyers and the tramp steamers moved away toward the east. + +"This destroyer game is no better than driving a taxi," Frank protested to +Jack on the bridge that afternoon. You never see anything. I'd like to get +ashore for a change. I've steamed sixty thousand miles since last May and +what have I seen? Three ports, besides six days' leave in London." + +"You had plenty of time ashore before that," replied Jack. + +"Maybe I did. But I'd like to have some more. Besides, this isn't very +exciting business." + +Night fell again, and still nothing had happened to break the quiet +monotony of the trip. Lights of trawlers flashed up ahead. Interest on the +bridge picked up. + +"Object off the port bow," called the lookout. + +"Looks like a periscope," reported the quartermaster. + +Frank snapped his binoculars on a bobbing black spar. + +"Buoy and fishnet," he decided after a quick scrutiny. + +Frank kept the late watch that night. At 4 a.m. he turned in. At five he +climbed hastily from his bunk at the jingle of general alarm, and reached +the bridge on the run in time to see the exchange of recognition signals +with a British man-o'-war, which vessel had run into a submarine while the +latter was on the surface in a fog. The warship had just rammed the +U-boat. + +"Can we help you?" Frank called across the water. + +"Thanks. Drop a few depth charges," was the reply. + +This was done, but nothing came of it Frank returned to his bunk. + +"Pretty slow life, this, if you ask me," he told himself. + +He went back to sleep. + + + + +CHAPTER II + +THE BOY CAPTAIN AND HIS LIEUTENANT + + +The U.S.S. Plymouth was Jack Templeton's first command. He had been +elevated to the rank of captain only a few weeks before. Naturally he was +not a little proud of his vessel. When Jack was given his ship, it was +only natural, too, that Frank Chadwick, who had been his associate and +chum through all the days of the great war, should become Jack's first +officer. + +In spite of the fact that Jack's rating as captain was in the British +navy, he was at this moment in command of an American vessel. This came +about through a queer combination of circumstances. + +The American commander of the Plymouth had been taken suddenly ill. At +almost the same time the Plymouth had been ordered to proceed from Dover +to Liverpool to join other American vessels. Almost on the eve of +departure, the first officer also was taken ill. It was to him the command +naturally would have fallen in the captain's absence. The second officer +was on leave of absence. Thus, without a skipper, the Plymouth could not +have sailed. + +Jack and Frank had recently returned with a British convoy from America. +They were in Dover at the time. From his sick bed in a hospital, the +captain of the Plymouth had appealed to the British naval authorities. In +spite of the fact that he was in no condition to leave when he received +his orders, he did not wish to deny his crew the privilege of seeing +active service, which the call to Liverpool, he knew, meant. + +The captain's appeal had been turned over to Lord Hastings, now connected +prominently with the British admiralty. Lord Hastings, in the early days +of the war, had been the commander under whom Jack and Frank had served. +In fact, the lads were visiting the temporary quarters of Lord Hastings in +Dover when the appeal was received from the commander of the Plymouth. + +"How would you like to tackle this job, Jack?" Lord Hastings asked. + +"I'd like it," the lad replied, "if you think I can do it, sir." + +"Of course you can do it," was Lord Hastings' prompt reply. "I haven't +sailed with you almost four years for nothing." + +"You mean, sir," replied Jack with a smile, "that I haven't sailed with +you that long for nothing." + +"That's more like it, Jack," put in Frank laughingly. "I've learned a few +things from Lord Hastings myself." + +"It is hardly probable," continued Lord Hastings, "that your promotion has +been unearned, Jack. No, I believe you can fill the bill." + +"In that case, I shall be glad to take command of the Plymouth +temporarily, sir." + +"And how about me?" Frank wanted to know. "Where do I come in, sir?" + +"Why," said Lord Hastings, "I have no doubt it can be arranged so you can +go along as first officer. I understand the first officer of the Plymouth +is also under the weather." + +"But isn't all this a bit irregular, sir?" Jack asked. + +"Very much so," was Lord Hastings' reply. "At the same time, many +precedents are being broken every day, and I can see no reason why two +British officers cannot lend their services to an ally if they are asked +to do so." + +"It is a little different with me, sir," said Frank. I'm an American." + +"All the same," said Lord Hastings, "you're a British naval officer, no +matter what your nativity." + +"That's true, too, sir," Frank agreed. "I haven't thought of it in just +that way." + +"Well," said Lord Hastings, "I shall report then that Captain Templeton +and First Lieutenant Chadwick will go aboard the Plymouth this evening." + +"Very well, sir," said Jack. + +This is the reason then that Jack and Frank found themselves aboard an +American destroyer in the Irish sea. + +Frank Chadwick, as we have seen, was an American. He had been in Italy +with his father when the great war began. He had been shanghaied in Naples +soon after Germany's declaration of war on France. When he came to his +senses he found that his captors were a band of mutinous sailors. Aboard +the vessel he found a second prisoner, who turned out to be a member of +the British secret service. + +Frank met Jack Templeton, a British youth, aboard the schooner. Jack came +aboard in a peculiar way. + +The schooner, in control of the mutineers, had put into a north African +port for provisions. Now it chanced that the store where the mutineers +sought to buy provisions was conducted by Jack. The lad was absent when +the supplies were purchased and returned a few moments later to find that +the mutineers had departed without making payment. + +Jack's anger bubbled over. He put off for the schooner in a small boat. +Aboard, the chief of the mutineers refused the demand for payment. A fight +ensued. Jack, facing heavy odds, sought refuge in the hold of the vessel, +where he was made a prisoner. + +During the night Jack was able to force his way from the hold into the +cabin where Frank and the British secret service agent were held captives. +He released them, and joining forces, the three were able to overcome the +mutineers and make themselves masters of the ship. + +Now Jack Templeton was an experienced seaman and knew more than the +rudiments of navigation. Under his direction the schooner returned to the +little African port that he called home. There the three erstwhile +prisoners left the ship to the mutineers. + +Later, through the good offices of the British secret service, Frank and +Jack made the acquaintance of Lord Hastings, also in the diplomatic +service. They were able to render some service to the latter and later +accompanied him to his home in London. There, at their request, Lord +Hastings, who in the meantime had been given command of a ship of war, had +them attached to his ship with the rank of midshipmen. + +Both Jack and Frank had risen swiftly in the British service. They had +seen active service in all quarters of the globe and had fought under many +flags. + +Under Lord Hastings' command they had been with the British fleet in the +North Sea when it struck the first decisive blow against the Germans just +off Helgoland. Later they were found under the Tricolor of France and with +the Italians in the Adriatic. With the British fleet again when it sallied +forth to clear the seven seas of enemy vessels, they had traversed the +Atlantic, the Pacific and the Indian oceans. It had been their fortune, +too, to see considerable land fighting. They had been with the +Anglo-Japanese forces in the east and had conducted raiding parties in +some of the German colonial possessions. + +Several times they had successfully run the blockade in the Kiel canal, +passing through the narrow straits in submarines just out of reach of the +foe. In Russia, they had, early in the war, lent invaluable assistance to +the Czar; and more lately, they had been in the eastern monarchy when Czar +Nicholas had been forced to renounce his throne. + +Once since the war began they had been to America. This was shortly after +the United States entered the war. They were ordered to the North Atlantic +in order to help the American authorities snare a German commerce raider +which, in some unaccountable manner, had run the British blockade in the +North sea, and was wreaking havoc with allied shipping. Later they went to +New York, and then returned to Europe with a combined British-American +convoy for the first expeditionary force to cross the seas. + +In temperament and disposition Jack and Frank were as unlike as one could +conceive. Jack, big for his age, broad-shouldered and strong, was always +cool and collected. Frank, on the other hand, was of a more fiery nature, +easily angered and often rash and reckless. Jack's steadying influence had +often kept the two out of trouble, or brought them through safely when +they were in difficulties. + +Both lads spoke French and German fluently and each had a smattering of +Italian. Also, as the result of several trips to Russia, they had a few +words of the Russian tongue at their command. + +In physical strength, Jack excelled Frank by far, although the latter was +by no means a weakling. On the other hand again, Frank was a crack shot +with either rifle or revolver; in fact, he was such an excellent marksman +as to cause his chum no little degree of envy. Then, too, both lads were +proficient in the art of self defense and both had learned to hold their +own with the sword. + +Up to the time this story opens the combined allied fleets had succeeded +in keeping the Germans bottled up in the strong fortress of Helgoland. +True, the enemy several times had sallied forth in few numbers, apparently +seeking to run the blockade in an effort to prey upon allied merchant +ships. But every time they had offered battle they had received the worst +of it. They had been staggered with a terrible defeat at Jutland almost a +year before this story opens, and since that time had not ventured forth. + +But even now, in the security of their hiding places, the Germans were +meditating a bold stroke. Submarines were being coaled and victualed in +preparation for a dash across the Atlantic. Already, one enemy +submarine--a merchantman--had passed the allied ships blocking the English +channel and had crossed to America and returned. Some months later, a +U-Boat of the war type had followed suit. A cordon of ally ships had been +thrown around American ports to snare this venturesome submarine on its +return, but it had eluded them and returned safely to its home port. + +But soon--very soon, indeed--German undersea craft were to strike a more +severe blow at allied shipping, carrying, for the moment, the war in all +its horrors to the very door of America. While the United States was +arming and equipping its millions to send across the sea to destroy the +kaiser and German militarism, these enemy undersea craft were crossing the +Atlantic determined to reap a rich harvest upon American, allied and +neutral shipping off the American coast. + +And the blow was to be delivered without warning--almost. + +When the U.S.S. Plymouth, under Jack's command, returned to Liverpool, the +captain of the vessel, having somewhat recovered, came aboard and relieved +Jack of command. + +"I'm obliged for your services, Captain," he said, "but I'll take charge +of the old scow again myself, with your leave." + +Jack and Frank went ashore, where, at their hotel, they received a brief +telegram from Lord Hastings. It read as follows: + + "Return to Dover at once. Important." + +"Now I wonder what is up," said Frank after reading the message. + +"The simplest way to find out," replied Jack, "is to go and see." + + + + +CHAPTER III + +OFF FOR AMERICA + + +"Then everything went first rate your first trip, Captain?" questioned +Lord Hastings. + +"First rate, sir," Jack replied. + +The lads were back in Dover where, the first thing after their arrival, +they sought an audience with their former commander. + +"Yes, sir," Frank agreed, "Jack makes an A-1 captain." + +"I'm glad to hear it," was Lord Hastings' comment. "I've other work in +hand and I wouldn't want to trust it to a man who is nervous under fire." + +"But we were not under fire this time, sir," said Jack. + +"You mustn't always take me literally, Jack," smiled Lord Hastings. "It +was your first venture in your present rank and you acquitted yourself +creditably. That is what I meant." + +"And what is the other venture, sir?" Frank asked eagerly. + +"There you go again, Frank," said Lord Hastings. "How many times have I +told you that you must restrain your impatience." + +Frank was abashed. + +"Your warnings don't seem to do much good, I'll admit, sir. Nevertheless, +I'll try to do better." + +"See that you do," returned Lord Hastings gravely. "Nothing was ever +gained by too great impatience. Remember that." + +"I'll try, sir." + +"Very well. Then I shall acquaint you with the nature of the work in +hand." + +The boys listened intently to Lord Hastings' next words. + +"As you know," His Lordship began, "the seas have virtually been cleared +of all enemy ships. All German merchant vessels have been captured or +sunk. What few raiders that preyed on our commerce for a time have been +put out of business." + +"Yes, sir," said Jack. "Our merchant vessels no longer have anything to +fear from the foe." + +"They shouldn't, that's true enough," replied Lord Hastings. + +"You mean they have, sir?" asked Jack, incredulously. + +Lord Hastings nodded. + +"I do," he admitted gravely. "Particularly shipping on the other side of +the Atlantic." + +"America, sir?" + +"Exactly." + +"But surely," Frank put in, "surely our blockade is tight enough to +prevent the enemy from breaking through." + +"We have not yet found means," replied Lord Hastings, "of effectually +blockading the submarine." + +"Oh, I see," said Frank. "You mean that the Germans plan to open a +submarine campaign upon allied shipping in American waters." + +"Such is my information," declared Lord Hastings. + +"And," said Jack, "you wish us to cross the Atlantic and take a hand in +the game of taming the U-Boats, sir." + +"Such is my idea," Lord Hastings admitted. "Let me explain. My information +is not authentic, but nevertheless, knowing the Germans as I do, I am +tempted to credit it." + +"Then why not warn the United States, sir?" asked Frank. "There are enough +American ships of war off the coast to deal effectually with all the +submarines the Germans can get across." + +"So I would," was Lord Hastings' reply, "but for the fact that some +officials of the admiralty are opposed to it." + +"Opposed?" exclaimed Jack. "And why, sir?" + +"Because they labor under the delusion that such a warning would throw the +people of the United States into a panic and would prevent the sending of +additional troops to France." + +"What a fool idea! By George!" exclaimed Frank, "what do they think the +American people are made of?" + +"You'll have to ask them," was Lord Hastings' answer to this question. +"For my own part, I feel that it is hardly fair to keep this information +from the American authorities." + +"I should say it isn't fair," declared Frank. + +"I agree with you," said Jack. "But just where do Frank and I come in, +sir?" + +"I'll make that plain to you very quickly," replied Lord Hastings. + +He drew a paper from his pocket and passed it to Jack. + +"Here," he said, "is your commission as captain of H.M.S. Brigadier." He +passed a second paper to Frank. "This," he continued, "is your commission +as first officer of the same vessel. Now, through channels known only to +myself, I have induced the admiralty to send you to America with certain +papers for Secretary Daniels of the navy department. At the same time, I +have other personal papers which I shall have you deliver to the secretary +of the navy for me. These will acquaint him with the facts I have just +laid before you." + +"I see, sir," said Jack. "But, if you will pardon my asking, what will +happen to you sir should it be found out you have acted contrary to the +wishes of the admiralty majority?" + +Lord Hastings shrugged his shoulders disdainfully. + +"What's the difference?" he wanted to know. "Our allies must be warned." + +"I agree with you, sir," declared Jack. + +"And I, sir," said Frank. + +"It is possible," said Lord Hastings, "that should I take the matter up +with the King or with the war ministry I might get action; but that would +take time, and I want this message delivered at the earliest possible +moment. Should I entrust it to the cables, under the circumstances, there +is nothing certain of its arrival." + +"I see, sir," said Jack. "Then you may be sure that I shall deliver the +message personally to Secretary Daniels." + +"It is well," said Lord Hastings. "I knew I could depend upon you boys." + +"Always, sir," replied Jack simply. + +"Then be off with you," said Lord Hastings, rising. "You can go aboard +your ship to-night. Here is the message I wish delivered to the American +secretary of the navy," and he passed a second paper to Jack. "The +admiralty message you are to take will probably reach you some time in the +morning, together with your sailing orders." + +Lord Hastings extended his hand. + +"Good-bye and good luck," he said. + +Jack and Frank shook hands with him and took their departure. + +"I'll be glad to get back to America if only for a short time," said +Frank, as they walked toward the water front. + +"I won't mind another look at the United States myself," Jack declared. +"It looks like a pretty good country to me, from what I saw of it last +trip. Almost as good as England, I guess." + +"Almost?" repeated Frank. "Say, let me tell you something. The United +States is the greatest country under the sun and don't you forget it. You +Johnny Bulls seem to think that England is the only spot on the map." + +"Well," returned Jack with a smile, "it strikes me that you boast +considerably about your own land." + +Frank's face reddened a trifle. + +"Maybe I do," he admitted, "but it's worth it." + +"So is England," said Jack quietly. + +"By George! So it is, Jack," said Frank. "Maybe it is a fact that I talk +too much sometimes." + +"No 'maybes' about it," declared Jack. "It's just a plain fact." + +"Look here," said Frank, somewhat nettled, "you may be my boss aboard +ship, but right now, with no witnesses present to hear what I say, I'll +say what I like." + +"Come, come, now," said Jack with a smile, "don't get all out of humor +just because I joke you a little bit." + +Frank grinned. + +"Well, then don't always thinks I'm angry just because I make a hot +reply," he said. + +Jack let it go at that. + +"Well, here we are at the water front," he said a few moments later, "and +if I'm not mistaken that's the Brigadier about a hundred yards off shore +there." + +"That's the Brigadier, all right," said Frank, "I can see her name +forward even at this distance. By George! but the camouflage artists have +certainly done a good job on her." + +"So they have," Jack agreed. "But we may as well go aboard." + +They commandeered a small boat and rowed rapidly to the Brigadier. Jack +swung himself up on deck and Frank climbed up behind him. + +A young lieutenant greeted Jack respectfully after a quick glance at the +latter's bars. + +"What can I do for you, sir?" he asked. + +"You may go below and tell the engineer to get steam up immediately," +replied Jack. "We may not sail before morning, but I may desire to leave +before." + +"Very well, sir," replied the young officer, "but may I ask who you are, +sir?" + +"Certainly," replied Jack, "I'm the commander of this ship, Captain +Templeton. This is Mr. Chadwick, my first officer. What is your name, +sir?" + +"Hetherton, sir, second officer of the Brigadier." + +"Very good, Lieutenant. You shall stay on here as second officer until +further notice. Now below with you." + +Lieutenant Hetherton disappeared. + +"I guess he won't ask many more questions," said Frank grimly. + +"Perhaps not," said Jack. "Now, Mr. Chadwick, will you be so kind as to +take the deck while I go to my cabin." + +Frank seemed about to remark upon Jack's sudden change in manner. Then he +thought better of it and walked off, grumbling to himself. + +"Wonder what he's in such an all-fired rush about? He's not wasting any +time, that's sure." + +He took the deck. Ten minutes later Lieutenant Hetherton reported to him, +saluting at the same time. + +"Engineer says he'll have steam up in two hours, sir." + +"Very well," replied Frank, returning the salute. "Will you kindly take +the deck, Lieutenant Hetherton? I'm going below." + +Lieutenant Hetherton took the deck, and thus relieved, Frank went below +and sought out Jack's cabin. + +"Now," he said, "I'll find out what all this rush is about." + +Without the formality of a knock, he went in. + + + + +CHAPTER IV + +THE START + + +Inside Jack's cabin, Frank found his commander and chum engaged in +conversation with the engineer officer, who had sought his new commander +immediately after giving instructions below. He saluted Frank as the lad +entered. + +"My first officer, Lieutenant Chadwick, Mr. Winslow," Jack introduced +them. "I am sure you will get along together." + +"So am I, sir," agreed the engineer. "And when shall we be moving, sir?" + +"I can't say, exactly," replied Jack. "Probably not before morning, but I +wish to be ready to leave on a moment's notice." + +"Very well, sir," said the engineer, "As I said before, I'll have steam up +in two hours." + +"Do so, sir." + +The engineer saluted and left Jack's cabin. + +Jack turned to Frank. + +"Now," he said, "what are you doing here? I thought I left you to take the +deck?" + +"I turned the deck over to Hetherton," replied Frank with a grin. "I +wanted to find out what all this rush is about?" + +"Don't you know it's bad form to ask questions of your commander?" Jack +said severely. + +"Maybe it is," Frank agreed, "but I just wanted to find out." + +"Well, I wouldn't do it in front of any of the other officers or the men," +said Jack. "It's bad for the ship's discipline. However, I'll tell you, I +just wanted to have things ready, that's all. Come, we'll go on deck." + +They ascended to the bridge. Jack addressed Lieutenant Hetherton. + +"Pipe all hands on deck for inspection, Lieutenant," he ordered. + +Lieutenant Hetherton passed the word. A moment later men came tumbling up +the companion way and fell into line aft. Jack and Frank walked forward to +look them over. Jack addressed a few words to the men. + +"I've just taken over command of the Brigadier," he said. "To-morrow +morning, or sooner, we shall sail, our destination temporarily to be known +only to myself. I believe that I may safely promise you some action before +many days have passed." + +A hearty British cheer swept the ship. + +"Hurrah!" cried the men. + +A few moments later Jack dismissed them. Then the officers returned to the +bridge, where Jack told off the watches. + +"Now," he said, "I'll have to look over the ship." + +Frank accompanied him on his tour of inspection. They found everything +absolutely clean and ship-shape. The muzzles of the big guns were shining +brightly beneath their coat of polish. After the inspection, Jack and +Frank went below for a look at the ship's papers. + +The Brigadier was a small destroyer, not more than 200 feet long. It had a +complement of 250 men, officers and crew; carried two batteries of 9-inch +guns in turrets forward and aft and was equipped with three 2-inch torpedo +tubes. It was not one of the latest of British destroyers, but still it +was modern in many respects. + +"A good ship," said Jack, after a careful examination of the papers. "As +to speed, we should get twenty-three knots on a pinch. Her fighting +equipment is excellent, everything is spick and span, and I was impressed +with the officers and crew. Yes, she is a good ship." + +"And you're the boss of the whole ranch, Jack," said Frank. "Think of it. +Less than four years ago you knew nothing at all of naval tactics, and now +you're in command of a British destroyer. By George! I wouldn't mind +having your job myself." + +Jack smiled. + +"Never mind," he said. "You'll get yours some day. I've just been more +fortunate, that's all. Besides, I knew something of navigation before you +did, and while you have mastered it now, I had a long start." + +"That's true enough," Frank admitted, "but at the same time you are +considerably more fit for the job than I am. Another thing. I don't know +that I would trade my berth here for a command of a ship." + +Jack looked his surprise. + +"Why?" he asked. + +"Because it would separate us," was Frank's reply. "We've been together +now since the war began, almost. I hope that we may see it through +together." + +"Here, too," declared the commander of the Brigadier, "but at the same +time you should not let a matter of friendship stand between you and what +may be your big opportunity." + +"Oh, I'd probably take the job if it were offered me," said Frank. "I'm +just hoping the offer will not be made; that's all." + +The lads conversed for some moments longer. Then Frank looked at his +watch. + +"My watch," he said quietly. "I'll be going on deck." + +"Right," said Jack. "Call me if anything happens." + +"Yes, sir," said Frank, saluting his commander gravely. + +Jack grinned. + +"By Jove! It seems funny to have you talk like that to me," he said. "At +the same time I suppose it must be done for the sake of discipline. +However, it is not necessary in private." + +"Nevertheless," said Frank, "I had better stick to it or I'm liable to +forget in public some time." + +"Well, maybe you're right," said Jack. + +Frank turned on his heel and went on deck, where he relieved Lieutenant +Hetherton, who had been on watch. + +"Nothing to report, sir," said Lieutenant Hetherton, saluting. + +"Very well, sir," was Frank's reply, as he, too, saluted. + +It was after midnight, and Frank's watch was nearing its end when the +lookout on the port side called: + +"Boat off the port bow, sir." + +Frank advanced to the rail. A moment later there was a hail from the +water. + +"What ship is that?' + +"His Majesty's Ship Brigadier," Frank called back. + +"I'm coming aboard you," said the voice from the darkness. "Lower a +ladder." + +Frank gave the necessary command. A few moments later a man attired in the +uniform of a British captain came over the side. He approached Frank, who +was barely visible in the darkness. + +"Captain Templeton?" he asked. + +"No, sir. I'm Lieutenant Chadwick. A moment, sir, and I'll call the +captain." + +"If you please," said the visitor. + +Frank passed the word for the quartermaster, who arrived within a few +moments. + +"Call Captain Templeton," Frank directed. + +Jack arrived on deck a few moments later and exchanged greetings with his +visitor. The latter produced a packet of papers. + +"From the admiralty," he said. "You will know what to do with them." + +Jack took the papers and stowed them in his pocket. + +"Yes, sir," he said. + +"That is all, then," said the visitor. "I shall be going." + +He stepped to the side of the vessel and disappeared. + +"This means," said Jack, after the other had gone, "that we can sail any +time now." + +"Then why not at once?" asked Frank. + +"You anticipated me," replied Jack. "Will you kindly pipe all hands on +deck, Mr. Chadwick?" + +Frank passed the word. + +Sleepy men came tumbling from their bunks below. All became bustle and +hurry aboard the Brigadier. Jack himself took the bridge. Frank stood +beside him. Other officers took their places. + +"Man the guns!" came Jack's order. + +It was the lad's intention to overlook nothing that would protect the ship +should it encounter an enemy submarine en route, and, as the lad knew, it +was just as possible they would encounter one in the English Channel as +elsewhere. + +For, despite all precautions taken by British naval authorities, enemy +submarines more than once had crept through the channel, once penetrating +Dover harbor itself, where they had wreaked considerable damage before +being driven away by British destroyers and submarine chasers. + +A few moments later Jack signaled the engine room. + +"Half speed ahead." + +Slowly the Brigadier slipped from her anchorage and moved through the +still waters of the harbor. Directly she pushed her nose into the channel, +then headed east. + +"Full speed ahead!" Jack signaled the engine room. + +The Brigadier leaped forward. + +"Better turn in, Jack," said Frank. "It's Thompson's watch." + +"No, I'll stick until we reach the Atlantic," returned Jack. + +"Then I'll stick along," said Frank. + +This they did. + +It was hours later when the Brigadier ran clear of the channel and +breasted the heavy swell of the Atlantic. Jack spoke to Thompson, the +third officer. + +"I'm going to turn in," he said. "If anything happens, call me at once." + +"Very well, sir," was the third officer's reply. + +He saluted briefly. Jack and Frank went below. + +"Come in a moment before you turn in, if you wish," Jack said to Frank. + +"May as well," replied the latter. "I don't feel like turning in for an +hour yet." + +"Well, you can't keep me out of bed that long," declared Jack. "I've got +to be stirring before you go on watch again. But I thought we might talk a +few moments." + +Nevertheless, it was an hour later that Frank went to his own cabin. He +turned in at once and was soon fast asleep. + +On the other hand, sleep did not come to Jack so soon. For an hour or more +he lay in his bunk, reviewing the events of the past and his +responsibilities of the present. + +"It's a big job I have now," he told himself. "I hope I can carry it +through successfully." + +But he didn't have the slightest doubt that he could. Jack's one best +characteristic was absolute confidence in himself. + + + + +CHAPTER V + +A RESCUE + + +H.M.S. Brigadier was steaming steadily along at a speed of twenty knots. +Jack himself held the bridge. Frank and Lieutenant Hetherton, who stood +nearby, were discussing the sinking several days before of a large allied +transport by a German submarine in the Irish sea. + +"She was sunk without warning, the same as usual," said Hetherton. + +"The Germans never give warning any more," replied Frank, "Of course, the +reason is obvious enough. To give warning it would be necessary for the +submarine to come to the surface, in which case the merchant ship might be +able to place a shell aboard the U-Boat before she could submerge again. +So to take time to give warning would be a disadvantage to the submarine." + +"At the same time," said Hetherton, "it's an act of barbarism to sink a +big ship without giving passengers and crew a word of warning." + +"Oh, I'm not defending the German system," declared Frank. "I am just +giving you what I believe is the German viewpoint." + +"Nevertheless," said Hetherton, "it's about time such activities were +stopped." + +"It certainly is. But it seems that the U-Boats are growing bolder each +day." + +"It wouldn't surprise me," declared Lieutenant Hetherton, "to hear almost +any day that U-Boats had crossed the Atlantic to prey on shipping in +American waters." + +Frank looked at the second officer sharply. He was sure that Jack had not +divulged the real reason for their present voyage, and he had said nothing +about the matter himself. + +"Just a chance remark, I guess," Frank told himself. Aloud he said: "I +hardly think it will come to that." + +"I hope not," replied Hetherton, "but you never can tell, you know." + +"That's true enough, too," Frank agreed, "but at the same--" + +He broke off suddenly as he caught the sharp hail of the forward lookout. + +"Ship in distress off the port bow, sir," came the cry. + +Jack was at once called to the deck. + +Instantly Frank and Lieutenant Hetherton sprang to Jack's side. At almost +the same moment the radio operator emerged from below on the run. + +"Message, sir," he exclaimed, and thrust a piece of paper in Jack's hand. +Jack read it quickly. It ran like this: + +"Merchant steamer Hazelton, eight thousand tons, New York to Liverpool +with munitions and supplies, torpedoed by submarine. Sinking. Help." + +"Did you get her position?" demanded Jack of the wireless operator. + +"No, sir. The wireless failed before he could give it." + +"Don't you think it may be the vessel ahead, sir?" asked Lieutenant +Hetherton. + +"Can't tell," was Jack's reply. "It may be, in which case there are +probably more submarines about. Clear ship for action, Mr. Chadwick." + +No sooner said than done. + +Frank and others of the ship's officers darted hither and yon, making sure +that everything was in readiness. At the guns, the gunners grinned +cheerfully. Frank approached the battery in the forward turret. + +"All right?" he asked. + +"O.K., sir," replied the officer in command of the gun crew. "Show us a +submarine, that's all we ask." + +"There are probably a dozen or so about here some place," returned Frank. +"Keep your eyes peeled and don't wait an order to fire if you see anything +that looks like one." + +"Right, sir." + +The officer turned to his men with a sharp command. + +Frank continued his inspection of the ship as the Brigadier dashed toward +the vessel in distress, probably ten miles ahead. + +Every man aboard the Brigadier was on the alert as the destroyer plowed +swiftly through the water. It was possible, of course, that the submarines +had made off after attacking the vessel, but there was always the +possibility that some were still lurking in the neighborhood. + +"Can't be too careful," Jack told himself. + +Fifteen minutes later, the lookout was able to make out more clearly the +ship ahead of them. + +"Steamer Hazelton," he called to the quartermaster, who reported to Jack. + +"Same vessel that sent the wireless, Frank," was Jack's comment. "We will +have to look sharp. It's more than an even bet that some of those undersea +sharks are watching for a ship to come to the rescue so they can have a +shot at her also." + +"We're ready for 'em," said Frank significantly. + +"All right," said Jack. "In the meantime we'll stand by the Hazelton and +see if we can lend a hand." + +As the Brigadier drew closer those on deck could see signs of confusion +aboard the Hazelton. Then there arose a large cloud of smoke that for a +moment hid the Hazelton from view. This was followed by a loud explosion. + +When the smoke cleared away, the water nearby was filled with struggling +figures. + +"Lower the boats," shouted Jack. + +Instantly men sprang to obey the command, while others of the British tars +still stood quietly behind their guns, their eyes scanning the sea. + +Aboard the Hazelton, the crew, or what remained of the crew, were +attempting to lower lifeboats. Directly one was lowered safely, and loaded +to the guards with human freight. A second and a third were lowered +safely, and put off toward the Brigadier. + +In the meantime, lifeboats from the destroyer had darted in among the +struggling figures and willing hands were lifting the victims to safety. +Then these, in turn, started back to the destroyer. + +"I guess they're all off," said Frank to Jack. + +"I hope so," was Jack's reply. "If I am not mistaken, there are women +among the survivors." + +"By George! I thought I saw some myself," was Frank's answer. + +Suddenly there was a crash as the forward turret guns aboard the Brigadier +burst into action. Looking ahead, Jack gave a startled cry, and no wonder. + +For, from beneath the water, appeared a periscope and then the long low +outline of a German submarine came into view. + +Again the Brigadier's guns crashed, but the shells did not strike home. + +Before the destroyer could fire again, a gun appeared as if by magic on +the submarine's deck, and a hail of bullets was poured into the first of +the nearby lifeboats. At the same time the U-Boat launched a torpedo at +the Brigadier. + +Jack gave a cry of horror at the predicament of those in the small boats. +But he did not lose his head, and at the same time maneuvered his ship out +of the path of the torpedo. + +Came a hail from the lookout aft. + +"Submarine off the stern, sir!" + +At the same moment the battery in the Brigadier's turret aft burst into +action. + +"Forward with you, Mr. Chadwick," cried Jack, "and see if you can't get +better results there. The men seem to have lost their nerve." + +Frank sprang forward. Jack's words were true. It appeared that the crew in +the forward turret were so anxious to sink the first submarine that they +had not taken time to find the range. + +"Cease firing!" shouted Frank as he sprang into the turret. + +The order was obeyed, but there came a grumble from the men at what they +deemed such a strange command under the circumstances. + +"I thought you fellows were gunners," said Frank angrily. "Smith, get the +range." + +Smith did so, and announced it a moment later. + +"Now," said Frank, "get your aim, men." + +No longer was there confusion in the forward turret. The guns were trained +carefully. + +"Ready," cried Frank. "Fire!" + +"Crash!" + +A moment and there was a loud cheer from the crew. The German submarine +seemed to leap high from the water, and then fell back in a dozen pieces. + +Frank wasted no further time on the first submarine. Leaving the forward +turret, he dashed aft to where other guns were firing on the second +submarine. Meantime Jack, perfectly cool on the bridge, had maneuvered his +vessel out of the way of several torpedoes from the second U-Boat. But, +as he very well knew, this combat must be brought to a quick end or one +of the torpedoes was likely to find its mark. + +From the deck of the second submarine, a hail of fire from a machine gun +was still being poured into the helpless lifeboats. What execution had +been done Jack had no means of telling at the moment, but he knew there +must have been some casualties. + +"The brutes!" he muttered. + +The duel between the submarine and the destroyer still raged. It appeared +that the commander of the submarine was a capable officer, for he had +succeeded in keeping his vessel from being struck by a shell from the +Brigadier. + +In the aft turret of the Brigadier the British tars were sweating and +muttering imprecations at their inability to put a shell aboard the enemy. + +"Here," said Frank, "let me get at that gun." + +The crew stepped aside and the lad sighted the weapon himself. Then he +fired. + +Again a cheer arose aboard the Brigadier. Frank's shot had been +successful. The shell struck the submersible squarely amidships, and +carried away the periscope. + +"Fire!" cried Frank, and the other guns broke into action. + +Again there was a wild cheer. + +The submarine began to settle a few moments later. Men emerged from below +and sprang into the sea. + +"Lower a boat!" cried Jack. "I want a few of those fellows." + +A boat was lowered instantly and strong hands pulled it toward the Germans +floundering in the water. + +By this time the lifeboats that had escaped the German fire came alongside +the Brigadier and the occupants climbed aboard the destroyer. These were +quickly fitted out with dry clothing. It developed that there had been +three women passengers aboard the Hazelton and all of these had been +saved. A dozen members of the crew, however, had been killed by the enemy +in the lifeboats. + +Jack assigned quarters to the victims as quickly as he was able, and then +calling his officers about him, awaited the return of the boat which had +gone after the Germans who had leaped into the sea. + +"If the act I have just seen is a sample of the German heart," Jack said, +"I never want another German within sight of me so long as I live." + + + + +CHAPTER VI + +CHANGED ORDERS + + +As the Germans came aboard--ten of them--they were herded before Jack. +They stood there sullenly, their eyes on the deck. One of them wore a +heavily braided and imposing uniform. Jack addressed him. + +"You are the commander of that submarine?" he questioned. + +"I was," answered the German. + +"You were, what?" asked Jack sharply. + +"I was the commander." + +"You don't seem to catch my meaning," said Jack, taking a step forward. +"When you speak to me say 'sir.'" + +"Then you shall say 'sir' to me," said the German. + +"Oh, no I won't," Jack declared. "I never say sir to a murderer." + +The German's eyes lighted angrily. + +"It would be well to be more careful of your words," he said. + +"Nevertheless," said Jack, "I repeat them. You, are a murderer, and as +such should be hanged at once. I'm not sure it is in my province to string +you up, but I'm strongly tempted to do so and take the consequences." + +"But I guess you won't," sneered the German. + +"Then don't try me too far," said Jack quietly. "To my mind, men like you +and your cowardly followers should be put out of the way the same as a mad +dog; and certainly there is no law against killing a dog." + +"I warn you," said the German, taking a step nearer the lad, "to be more +choice in your words." + +"Silence!" Jack thundered, "and don't you dare step toward me unless I +tell you to do so." He turned to Frank. "Take those men below and put them +in irons," he ordered. + +Frank stepped forward to obey, and again the German commander protested. + +"You can't do that," he said. "My men are prisoners of war and as such are +entitled to all the usual courtesies." + +"They are, eh?" asked Jack. "Then I'll modify that order a bit, +temporarily, Mr. Chadwick, will you kindly bring irons for this man here," +and he indicated the German officer. "I want his men and all our +passengers to see how he looks in shackles, which he should have been made +to wear long ago." + +Frank hurried away. The German commander, after taking one step back at +Jack's words, stepped quickly forward again. His hand went to his side and +he produced a long knife. Then he sprang. + +Jack smiled slightly, stepped quickly to one side and with his left hand +caught the German's knife arm. He twisted sharply, and the knife dropped +to the deck. + +Jack released his hold and the German staggered back. Deliberately Jack +cuffed the man across the face with his right hand, then with his left. +Twice more he did this, following the German as he retreated across the +deck. + +"Let that teach you," he said, "that attempting to stab a British naval +officer is very bad business. But here comes something that will teach +you more," and he pointed to Frank, who reappeared at that moment followed +by two sailors bearing heavy chains. "These irons," Jack continued, "will +show you just what is in store for you when you are landed in England. +Hold out your hands." + +The German did so. Quickly handcuffs were snapped on. + +"Shackle his legs," said Jack. + +The sailors needed no urging. Quickly the German's legs were shackled with +the heavy iron. Jack took a couple of steps back and surveyed his +prisoner. + +"If you had been dressed up in those several years ago," he said, "I've no +doubt lots of innocent women and children now at the bottom of the sea +would be alive still." + +The German commander scowled, but he said nothing. + +"Now, Frank," said Jack, "you will take the other prisoners below and put +them in irons. I guess our friend here will no longer object." + +The German sailors were led below, where they were soon safely chained and +Frank returned to the bridge. + +"Kindly pass the word for all the passengers and the crew to come on deck, +Mr. Hetherton," ordered Jack. + +The second officer obeyed and soon the deck was crowded. The German +commander became the center of an angry group. + +"I've just called you all here," said Jack, "that you may cast your eyes +upon one of the kaiser's paid murderers. It is men like this who have made +an outcast of Germany. Not satisfied with killing in battle, they fire on +helpless lifeboats, sending women and children as well as unarmed +noncombatants to the bottom of the sea. In fact, it is men like this, or a +man like this, who so recently took a heavy toll in lives from the crew of +the Hazelton, after the vessel had been put out of commission." + +There was an angry murmur among the crowd on deck. + +"Hang him," said a voice. + +The German officer's face turned a chalky white. + +"I'd be pleased to do so," said Jack, "were it not for the fact that I +must retain him as a prisoner of war and turn him over to the proper +authorities. However, it wouldn't surprise me a bit if he were tried for +murder and hanged, and I'm not sure that even such a fate isn't too good +for him." + +"Hang him!" came a voice from the crowd again. + +"No," said Jack quietly, "it can't be done. Take him away." + +These last words were addressed to Lieutenant Hetherton, who stepped +forward and took the German commander by the arm. + +"Come on," he said somewhat roughly. + +The German commander was led below, where he was made secure. + +The passengers and crew rescued from the Hazelton dispersed and Jack held +a consultation with his officers. + +"If we were not so far from land," he said, "I would land those we have +rescued. As it stands, I am under rush orders, so I am afraid I shall have +to take them to America." + +"That cannot be helped, sir," said Lieutenant Hetherton. "I am sure they +will understand that, sir." + +"I think so, too," agreed Frank. + +"At all events," said Jack, "there seems nothing else to do under the +circumstances. Ring for full speed ahead, Mr. Chadwick." + +Frank did so. + +At that moment the radio operator again emerged from below and hurried to +Jack. + +"Admiralty orders, sir," he said, passing a slip of paper to the commander +of the Brigadier. + +Jack read the paper quickly, then turned to Frank with a sharp command. + +"Slow to half speed," he said. "Then come about and head for Dover." + +Frank asked no questions. He knew that Jack would explain the reason for +the change soon enough. Besides, the matter was none of his business. He +gave the necessary orders. Jack turned to the second officer. + +"Will you take the bridge, Mr. Hetherton? Mr. Chadwick, please come to my +cabin." + +The lads went below together. + +"Now," said Frank, after he had taken a seat, "what's it all about?" + +"Well," was Jack's reply, "the admiralty wants the Brigadier back in +Dover. That's all I know about it. I'm instructed to report to Lord +Hastings immediately on my return." + +"No other explanation?" + +"No." + +"Funny," commented Frank. "Must be something up, though." + +"So it would seem. However, I guess we'll learn soon enough. Hope they are +not going to deprive me of my command." + +"No fear, I guess," declared Frank. + +The return trip was made in record time and without incident. Jack saw the +victims of the Hazelton landed safely and then, turning the ship over to +Lieutenant Hetherton, went ashore with Frank to report to Lord Hastings. + +The latter greeted them with a wry smile. + +"It seems that my warning to America is not to be delivered after all," he +said. + +"And why, sir?" asked Jack. "Are you not still convinced that the warning +is necessary?" + +"I am," declared Lord Hastings, "but, as I told you, I was sending the +warning without knowledge of the Admiralty. Naturally, then, when it was +announced that the Brigadier was to be recalled to take part in other +operations, I could not announce that you carried secret dispatches from +me." + +"I see," said Jack. "And what is the nature of the other operation?" + +"It is a desperate undertaking," said Lord Hastings slowly, "and one that, +at first, I was tempted to advise against. And still, if successful it +will do much toward insuring an allied victory." + +"Since when have you become so cautious, sir?" asked Frank with a smile. + +"It's not a matter of caution, Frank," replied Lord Hastings. "It's simply +a matter of prudence. In a word, the Admiralty is determined to block the +harbors of Ostend and Zeebrugge." + +Frank was on his feet and clapping his hands. + +"Fine!" he exclaimed. "I don't see why it hasn't been done sooner. I +remember what Hobson did to the Spanish fleet at Santiago in the +Spanish-American war." + +"It's an exploit of the same nature," Lord Hastings admitted, "though it +will be attended with even greater danger. If successful, as I say, it +will do inestimable good. The admiralty has been training specially for +this move for months, but the matter has now come to a head." + +"And how does it happen that we shall be fortunate enough to lend a hand?" +asked Jack. + +"My fault, I suppose," returned Lord Hastings. "Admiral Keyes, the day +after your departure, was bemoaning the fact that one ship had been taken +away from him at the last moment. I said that if Captain Templeton and the +Brigadier were here, you could easily replace the other vessel. The +admiral was of the opinion that you had not had the necessary training. I +said you didn't need it. Apparently he was convinced, for the next I heard +you had been recalled to Dover. Thus, through talking too much, I balked +my own plans." + +"Perhaps," said Frank, "it won't be too late for the other when the +harbors of Ostend and Zeebrugge have been sealed." + +"But perhaps you won't come back," said Lord Hastings. + +"Oh, we'll be back, never fear," grinned Jack. "But what are we to do +now?" + +"You will report to Admiral Keyes aboard the Warwick at once. If you +return safely, report to me. Good-bye and good luck." + +The lads shook hands with Lord Hastings and left him. + +"Here," said Frank, "is what I call a piece of luck." + + + + +CHAPTER VII + +A BIT OF EXPLANATION + + +It is probable that the sealing of the harbors of Ostend and Zeebrugge, +two of the most important German submarine bases, was one of the greatest +feats of the whole European war. The attempt was extremely hazardous and +could never have been successful except for the gallantry and heroism of +the British crews. + +Not the least of the bravest among them were Jack and Frank and the other +officers and crew of the destroyer Brigadier. It is true that the +operation has been planned primarily with the idea of having the destroyer +Daffodil in line, but it was the withdrawal of this vessel that permitted +Jack and Frank to have a hand in the operation. + +In order that all parts of the naval service might share in the +expedition, representative bodies of men had been drawn from the Grand +Fleet, the three home depots, the Royal marine artillery and light +infantry. The ships and torpedo craft were furnished by the Dover patrol, +which was reinforced by vessels from the Harwich force and the French and +American navies. The Royal Australian navy and the admiralty experimental +station at Stratford and Dover were also represented. + +A force thus composed and armed, obviously needed collective training and +special preparation to adapt both the men and their weapons to their +purpose. With these objects, the blocking ships and the storming forces +were assembled toward the end of February, and from the fourth of April on +in the West Swim Anchorage--where training especially adapted to the plan +of operation was given--and the organization of the expedition was carried +on. + +The material as it was prepared was used to make the training practical +and was itself tested thereby. Moreover, valuable practice was afforded by +endeavors to carry out the project on two previous occasions, on which the +conditions of wind and weather compelled its postponement, and much was +learned from these temporary failures. + +The Hindustan, at first at Chatham and later at the Swim, was the parent +ship and training depot. After the second attempt, when it became apparent +that there would be a long delay, the Dominion joined the Hindustan and +the pressure upon the available accommodation was relieved by the transfer +of about 350 seamen and marines to her. + +Two special craft, Liverpool ferry steamers, Iris and Gloucester, were +selected after a long search by Captain Herbert Grant. They were selected +because of their shallow draft, with a view in the first place to their +pushing the Vindictive, which was to bear the brunt of the work, alongside +Zeebrugge Mole; to the possibility, should the Vindictive be sunk, of +their bringing away all her crew and the landing parties; and to their +ability to maneuver in shallow water or clear of mine fields or torpedoes. +The blocking ships and the Vindictive were especially prepared for their +work long before the start. + +Vice-Admiral Sir Roger Keyes devoted personal attention and time to +working out the plan of operations and the preparation of the personnel +and material. Rear Admiral Cecil F. Dampier, second in command of the +Dover flotilla, and Commodore Algernon Boyle, chief of staff, gave +considerable assistance. + +When, as vice-admiral of the Dover patrol, Admiral Keyes first began to +prepare for the operation, it became apparent that without an effective +system of smoke screening such an attack could hardly hope to succeed. The +system of making smoke previously employed in the Dover patrol was +unsuitable for a night operation, as this production generated a fierce +flame, and no other means of making an effective smoke screen was +available. Nevertheless Wing Commander Brock, at last devised the way. + +The commander-in-chief of the Grand Fleet, Admiral Beatty, sent to Admiral +Keyes a picked body of officers and men. Support also was received from +the neighboring commands at Portsmouth and the Nore, the adjutant general, +Royal Marines, and the depot at Chatham. The rear-admiral commanding the +Harwich force sent a flotilla leader and six destroyers, besides +protecting the northern flank of the area in which operations were to be +conducted. + +To afford protection at a certain point in the route and to maintain the +aids to navigation during the approach and retirement of the expedition, a +force consisting of the flotilla leaders Scott and the destroyers +Ulleswater, Teazer and Stork, and the light cruiser Attentive, flying the +pennant of Commodore Boyle, was organized. This force, as it developed, +was instrumental in patroling and directing the movements of detached +craft in both directions, and relieved Admiral Keyes of all anxiety on +that score. + +At the moment of departing the forces were disposed as follows: + +In the Swim--For the attack on the Zeebrugge Mole: Vindictive, Iris, +Gloucester. To block the Bruges canal: Thetis, Interprid and Iphigenia. To +block the entrance to Ostend: Sirius and Brilliant. + +At Dover--Warwick, flagship of Vice-Admiral Keyes; Phoebe, North Star, +Brigadier, Trident, Mansfield, Whirlwind, Myngs, Velox, Morris, Moorsom, +Melpomene, Tempest and Tetrarch. + +To damage Zeebrugge--Submarines C-1 and C-3. + +A special picket boat to rescue crews of C-1 and C-3. + +Minesweeper Lingfield to take off surplus steaming parties of block +ships, which had 100 miles to steam. + +Eighteen coastal motorboats. + +Thirty-three motor launches. + +To bombard vicinity of Zeebrugge--Monitors Erebus and Terror. + +To attend monitors--Termagant, Truculent, and Manly. + +Outer patrol off Zeebrugge--Attentive, Scot, Ulleswater, Teazer and Stork. + +At Dunkirk--Monitors for bombarding Ostend: Marshal Soult, Lord Clive, +Prince Eugene, General Sraufurd, M-24 and M-26. + +For operating off Ostend--Swift, Faulknor, Matchless, Mastiff and Afridi. + +The British destroyers Mentor, Lightfoot, Zubian and French torpedo boats +Lestin, Capitaine Mehl, Francis Garnier, Roux and Boucier to accompany the +monitors. + +There were in addition to these, three American destroyers--the Taylor, +the Alert and the Cyprus. + +Eighteen British motor launches for smoke screening duty inshore and +rescue work, and six for attending big monitors. + +Four French motor launches attending M-24 and M-26 and five coastal motor +boats. + +Navigational aids having been established on the routes, the forces from +the Swim and Dover were directed to join Admiral Keyes off the Goodwin +Sands and to proceed in company to a rendezvous, and thereafter as +requisite to their respective stations. + +Those from Dunkirk were given their orders by the commodore. + +An operation time table was issued to govern the movements of all the +forces. Wireless signals were prohibited, visual signals of every sort +were reduced to a minimum and maneuvering prearranged as far as foresight +could provide. + +With few and slight delays the program for the passage was carried out as +laid down, the special aids to navigation being found of great assistance. + +The Harwich force, under Rear-Admiral Tyrwhitt, was posted to cover the +operations and prevent interference from the north. + +Jack and Frank, having reported to Admiral Keyes upon leaving Lord +Hastings, had received necessary instructions as to their part in the +raid. They had passed the word to the other officers of the Brigadier, who +in turn had informed members of the crew what was about to happen. + +There was wild cheering among the British tars on the Brigadier when they +learned they were to have a hand in one of the greatest and most dangerous +enterprises attempted in the whole war. Needless to say, Jack and Frank +also were immensely pleased. + +"Tell you what, Jack," said Frank, after they had returned aboard the +Brigadier, "it seems to me as though your work had come to the ears of the +Admiralty with a vengeance." + +"Oh, I guess that isn't it," Jack laughed. "They just happened to need +another ship and picked on me. That's all." + +"Perhaps," Frank admitted. "But just the same it seems that we are always +in the midst of things. I wouldn't call it all luck, if I were you." + +"Well, it's not good judgment, that much is certain," said Jack. "For good +judgment would tell me to keep in a safe place as long as possible." + +"If you want to know what I think about it," said Frank, "this raid is +going to be one of the greatest blows struck at the enemy." + +"It certainly will do the enemy a lot of harm if it's successful," Jack +confessed. + +"It'll be successful all right. I can feel that." + +"A hunch, eh?" laughed Jack. + +"Call it what you like. Nevertheless, I am absolutely certain Admiral +Keyes will not fail. And what are the Germans going to do for submarine +bases if Ostend and Zeebrugge are bottled up?" + +"Maybe we'll catch most of them in there," said Jack hopefully. + +"They won't be able to get out again if we do," declared Frank. + +"Right," Jack agreed, "and the ones that are outside won't be able to get +back in again." + +"So you see," Frank continued, "we have them coming and going, as we say +in America." + +"I see," said Jack. + +"And what time are we to start?" asked Frank. "You must remember you were +in private conference with Admiral Keyes. You're a captain now, and the +big fellows talk to you. I'm still only a lieutenant." + +"The passage will most likely be made by daylight," said Jack. "That has +been decided in order that we may do our work there under the cover of +darkness so far as possible. Of course, this may be changed, but that's +the way the plan lies now." + +"Strikes me we are taking a pretty big force along, from what you say." + +"Necessary, I guess," said Jack. "It seems that the admiral has overlooked +nothing that will go toward making the attack a success." + +"Well, we can't start any too soon to suit me," declared Frank. "When do +you expect to get orders to move?" + +"I'm not certain, but I wouldn't be surprised to receive them early in the +morning." + +As it developed Jack was a good prophet. + +Bright and early next morning, a small boat approached the Brigadier. A +few moments later an officer came aboard and presented Jack with a +document. Then he departed. + +Jack read the paper, then leaped to the bridge. + +"To your post, Mr. Chadwick," he called to Frank, who had been standing +near by. "Pipe all men to quarters and signal for half speed ahead." + +The passage was about to begin. + + + + +CHAPTER VIII + +THE ATTACK BEGINS + + +The main force was divided into three columns. The center column was led +by the Vindictive, with the Brigadier second and the Iris in tow, followed +by the five blocking ships and the paddle mine-sweeper Lingfield, +escorting five motor launches for taking off the surplus steaming parties +of the blocking ships. The starboard column was led by the Warwick, flying +the flag of Admiral Keyes, followed by the Phoebe and North Star, which +three ships were to cover the Vindictive from torpedo attack while the +storming operations were in progress. + +The submarines were towed by the Trident and Mansfield. The Tempest +escorted the two Ostend block ships. + +The port column was led by the Whirlwind, followed by Myngs and Moorsom, +which ships were to patrol to the northward of Zeebrugge; and the +Tetrarch, also to escort the Ostend block ships. Every craft was towing +one or more coastal motor boats, and between the columns were motor +launches. + +The greater part of the passage, as Jack had explained, had to be carried +out in broad daylight, with the consequent likelihood of discovery by +enemy aircraft or submarines. This risk was largely countered by the +escort of all the scouting escort under Admiral Keyes' command. + +On arrival at a certain position, it being then apparent that the +conditions were favorable and that there was every prospect of carrying +through the enterprise on schedule, a short prearranged wireless signal +was made to the detached forces that the program would be adhered to. + +On arrival at a position a mile and a half short of where Commodore +Boyle's force was stationed, the whole force stopped for fifteen minutes +to enable the surplus steaming parties of the block ships to be +disembarked and the coastal motor boats slipped. These and the motor +launches then proceeded in execution of previous orders. On resuming the +course, the Warwick and Whirlwind, followed by the destroyers, drew ahead +on either bow to clear the passage of enemy outpost vessels. + +When the Vindictive arrived at a position where it was necessary to alter +her course for the Mole, the Warwick, Phoebe and North Star swung to +starboard and cruised in the vicinity of the Mole until after the final +withdrawal of all the attacking forces. During the movement and through +the subsequent operations, the Warwick was maneuvered to place smoke +screens wherever they seemed to be most required, and when the wind +shifted from northeast to southwest, her services in this respect were +particularly valuable. + +The monitors Erebus and Terror, with the destroyers Termagant, Truculent +and Manly, were stationed at a position suitable for the long range +bombardment of Zeebrugge in co-operation with the attack. + +Similarly, the monitors Marshal Soult, General Sraufurd, Prince Eugene and +Lord Clive, and the small monitors M-21, M-24 and M-26 were stationed in +suitable positions to bombard specified batteries. These craft were +attended by the British destroyers Mentor, Lightfoot and Zubian, and the +French Capitaine Mehl, Francis Garnier, Roux and Bouclier. The bombardment +that ensued was undoubtedly useful in keeping down the fire of the shore +batteries. + +The attack on the Mole was primarily intended to distract the enemy's +attention from the ships engaged in blocking the Bruges canal. Its +immediate objectives were, first, the capture of the four 1-inch batteries +at the sea end of the Mole, which were a serious menace to the passage of +the block ships, and, second, the doing of as much damage to the material +on the Mole as time would permit, for it was not the intention of Admiral +Keyes to remain on the Mole after the primary object of the expedition +had been accomplished. + +The attack was to consist of two parts: The landing of storming and +demolition parties and the destruction of the iron viaduct between the +shore and the stone Mole. + +The units detailed for the attack were: + +H.M.S. Vindictive, Captain Alfred F.B. Carpenter; the Brigadier, Captain +Jack Templeton; special steamers Iris, Commander Valentine Gibbs; +Gloucester, Lieutenant H.G. Campbell, the latter detailed to push the +Vindictive alongside the Mole and keep her there as long as might be +necessary. + +Submarines C-3 and C-1, commanded by Lieutenants Richard Sanford and +Aubrey Newbold, respectively, attended by picket boat under Lieutenant +Commander Francis H. Sanford. + +Besides these, a flotilla of twenty-four motor launches and eight coastal +motorboats were told off for rescue work and to make smoke screens or lay +smoke floats, and nine more coastal motorboats to attack the Mole and +enemy vessels inside it. + +At 11.40 p.m. on April 22, 1918, the coastal motorboats detailed to lay +the first smoke screen ran in to very close range and proceeded to lay +smoke floats and by other methods make the necessary "fog." These craft +immediately were under fire, and only their small size and great speed +saved them from destruction. + +At this moment the Blankenberghe light buoy was abeam of the Vindictive +and the enemy had presumably seen or heard the approaching forces. Star +shells lighted the heavens. But still no enemy patrol craft were sighted. +At this time the wind had been from the northeast, and therefore favorable +to the success of the smoke screens. It now died away and began to blow +from a southerly direction. + +Many of the smoke floats laid just off the Mole extension were sunk by the +fire of the enemy, which now began to grow in volume. This, in conjunction +with the wind, lessened the effectiveness of the smoke screen. + +At 11.56 the Vindictive, the Brigadier close behind, having just passed +through a smoke screen, sighted the Mole in the semi-darkness about three +hundred yards off on the port bow. Speed was increased to full and the +course of both vessels altered so that, allowing for cross tide, the +Vindictive would make good a closing course of forty-five degrees to the +Mole. The Vindictive purposely withheld her fire to avoid being +discovered, but almost at the moment of her emerging from the smoke the +enemy opened fire. + +So promptly, under the orders of the commander, was this replied to by the +port 6-inch battery, the upper deck pompoms and the gun in the foretop +that the firing on both sides appeared to be almost simultaneous. + +The Brigadier, under Jack's command, opened fire at almost the same +moment. Heavy shells flew screaming into the enemy lines. German +projectiles began to kick up the water close to the Vindictive and the +Brigadier. But in the first few volleys, none of the enemy shells found +their marks. Jack was conning the ship from the port forward, the +flame-thrower hut. Frank, with directions as to handling of the ship +should Jack be disabled, was in the conning tower, from which the +Brigadier was being steered. + +At one minute after midnight on April 23, the program time for attack +being midnight, the Vindictive was put alongside the Mole and the +starboard anchor was let go. + +At this time the noise of cannonading was terrific. During the previous +few minutes, the ship had been hit by a large number of shells, which had +resulted in heavy casualties. + +As there was some doubt as to the starboard anchor having gone clear, the +port anchor was dropped close to the foot of the Mole and the cable +bowsed-to, with less than a shackle out. A three-knot tide was running +past the Mole, and the scene alongside, created by the slight swell, +caused the ship to roll. There was an interval of three or four minutes +before the Brigadier or the Gloucester could arrive and commence to push +the Vindictive bodily alongside. + +During the interval the Vindictive could not be got close enough for the +special Mole anchors to hook and it was a very trying period. Many of the +brows had been broken by shell fire and the heavy roll had broken the +foremost Mole anchor as it was being placed. The two foremost brows, +however, reached the wall and enabled storming parties, led by +Lieutenant-Commander Bryan F. Adams, to land and run out alongside them, +closely followed by the Royal marines. + +It was at this juncture that a slight change was made in the original +program. It developed, as the first storming party moved out, that +Commander Adams' men were not in sufficient strength for the work ahead. +Captain Carpenter of the Vindictive called for support from the Brigadier. +Jack acted promptly. + +"Lieutenant Chadwick!" he called. + +Frank stepped forward and saluted. + +"You will take one hundred men and join the storming party," said Jack. + +At this moment the Brigadier was rubbing close to the Vindictive. This was +fortunate at the moment, for there was then no other means by which a +party from the Brigadier could reach the Mole. + +Hurriedly Frank gathered the men, and then leaped from his own vessel to +the deck of the Vindictive. A moment later they joined Commander Adams and +his party. + +Owing to the rolling of the ship, a most disconcerting motion was +imparted to the brows, the outer ends of which were "sawing" considerably +on the Mole parapet. Officers and men were equipped with Lewis guns, +bombs, ammunition, etc., and were under heavy machine-gun fire at close +range; add to this a drop of thirty feet between the ship and the Mole, +and some idea of the conditions which had to be faced may be realized. + +Yet the storming of the Mole was carried out without the slightest delay +and without any apparent consideration of self preservation. Some of the +first men on the Mole dropped in their tracks under the German fire, but +the others pushed on, with the object of hauling one of the large Mole +anchors across the parapet. + +The Brigadier arrived alongside the Mole three minutes after Frank and his +men had leaped to the deck of the other ship, followed by the little Iris. +Both suffered less in their approach, the Vindictive occupying all the +enemy's attention. The Gloucester also came up now to push the Vindictive +bodily on to the Mole to enable her to be secured, after doing which the +Gloucester landed her parties over that ship. Her men disembarked from her +bows on to the Vindictive, as it was found essential to continue to push +the Vindictive on to the Mole throughout the entire action. + +This duty was magnificently carried out. Without the assistance of the +Gloucester very few of the storming parties from the Vindictive could +have landed, or could have re-embarked. + +The landing from the Iris was made under even more trying circumstances. +She rolled heavily in the sea, which rendered the use of the scaling +ladders very difficult. But at this time, according to calculations, +enough men had been landed to complete the work. + +The fighting on the Mole became hand-to-hand. + + + + +CHAPTER IX + +THE BATTLE CONTINUES + + +A shell suddenly exploded among the Vindictive's foremost 7.5-inch +howitzer's marine crew. Many were killed or wounded. A naval crew from a +6-inch gun took their places and were almost annihilated. + +At this time the Vindictive was being hit every few seconds, chiefly in +the upper works, from which the splinters caused many casualties. It was +difficult for the British to locate the guns which were doing the most +damage, but Jack, from the Brigadier, with men posted in the fortop of the +vessel, kept up a continuous fire with pompoms and Lewis machine-guns, +changing rapidly from one target to another in an attempt to destroy the +guns that were raking the Vindictive fore and aft. + +Two heavy shells struck the foretop of the Brigadier almost +simultaneously. Half a dozen men were killed. A score of others were +wounded. + +To return for a moment to Frank and his men. + +The attack on the Mole had been designed to be carried out by a storming +force to prepare the way for, and afterward to cover and protect, the +operations of a second force, which was to carry out the actual work of +destruction. The storming force, which had embarked in the Vindictive, was +now reinforced by a hundred British tars from the Brigadier, headed by +Frank, and additional sailors from the Iris and Gloucester. + +For the first time it was now ascertained that the Vindictive, in +anchoring off the Mole, had over-run her station and was berthed some four +hundred yards farther to the westward than had been intended. + +It had been realized beforehand that the Vindictive might not exactly +reach the exact position mapped out, but the fact that the landing was +carried out in an unexpected place, combined with the heavy losses already +sustained by the vessel, seriously disorganized the attacking force. The +intention had been to land the storming parties right on top of the 4 +1-inch guns in position on the seaward end of the Mole, the silencing of +which was of the first importance, as they menaced the approach of the +block ships. + +The leading block ship had been timed to pass the lighthouse twenty-five +minutes after the Vindictive came alongside. This period of time proved +insufficient to organize and carry through an attack against the enemy on +the seaward end of the Mole, the enemy, it developed, being able to bring +heavy machine-gun fire to bear on the attacking forces. As a result the +block ships, when they approached, came under an unexpected fire from the +light guns on the Mole extension, though the 4.1-inch batteries on the +Mole had remained silent. + +Commander Adams, followed by Frank and his men, were the first to land. At +that moment no enemy was seen on the Mole. They found themselves on a +pathway on the Mole parapet about eight feet wide, with a wall four feet +high on the seaward side, and an iron railing on the Mole side. From this +pathway, there was a drop of fifteen feet on the Mole proper. + +Followed by his men and Frank and the latter's command, Commander Adams +went alongside the parapet to the left, where he found a lookout station +or control, with a range finder behind and above it. + +"Blow it up!" he shouted to Frank, who was close to him at that moment. + +Frank gave a command to one of his men. A moment later there was an +explosion and the station disappeared as though by magic. + +Near the lookout station aft iron ladder led down to the Mole and three of +Frank's men descended it. Frank went with them. Below they encountered +half a dozen of the enemy. + +It was no time to hesitate and Frank knew it. + +"Bombs, men," he said simply. + +Three hands drew back, then were brought forward. Three hand grenades +dropped among the foes. There were three short blasts, and when the smoke +cleared away, there were no Germans to be seen at that point. Then Frank +and his men rejoined the others. + +The situation now was that Commander Adams, Frank, their few men and a few +Lewis guns, were beyond the lookout station protected from machine-gun +fire from the direction of the Mole head, but exposed to fire from their +own destroyers, alongside the Mole. + +Commander Adams called Frank to him. + +"We're in a ticklish position here, lieutenant," he said. "We're in danger +of being shot down by our own guns. At the same time, if we move from +behind this station, we are not in sufficient strength to drive the enemy +away." + +"Why not risk our own, fire, sir," said Frank, "and ask for +reinforcements." + +"That's a request that will have to be made in person," said Commander +Adams, "and it will be rather risky." + +"I'll be glad to try it sir," said Frank. + +Commander Adams shrugged. + +"It'd about as broad as it is long," he said. "If you're shot on the way I +guess it will be no worse than dying here. Go ahead, if you wish." + +Now to gain the needed reinforcements, Frank knew that it would be +necessary to return to the side of the Vindictive. To reach that vessel it +would be necessary to pass through places exposed to enemy machine-gun +fire. However, at the moment, the German guns covering those particular +spots were silent, so Frank decided to take the risk. + +He set out at a run. At first his appearance was apparently unnoticed, but +soon a rain of bullets poured after him. Two or three times the lad threw +himself to the ground just in time. He was on his feet again a moment +later, however, and at last reached his destination safely. + +As the lad reached the side of the Vindictive he saw a second storming +party coming over the side, equipped with Lewis machine-guns and rifles +and hand bombs. Frank approached the commander of the party, +Lieutenant-Commander Hastings, and outlined the plight of those he had +left behind. + +"Come with us," said Commander Hastings, "we'll soon clear those fellows +out back there." + +Machine-guns were wheeled into position and the British raked the German +line wherever heads appeared. In this method they relieved the +hard-pressed party under Commander Adams. + +The first objective of the storming party ashore was a fortified zone +situated about a hundred and fifty yards from the seaward end of the Mole +proper. Its capture was of the first importance, as an enemy holding it +could bring a heavy fire to bear on the parties still to land from the +Vindictive. + +Commander Adams ordered an advance. + +Frank was placed in command of the left wing of the little army, Commander +Hastings of the right wing. Commander Adams led the center himself. The +British spread out. + +"Charge!" cried Commander Adams. + +"Charge!" repeated Frank and Commander Hastings a moment later. + +The British seamen went forward on the double, bayonets fixed. + +From out of their fortified positions the Germans sprang forth to meet +them, machine-guns from behind covering their advance. At the same moment +Frank ordered his own machine-guns wheeled into position, and swept the +advancing enemy with a hail of bullets. + +But neither side paid much attention to this rain of lead, and directly +the fighting became too close for either side to utilize its machine-guns. +Steel clashed on steel. Revolvers in the hands of the officers cracked. +Men fell to the right and to the left. + +For a moment it appeared that the attacking force must be hurled back by +the very weight of the numbers against them. But they rallied after one +brief moment in which it seemed that they must yield, and hurled +themselves forward again. This time there was no stopping them. + +Directly the thin German line wavered. Then it broke, and the enemy dashed +for the protection of their fortified position at top speed. But the +British sailors kept close on their heels, and they reached the coveted +spot at almost the same time. There the fighting was resumed, but after a +short resistance the enemy again retreated, leaving the position in the +hands of the British. + +Immediately Commander Adams ordered the machine-guns which had been +abandoned by the foe in his flight turned on them and the Germans were +mowed down in great numbers. + +Having gained his objective, Commander Adams ordered his men to proceed +down the Mole and hold a position there so as to cover the operations of +the party of destruction, which was now hard at work. To expel these +British, German troops were now advancing from the landward end of the +Mole. + +The destruction of the viaduct by the submarine C-3 had been designed to +aid the efforts of the landing party by preventing reinforcements reaching +the Mole from the shore. Owing to the Vindictive coming alongside to +landward of this zone, Commander Adams' men were now faced with a double +duty of preventing an enemy attack from the shore and of themselves +attacking a second fortified zone ahead of them. The casualties already +sustained were so great that the Iris could not remain alongside the +Vindictive to land her company of Royal Marines. This left insufficient +men in the early stages of the landing to carry out both operations. + +The situation was a difficult one, for to attack the fortified zone first +might enable the enemy to advance up the Mole and seize positions abreast +of the Vindictive, with the most serious consequences to the whole landing +force, whereas, by not attacking the fortified positions, the guns at the +Mole head could not be prevented from firing at the block ships. + +Therefore, Commander Adams instructed Frank to secure the landward side, +at the same time instructing Commander Hastings to attack the fortified +zone. Commander Adams knew that he was taking a long chance by thus +dividing his forces, but in no other manner, it seemed to him, could the +success of the expedition be assured. + +Frank led his men forward promptly. Apparently the Germans had not +realized the full strength of the British attack on the Mole, for no +effort had been made to get reinforcements to the men there from shore. +Consequently, Frank's work was not so hard as that set for Commander +Hastings. + +The few Germans who were guarding the landward side of the Mole fired one +volley at Frank's party, then turned and took to their heels. + +"By George! Pretty soft!" said Frank. + +He led his men to the positions recently vacated by the enemy, and then +sat down to await further instructions from Commander Adams. + +Commander Hastings, on the other hand, had hard work in taking the +fortified positions from the foe. Nevertheless he succeeded, due to the +heroic efforts of his men. Commander Adams surveyed the field carefully. + +"Well," he told himself, "I guess we've done the best we can. We'll stick +here till we get the signal to withdraw." + + + + +CHAPTER X + +THE RAID SUCCESSFUL + + +The platoon which was commanded by Commander Adams was officially +designated as No. 1; that commanded by Frank as No. 2 and that commanded +by Commander Hastings as No. 3. + +Units were now landing rapidly and No. 7 platoon succeeded in placing +heavy scaling ladders in positions, and then formed up to support Nos. 9 +and 10 platoons. Numbers 11 and 12 platoons were dispatched along the +parapet, and reached the lookout station, where they were checked. +Commander Adams and his men, who had again united with the parties +commanded by Frank and Commander Hastings, were some forty to fifty yards +ahead of them, and both parties could make no headway along the exposed +parapet. Meanwhile No. 5 platoon, which had been recalled from its +advanced position, with Nos. 7 and 8 platoons were forming up on the Mole +for an assault on the fortified zone and the 4.1-inch battery at the Mole +head. This attack was launched, but before it could be developed the +general recall was sounded. + +There was a cheer from the men. They knew by the sounding of the recall at +this moment meant that the expedition had been a success. Otherwise the +fighting on the Mole would have continued. + +The units fell back in good order, taking their wounded with them. The +passing of the men from the Mole on to the parapet by means of the scaling +ladders was rendered hazardous by the enemy opening fire at that portion +of the Mole. Several ladders were destroyed. + +The men were sent across in small batches from the comparative shelter +afforded by long distance fire from the battleships. Such rushes were made +as far as possible in the intervals between the bursts of German fire. + +The landing parties re-embarked in the manner which they had left their +ships--climbing to the deck of the Vindictive and then proceeding to their +deck of the Vindictive and then proceeding to their various ships by small +boats. + +This undertaking was hazardous, too, for enemy shells were falling all +about. Nevertheless, the most of the men reached their ship in safety, and +from the flagship came the signal to retreat. + +Upon returning to the Brigadier, Frank surveyed his own men. There had +been few casualties among them. Less than a dozen men had been killed and +left behind. Of wounded Frank counted fifteen. Immediately he ascended to +the bridge to report to Jack. + +Jack greeted his chum with a smile. Although the Brigadier had been in the +midst of the battle, and many German shells had found their marks aboard +her, Jack was as cool and unruffled as before the battle started. + +"What luck, Frank?" he asked. + +"Good," Frank replied. "We held the Mole until ordered back. And you?" + +"The best of luck. I've stuck tight to the Vindictive through the heat of +the battle, and I believe our guns have done some damage." + +"And the block ships?" asked Frank. + +"They have been sunk at the mouths of both harbors, I am informed. The +raid has been a complete success." + +At that moment came the recall signal from the flagship. + +"See," said Jack, "there's proof of it. If we had not been successful, the +recall would not have been sounded yet. There is still plenty of time if +we needed it, and our damage has not been great enough to leave the job +unfinished." + +Jack was right. The harbors of Ostend and Zeebrugge had been effectually +sealed. No longer would enemy U-Boats make nightly raids into the North +Sea, only to scurry back to their bases when it grew light. As a submarine +base, Zeebrugge was extinct. So, for that matter, was Ostend. + +That the success of the British expedition had been a severe blow to the +Germans goes without saying. No other single feat since the beginning of +the war had done so much to dishearten them; and there is little doubt +that the sealing of their submarine bases did much toward hastening the +end of the war. + +British losses in the raid had been severe. The Vindictive, which had led +the attack, had literally been shot to pieces and it was a miracle how she +remained afloat. The Brigadier, also, had suffered severely, but her +condition was not so bad that a few months in drydock would not be +sufficient to make her whole again. + +A dozen or more of the little motorboats and coastal patrol vessels had +been sunk, and the loss of life had been heavy. Several others of the +destroyers had been badly damaged, but there was not one of the larger +vessels sunk or crippled so badly that she could not return to her home +port. + +It still lacked an hour of daylight when the allied fleet drew off, its +work accomplished; and behind in the ports now sealed, the anger of the +Germans flared forth anew. + +The damaged British ships were immediately put into drydock in British +ports, and Jack and Frank at once returned to Dover to report to Lord +Hastings. The latter greeted the lads with outstretched hands. + +"It was a gallant exploit," he exclaimed, "and I am sure both you boys had +important roles to play." + +"I guess we did, sir," Frank admitted. "At the same time, I'm glad to be +safely back here again." + +"I suppose, sir," said Jack, "now that the enemy submarines caught outside +are without bases, there is little fear of their attempting the +trans-Atlantic trip?" + +"On the contrary," said Lord Hastings, "they are more likely than ever to +do so." + +"But they must have a base, sir," protested Frank. + +"Not necessarily," smiled Lord Hastings. + +"Then how will they replenish their supplies of food and fuel?" + +"Well," said Lord Hastings, "if they can snare a victim every three or +four days it should be enough. From a merchant ship they can get all the +food and fuel they need before sinking her." + +"That's so, by George!" Frank exclaimed. + +"It stands to reason," said Lord Hastings, "that those submarines which +were not bottled up in the harbors have been warned not to return. Now, +it wouldn't surprise me a bit if they headed directly for America." + +Jack grew thoughtful. + +"It's too bad," he said at last, "that the Brigadier was so crippled that +we cannot resume our interrupted voyage." + +Lord Hastings smiled. + +"I understand she is in pretty bad shape," he said. "So you don't think +you can go now, eh?" + +"I'm afraid not, sir. A fellow can't cross the ocean except in a ship." + +"True enough. But why are you in Dover now?" + +"Why, sir?" Jack exclaimed. "Because we were instructed to report to you." + +"Exactly," said Lord Hastings; "and in your pocket, I presume, you have +the same packet of papers the admiralty wishes turned over to Secretary +Daniels of the American navy department?" + +Jack clapped a hand to his coat pocket. + +"By George! I had forgotten all about them," he said. + +"So I imagined. But it is my guess that the navy department still wishes +those papers delivered." + +"You're right, sir. Here, I'll turn them over to you, sir." + +Lord Hastings waved the packet away. + +"Keep them," he said quietly. + +"But--" Jack began. + +"Great Scott," Frank put in at this juncture, "you must be getting denser +every day, Jack." + +Jack wheeled on his chum. + +"What do you mean?" he asked. + +"Why, can't you see that you are still expected to deliver the papers?" + +Jack sank suddenly into a chair. + +"Now why didn't I think of that?" he muttered. + +"And I suppose, sir," said Frank to Lord Hastings, "that another ship is +to be put at Jack's disposal?" + +Lord Hastings nodded. + +"Exactly," he replied. + +Jack was on his feet again immediately. + +"What ship, sir?" he asked eagerly. + +"The Essex, a sister ship of the Brigadier." + +"By George! That's fine, isn't it?" exclaimed Jack. + +"And do I go along, sir?" Frank wanted to know. + +Again Lord Hastings nodded. + +"You do," he replied, "together with the officers and crew of the +Brigadier who survived the recent engagement. Your compliment will be +filled from other vessels damaged in the raid." + +"And where is the Essex now, sir?" asked Jack. + +"Here," replied Lord Hastings, "in Dover. You are to go aboard this +evening." + +"I can't get there too quickly to suit me," declared Jack. + +"Same here," Frank agreed. + +"Now, remember," enjoined Lord Hastings, "that I still am desirous of your +delivering to Secretary Daniels the document I gave you." + +"Is the Admiralty still unconvinced of the likelihood of submarines +reaching American waters, sir?" asked Frank. + +"It is, but you know my opinion has not changed." + +"I begin to agree with you, sir," said Jack. "At first I'll admit I was +skeptical, but the way you explain the matter it sounds reasonable." + +"Well," said Frank, "I hope we get there in time to spoil their plans." + +"Amen to that, my boy," said Lord Hastings. "But, I'll detain you no +longer. You both probably are anxious to get a look at your new vessel." + +"But we have no sailing orders, sir," said Jack. + +"You will have before morning," was Lord Hastings reply. "I don't like to +hurry you off, but the truth is I'm busy and will have to get down to +work." + +"Sorry we have detained you so long," said Jack. "Goodbye, sir." + +They shook hands all around, and the lads wended their way to the harbor, +where they soon were put on board their new ship. + +"And now," said Frank, "while we had a good time and all that, I hope +this voyage won't be interrupted." + +"My sentiments exactly," Jack agreed. "I want to have another look at +America." + + + + +CHAPTER XI + +THE WARNING GIVEN + + +"Land Ho!" + +The cry came from the forward lookout, posted aloft. + +Jack clapped his binoculars to his eyes and gazed earnestly ahead. + +"Where do you make our position, sir?" asked Lieutenant Hetherton. + +"Off the Virginia Capes," was Jack's reply. "We should pick up Fort Monroe +before noon." + +Jack was a good prophet. It still lacked half an hour of midday when the +outlines of the historic fortress at Old Point became distinguishable in +the distance. + +The Essex slipped quietly through the smooth waters of Hampton Roads and +dropped anchor some distance off shore. At Jack's command the launch was +made ready, and leaving Lieutenant Hetherton in command, Jack motioned +Frank to follow him into the launch. + +A moment later they were gliding shoreward through the water. + +"We'll have to pay our respects to the commandant," said Jack. "It would +be a breach of etiquette if we didn't. Also, I want to ascertain the best +place to anchor for the next week or so." + +"Surely you're not figuring on staying here," protested Frank. + +"Not at all, but you know these papers I have been entrusted with must be +delivered, and I can't deliver them here. I'll have to go to Washington." + +"Right," Frank agreed. "I had forgotten. And are you going to take me +along?" + +Jack smiled. + +"Well, I might, if you are real good," he said. + +"I'll be good," Frank promised. + +"Hello," said Jack at this point, "if I'm not mistaken, here comes a guard +of honor to escort us to the commandant." + +Toward the point where the launch now moved, half a dozen American +officers approached. They extended helping hands as Jack and Frank +scrambled ashore. Jack addressed the senior officer, a major. + +"I am Captain Templeton of H.M.S. Essex," he said. "Will you please escort +me into the presence of the commandant?" + +"With pleasure, sir," replied the major. "Come with me." + +He led the way, Frank and the other American officers following. Jack was +received immediately by the commandant. Their conference was brief, and +soon Jack returned to the place where he had left Frank. + +"Well, what did he say?" demanded Frank, as they made their way back +toward the launch. + +"Said it would be well to continue to Newport News," said Jack. "Docking +facilities are better there right now. We can tie up alongside one of the +piers there, or anchor off shore, as we choose. Said he would send word of +our coming." + +"Good," said Frank. "Then I suppose we shall continue without delay?" + +"Yes." + +"But if memory serves," said Frank, "Newport News is on the James River, +and not Hampton Roads." + +"Correct," replied Jack. + +"Well, I didn't know the river was navigable by a vessel of our draught." + +"It is, nevertheless," replied Jack. + +They stepped into the launch, and were soon back aboard the Essex. Jack +immediately gave the necessary commands and the vessel moved forward. + +Two hours later the Essex anchored in the James River half a mile off +shore. Frank took in the scene about him, and expressed his wonder. + +Shipping of all the allied and many of the neutral nations was to be seen +on every hand. Almost over night, it seemed, Newport News had grown from +a port of little importance to one of the greatest shipping centers in the +United States. There, half a mile away, Frank saw one of the great German +merchantmen, which had been interned soon after the outbreak of the war, +but which was later to be converted into a United States auxiliary +cruiser. + +"Well," said Jack, "there is no use delaying here. The commandant at the +fort informed me that about the quickest way to get to Washington now is +to take a boat up the Potomac." + +"And where do we get the boat?" asked Frank. + +"Norfolk. But what's the matter with you, Frank? Where's your geography? +Seems to me that if I were born and lived most of my life in the United +States I would know something about it." + +"I do know something about it," declared Frank; "but how do you expect me +to know all these details? This is the first time I've ever been in +Newport News, and I've never been to Norfolk. How do we get there from +here?" + +"Either in the Essex's launch, or by ferry." + +"Which way do you choose?" + +"Ferry, I guess. It will save trouble all around." + +"Any way suits me," said Frank. + +"You talk like you were dead certain of going along," remarked Jack with a +grin. + +"Of course I do. I know you could not be hard-hearted enough to leave me +behind." + +"Nevertheless," Jack declared, "I'm not sure I shouldn't leave you in +command here." + +"By George! That's no way to talk," declared Frank. "Hetherton can stick +on the job here." + +"Well, I guess it will be all right," said Jack. "We may as well pack what +belongings we shall need. We shouldn't be gone more than a day or two." + +"I hope so, and I feel sure we shall. There has been no sign yet of enemy +activities in this water." + +"And there won't be any sign in advance. When the Germans strike it will +be suddenly." + +The lads threw what belongings they believed they would need into their +handbags and were rowed ashore. They proceeded at once to the pier of the +Chesapeake and Ohio ferry and soon were moving along toward Norfolk. + +It was a short ride to Norfolk. Arrived in the city an hour later, they +inquired the way to the offices of the Washington and Norfolk Steamboat +company, where they were fortunate enough to be able to secure a stateroom +that night. + +It was still early, so the lads spent the afternoon looking about the +city, called by the natives the "New York of the South." They went aboard +the steamer Northland at 5.30 o'clock, and at 6 the boat left its pier. +Jack and Frank remained on deck until after the Northland had put in at +Old Point and taken on additional passengers. Then they went below to +dinner. + +"You know this isn't a bad boat," Frank declared after a walk around, +following their dinner. + +"Indeed it isn't," Jack agreed. "It has all the comforts of home. It's +rather small, but outside of that I can't see anything wrong with it." + +"I guess it's big enough for us to-night," grinned Frank. + +There were a score or more of American army and navy officers aboard and +with some of these the lads struck up an acquaintance. In fact, so +interested were some of the Americans in the lads' experiences that they +sat up late regaling their newly found friends with accounts of warfare in +European waters. + +Nevertheless, Jack and Frank were up early the following morning and had a +substantial breakfast before the boat docked at the foot of Seventh street +in the nation's capital. There they took a taxi and were driven to the +Raleigh hotel. + +"Now," said Jack, "the first thing to do is to get in touch with the +British ambassador and have him arrange an audience with the secretary of +the navy at the earliest possible moment." + +Jack got the embassy on the telephone, told who he was and announced that +he would be on hand to see the ambassador within the hour. Then the lads +were driven to the embassy. Here Jack presented his credentials and +expressed his desire to see the secretary of the navy at once. + +"You return to your hotel," said the ambassador. "I'll arrange the +audience and call for you in my automobile." + +The lads followed these instructions. + +At 2 o'clock in the afternoon the ambassador called for them. They were +driven at once to the War and Navy department building on Pennsylvania +avenue and were ushered almost immediately to the offices of Secretary +Daniels. After a wait of perhaps five minutes, Mr. Daniels' private +secretary announced. + +"Mr. Daniels will see you now." + +The three passed into the secretary's private office, where the British +ambassador introduced the lads. Secretary Daniels expressed his pleasure +at the meeting, then said: + +"And now what can I do for you, gentlemen?" + +For answer Jack passed over the papers entrusted him by the Admiralty. +Secretary Daniels scanned them briefly. + +"These matters shall be attended to, gentlemen," he said. "Now, is there +anything else?" + +"There is, sir," said Jack, "and a matter probably of much greater +importance." + +He drew from his pocket the documents given him by Lord Hastings, and +these he also passed to Secretary Daniels. The latter read them +carefully, his face drawn into a scowl. + +"Hm-m-m," he said at last. "Hm-m-m." + +He grew silent, apparently lost in thought. At last he spoke. + +"I have had some such fears myself," he said at last, "but it seems they +are not shared by other officials of the department. I dislike to take +matters altogether into my hands, and yet I suppose I can do it. First, +however, I shall make an effort to convince my associates through these +documents." + +"I am instructed to say, sir," said Jack, "that it would be well if you +gave the matter prompt attention." + +"Oh," said Secretary Daniels, "I anticipate no immediate trouble; and +still this is a matter that should not be overlooked. I thank you, +gentlemen, for bringing the matter to my attention." + +He rose from his chair, signifying that the interview was ended. + +Jack and Frank left the Navy department, and the ambassador dropped them +at their hotel. + +"I don't know what to think of the Secretary of the Navy," said Jack when +they were alone. "He didn't seem greatly interested." + +"He is the man, you know," said Frank, "who wanted to change the technical +terms of port and starboard to right and left." + +"That's so," said Jack, "but I'll venture to say he can rise to an +emergency." + +"There is no doubt about that," Frank agreed, and added quietly: +"Americans always have." + + + + +CHAPTER XII + +THE U-BOATS APPEAR + + +Three weeks passed and Jack and Frank were still in Washington. +Immediately after delivering his messages to Secretary Daniels, Jack got +in touch with the British Admiralty wireless and asked for instructions. +When the reply came it was signed Lord Hastings and said merely: + +"Stay where you are pending further orders." + +And after three weeks no word had come. + +Several times during the three weeks Jack and Frank, or one of the lads at +a time, had returned to Newport News to look to the needs of the Essex, +which still lay quietly in the James river. Steam was kept up in the +destroyer every moment of the day, and she was ready to put to sea on an +instant's notice. + +"Chances are when we need her it will be in a hurry," said Jack. + +Therefore nothing was overlooked that would enable the destroyer to go +into action on a moment's notice. Provisions were added to the stores from +time to time, and the crew were put through their drills daily. + +Meanwhile, from what Jack and Frank learned from the British ambassador, +no steps had been taken to prepare for a possible German attack on +shipping in American waters. True, the coast defenses had been +strengthened, but that was merely a matter of routine for a country at +war. + +Off the coast, warships were on patrol. But there were comparatively few +of these, for the bulk of the American fleet had been sent abroad to +reinforce the British grand fleet patroling the North Sea. + +Jack and Frank discussed these matters frequently. + +"It would be a great time for the Germans to strike," said Jack one +evening, as the lads sat in their rooms at the hotel. "The American people +don't seem to realize the possibilities of the submarine." + +"That's true," said Frank, "but at the same time such an attack might +prove a boomerang to the Germans." + +"What do you mean?" + +"Why," said Frank, "you haven't forgotten, have you, that it took a number +of air raids on England to fully arouse the British people to the fact +that the Germans must be licked?" + +"That's true enough," agreed Jack. "The Germans, of course, figured that +they would frighten England and scare her out of the war." + +"Exactly, and the result was altogether different from what they had +anticipated. That's why I say submarine activities off the American coast +will prove a boomerang to the foe." + +"I see," commented Jack. "You mean it would arouse the American people to +the necessity of prompt action." + +"Exactly." + +"Well," said Jack, "it begins to look as though Lord Hastings were wrong. +We've been here three weeks now and nothing has transpired to indicate +that the Germans are meditating a submarine raid in American waters." + +"You don't expect them to tip the Washington government off in advance, do +you?" asked Frank with a laugh. + +"Hardly; but it would seem that if such a campaign had been planned it +would have been started before this." + +"It wouldn't surprise me," said Frank, "to get a flash any day that a ship +had been submarined off the American coast." + +Came a rap at the door. + +"Come in," Frank called. + +A bell boy entered. He held a tray in his hand and on the tray was a +cablegram. + +"From Lord Hastings, I suppose," said Frank, taking the message and +passing it to Jack. + +Jack broke the seal, spread out the paper. The message, in code, was this: + + "Authentic information flotilla submarines headed for America. + Warn Navy Department at once." + +Jack sprang to the telephone and got the British embassy on the wire. + +"The ambassador, quick!" he said to the voice that answered his call. + +There was a short pause, and then Jack recognized the ambassador's voice. + +"I've just had a wireless from Lord Hastings relative to the matter which +we discussed with Secretary Daniels several weeks ago," he explained. "Can +you arrange another interview immediately?" + +"I'll see," said the ambassador and rang off. + +The telephone in the lads' room jangled sharply ten minutes later. Jack +sprang to the wire. + +"Yes," he said in response to a query. "Ten o'clock? You'll call for us? +Very well." + +He replaced the receiver and turned to Frank. + +"We will see Secretary Daniels in his office at ten," he said. He looked +at his watch. "Hurry and dress. It's after nine now. The ambassador should +be here in fifteen minutes." + +The lads jumped into their clothes, then went downstairs, where they +awaited the arrival of the ambassador. The latter arrived ten minutes +before ten o'clock, and the three were driven to the War and Navy +building. Secretary Daniels received them at once. + +"I understand that you come on a very important matter," he said. "Pray, +what is it, gentlemen?" + +For answer Jack laid before the American naval secretary the decoded +message from Lord Hastings. The secretary read it, then looked up. + +"Well?" he asked. + +"Why, sir," said Jack, "Lord Hastings simply wishes you to take all +precautions to prevent sinking of vessels by submarines in American +waters." + +Secretary Daniels smiled. + +"I don't know what we can do that has not already been done," he replied. +"The off-coast waters are mined, and American warships are patroling the +regular channels of navigation." + +"All that may be true, sir," said Jack, "but these submarines are slippery +customers, as I have reason to know. It would be well to take even further +precautions." + +"And what would you suggest?" asked Secretary Daniels. + +"Why, sir," said Jack, "I'd suggest cancelling sailing orders of all +transports temporarily, at least until such time as I felt sure they could +go in safety. Then I'd flash a warning broadcast to all vessels within +reach of the wireless to be on the lookout for enemy submarines. I'd rush +every available submarine chaser in the Atlantic ports beyond the mine +fields and I would order a destroyer as protection for every vessel known +to be inward bound." + +Secretary Daniels smiled. + +"You wouldn't overlook anything, would you, Captain?" + +"I certainly would not," said Jack firmly. + +"Very well, then," said Secretary Daniels. "I'll set your mind at rest. +Your suggestions shall be followed out. I'll give the necessary directions +the first thing in the morning." + +"In the morning, sir?" repeated Jack. "The morning may be too late." + +"Oh, I guess not," Secretary Daniels smiled. "It has been three weeks or +more since your first warning and nothing has happened. I guess we can +safely depend upon being let alone a few hours after the second warning." + +Jack was about to protest, thought better of it and said simply: + +"Very well, sir." + +A moment later the lads took their departure with the ambassador. In the +seclusion of the latter's automobile, Jack said: + +"I can't see how the secretary dares let time slip by like that." + +"Never mind," said the ambassador, "you'll find in a day or two that +Secretary Daniels knows what he's doing. Don't make any mistake about him. +He's a capable man." + +"I have no doubt of that, sir," replied Jack. "But if he had seen three +years of war, as we have, he would never delay. Besides, he doesn't know +these German submarines as well as I do. Neither do any of the Americans." + +"Oh, yes they do," declared Frank. + +"They do, eh?" exclaimed Jack. "Well, I'd like to know the name of one of +them." + +"His name," said Frank, "is Lieutenant Chadwick, and I think he knows just +about as much about the U-Boats as you do; and he agrees with your ideas +perfectly." + +Jack smiled. + +"That's right," he said. "I had forgotten you were a native of this land. +Well, here's hoping nothing happens before Secretary Daniels takes all +necessary precautions." + +The British ambassador left the lads at their hotel, and they returned at +once to their rooms, where for several hours they discussed the situation. + +"There is no use talking about it," said Frank at last. "Let's go to bed." + +They undressed. + +Just before extinguishing the light, as was his custom, Frank raised the +window. As he looked out he saw below a crowd of excited men and women +moving about the street. + +"Hey, Jack!" he called. "Come here." + +Jack joined him at the window. + +"Now what's up, do you suppose?" asked Frank. + +"Too deep for me," declared Jack, "but something surely. Let's go down and +find out." + +Hurriedly they slipped back into their clothes, and went down stairs. They +stepped out of the hotel and mingled with the people on the streets, quite +a crowd for Washington at that hour of the night. + +The stream of people led toward Eleventh and Pennsylvania avenue, where a +larger crowd was gathered in front of a bulletin board in the window of a +newspaper office. + +"Big news of some kind," said Jack as they hurried along. + +"And not good news, either," Frank declared. "There'd be some cheering if +it were." + +"You're right," said Jack. + +By main force they wormed their way through the crowd, until they were +close enough to read the bulletin board. Then Jack uttered an exclamation +of alarm. + +"I knew it!" he cried. + +For what he read was this: + +"Navy Department announces sinking of two freight vessels off New Jersey +coast by German submarines." + +"I knew it!" Jack said again. + + + + +CHAPTER XIII + +THE SUBMARINES GROW BOLDER + + +The boys returned to their rooms. + +"Now what?" asked Frank. + +"I don't know," was Jack's reply. "I hate to sit here quietly when the +whole American navy, or what part of it is still here, is in chase of the +Germans, but what are we going to do about it?" + +"Search me," replied Frank. + +"Our instructions," Jack continued, "are to stay here pending further +orders." + +"Maybe we'll get them soon," said Frank. + +"Yes; and maybe we won't." + +"Then we'll just have to sit tight." + +"That's what worries me." + +There was a knock at the door. + +"Come in," Frank called. + +A bell boy entered with a second cablegram. + +Jack tore it open hastily. + +"Hurray!" he cried. + +"What's up?" demanded Frank. + +He arose and peered over his chum's shoulder. What he read was this: + +"Offer your services and the services of the Essex to the U.S. Navy +Department at once." + +"Fine!" cried Frank. "Let's get busy." + +It was the work of half an hour, however, to get Secretary Daniels on the +telephone. He had been aroused at the first news of the sinkings off the +coast and had been kept on the jump ever since. But he took time to talk +to Jack. + +"I am authorized by the British Admiralty, sir," said Jack over the +'phone, "to offer the services of my ship to the American government." + +"Accepted with thanks," snapped Secretary Daniels. "You will proceed +immediately to your vessel in Newport News, after which you will join the +American vessels on patrol duty off the coast of Virginia. I shall inform +Admiral Sellings that you will report to him for instructions." + +Without awaiting a reply, Secretary Daniels hung up. + +"By George!" said Jack. "He's a man of action when he gets to moving." + +"What did he say?" demanded Frank. + +"Hurry and pack your things," was Jack's reply. "I'll explain as we work." + +It was the work of only a few minutes for the lads to gather their +belongings and dump them in their handbags. Then they hurried downstairs, +where they paid their bill and learned that they could catch a train to +Richmond within the hour. + +"Going after the submarines?" asked the night clerk. + +"Yes," replied Jack shortly. + +"Good! I hope you get 'em. Here's your taxi." + +The lads jumped into the taxi and were driven to the station, where they +caught their train with time to spare. + +It lacked two hours of daylight when they arrived in Richmond. They took a +taxi across town to the Chesapeake and Ohio station, where they caught a +train for Newport News an hour later. At eight o'clock they were in +Newport News, and fifteen minutes later stepped aboard the Essex. + +"Glad to see you back, sir," said Lieutenant Hetherton, who held the deck. +"I suppose you've heard----" + +"Pipe all hands to quarters, Mr. Hetherton," Jack interrupted sharply, +"and clear ship for action. We sail within the hour." + +Lieutenant Hetherton hurried away. + +"Frank," said Jack, "go below and have a look at the engine room. Then +find the quartermaster and see about provisions and fuel." + +Frank also hurried away. + +Sailing preparations aboard the Essex were made hurriedly and within less +than an hour all was ready for departure. Meanwhile, crowds had collected +ashore, upon learning that the Essex was about to set out in pursuit of +the German undersea raiders. + +Loud cheers split the air. Men and women waved their handkerchiefs. From a +group of soldiers on the shore came expressions of good luck. In response +to Jack's request, a pilot had been hurried aboard and now took the wheel. + +"Half speed ahead," Jack ordered. + +The water churned up ahead of the Essex, and she moved majestically toward +the center of the stream. + +Gradually the cheering died away in the distance, and the city of Newport +News was lost to sight. In Hampton Roads again, the pilot was dropped in a +small boat and rowed shoreward. + +Frank took his place behind the helmsman and Jack rang for full speed +ahead. At last the Essex was off in pursuit of the German submarines. + +Meanwhile, an account of the activity of the enemy off the coats is in +order. Besides the sinking of the first two freight vessels, which had +been reported to the Navy Department by survivors who had reached shore in +small boats, other vessels had been sent to the bottom. Most of these were +freighters or small trading ships, including two sailing vessels. Some had +been sunk off the New Jersey coast, others off the coasts of Delaware and +Virginia. + +In some cases the vessels attacked had attempted to flee, but they were +quickly overhauled by the submarines, which, besides firing torpedoes into +their hulls, shelled them with rapid fire guns and later attacked the +small boats in which the crews sought to make the shore. + +Casualties had been heavy aboard the ships sunk by the raiders. One or two +of the enemy submarines had been fired on by armed ships, but to no avail; +and as a result of those efforts, the death lists aboard such vessels had +been increased, for the Germans, angered, had swept the survivors in small +boats with rapid fire guns. + +How many submarines were operating in American waters, the Navy department +did not know. From the fact that ships were attacked in at least three +places, within a short space of time, however, it was believed that there +were at least three or four of the raiders. + +From all ports along the coast, destroyers, submarine chasers, motor boats +armed with single guns, had put to sea in an effort to run down the +raiders. But off the New Jersey coast, almost in the midst of these +vessels, a sailing ship was sunk by a submarine. Before any of the +patroling vessels could reach the scene, however, the U-Boat had submerged +and fled. + +Depth bombs were dropped by ships of war wherever it was thought a +submarine might be lurking beneath the water. But these efforts met with +no success. Reports of sinkings in other parts of the water reached the +Navy department. + +The first sinking was reported on May 10. In the week that followed, +eighteen other vessels were sent to the bottom by German submarines off +the American coast. At the end of that time, however, the waters were +being so well patrolled that it would have been suicide for a submarine to +have showed itself. + +Reports of sinkings ceased. But, from time to time, word was received that +submarines had been sighted farther south, first off the coast of the +Carolinas and then off Florida. No attacks were made in these waters, +however, and the next that was heard of the submarines they were off the +coast of South America. + +During the activities of the enemy raiders, one submarine was sunk, and +one was captured, both through the efforts of Jack and the crew and +officers of the Essex. + +After leaving Hampton Roads, the Essex steamed out beyond the Virginia +Capes. Immediately Jack sought to get into communication with Admiral +Sellings by wireless. And at last he raised the admiral's flagship, the +Dakota. + +"What do you want?" came the query from the Dakota, after Jack's flash had +been picked up. + +"British destroyer Essex, Captain Templeton, reporting to Admiral Sellings +for orders at the request of Secretary Daniels," was the message Jack sent +back. + +"One moment," was the reply. + +Jack waited in the radio room aboard the Essex. + +"Essex! Essex!" came the call five minutes later. + +"Answer," Jack directed the operator. + +"Essex replying," the operator flashed. + +"Admiral Sellings orders Essex to proceed north and stand out to sea to +protect inbound vessels. Understand one submarine sighted five miles out +five hours ago. Repeat." + +The operator repeated the message to show that he had caught in correctly. + +Jack went on deck and gave instructions necessary to putting the Essex out +at sea. Then, "Full speed ahead!" he signalled. + +The British destroyer Essex stood out to sea magnificently. Aboard, her +crew stood to their posts, ready for action. Jack, surrounded by his +officers, held the bridge. + +"We've got to keep a sharp eye out," said Jack. + +"Right," Frank agreed. "We're likely to come upon one of the enemy any +moment, and we can't afford to let him see us first." + +"Very true, sir," Lieutenant Hetherton agreed. "Fortunately all our +lookouts have sharp eyes. I'll venture to say a submarine won't come to +the surface very close to us without being seen." + +"That's the way to talk, Mr. Hetherton," said Jack. "It shows the proper +spirit." + +"And the men are imbued with the same spirit," declared Frank, "and yet +see how cool they are." + +It was perfectly true. There was no confusion aboard the Essex in spite of +the fact that each member of the crew knew he was bent on a dangerous +mission. One shot from the submarine, they knew, if truly aimed and Jack +was unable to maneuver the vessel out of harm's way, would be the end. +However, like all British tars, they had absolute confidence in their +commander; for, according to their line of reasoning, if he were not a +capable officer and to be depended upon he would not be in command of the +ship. + +Suddenly the radio operator appeared on deck and hurried toward the +bridge. Jack stepped forward to meet him. The lad took the message the +operator passed him and read: + + "S.O.S. Pursued by submarine eighteen miles off Cape May light. + Am running south by west, but foe is gaining. Capt. Griswold, + Ventura." + +"This," said Jack quietly, "means that there is still another U-Boat to be +reckoned with, but I had no idea they were operating so far out. We'll +have to get busy." + +Jack looked at his officers with a slight smile on his face, then ordered: +"Shape your course due east, Frank. Full speed ahead." + + + + +CHAPTER XIV + +THE U-87 + + +As the Essex sped forward the radio operator from time to time picked up +other messages from the Ventura. + +"She's headed directly toward us," Jack explained to Frank. "We should +sight her within the hour." + +The Ventura was sighted in less, but under peculiar conditions. + +"Ship on the starboard bow, sir," sang the lookout forward. + +A moment later the officers on the bridge sighted the vessel through their +glasses. + +"By George! She seems to be standing still," said Frank. + +"So she does," Lieutenant Hetherton agreed, "Wonder what's the matter?" + +"We'll find out fast enough," returned Jack quietly. + +"Take the bridge, Mr. Chadwick," said Jack. "I'm going below to the radio +room." + +"See if you can raise the Ventura," he instructed the radio operator, a +few moments later. + +"Ventura! Ventura!" went the call through the air. + +There was no response. + +"Try it again," said Jack. + +The operator obeyed. Still there was no reply from the Ventura. + +"Something wrong," Jack muttered under his breath, "and still I saw no +sign of a submarine. Try 'em again, Wilkins." + +Again the radio operator sent the call flashing through the air: + +"Ventura! Ventura! Ventura!" + +The instrument at Wilkins' side began to click. + +"Ventura replying, sir," Wilkins reported. + +"I hear him," said Jack briefly. "Let me get at that key, Wilkins." + +The operator sprang up and Jack took his place and strapped the receiver +over his head. + +"What's the trouble, Ventura?" he clicked. + +"Held up by submarine," was the reply. "U-Boat due east of us. You can't +see her. We sighted you just after we were boarded." + +"Then how does it come you are at the key?" Jack clicked. + +"Broke away from captors on deck. They are pounding at the door now." + +"Have they sighted us?" + +"They hadn't. There goes the door, Good-bye." + +The flashes from the Ventura ceased. Jack sprang up and turned the +receiver over to the operator. + +"Keep calling," he said. "If you pick the Ventura up again, let me know. +I'll send a man so you can report to me through him." + +Jack hurried on deck. + +In the distance the Ventura was plainly visible now. Jack changed the +course of the ship slightly, and after the vessel had gone half a mile he +made out the form of a submarine lying close astern of the Ventura. + +"By George! They must see us," he muttered. "If the lookout on the U-Boat +hasn't espied us, surely some of the Germans on the deck of the Ventura +must have done so. Wonder why the submarine captain doesn't sink the +steamer and submerge. Surely he is not going to risk an encounter with +me." + +Nevertheless, it seemed that such must be the submarine commander's +intention, for the submarine showed no sign of submerging as the Essex +bore down on her. + +Through his binoculars Frank was now able to ascertain the fact that a +struggle was in progress on the deck of the Ventura. A dozen or more +figures, closely interlocked, were scuffling to and fro across the bridge. +Frank gave an exclamation. + +"I know what's wrong," he ejaculated. + +"Well, what?" demanded Jack, turning to him. + +"Why, the crew, or some of the crew, has jumped the commander of the +submarine and his escort. That's why the officer left on the U-Boat +doesn't dare sink the vessel. And the crew of the steamer is keeping the +German and his friends so busy aboard that they haven't had a chance to +jump overboard." + +"By George! I guess you're right," declared Jack. "Now if they can hold +them fifteen minutes longer we'll get in the game ourselves." + +Again Jack altered the course of the Essex and approached the submarine at +an angle from the Ventura. + +"Forward turret guns there!" he roared. + +It was the signal the men had been eagerly awaiting. Quickly the signal +"ready" was flashed in the forward turret. The men were already at their +posts. + +"Range finders!" ordered Jack. + +"Aye, aye, sir," came the reply of the officer in charge of this work, and +he calculated the range swiftly and passed the word to the captain of the +gun crew in the forward turret. + +"Fire!" + +A heavy shell flew screaming across the water. + +But the range had not been correct and the shell flew past the submarine. +Again the range was calculated, taking into consideration the first error. +Again the command to fire was given. + +This time the range had been gauged perfectly and the shell must have gone +home had it not been for one thing. + +A moment before the command to fire was given, a torpedo was launched by +the submarine. Jack saw the torpedo come dashing through the water, and he +was forced to order the helm over promptly to escape the deadly messenger. +This maneuver was made at the precise moment that the Essex fired for the +second time, and consequently the shell again went wide. + +Almost at the same instant Frank, who had kept his eyes glued to the deck +of the Ventura where the struggle on the bridge had continued fiercely, +uttered an exclamation of alarm. + +"They've broken away," he cried. + +It was true, The submarine commander and his followers had succeeded in +eluding the crew of the Ventura and dashed to the rail. There they poised +themselves a brief moment, and then flung themselves headlong into the +sea. Directly, dripping, they appeared on the deck of the submarine and +dashed for the conning tower. + +"Quick!" roared Jack. "Forward turret guns again there!" + +Once more the range was calculated and an explosion shook the Essex. But +as before the range had not been true. The shell barely skimmed the top of +the U-Boat and went screaming half a mile past, where it struck the water +with a hiss. + +Slowly the submarine began to submerge. + +"Again!" cried Jack. + +But the next shot had no better success. + +The submarine disappeared from sight. + +Jack stamped his foot. + +"What's the matter with those fellows forward?" he demanded. "Can't they +shoot? Didn't they ever see a gun before?" + +There was no reply from the other officers and gradually Jack cooled down. + +"Pretty tough," said Frank then. "We should have had that fellow." + +Jack nodded gloomily. + +"So we should," he cried, "but we didn't get him. Well, better luck next +time. All the same, I'm inclined to believe that Ensign Carruthers needs a +talking to. He didn't take the time to calculate the range correctly." + +"I'll speak to him," said Frank. + +"Do," said Jack. "In the meantime we'll run close to the Ventura and I'll +go aboard for a word with her captain." + +The Ventura's wireless was working again now, and Jack himself took the +key. + +"Lay to," he ordered. "I'm coming aboard you." + +"Very well," was the reply. + +The two vessels drew close together. Jack had the destroyer's launch +lowered, climbed in and crossed to the Ventura, where a ladder was lowered +for him. On deck he was greeted by a grizzled old sailor, who introduced +himself as Captain Griswold. + +"Come to my cabin, sir," he said to Jack. "We can talk there without being +interrupted." + +Jack followed the captain of the Ventura below, and took a seat the latter +motioned him to. The captain set out liquor and cigars, but Jack waved +them away. + +"I neither smoke nor drink, thanks," he said. + +Captain Griswold shrugged his shoulders and put a match to a cigar. + +"Well, what can I do for you, Captain?" he asked. + +"First," said Jack, "did you get the number of the submarine?" + +"I did. The U-87, Commander Frederich, the captain styled himself; and if +there ever was a murderer unhung, he's the man." + +"Why?" asked Jack curiously. + +"Because he proposed setting my passengers and crew adrift in small boats, +without water or provisions, before sinking my ship. And when I told him +that I had him figured correctly--that he intended to shell the +lifeboats--the cold-blooded scoundrel admitted it! That's why we had the +nerve to jump him on deck. I figured we might as well die on the Ventura +as in the lifeboats--and we had a chance of taking him to Davy Jones' +locker along with us." + +"I see," said Jack. "Not a bad idea." + +"It was offered by the wireless operator," continued Captain Griswold, +"although he offered it unconsciously." + +"Explain," Jack requested. + +"Well, Harrington thought he heard his instrument clicking. He figured it +was you, whom we had just sighted. He broke through the Germans on deck +and dashed below. He locked himself in his room and began talking to you. +Three of the enemy went after him and broke in the door, but I guess he +had told you enough by that time." + +"I'd like a word with this Harrington," said Jack. "He is a brave man. +Where is he?" + +"Dead," said Captain Griswold quietly. + +Jack jumped to his feet + +"Dead?" he repeated. + +"Yes. After the Germans broke in the door, they overpowered him, tied him +and then brought back on deck. Said the German commander: 'I'll show you +how we treat men who defy us.' He stepped back several paces, drew his +revolver and fired. Then three of the enemy threw the body into the sea. +That's when we jumped them, for it was more than we could stand." + +"Then who answered the wireless when I called a moment ago?" + +"I did." + +"I guess that is enough, Captain," said Jack. He returned to the Essex. + + + + +CHAPTER XV + +JACK GIVES CHASE + + +"Any sight of the submarine, Frank?" asked Jack, when he stepped on deck +again. + +"None," was the reply. "In accordance with instructions you gave before +you went overside we dropped depth bombs in the spot where the U-Boat +disappeared, but without result." + +"I guess he's gone, then," said Jack. "But I'd like to get my hands on +that fellow," and he related to Frank the manner in which the German +commander had shot down the wireless operator aboard the Ventura. + +"By Jove! What a murderous scoundrel!" muttered Frank. + +Jack nodded. + +"No worse than the rest of them, I'll wager," he said. "But, hello! The +Ventura's moving again." + +As soon as Jack had left the deck of the steamer, Captain Griswold had +ordered the engines started and prepared for a quick dash to shore. + +"There are likely to be more of those pesky submarines about here," he +muttered, "and the sooner I reach port the better." + +Accordingly he ordered full speed ahead. + +"Do you know," said Frank, "I've a hunch that the U-87 is not through with +the Ventura. You know how the German is. He doesn't like to admit he's +been licked, so I figure the submarine commander is likely to have gone +ahead and will be awaiting the approach of the Ventura." + +"Now by George! I wouldn't be a bit surprised," Jack agreed. "Well, we'll +be ready for him." + +"What are you going to do, Jack?" + +"I'll show you. Come." + +Jack dashed to the radio room, Frank at his heels. + +"Get the Ventura for me," Jack instructed the operator. + +It was perhaps five minutes later that the Ventura answered the call. Jack +took the key. + +"Captain Griswold?" he asked. + +"Yes. Who are you?" + +"Captain Templeton, destroyer Essex." + +"Well, what do you want this time?" + +"Slow down. I'm coming aboard again." + +"What for?" + +"I'll explain when I get there." + +"All right, but I'll tell you I don't like this business." + +The instrument became silent. + +"Now tell me what you're going to do, Jack," said Frank, as he followed +his chum and commander on deck. + +"It's very simple," said Jack. "As you have said, I believe that the +submarine commander will intercept the Ventura again farther along toward +the shore. Now, I'm going to turn the Essex over to you temporarily and +go aboard the Ventura. You know the Germans as well as I do. This man will +no more think of sinking the Ventura without doing a bit of bragging to +the captain, who fooled him once, than he will of flying." + +"That's true enough," Frank admitted. + +"All right. Now I'll be aboard when he gets there. If he comes aboard, +I'll grab him there. If he doesn't I'll jump to the deck of the submarine +after him and tumble him overboard. I'll trust to you to keep the +submarine occupied and to get a boat to me." + +"It's a desperate venture, Jack," Frank protested. + +"So it is," was Jack's reply, "but I've a longing to capture this fellow. +If we just sink the submarine, I can't do it of course. Another thing, it +may be that I am not doing just right in leaving my ship, but it will only +be for a couple of hours and I know you can handle it as well as I can." + +"Oh, I won't sink her," grinned Frank. "But why not let me be the one to +go?" + +"Because I'm not sure you can handle the German commander." + +"But you're sure you can, eh?" + +"He'll have to be something new in the line of a German if I can't." + +"All right," said Frank. "Have it your own way. You're boss here, you +know." + +Meantime the Essex and the Ventura had been drawing closer together. +Directly a boat put off from the destroyer and ran alongside of the +steamer. Jack clambered over the side and the launch returned to the +destroyer. + +Captain Griswold was waiting for Jack. + +"Now what's up?" he wanted to know. + +"Come to your cabin and I'll explain," said Jack. + +In the seclusion of the cabin he outlined the situation. When he had +concluded a sketch of his plans, Captain Griswold demurred. + +"But I don't like to risk my passengers," he said. + +"You won't be risking them any more with me aboard than you will without +me," Jack explained. "Besides, you will have the additional protection of +the destroyer. In fact, it may be that the presence of the Essex will +scare the submarine off, but I doubt it. The German commander, as all of +his ilk, is angry at having been balked of his prey. He'll probably have +one more try, destroyer or no destroyer." + +"Well," said Captain Griswold, "you're a British naval officer and should +know something, whether you do or not. But I'll tell you right now I hope +the submarine doesn't show up again." + +Nevertheless, Captain Griswold was doomed to disappointment, for the U-87 +did reappear. + +It was almost 6 o'clock in the evening when all on board were startled by +a cry from the lookout. + +"Submarine on the port bow, sir." + +Instantly all became confusion on the big merchant ship. Passengers, of +whom there were perhaps fifty, became greatly excited. Every man on board +strapped on a life preserver, and waited for he knew not what. + +The fact that, directly astern, the Essex, British destroyer, was in plain +sight and trailing them, did not allay their fears. Came a shot from a gun +mounted forward on the submarine, a signal to heave to. + +"Obey it," said Jack, to Captain Griswold, on the bridge. + +Captain Griswold ordered his engines stopped. + +"I'll keep out of sight for a moment," said Jack. "The commander may come +on board." + +He stooped down in the shelter of the pilot house. + +The submarine drew close to the Ventura, and a voice hailed Captain +Griswold: + +"Thought you'd get away did you, you Yankee pig." + +It was the voice of the German commander. + +"Oh, we may get away yet," said Captain Griswold. + +"Don't depend on the destroyer this time," shouted the commander of the +submarine. "I see her approaching, but she won't be soon enough. I'll sink +you and submerge before she can fire a shot." + +"Well, you big cut throat," shouted Captain Griswold, losing his temper, +"why don't you do it?" + +"You dare to talk to a German officer like that?" thundered the submarine +commander. "You shall be sunk immediately. But first I wanted a word with +you. I just wanted to tell you what fate I hold in store for you." + +"It's my opinion," said Captain Griswold, "that you're a big bluff, like +all the rest of your stripe." + +Meantime, realizing that the German commander did not intend to board the +Ventura a second time, Jack crept from the shelter of the pilot house +unobserved and stole across the deck until he was beside the rail just +above the U-Boat, whose sides almost scraped the Ventura, so close were +the two vessels together. + +Jack removed his coat and his cap, which he dropped on deck. Then he stood +up in full view of the German submarine commander. The latter gazed at him +carelessly, for without his cap and coat Jack showed no sign of being a +British naval officer. + +Jack took in the scene about him with a careful eye. The German commander +stood close to the conning tower. There were perhaps half a dozen men +beside him, presumably his officers. The commander was directly below the +spot where Jack stood. + +One of the Germans, Jack noticed, kept a close eye on the approaching +Essex and from time to time spoke to the commander in a low tone. + +"Oh, these English can't shoot," Jack heard the commander say at last. +"However, I guess we have delayed long enough. Inside with you, +gentlemen." + +Two of the Germans descended through the conning tower. This left four on +the deck of the submarine besides the commander. These, too, moved toward +the conning tower. + +"Guess it's time to get busy," Jack muttered. + +With a single movement he leaped to the rail of the Ventura, and with a +second hurled himself to the deck of the submarine, landing in the midst +of the startled Germans. + +At the same moment, Captain Griswold, on the Ventura, signalled his engine +room for full speed ahead in accordance with Jack's instructions. + +The reason for this was obvious. First, it would take the steamer out of +the way of the torpedoes already trained on her, which would not be +launched without a command from one of the enemy officers, and, second, it +would draw the Ventura away so as to present the submarine as a clear +target for the guns of the approaching Essex. + +Jack, on the deck of the submarine, recovered himself before the German +officers could get over their surprise. He sprang to his feet and waded +into them, striking out right and left. + +Two men went staggering across the narrow deck and toppled into the sea. +The others reached for their revolvers. Before they could fire, however, +Jack sprang forward quickly and floored one of the enemy with a smashing +blow. This left the commander and one other officer on deck. + +The commander fired at Jack, but in his haste the bullet went wild. Jack +hurled himself forward, and the men gave ground. One, retreating, lost his +balance and went staggering across the deck and fell overboard. + +Only the commander of the submarine now faced Jack, and he covered the lad +with a revolver. + +"Hands up!" he said. + +For answer Jack smiled slightly, and took a quick step forward. + +"Crack!" the German's revolver spoke sharply, and Jack felt a hot pain in +his left arm. But the German had no time to fire again, for Jack was upon +him, pinning his revolver arm to his side. + +"Now," said the lad, "I've got you!" + +The two wrestled across the deck. + + + + +CHAPTER XVI + +THE FIGHT ON THE U-87 + + +In the meantime, members of the crew hearing the commotion on deck, rushed +up to see what was going on. Seeing their commander struggling with an +enemy, they hurried across the deck. + +Jack saw them coming out of the tail of his eye. It was not time to +hesitate and the lad knew it. + +With his arms still wrapped about the German commander, Jack struggled to +the rail and leaped into the sea. Down and down he went, never for a +moment relaxing his hold on the German. Then they came to the surface. + +With a sudden jerk the German freed himself and aimed a heavy blow at +Jack. This Jack dodged and sought to regain his hold on his foe. But the +German wriggled away and struck out for the submarine. + +In the meantime, Captain Griswold of the Ventura had been watching the +struggle as his vessel sped away from the scene. There was a strange light +in his eyes and he muttered to himself. At last he muttered an +imprecation. + +"He's a brave boy," he said. "I can't run away and leave him like that." + +He brought the head of the vessel around in spite of the protests of some +of the passengers, and headed back for the submarine. + +"Man the forward gun there!" he cried. + +For the Ventura, like other allied ships plying in the seas in those days, +carried small guns for defensive purposes. The gun crew sprang to obey +this order and the gun was trained on the submarine. + +"Fire!" shouted Captain Griswold. + +"Crash!" + +The gun spoke and a geyser of water was kicked up just beyond the +submarine. + +At this point the officer left in command of the submarine seemed to +realize his own danger. He sprang to the conning tower, unmindful of the +fact that his commander was struggling in the water. + +"Down, men!" he cried. + +But it appeared that the German sailors were made of sterner stuff than +was the officer. They refused to go below until their commander had been +brought safely aboard. In vain the officer pointed out their danger. + +Jack struck out after the German commander as the latter swam for the +submarine. The lad was a powerful swimmer and he felt confident he could +overtake the man before help could reach him. + +The destroyer Essex had now drawn close. Frank had been afraid to order a +shot at the submarine for fear the shell might hit Jack in the water. + +"Take the bridge, Mr. Hetherton!" he cried. "Lower a boat, men!" + +The boat was lowered in a trice and Frank and a score of sailors sprang +in. The launch darted toward Jack at full speed, Frank standing erect and +with the quartermaster at the rudder. + +They were close enough to see the struggle between Jack and the German +commander in the water. Frank saw the man break loose from Jack and strike +out for the submarine. He saw Jack make after him, and he saw something +more. + +Half a dozen German sailors leaped into the water and made for Jack, who +apparently did not realize his own danger, so interested was he in the +pursuit of the German commander. + +"Faster!" cried Frank, and drew his revolver. + +Now, for the first time, Jack realized his danger. But it was too late to +draw back, and it is doubtful if he would have done so anyway. + +"I'm going to get that fellow," he gritted between his teeth, referring to +the German commander. + +One of the German sailors struck at the lad with a knife. Jack caught the +man's arm with his left hand and twisted sharply. There was a snap, and +the knife dropped into the water. The sailor uttered a cry of pain and +turning, struck out for the submarine with his good arm. + +Two sailors now beset Jack on either side, and the German commander turned +to renew the struggle. + +"Kill him!" he cried angrily. + +One of the sailors raised himself high in the water, and a knife flashed +above him. + +"Crack!" + +A revolver spoke sharply and the knife dropped from limp fingers. + +Frank, standing erect in the Essex's launch, had fired. Now, as has been +said, Frank was a crack shot, and in spite of the pitching of the small +boat, his aim had been true. The bullet had struck the German sailor's arm +just below the elbow, shattering the nerve. + +Perceiving the approach of reinforcements, at an order from their +commander, the Germans turned and swam rapidly toward the submarine. The +sailors reached the vessel and climbed aboard. Their commander did +likewise. + +Unmindful of the cries of his friends behind him, Jack also laid hold of +the edge of the submarine and drew himself, dripping, aboard the vessel. A +sailor near the conning tower raised his revolver in deliberate aim. + +"Crack! Crack!" + +Two revolvers spoke almost as one, the first Frank's, the second that of +the sailor who aimed at Jack. But Frank's bullet went home, thus +deflecting the aim of the man who covered Jack, and the German's bullet +went wild. + +The commander of the submarine, at this juncture, losing his temper at +being pursued to the very door of safety, turned and sprang for Jack with +a wild cry. He was a big and powerful man, and as he wrapped his arms +about Jack, the lad staggered back. + +But he recovered his balance in a moment and struck out with his right +fist. Struck in the stomach, the German grunted and stepped back. + +Now the remainder of the German crew came pouring on deck. At the same +time Frank's launch grated alongside and his men poured a volley of rifle +bullets into the enemy. The latter turned and scampered for safety below +decks. + +Jack, still struggling with the German commander, paused and looked around +long enough to cry: + +"After them, Frank! Don't let them shut you out." + +Frank understood and led his men toward the conning tower at a run. Most +of the enemy were already inside and descending, but Frank arrived in time +to prevent the closing of the conning tower, which would have permitted +the submarine to submerge, leaving the struggling figures in the water. +With the conning tower open, it was, of course, impossible for the U-Boat +to submerge, for she would have been flooded immediately. + +Frank's men made prisoners of the half a dozen Germans who had not time to +get below, and then the lad ran over to help Jack. + +"Keep away, Frank," said Jack. "I've got this fellow, and I hope he +doesn't give up too easily. We've heavy accounts to settle with him." + +The big German showed no symptoms of giving up. He lashed out with both +arms and Jack was kept busy warding off the blows. But the German +commander was a novice at this sort of fighting, while Jack, only a year +or so before, had won the heavyweight boxing championship of the British +navy. So there was no doubt in Frank's mind as to the outcome. He and his +men formed a circle around the struggling figures, at the same time +guarding the conning tower to prevent the enemy from closing it. + +"Shoot the first head you see down there," Frank enjoined the men he left +on guard, and he knew they would be only too glad to obey this order. + +Jack, with a smile still on his face, permitted the German commander to +waste his energy in ineffective blows. Then Jack stepped forward and +delivered a heavy blow to the man's mouth. The German staggered back. Jack +doubled him up with a left-handed punch to the pit of the stomach, then +straightened him with a second hard right to the point of the chin. + +The German commander reeled backward. Jack followed up his advantage, and +for the space of a minute played a tattoo on the man's face with both +fists. Then he stepped back, and as the German came toward him, the lad +muttered: + +"I guess this has gone far enough. Now for the finish." + +He started a blow almost from the deck, and putting his full force behind +it, struck. + +"Crack!" + +The blow could be heard even aboard the Ventura, which had approached +close by this time. + +The German commander seemed to stagger back all of ten paces, the British +sailors scurrying back to keep out of his way. Then the man fell, his head +striking the deck with a sickening thud. + +"There," said Jack, "I guess that will settle you. Tie him up, men." + +A wild cheer had burst from the sailors as Jack delivered the finishing +touch. None of these men had ever seen Jack in action before, and it was +only natural that they should be greatly impressed at this exhibition of +their commander's prowess. + +"By glory! What a blow!" one of them exclaimed. "Did you see it, Tom?" + +"Did I?" exclaimed the man addressed as Tom; "did I? I'll say I did, and I +thought I was pretty handy with my fists. But not against Captain Jack, +not for me." + +As bidden by Jack, the sailors rolled the German commander over and bound +him. Then they carried him to the Essex's launch and threw him in, none +too gently, either, for there was no man there who had not a disgust for +Germans, German tactics and everything German. + +"Now," said Frank to Jack, "I guess we may as well stand clear and let the +Essex pour a few shells into the vessel, eh?" + +Jack shook his head. + +"No," he said, "we shall take possession of the vessel. Call down below +and see if the Germans will surrender." + +Frank approached the conning tower and called down. + +"Hello!" he shouted. + +There was no response. + +"Hello below!" he shouted again in German. + +"What do you want?" came a sullen voice from below. + +"We're in possession of this vessel now," said Frank. "Come up here and +surrender." + +"We'll stay where we are," came the reply after a brief pause. + +"But you can't man," exclaimed Frank. "Don't you know when you have been +captured." + +"We'll stay here awhile," said the spokesman of the sailors. + +"But you can't stay there forever, and you can't submerge," said Frank. +"Come up and surrender." + +To this the lad received no response. Frank reported to Jack. + +"So they won't surrender, eh?" said Jack. "Then we'll go down and get +them." + +"Rather risky, Jack," Frank warned. + +"So it is," Jack agreed. "So's the whole war. But wait. We'll see." + + + + +CHAPTER XVII + +CAPTURE OF THE SUBMARINE + + +Captain Griwsold aboard the Ventura had watched the struggle on the +submarine with eager eyes. His fingers clenched and unclenched. + +"I'd like to get into that," he muttered. "I guess I'm not too old." + +Abruptly he turned to the first officer. + +"Lower a boat," he said. "I'm going aboard the submarine." + +The first officer protested. + +"But the passengers--" he began. + +"The passengers be hanged," said the captain of the Ventura. "Besides, +we're safer here under the nose of this destroyer than we would be +prowling off by ourselves." + +The first officer protested no longer. A boat was lowered and Captain +Griswold and half a dozen sailors climbed in and put off for the +submarine, where they arrived just in time to overhear Jack say that if +the Germans in the submarine didn't surrender they would go after them. +Captain Griswold laid a hand on Jack's shoulder. + +"You're some scrapper, youngster," he said. + +Jack was thus made aware for the first time that the Ventura had not +rushed for her home port. + +"I thought you'd gone, Captain," he said. + +"I was on my way," said the captain of the Ventura, "until I saw you +fighting these murderers single-handed. I came back to see if I could +help." + +"Thanks," Jack laughed, "but I guess there are enough of us to attend to +them without you, Captain." + +"I'm not sure about that," declared Captain Griswold. "I just heard you +say you were going below after those fellows?" + +"Well?" questioned Jack. + +"Pretty risky," responded Captain Griswold, shaking his head. "How do you +figure to get 'em?" + +"Rush 'em," said Jack briefly. + +Again the captain of the Ventura shook his head doubtfully. + +"Too risky altogether," he declared. "The first one of you that shows his +head down there will be potted, sure as fate." + +"But we've got to do it, Captain," said Jack. "How else is it to be done?" + +"Well," said Captain Griswold, removing his cap and scratching his head, +"I guess I can suggest a way." + +"I'm open to conviction, Captain," said Jack. + +"Aboard my ship," went on Captain Griswold, "I have a supply of a certain +sort of gas which, if used properly, will do in minutes what it may take +you hours to accomplish." + +"By George!" said Frank. "Kill 'em all at once, eh?" + +"Well, no, it won't do that," replied Captain Griswold, "but it'll put 'em +to sleep long enough for you fellows to go down and tie 'em up." + +"Bring on the gas, Captain," said Jack quietly. + +Captain Griswold hustled back to his boat with the agility of a small +school boy. + +"Back to the ship," he roared to the sailors who rowed him. + +He mounted the ladder swiftly and summoned his first officer. + +"Helgoson," he said, "those Britishers have gone and almost captured that +submarine. It's up to us to help 'em complete the job." + +"How, sir?" asked the first officer. + +"Do you know where that gas tank is below?" + +"Yes, sir." + +"Fetch it here. It's small enough so you can carry it. Also get the hose +and the pump." + +"Yes, sir." + +The first officer hurried away. He was back in a few moments with the +necessary articles, which Captain Griswold took charge of himself. + +"Helgoson," said Captain Griswold, "if you were a younger man I would +invite you to take a hand in this party yourself. As it is, you'll have to +stick behind with the passengers." + +"But I'm younger than you by almost twenty years, sir," protested the +first officer. + +"Oh, no you're not," laughed the commander of the Ventura, "you just think +you are. I've grown twenty years younger this day." + +He summoned a pair of sailors, whom he loaded down with the gas, hose and +pump with instructions to place them carefully in the small boat. + +"And now for the submarine," he confided to his first officer. + +On deck, half a dozen passengers approached the captain with inquiries as +to what was going on. + +"Why," he said with a grin, "we're just going to capture a submarine, +that's all. Stick close to the side of the ship and you'll see how it's +done. A lesson like this may come in handy some day." + +The passengers protested. + +"But the danger--" one began. + +"Danger be hanged," said the captain. "There is no danger. While there was +danger we were scuttling for the safety of land and now we come back when +it's all over. You should all be glad of this opportunity to render your +country a service. What sort of citizens are you, anyhow?" + +Without further words he climbed down to the launch and was hustled back +to the submarine, where Jack and the others were awaiting him eagerly. + +"Well," said Captain Griswold, motioning to the articles that the sailors +laid on the deck, "here's the stuff. Get busy." + +"How do you work it, Captain?" asked Jack. + +"Don't you know?" demanded Captain Griswold. "Well, I'll tell you what. +You just put me in command here for fifteen minutes and I'll do the job +for you." + +"All right, sir," said Jack. "Your commands shall be obeyed." + +Captain Griswold turned to the nearest sailor. + +"Take that hose and attach it to the nozzle on the tank," he directed. +The sailor did so. + +"Now the pump," said the captain, "you will find a place for it on the +other side of the tank." + +This was adjusted to the captain's satisfaction. + +"Now," said the captain, "all you have to do is to stick this nozzle down +the conning tower, turn it so as to give the gas full play and pump. Of +course the gas would carry without the pump, but you save time this way." + +"One moment, Captain," said Jack. "How about ourselves? Won't the gas +affect us as well as the Germans?" + +Captain Griswold clapped a hand to his side. + +"Now what do you think of that?" he demanded. "I must be getting old +before my time. Here, Lands," he called one of his own men, who +approached. "Go and tell Helgoson I want two dozen of those gas masks in +the store room; and hustle." + +The sailor hurried away. He was back within fifteen minutes, and Captain +Griswold distributed the gas masks. Then he took the nozzle of the hose, +poked it down the conning tower and looked around. + +"Everybody ready?" he asked. + +Jack also glanced around. Every man on the deck of the submarine wore a +gas mask. + +"All right, sir," said Jack. + +"Then you turn that screw there when I give the word. All right? Then +shoot!" + +There was a hissing sound as Jack turned on the gas. + +For perhaps ten minutes Captain Griswold moved the hose to and fro. Then +he pulled it forth and motioned Jack to turn the screw again. This the lad +did. Captain Griswold then motioned the others to follow him, and led the +way below. + +At the foot of the conning tower they stumbled across several figures, +overcome by the fumes. These were quickly bound and passed up on deck to +the men who remained behind. + +The search of the submarine took perhaps half an hour. Every nook and +cranny was explored. The gas had done its work well. Apparently it had +poured in so rapidly that the crew had had no time to open the portholes, +for they were all closed. Captain Griswold opened them now. + +Then he led the way on deck, and closing the conning tower, removed his +gas mask. The others followed his example. + +"Simple, wasn't it?" said the captain of the Ventura to Jack, grinning +like a boy. "Lucky I happened to come back." + +"It is indeed," said Jack. "But won't this gas affect us, Captain?" + +"Not out here," was the reply. "It's not strong enough. You can barely +smell it now. Now what are you going to do with the submarine?" + +Jack considered a moment. + +"I'll tell you Captain," he said, "it strikes me that this submarine is +really the prize of the Ventura. At all events, I cannot be bothered with +it, for there is still patrol work to do in these waters. Can't you tow +her into port?" + +"Can't I?" shouted Captain Griswold. "You bet I can. You give the word and +I'll tie her on behind right now." + +"All right, Captain," said Jack. "She's yours." + +Captain Griswold almost danced a jig there on the deck of the German +submarine. + +"Won't New York sit up and take notice when old Captain Griswold comes +into port towing a submarine?" he chortled. "Well, I guess. Here, Lands, +go back to the ship and throw me a line. Then come back and help make it +fast." + +This was accomplished with astonishing rapidity and amid the cheering of +the crew and passengers of the Ventura and the wild hurrahs of the British +tars of the Essex. + +"Well, she's all fixed," said Captain Griswold, "and to tell you the truth +I'm rather sorry. Of course I'm old and all that, but just the same I'd +like to go with you fellows." + +"You're doing your share, Captain," said Jack seriously. "All of us can't +do the fighting, you know. But there's work just as important, and you are +doing your part. But we must be moving now. We've wasted time enough." + +"So we have," declared Captain Griswold. "Shall you leave us here, sir?" + +"No," said Jack, "we'll follow and see you safely in harbor." + +"Very well. Then I shall return to the Ventura." + +"And I to the Essex, Captain. Good-bye and good luck to you." + +Captain Griswold shook hands heartily with Jack, and then insisted on +shaking hands as well with Frank, and every officer and member of the +British crew aboard the submarine. Then he put off for his ship. + +Jack and the others returned to the Essex. When the lad reached the +bridge, the Ventura was already moving, the submarine trailing behind. + +"A fine man, Captain Griswold," said Frank. + +"Right," Jack agreed. "And the U-87 is his so far as I'm concerned. He +might hang it on his parlor wall for a souvenir." + +"Or wear it as a watch charm," added Frank with a grin. + + + + +CHAPTER XVIII + +ASHORE + + +For two days the Essex had been cruising up and down the coast on patrol +duty, looking for submarines. Several times the destroyer had been +ordered farther out to sea to form an escort for an incoming steamer, but +after her encounter with the U-87 she had sighted no more of the enemy. + +Following the report of two vessels sunk off the coast on May 10, the day +on which the presence of German raiders off the coast was first reported, +the number of sinkings increased the following day, and the next. After +that they fell off, however, and upon the fifth day only one ship--a small +schooner--was sent to the bottom off the coast of Delaware. + +The prisoners taken from the U-87 were stowed safely away below-decks on +the Essex, after which Jack got in touch with Admiral Sellings, on the +Dakota, by wireless. He reported the capture of the submarine and the fact +that it was being towed into port by the Ventura. Admiral Sellings ordered +Jack to continue his patrol of the coast until further notice. + +Nevertheless, the Essex escorted the Ventura almost to port, before +putting about and resuming her patrol duty. + +All the remainder of that day and the two days that followed Jack kept his +ship moving up and down the coast, but he caught no sight of an enemy +vessel, nor were any of the sinkings reported in that time close enough to +be considered within his territory. + +On the fourth day came a message from Admiral Sellings. + +"German submarine reported twenty miles north of Cape Charles," read the +message. "Investigate." + +Jack acknowledged receipt of the order and addressed Frank, who stood +beside him on the bridge. + +"Something definite to act on at last," he said, and read the admiral's +message aloud, adding: "Shape your course accordingly, Mr. Chadwick." + +Frank gave the necessary directions. The big ship came about and headed +south again. + +It was well along in the afternoon when the Essex reached the approximate +point designated by Admiral Sellings. Jack ran the destroyer as close +in-shore as he dared, and for several hours cruised about in the +neighborhood. But he saw nothing to indicate the presence of a submarine. + +"If there's a U-Boat here, it's keeping pretty well under cover," said +Frank. + +"So it is," replied Jack. "I don't know where the admiral got his +information, but I've got my doubts of its authenticity." + +Frank's eyes were caught at that moment by the sight of a small row boat +putting off from the shore. He watched it idly for a moment, and then +noted that it was headed directly for the Essex. + +"Hello," he said, "here comes some one to visit us." + +Directly the little boat scraped alongside the now stationary destroyer +and the figure in the boat indicated that he wanted to come aboard. + +"Don't know what he wants," muttered Jack, "but it'll be just as well to +have him up and find out." + +A few moments later the occupant stood before Jack and his officers on the +bridge. + +"My name," he said, "is Charles Cutlip, and I live back there." He waved a +hand shoreward. "I suppose you are hunting for submarines, Captain?" + +Jack nodded. + +"That's what we're here for," he affirmed. + +"I thought so," said young Cutlip--he was a little more than a boy. "Well, +Captain, maybe I can help you." + +Jack gave an exclamation of astonishment. + +"What do you mean?" he asked. + +"I don't know exactly," replied the boy. "Yesterday afternoon, while I was +in the house alone, three strange men appeared at the door. They wore the +costume of an ordinary seafaring man, but when they asked me for food they +had a strange manner of speech. They weren't Americans, I'm sure of that." + +"And you think they were from a submarine, eh?" asked Jack. + +"I'm sure of it, Captain. There were no other ships near, and they could +not have come overland, for it is a long ways to the nearest village and +they had neither horses nor automobile." + +"And what did you say to them?" asked Frank. + +"I gave them what food there was in the house, but they said it wasn't +enough. About this time my father came in unexpectedly. The strangers drew +revolvers and covered him. They told him they would be back to-night and +that they required him to have a certain amount of food on hand. They +threatened to kill him if he gave the alarm--and they threatened to kill +me too." + +"By George!" exclaimed Frank. "It looks as though we had come to the right +spot, Jack." + +"It certainly does," agreed Jack. "Now tell us the rest of your tale, +son." + +"That's about all," said the boy. "They devoured what food I gave them and +then disappeared." + +"And your father sent you for help, I suppose," added Frank. + +"No," said the boy. "I came of my own accord. My father is badly +frightened. He has gone to find the food for the strangers. I slipped away +and ran toward the sea. Then I saw your ship, sir, and I hurried to tell +you." + +"You have done well," said Jack, laying a hand on the lad's shoulder. "And +now you will be willing to help us further, will you not?" + +"Of course I shall, sir." + +"Very good. Now you look around the ship to your heart's content, while I +hold a conference with my officers." + +"Very well, sir." + +The boy walked away. Jack held a consultation with his officers on the +bridge. + +"If the boy is telling the truth," he said, "and I have no doubt of it, we +are in luck. It may be that we can capture this German crew ashore and +then take possession of the submarine." + +"But, sir," protested Lieutenant Hetherton, "if the submarine were to come +to the surface now and catch sight of the Essex it would never come back +again." + +"I had thought of that," replied Jack, "and I have a plan that will offset +it. You see that projecting reef there?" and Jack pointed to the north. +The others signified that they did. "Well," Jack continued, "back of that +is as cosy a little harbor as you would care to see. I noticed it as we +came by. We'll take the Essex there, and she will be hidden well enough." + +"Unless the submarine should chance to come to the surface there," was +Frank's objection. + +"We'll have to leave something to chance," declared Jack. + +"In which event your plan is as good as any I can conceive," said Frank. +"But after we get the Essex there, then what?" + +"Why," said Jack, "I'll take a party of half a hundred men or so and +surround the house of this Cutlip boy. When the Germans arrive we'll nab +'em. After that we can find the submarine." + +"Hasn't it struck you, sir," Frank asked of Jack, "that maybe the men who +accosted this boy and his father were merely bluffing? That they may not +return to-night?" + +"It has," Jack replied, "but at the same time there is a chance that they +will. Therefore, in lieu of any other clue as to the whereabouts of the +submarine, I deem it well to act on what information, we have." + +"It won't hurt anything, that's sure, sir," was Lieutenant Hetherton's +comment. + +In this the other officers agreed. + +"Very well then," said Jack. "It shall be as I suggested. Mr. Chadwick, +will you shape your course for the point I have mentioned." + +"But the boy, sir?" said Frank. "Shall we not put him over the side +first?" + +"No; we'll take him with us," Jack decided. + +As the destroyer began to forge ahead, the Cutlip boy grew alarmed and +hurried to Jack's side. + +"You are not taking me away, are you, sir?" he asked fearfully. + +"No," replied Jack, and outlined the situation as fully as he deemed wise. + +Young Cutlip was plainly eager to help in the capture of the German +submarine crew. + +"And you feel sure they will come back to-night?" Jack questioned. + +"Yes, sir. They must be very hungry. If you could have seen those three +men devour what little food I gave them! They seemed to be half starved." + +"Strange, too," Jack muttered, "considering the number of ships they have +sunk in these waters recently. They should have replenished their stores." + +"It may be that this was one of the less fortunate submarines," said +Frank. "The sinkings may have been done by other U-Boats." + +"That's true, too," said Jack. "I hadn't thought of that. I guess that +must be the answer." + +Less than an hour later, the Essex passed behind the shelter of the reef +Jack had mentioned. There Jack ordered her stopped, and anchor dropped. + +"We should be out of sight here," he said, "unless, as you suggested, +Frank, the enemy should come to the surface at this point. And we'll have +to trust to luck that they don't." + +"And now what, sir?" asked Frank. + +"I'll let you select a hundred men of the crew for shore duty," said Jack. + +This task did not take long, and Frank had picked and armed his men within +half an hour. + +"Now," said Jack, "I'm going to put you in command of the party, Frank. +Lieutenant Hetherton shall go along as your immediate subordinate. Two +officers are enough. The rest of us will wait here. But if you have not +returned soon after daylight, we'll start a search for you." + +"I can see no reason why we should be longer," said Frank. "We'll do the +best we can." + +"Then I would suggest that you go ashore at once," said Jack. "You must +reach the Cutlip home while it is yet daylight in order to lay your +plans." + +"Right, sir," said Frank, saluting. "We shall go ashore at once." + +They put off over the side in small boats and rowed toward the shore, +where they landed less than an hour after the Essex dropped anchor. Jack +waved a hand to his chum from the bridge. + +"Good luck!" he called. + +Frank waved back at him, then addressed his men. + +"By fours! Forward march!" he commanded. + +The party, with young Cutlip in their midst, moved inland. + + + + +CHAPTER XIX + +IN THE NIGHT + + +It was not a long march to the Cutlip home, and the Essex party reached +there some time before nightfall. Young Cutlip now whispered a word of +caution to Frank. + +"My father will not like this," he said. "He is naturally a cautious man. +If he thinks I have given the alarm--am responsible for your being +here--it will go hard with me." + +"Then he must not know it," said Frank decidedly. "Do you think he will be +home now?" + +"Yes, sir; most likely." + +Frank considered. + +"Then I'll call a halt here," he said. "You can return home and we will +come later. In that way he will not know that you gave the alarm. But by +the way, when he sees us is he not likely to try and warn the enemy?" + +"He might, sir. He is terribly afraid of submarines and men who control +them. He appears to think they are something supernatural. He believes the +crews of the submarines can whip anyone, sir. That is why he is likely to +tarry and give an alarm." + +"In that case," said Frank, "we'll have to tie him up until the game is +over." + +"He's my father, sir, and I don't want you to hurt him," said young +Cutlip, "but that would be the best way, sir." + +"Very well," said Frank. "You run ahead, now; we'll wait here for an +hour." + +He called a halt. Young Cutlip ran on ahead. Frank explained the reason +for the halt to Lieutenant Hetherton, who agreed that the lad had acted +wisely. + +"No use getting the boy in trouble if we can help, it, sir," he said. + +An hour later Frank ordered the march resumed. Young Cutlip had given +necessary directions and the party from the Essex reached the Cutlip home +without trouble. As they drew near, a man came to the door of the little +cabin that nestled in among a group of trees. Beside him, Frank made out +the figure of the boy who had given notice of the visit of some of the +submarine crew. + +Frank motioned his men to halt some distance away, called Lieutenant +Hetherton to follow him, and approached the cabin. + +"How do you do, sir?" he asked civilly of the big man in the doorway. + +"What do you want here?" was the growling response. + +"We're from a British destroyer out there," said Frank, waving a hand in +the general direction of the Atlantic, "and we are hunting for submarines +that have sunk a dozen or more ships off the coast." + +"You don't expect to find them here on land, do you?" demanded Cutlip. + +"Not exactly," said Frank. "But I have reason to believe that the crew of +one of the vessels has come ashore. Have you seen anything of them, sir?" + +"I have not," replied Cutlip firmly. + +"No one resembling a German, even?" persisted Frank. + +"No." + +"You are quite sure?" + +"Quite sure." + +"Think again, my man," said Frank. + +"Look here," said Cutlip, "do you mean to insinuate that I'm lying?" + +"I don't insinuate anything. I know you are lying. Hold up there!" + +For Cutlip had taken a threatening step forward. + +"A party of three German sailors from a submarine nearby were seen to come +this way," Frank went on. "You must have seen them. Now, if you are not +trying to shield them, tell me where they are." + +"I don't know. I haven't seen them." + +"Call a couple of men, Lieutenant," said Frank to Hetherton. + +Hetherton raised a hand, and two sailors came forward. + +"Once more," said Frank to Cutlip, "will you tell me what you know of +those men?" + +"I tell you I don't know anything," answered Cutlip doggedly. + +"Tie him up, men," said Frank briefly. + +The sailors sprang forward and laid rough hands on Cutlip. The latter +protested vigorously with his mouth, but he offered only feeble +resistance. + +"Now," said Frank to Hetherton, "we can't leave him around here for if the +Germans saw him they might take alarm. We'll have to have him sent back to +the ship. I guess those two men are big enough to get him there." + +"Plenty big enough, sir," said one of them with a grin. + +"Good. Take him back, then, and come back when you have turned him over +to Captain Templeton. Tell the captain to hold him until we return." + +The man touched his cap. + +"Aye, aye, sir," he said. Then to Cutlip in a rough voice: "March, now." + +The three disappeared, Cutlip grumbling to himself and the sailors +grinning. + +Frank turned to young Cutlip, who had watched these proceedings with some +disfavor. + +"Now, my boy," he said, "we can get ready for business." + +"They won't hurt him, will they?" asked the boy, pointing after his +father. + +"They will not," said Frank. "Only keep him safe until the trouble is +over." + +"All right. Then, I'll help you the best I can, sir." + +"That's the way to talk, my boy. Now let me look around a bit." + +Lieutenant Hetherton and young Cutlip accompanied Frank on his tour of +inspection. The lad found that the cabin was cuddled securely in a +miniature forest, or rather at one end of it. On both sides and in the +rear were a profusion of dense trees. Only the approach from the front was +in the clear. + +"It's all right," Frank said. I'll throw my men around the house from +three sides, and when the Germans have gone in we can surround it +completely. If they come after dark, there is little doubt they will +approach from the front." + +"And what shall I do, sir?" asked young Cutlip. + +Frank turned the matter over in his mind. + +"I am afraid I shall have to ask you to play rather a dangerous part," he +said at last. "You must be inside to receive them. If there were no one +there they might take alarm and run. Now, we'll go inside and see if your +father has complied with the enemy's demand." + +The three entered the cabin. Inside, Frank made out several big sacks +scattered about the floor. "Potatoes," he said, and looked further. There +he also found an extraordinary amount of salt meats and a bountiful supply +of vegetables. + +"Looks like your good father had been very busy," he said to young Cutlip +with a smile. "That's what the Germans will have the whole world doing for +them if we don't lick 'em." + +"You're right there, sir," agreed Lieutenant Hetherton. + +"Well," said Frank, "we'll leave these things as they are. It will help +divert suspicion from young Cutlip here when the Germans find his father +is not on hand. But I guess there is nothing more we can do now. Come, +we'll go outside." + +Frank now saw to the disposition of his men. These, as he had decided, he +stationed on three sides of the cabin. He himself took command of the men +on the left, Lieutenant Hetherton commanding the right wing and a sailor +named Hennessy the left. A short time later the sailors who had conducted +Cutlip the elder to the Essex returned and took their places. + +"Did he go along peaceably?" asked Frank of one of the newcomers. + +"Well, he kicked once or twice," replied the man, "but he went along all +the same, sir." + +Frank grinned. + +"Just so long as you got him there," he said. + +"Oh, he's there, all right," grinned the sailor, "but when I left he was +threatening to have the whole American navy down on us and hoping that +these German submarines shoot us to little pieces." + +"I think we'll do most of the shooting, if there is any to be done," said +Frank dryly. + +There was silence in the ranks after this, for it was now growing dark and +it was possible that the Germans might appear at any moment. Every man +strained his eyes as he peered through the trees. + +Inside the cabin a faint light glowed. Young Cutlip was in there, playing +a braver part than could his father, doing his best for his country as +enemies threatened her existence. Frank smiled to himself. + +"A nervy kid," he muttered; "yet, I wish I didn't have to use him. I shall +take especial care that no harm comes to him." + +He grew silent. + +In the distance came the sound of tramping feet--many of them. Gradually +they drew nearer and directly Frank could hear voices. Heavy, guttural +voices they were and the tongue they spoke was German. + +Up to that moment Frank had not been at all sure in his own mind that the +Germans would return to the cabin, as they had told the Cutlips. +Nevertheless, here they were, and the lad's heart leaped high. + +"They must be pretty close to starvation to take such chances," the lad +muttered to himself. "Wonder why they don't try a raid on one of the +nearby towns? Guess they don't want to stir up any more trouble than +possible, though. Well, we'll get 'em." + +Frank peered from his hiding place. The Germans were in sight now, and +approaching the house four abreast. + +"Four, eight, twelve, sixteen, twenty-four," Frank counted. + +"That's not so many. We can grab them easy enough." + +But a moment later additional footsteps were heard. Again Frank counted +moving figures to himself. + +"Twenty more," he muttered. "Where on earth did they all come from? By +George! They certainly are taking a long chance marching around like this. +Well, the more we can get the better." + +At the door of the cabin the Germans halted. Three of their number stepped +forward and went inside. This was not at all in line with Frank's plans, +and he realized now that the situation of young Cutlip, inside, was +dangerous in the extreme. Something must be done to protect him. + +As the Germans went inside the house, the others, meanwhile, standing +guard, Frank gave the signal agreed upon, a soft whistle, like the call of +a bird of the night. The British began to move from their hiding places +and to draw closer to the Germans, standing there in the open. + +"Well," Frank muttered to himself at last, "I guess the sooner we get busy +the better." + +He sprang to his feet and leaped forward. + + + + +CHAPTER XX + +THE BATTLE + + +Meanwhile, inside the cabin young Cutlip was facing the Germans cooly +enough. He rose to his feet as the door opened and the first German stuck +his head inside. The latter surveyed the interior rapidly, and seeing a +single figure there, advanced quickly, gun in hand. + +"Oho! It's the boy," he said in clumsy English. "And where is your +father?" + +"I don't know," answered the boy. "He went away." + +"But did he get the food?" + +Cutlip motioned to the sacks of provisions on the floor. + +"Good!" said the German, rubbing his hands. + +He returned his revolver to his belt and motioned his two companions to +enter. They closed the door behind them. + +"You have told no one of our presence here?" asked the first German, as he +stooped over to examine the sacks. + +"No." + +"How about your father?" + +"He has told no one, either." + +"It is well. For if you had, we would kill you now." + +Young Cutlip said nothing, but he knew by the hard look in the man's eyes +that he told the truth. In spite of the fact that the boy knew he was in +grave peril, he was perfectly cool. + +He sat down again as the Germans passed from sack to sack, examining the +contents. At last the first man stood up and faced the boy. + +"Your father, by chance, didn't say anything about pay for this food, did +he?" he asked. + +"No," returned Cutlip. + +The German grinned. + +"Guess he knew it wouldn't do much good," he said. "Well, men, let's roll +this stuff outside." + +Again the men bent over the sacks. + +At that moment there came a shot from without, followed by a volley. On +the instant young Cutlip leaped to his feet, rushed to the door, threw it +open and dashed outside. + +There he was right in the midst of the Germans. But the latter were too +busy and too surprised to pay any attention to him at that moment. They +had wheeled at the first volley from the woods, and had turned their own +weapons against the trees on three sides of the cabin. + +Two or three of their number had gone down at the first fire, and they +were almost demoralized, so sudden and unexpected was the attack. +Consequently, young Cutlip had time almost to get clear of the enemy. In +fact, by quick dodging, he did get beyond them. + +Out the door now rushed the three Germans in the cabin, apparently in +command of the men without. One issued harsh orders, and the Germans +dropped to the ground, thus making much smaller targets. + +Frank, as he sprang forward from among the trees, saw young Cutlip throw +open the door and dash out. Frank ran toward him despite the fact that he +was charging the enemy almost single-handed. But he knew that the boy was +in danger through no fault of the lad's own, and that he must be +protected. + +"Here, Cutlip!" he called. + +The boy ran toward him. + +Frank, a revolver in each hand, stopped and awaited the lad's approach. + +Two Germans raised their rifles to shoot Cutlip down. Frank's eye caught +the glint of the steel in the darkness. His revolvers spoke sharply twice, +and Cutlip came on unharmed. + +A bullet sang past Frank's right ear, another grazed his left. More +bullets began to sing by him. Cutlip stumbled forward, and sheathing one +revolver, Frank caught him by the hand. + +"Run!" he cried. + +Cutlip needed no further urging. Together he and Frank sped for the +shelter of the woods, which they reached safely and threw themselves on +the ground as a rain of bullets passed overhead. + +"Close shave, son," said Frank. + +Young Cutlip was trembling, but he was not afraid. + +"Give me a gun," he cried. "I can pick off a few of 'em." + +But Frank shook his head. + +"You've done your part," he said. "Now you get away from here until we +clean these fellows up." + +Frank circled among the trees until he came into the midst of his own men +again. These were still peppering away at the enemy from among the trees +and the Germans, lying on the ground, were returning the fire. + +"We're wasting too much time here," Frank told himself. + +He looked across to where Lieutenant Hetherton and his men were also +blazing away at the foe. + +"Forward men!" cried Frank suddenly. "Charge!" + +The British tars under Frank's command went forward with a wild yell. +Seeing their companions dashing across the open, the forces commanded by +Lieutenant Hetherton and the sailor Hennessy also broke from the trees and +charged. + +The Germans poured several sharp volleys into the attackers, then threw +down their arms. + +"Kamerad! Kamerad!" came the cry. + +"Cease firing!" Frank shouted. + +Silence reigned after the noise of the battle. + +"Take charge of those men, Mr. Hetherton," said Frank quietly, "but be +careful how you approach. I don't trust 'em. I'll keep 'em covered." + +Lieutenant Hetherton ordered his men to make prisoners of the Germans. + +There came a sudden interruption. + +The three Germans who had been in the cabin, as though by a prearranged +plan, suddenly dashed back into the little building and flung to the door +before they could be stopped. + +"Never mind," said Frank, "remove the others, Mr. Hetherton. We'll attend +to the men inside later." + +From the window of the cabin there came a sharp crack. A bullet zipped by +Frank's ear, but the lad did not flinch. He moved his position and saw the +German prisoners marched to the rear. + +"Now," he said, "we'll have to get those fellows inside. First, however, +we'll give them a chance." + +He raised his voice in a shout. + +"What do you want?" came the response from the cabin. + +"You are outnumbered ten to one," said Frank. "Come out and surrender. We +don't want to kill you." + +"Come and take us," was the sneering response. + +"Don't be fools," called Frank. "We're sure to get you." + +"Well, I'll get you first," came a sharp cry. + +Frank stepped back and none too quickly, for a bullet passed through the +space where his head had been a moment before. + +"If you must have it, all right," the lad muttered. He turned to his men. +"I want ten volunteers to go with me," he said quietly. + +Every man stepped forward. + +Frank smiled. + +"Sorry I can't use you all, men," he said. "But ten will be enough. +Gregory, step forward." + +A sailor a short distance away did so. + +"Now, Gregory," said Frank, "you pick nine more men and bring them here." + +This was the work of only a moment, and the men surrounded Frank. For a +moment the lad surveyed the cabin. They were now out of the line of fire +from the window on that side and consequently safe. It would be possible, +Frank knew, to tire the Germans out, but he had no mind for such slow +methods. He addressed his men. + +"Two of you," he said, "break in the door with your rifle butts. We'll +cover you from either side." + +Two men stepped forward and the others stationed themselves on either side +of the stout door. Frank called to Lieutenant Hetherton. + +"Guard all the windows," he shouted. "Don't let them get away." + +The door began to tremble under the blows of the two sailors. Directly +there was a crash as it fell inward. + +Now, although this had been no part of Frank's plans, the minute the door +crashed in, the two sailors reversed their rifles and sprang over the +threshold. + +"Crack! Crack! Crack! Crack! Crack!" + +The rifles of the three Germans within and the two British sailors spoke +almost as one. One of the tars crumpled up in the doorway, while one of +the Germans also threw up his hands and slid to the floor. + +With wild shouts of anger, the other sailors surged forward and poured +through the door in spite of German bullets, which now flew so fast that +accurate aim was impossible. + +Frank dashed forward with the others. Down went the second German, leaving +but one alive. Frank found himself face to face with the latter. + +"Stand back, men," he called. + +The sailors obeyed. + +In one hand the German gripped a revolver, but Frank held this arm with +his left hand and straightened it high above the German's head. Thus the +German was unable to bring his revolver to bear on the lad. + +Nevertheless, his left arm was still free, and he struck Frank a heavy +blow in the stomach with his fist. The pain was severe and Frank loosened +his hold on the man's revolver arm. With a cry of triumph, the German +deliberately lowered his revolver. + +Frank, having dropped one of his revolvers, was in a bad way. True, a +second was in his belt, but it did not appear that he had time to draw and +fire before the German's finger pressed the trigger. + +But now came an action on the lad's part that proved his right to be +called an expert with the revolver--an action that often had bewildered +Jack and aroused his envy. + +So quickly that the eye could not follow the movement, Frank dropped his +hand to his belt, whipped out his revolver, and without taking aim, fired. + +A fraction of a second later there was a second report, as the German, +with Frank's bullet already in his shoulder, pressed the trigger, almost +involuntarily. But ere he fired, Frank had dropped to the floor and the +bullet passed harmlessly overhead. + +Frank rose quietly. + +"Bind him men," he said simply. "He's not badly hurt. He'll probably live +to face the gallows. Where is young Cutlip? Has anyone seen the boy?" + +"Here he is, sir," answered the boy himself, and came forward. "And will +you release my father now, sir?" + +"As soon as we return to the ship," replied Frank. "Come, men." + + + + +CHAPTER XXI + +THE END OF THE SUBMARINE + + +Frank now took account of his casualties. Five men had been killed and +twenty more or less seriously wounded. As many more nursed slight +injuries. + +The enemy's casualties, proportionately, had been more severe. Half of the +original number were stretched on the ground. Hardly a man of the others +but had been wounded. + +Frank had his dead made ready for transportation back to the Essex, and +litters were improvised for the wounded who were unable to walk. The +grounded Germans also were carried--that is, those of them who were so +severely hurt they could not walk. Those who could walk were surrounded by +the British and marched on ahead. + +The return trip was made without incident. The wounded were hurried aboard +the ship where their injuries could be attended to. The unwounded +prisoners were promptly locked up below with the other captives. Then +Frank and Jack, accompanied by young Cutlip, went to Jack's cabin. The +third officer held the bridge. + +Frank gave an account of the events of the night as briefly as possible. +When he had concluded, Cutlip again asked: + +"Will you release my father now, sir?" + +"Certainly," said Jack. "You have borne yourself right bravely, and we +have much to thank you for, as has your country. It is too bad that your +father is not of a different stripe." + +The boy's face flushed. + +"He's a good father in many ways, sir," he said, "but he seems to be +scared to death of the Germans, especially of their submarine boats." + +"We'll have him up here before we let him go," said Jack. "Mr. Hetherton, +pass the word to have; Cutlip brought to my cabin." + +Lieutenant Hetherton left the cabin. He returned a few moments later +accompanied by two sailors, who walked on either side of the older Cutlip. +The man was still bound. + +"Remove his bonds," Jack instructed. + +Cutlip's hands were released, and he rubbed them together as he eyed the +group in the cabin. His eyes rested on his son. + +"So!" he exclaimed, "I had an idea you were at the bottom of this." + +"But, father--" began the boy. + +"I'll attend to you later," said the father, "not that I'll have need to, +probably, for the Germans will attend to both of us. What ails you, +anyhow? Don't you know that the Germans eventually will be masters of the +world? If we stand in with them, it may help." + +"The Germans will never be masters of the world," said Jack. "You are +laboring under a delusion, Cutlip. Your son is a brave boy. Not only did +he warn us of the presence of a German submarine off the coast, but he +rendered such other assistance that the entire crew has been either killed +or captured." + +Cutlip showed his surprise. + +"You can't mean it!" he exclaimed. "Why, how could you overcome them. They +are supermen. Ever since the war started I have been reading about them. +They are wonderful fighters--marvelous." + +"Your trouble, Cutlip," said Frank, "is that you have read too much about +them. I know that the country has been flooded with German propaganda, but +I'd no idea it had affected anyone like that." + +"But--" Cutlip began. + +Jack silenced him with a gesture. + +"You'll have to change all your ideas now, Cutlip," he said. "You see that +the German is not a superman. We have beaten them. Besides, your country +is at war with Germany. Only a traitor, or a coward, would refuse to help +his country." + +Cutlip seemed a bit startled. + +"I guess that's true," he said at last. "Yes, I guess you're right." + +"You and your son had better remain aboard until morning," Jack continued. +"We'll put you both ashore then." + +"Jack," said Frank at this point, "don't you think we should make an +effort to destroy the submarine before we go?" + +"By George! We certainly should," declared Jack. "That had slipped my mind +for the moment. We'll have one of the captured officers up and see if he +will reveal its hiding place." + +One of the Germans--a petty officer--entered the cabin a moment later in +response to Jack's summons. Jack explained briefly what he wanted. + +"Tell you? Of course I won't tell you," said the young officer. "Why +should I? Do you think I am a traitor to my country, or a coward?" + +Jack shrugged. + +"I was just offering the opportunity," he said. + +The officer was removed and one of the men brought in. Jack quizzed him +with no better results. One after another the unwounded men were +questioned, but none would reveal the location of the submarine. + +"Looks like we would have to find it ourselves," said Jack at length. +"There is no use questioning any of the others. They won't tell." + +Assistance came from an unexpected source. + +"Maybe I can help out a bit," said the elder Cutlip quietly. + +Jack, Frank and Lieutenant Hetherton looked at him in surprise. + +"You mean that you know and will tell?" asked Frank. + +"I do. You have made my duty plain to me. No longer am I afraid of the +Germans." + +"How do you come to know this hiding place?" asked Jack. + +"I discovered it to-day by accident. I was standing some distance back on +shore when I saw the vessel lying on the water." + +"How far from here?" + +"Just the other side of the reef." + +Jack whistled. + +"By Jove! We came awfully close," he said. + +"You did indeed," said Cutlip. "But for the reef you must have been +discovered. Fortunately, it is very high." + +"I suppose the U-Boat is on the surface at this moment," Frank +interjected. + +"Most likely," Hetherton agreed. "A small crew has probably been left on +board, and they more than likely are awaiting the return of their +comrades." + +"Strange they didn't hear the firing," said Frank. + +"Not at all," said Jack. "I heard none of it here." + +"The wind was blowing the wrong way," Hetherton explained. + +"That must be the answer," Frank admitted. "Well, Jack, what do you say? +Shall we make an effort to get the boat to-night?" Jack hesitated. + +"We may as well," he said at last. "Of course it will have to be taken +from the land, for we can't work the destroyer around the reef in the +darkness. Even if we got around safely, we should be discovered." + +"Right," said Frank. "Then let's be moving. I take it, however, we will +need boats to reach the submarine." + +"Our prisoners probably have left all the boats we need," Jack returned. + +"That's so," said Frank. "Funny I didn't think of that. Will you be our +guide, Cutlip?" + +"Glad to be," was the reply. "I want to redeem myself in some way." + +"Let's be moving, then," said Frank, starting for the door. + +"Hold on," said Jack "We've got to take a force with us, you know. Mr. +Hetherton, I'm going to leave you in command of the ship this time. I +shall command the shore party." + +Lieutenant Hetherton's face fell, but all he said was: + +"Very well, sir." + +"In the meantime," said Jack, "pick fifty men and set them ashore. We'll +be there directly." + +Lieutenant Hetherton saluted and left the cabin. + +Half an hour later Jack led his men around the reef. There, a scant +hundred yards from shore, lay the submarine. The little party moved +silently to the edge of the water, and as silently embarked in the half a +dozen small boats they found there. + +"Push off!" Jack commanded in a whisper. + +Now young Cutlip had been left behind, but the father had elected to go +with the men in the boats. So earnest was his plea that Jack did not have +the heart to refuse him. + +A dim light showed on the bow of the submarine as the little flotilla +approached; and then so suddenly that the night appeared to be lighted up +by magic, a flare of white made the boats approaching the submarine as +plain as day. + +The submarine's searchlight had been turned on them. + +"Down men," cried Jack. + +The men, or those of them who were not needed at the oars, dropped to the +bottom of the boats. But the distance was so close that those on board +were able to make out the fact that the boats approaching were not filled +with their own men. + +"Americans!" was the cry that carried across the water. "Man the forward +gun there!" + +"Fire, men!" cried Jack in a loud voice. "Sweep the deck with your rifles. +Don't let 'em bring that gun to bear." + +There was a crash of rifles as Jack's command was obeyed. Nevertheless the +Germans succeeded in training their rapid-firer, and it crashed out a +moment later. A veritable hail of bullets flew over Jack's men. + +At a quick command from the lads, the boats drew farther apart, thus +making the task of the enemy more difficult. Then they closed in on the +submarine from both sides. + +Harsh German cries and imprecations were wafted to the ears of the British +as the boats drew closer. + +"Submerge!" shouted a voice. + +"Quick, or we shall be too late," Jack roared. + +The men at the oars exerted themselves to further efforts. Then Jack +caught another cry from the submarine. + +"We can't submerge. The tanks are still broken." + +"Good!" said Jack to himself. "Now I see what the trouble is. Faster," he +cried to his men. + +"Quick," came a voice from the submarine, "we cannot let the ship fall +into the hands of the accursed Yankees. The fuse, man." + +Jack understood this well enough. He raised his voice in a shout: + +"Cease rowing!" + +Frank's voice repeated the command and the little flotilla advanced no +more. + +"Put about and make for shore," shouted Jack. "Quick." + +The order was obeyed without question, and it was well that it was. Hardly +had the boats reached the shore when there was a terrific explosion, and +the water kicked up an angry geyser. + +"And that," said Jack calmly, "is the end of the submarine. They've blown +her up--and themselves with her!" + + + + +CHAPTER XXII + +WASHINGTON AGAIN + + +Early the following morning the Essex slipped from her little harbor and +put to sea. Cutlip and his son, who had been put ashore shortly before the +departure, stood at the edge of the water and waved farewell. Following +the father's conversion, he and his son seemed to be closer than before, +and they went away happily together. + +Jack descended to the radio room. + +"Get the Dakota for me," he instructed the operator. + +"Dakota! Dakota!" flashed the wireless. + +Ten minutes later the answer came. + +"Destroyer Essex," flashed the operator again, following Jack's direction. +"Submarine reported to me yesterday destroyed. Crew either killed or +captured." + +"Fine work, Templeton," was the reply flashed back a few moments later. + +"I'm awaiting instructions," Jack flashed. + +"Proceed to Newport News," came the answer, "and report in person to +Secretary of the Navy." + +"O.K." flashed the operator. + +Jack went to the bridge, where Frank was on watch. + +"Well, old fellow," said Jack, "I guess our present cruise is ended." + +"How's that?" asked Frank. + +"We're ordered back to Newport News, and I must report to Secretary +Daniels." + +"And after that, England again, I suppose?" + +"I suppose so." + +"Too bad," said Frank, "I would like to have had time to go to New York +and Boston to see my father. He could have met me at either place." + +"You'll see him when the war's over, I guess," said Jack, "and to my mind +that will be before long now." + +"Think so?" asked Frank. "Why?" + +"Well, take for example the submarine raid off the American coast. It +looks to me like the dying gasp of a conquered foe. They must be nearing +the end of their rope to tackle such a problem." + +"And still they have had some success," said Frank. + +"True. But not much after all. What is the total tonnage destroyed in +comparison with the tonnage still sailing the seas unharmed?" + +"There's something in that," Frank agreed. "But I can't say that I'm of +your opinion." + +"Personally," declared Jack, "I believe that the war will be over before +Christmas." + +"I hope so. But I can't be as optimistic as you are." + +The run to Newport News was made without incident and the Essex dropped +anchor close to the spot where she had been stationed before. + +She was greeted with wild cheers, for news of her success had preceded her +to the little Virginia city. Jack and his officers and men were hailed +with acclaim when they went ashore. + +"Want to go to Washington with me, Frank?" asked Jack. + +"That's a foolish question," was Frank's reply. "Of course I want to go." + +"All right. Then we'll catch the ten o'clock train this morning. That will +put us in the capital some time before five." + +"Suits me," declared Frank. + +This program was carried out. Arrived again in the capital of the nation, +the lads went straight to the Raleigh hotel, where they got in touch with +the British ambassador. + +"I've been hearing good reports about you, Captain," said the ambassador's +voice over the telephone. + +"We were a bit lucky, sir, that is all," replied Jack deprecatingly. + +"Nevertheless," said the ambassador, "Secretary Daniels wishes to thank +you in person, as does the President. I shall call for you within the +hour." + +"Very well, sir." + +Jack hung up the 'phone. + +The ambassador was as good as his word. He arrived less than an hour later +and the lads accompanied him to the Navy Department, where they were +ushered into the presence of the Secretary of the Navy at once. + +Secretary Daniels shook hands with both of the lads. + +"You deserve the thanks of the whole nation for your gallant work," he +said. "I am instructed to take you to the President." + +Jack and Frank flushed with pleasure, but there was nothing either could +say. From the Navy Department, the lads were escorted to the White House +immediately across the street, where President Wilson was found in his +office. The President was reached with little ceremony, and Secretary +Daniels himself made the introduction. + +"So," said the President, "these are the young officers who commanded the +British destroyer Essex, which accounted for two of the enemy's +submarines? They look rather young for such important posts." He gazed +closely at Frank. "Surely," he said finally, "surely you are an American." + +"Yes, sir," said Frank. "Born in Massachusetts, sir." + +"Chadwick," mused the President. "Not, by any chance, related to Dr. +Chadwick, of Woburn." + +"He is my father, sir." + +The President seemed surprised. + +"But I didn't know my old friend Chadwick had a son of your age," he said. + +"Well, he has, sir," replied Frank with a smile. + +"But how do you happen to be in the British service?" + +Frank explained briefly. + +"You have certainly seen excitement," said the President. "I am glad to +have seen you. Give my regards to your father when you see him. I am glad +to have met you, too, Captain," and the President shook hands with Jack. +"I hope to have the pleasure of meeting you both again some day." + +The lads understood by this that the interview was ended. They followed +Secretary Daniels and the British ambassador back to the former's office, +where the latter handed Jack a paper. + +"Cable from the British Admiral, I judge," he said. + +Jack read the message. + +"You are right, sir," he said. "We are ordered to home waters whenever you +are through with us, sir." + +"I judged as much," said the Secretary, "which is the reason I had Admiral +Sellings order you to report to me. You are at liberty to return whenever +you please, sir. But first let me thank you for your services in the name +of the American people." + +"Thank you, sir," said Jack, and saluted stiffly. + +The lads now took their leave. The ambassador insisted on their going home +with him to dinner. + +"But we should get back to our ship at once, sir," Jack demurred. + +"Never mind," said the ambassador, "I'll take the responsibility of +holding you over an extra day." + +So Jack and Frank dined with the ambassador, and took a late train to +Richmond, where they changed early in the morning for Newport News. When +they boarded the Essex later in the day they found in Jack's cabin the +commandant of Fortress Monroe, who, having learned that the Essex would +soon depart for home, had come to pay his respects while he yet had time. + +"I want to tell you," he said to Jack, "that the Essex has made quite a +name for herself among my men." + +"I'm glad to hear that, sir," declared Jack. + +"The men are only sorry, and naturally," continued the commandant, "that +she was not manned by an American crew." + +"Naturally, as you say, sir," Jack agreed. "Yet my first officer is an +American." + +The Commandant glanced at Frank. + +"Can that be true?" he asked. + +Frank smiled. + +"It's true enough, sir," he said. "Yes, I'm a native of the Bay state and +am in the British service merely as the result of an accident." + +He explained. + +"Well," said the Commandant, 'I'm glad of it. I'll have something to tell +my officers and men that will make them proud. I hope that the next time +either of you find yourselves in these parts you will look me up." + +"Thank you, sir. We certainly shall," said Jack. + +The Commandant took his departure. + +"And now," said Jack, "for England." + +First, Jack made a personal tour of inspection of the destroyer. Finding +everything ship-shape, the crew was piped to quarters and Jack rang for +half speed ahead. + +A crowd had gathered at the water's edge and the Essex was speeded on her +way by cheering and waving thousands. It was a touching scene, and Jack +was very proud. + +"A great country," he confided to Frank, as the vessel moved slowly out +into the Roads. "A great country. I am glad to have seen it again, and I +hope to come back some day." + +"Oh, you'll come back," said Frank. "You'll come back when the war's over, +to visit me." + +"I certainly will," Jack declared. + +The fortifications of Fortress Monroe now loomed ahead. + +"I suppose the Commandant is somewhere about to wish us God-speed," Frank +remarked. + +The lad was right. And he did it in imposing manner. + +The boom of a great gun was heard. This was followed by the roar of many +more; and the rumble continued as the Essex drew near, was louder as she +breasted the fort and continued as the ship passed on. Jack ordered a +reply to the salute from the forward guns, and for the space of several +minutes, the very sea seemed to tremble. + +Then the Essex gathered speed and plowed ahead. + +"Quite an ovation," said Frank, as he and Jack descended to the latter's +cabin, leaving Lieutenant Hetherton on the bridge. + +"It was, indeed. Yes, as I said before, it's a great country. You should +be proud to be a native of it." + +"I am," said Frank simply. + + + + +CHAPTER XXIII + +BACK IN ENGLAND + + +Following the return of the Essex to English waters, Jack reported at once +to Lord Hastings in Dover. + +"I hear great things of you boys," said Lord Hastings. "Great things +indeed." + +"We were a bit fortunate, sir," Jack admitted. + +"It was more than good fortune," declared Lord Hastings. "But it's nothing +more than I expected of you both." + +They conversed about various matters for some minutes. Then Jack asked: + +"And what is in store for us now, sir?" + +"You will report to Admiral Beatty," said Lord Hastings. "The Essex will +be assigned to duty with the Grand Fleet in the North Sea. Patrol work, +mostly. There is little likelihood that the Germans will make another +effort, but the sea must be patrolled, nevertheless." + +"When do we report, sir?" + +"At once. You will weigh anchor in the morning. Admiral Beatty's flagship +is somewhere off the coast of Belgium." + +"Very well, sir," said Jack, and departed. + +The next day the Essex left Dover. Fifty miles out, Jack picked up the +flagship by wireless and received his instructions. + +Days lengthened into weeks now and weeks into months and the Essex was +still patrolling the North Sea with others of the Grand Fleet--composed +besides British vessels of an American squadron in command of Vice-Admiral +Sims. August passed and September came and still the Germans failed to +venture from their fortress of Helgoland and offer battle to the allies. + +The work became monotonous. Occasionally, the Essex put back to port for +several days to replenish her bunkers and to take on provisions. At such +times Jack and Frank usually went ashore for short periods, and the crew, +portions at a time, were granted shore leave. + +It was upon the last day of September that great news reached the +fleet--news that indicated that the war was nearing its end and that now, +if ever, the German fleet might venture from its hiding place and risk an +engagement. + +Bulgaria had broken with Germany and sued for a separate peace. + +Several days later came the news that an armistice had been signed and +that Bulgaria had ordered all German and Austrian troops to leave her +boundaries. King Ferdinand abdicated in favor of his eldest son, Boris, +who immediately ordered the demobilization of the Bulgarian armies. + +"Turkey will come next, mark my words," declared Frank as he and Jack +stood on the bridge, looking off across the broad expanse of the North +Sea. + +"Most likely," Jack agreed; "and after Turkey, Austria. That will leave +Germany to fight the world by herself." + +"She'll never attempt that," Frank declared. "The minute she sees her last +chance gone, she'll squeal for help, the same as a hog. It's not in a +German to take a licking, you know. He begins to show, yellow when the +game goes against him." + +"Perfectly true," said Jack, with a nod. "Now, it strikes me that Germany, +facing the problem of fighting it out alone--for she must see that +Bulgaria's action will soon be followed by her other allies--may send out +her fleet for a grand blow." + +Frank shook his head. + +"Not a chance," he said. + +"But," said Jack, "it has been the opinion of war critics and experts +right along that Germany was saving her fleet for the final effort when +all other means had failed." + +"I don't care what the experts think," declared Frank, "I don't think the +Germans will dare risk an engagement. In the first place, it would be +suicidal--she would have everything to lose and nothing to gain. Don't +fret. The German naval authorities know just as well as we do what would +happen to the German fleet should it issue from Helgoland." + +"Maybe you're right," said Jack, "but in the enemy's place, I wouldn't +give up without a final effort." + +"That's just it," Frank explained. "You wouldn't, and neither would I. +Neither, for that matter, would any British or American officer, nor +French. But the German is of different caliber. He doesn't fight half as +well when he knows the odds are against him. No, I believe that the German +fleet will be virtually intact when the war ends." + +"Then we'll take it away from them," declared Jack. + +"I'm sure I hope so. It would be dangerous to the future peace of the +world to allow the Germans to keep their vessels." + +"Well," said Jack, "you can talk all you please, but you can't convince me +our work is over--not until peace has been declared--or an armistice +signed, or something." + +"I agree with you there. There will be plenty of work for us right up to +the last minute." + +As it developed the lads were right. + +"It was shortly after midnight when Jack was aroused by the third officer. + +"Message from Admiral Beatty, sir," said the third officer, and passed +Jack a slip of paper. + +Jack read the message, which had been hastily scribbled off by the radio +operator. + +"German squadron of six vessels reported to have left Helgoland and to be +headed for the coast of Scotland," the message read. "Proceed to intercept +them at full speed. Other vessels being notified." + +Jack sprang into his clothes, meanwhile having Frank summoned from his +cabin. Frank dashed into Jack's cabin, clothes in hand. + +"What's up?" he demanded. + +"Germans headed for the Scottish coast," replied Jack briefly, and dashed +out of the door. + +Frank followed him a few moments later. Jack was standing on the bridge +giving orders hastily. + +"Have a look at the engine room, Frank," said Jack, "and tell the engineer +to crowd on all possible steam. We'll have need of speed this trip, or I +miss my guess." + +Frank obeyed. + +The Essex, which had been proceeding east by south at a leisurely pace, +had come about now and was dashing due north at top speed. Jack himself +shaped the course and gave the necessary instructions to the helmsman. + +Below in the radio room, the wireless began to clatter. The operator, from +time to time, was getting into touch with other vessels of the Grand Fleet +ordered north to intercept the German raiders. + +First he received a flash from the Lion; then the Brewster replied, and +after her, the Tiger, Southampton, Falcon, White Hawk and Peerless. +Counting the Essex this made eight ships speeding northward to intercept +the enemy. + +"I take it," said Jack, "that this is about the last blow the enemy will +attempt to deliver. The Germans, knowing they are beaten, are intent now +only upon doing what damage they can while there is yet time. This raid, I +suppose, they figure will throw a scare into the coast cities, as similar +raids did earlier in the war. However, they'll have a surprise this time, +for all the coast ports are fortified now. There will be guns there to +stand them off until we get there." + +"Let's hope we get there in time," muttered Frank. "I'd like one more +crack at the enemy. I'm afraid they are going to get off too easily when +peace comes." + +"We've got to get there in time," declared Jack. + +From time to time the radio operator sent reports to Jack giving the +positions of other vessels rushing to the defense of the coast ports. + +"We'll get there first, at this rate," said Jack. "We're closer than the +others." + +"But we're no match for the enemy single-handed," declared Frank. "Chances +are that the German squadron is composed mostly of battleships." + +"True enough," Jack admitted, "but we'll do what damage we can. The +Tiger, Lion, White Hawk, Falcon and Peerless are warships, you know. +They'll be more than enough for the foe." + +"Yes; but we may be at the bottom of the sea by that time." + +"Don't worry. We'll hold our own until assistance arrives." + +Jack made a rapid calculation. + +"If we had any idea of the approximate position of the enemy at this time, +we would know better how to go about our work," he said. + +"You might call the enemy and find out?" said Frank with a grin. + +"Don't be funny, Frank," said Jack severely. "This is no time for levity." + +Came a cry from the lookout. + +"Battle squadron off the port bow, sir!" + +Jack clapped his glass to his eye. + +The ships were too far distant and the night was too dark, however, to +permit him to ascertain the identity of the approaching vessels. + +"May be the enemy, Jack," said Frank. + +"Right," Jack agreed. + +A shrill whistle rang out on the Essex. + +This was the answer to Jack's order to pipe the crew to quarters. + +"Clear ship for action!" was Jack's next command. + +"If it is the enemy," he confided to Frank, "we'll try and keep him +engaged until reinforcements arrive." + +"It may not be so hard, after all," Frank said "They may turn and beat a +retreat when they find they are discovered." + +"Not if there is only one of us," said Jack. "Pass the word to the forward +lookout to sing out as soon as he can identify the enemy. I'll flash my +light on them. He may be able to make them out." + +The huge searchlight of the Essex flashed forth across the water, and +played upon the approaching ships. + +"Germans!" came the cry from the lookout. + +"I thought so," said Jack. "Frank, go to the radio room and find out how +close our nearest support is." + +Frank was back in a few minutes. + +"Lion says to engage," he reported. "Says she'll be with us in less than +an hour. Tiger says she will arrive not more than fifteen minutes later. +Falcon and Hawk report they are less than an hour and a half away." + +"Right," said Jack. "Trouble is those fellows are likely to out-range us, +in which event we'll have to retire slowly, trying to draw them after us. +In that way reinforcements may arrive sooner. Hello! There she goes!" + +The roar of a great gun came across the water. + + + + +CHAPTER XXIV + +THE ENGAGEMENT + + +"If we retire," said Jack, "we will leave the way open to the coast. At +this minute we are in their way." + +"But if we try to stick it out here we'll be sunk," said Frank. "And if we +retire toward the coast, we'll be moving away from our supports." + +"True enough," Jack agreed. "There's only one thing to do. That is to +retire as slowly as possible and try to entice all six ships after us. But +I'd much rather wade right in." + +"Same here. But discretion is the better part of valor, you know." + +"Boom!" + +Again a gun spoke aboard one of the enemy. + +"We're still out of range," said Jack. "Let 'em come a little closer." + +As Jack could now see, all six ships had altered their course slightly and +were heading directly for the Essex. + +"You may come about, Mr. Chadwick," said Jack. + +Slowly the Essex swung about. + +"Train your left guns on the enemy," Jack ordered. + +This was done. + +"Range finders!" + +"Still out of range, sir," was the report. + +"All right But let me know the minute we can strike." + +"Aye, aye, sir." + +"Half speed ahead, Mr. Chadwick." + +"Aye, aye, sir." + +Frank signalled the engine room. + +"Boom! Boom! Boom!" + +Guns spoke simultaneously aboard three of the enemy ships. + +"Still beyond range." + +It was Lieutenant Hetherton who spoke. + +"Trouble is," said Frank, "that they will be within range before we are." + +"We'll risk it," said Jack. "It's up to us to keep them busy until the +warships arrive." + +The next fire from the enemy resulted in a screaming shell to port. + +"They've got the range, sir," said Frank. + +"Make it two-thirds speed ahead." + +The speed of the Essex increased. + +But the German vessels were bearing down on her swiftly, and eventually +Jack was forced to call for full speed ahead. + +But still the German warships gained. + +"They've the heels of us, too," muttered Jack. "Well, we'll slow down a +bit and trust to luck. We can't do any damage unless we get within +range." + +The Essex slowed suddenly to half speed. + +The German fleet dashed ahead, now in single formation. This was fortunate +for the Essex, for it meant that the guns of only one ship could be +brought to bear on the British destroyer at one time. + +"Range, sir!" cried the range finder at this point. + +"Then fire!" shouted Jack to the aft turret battery captain. + +The battery spoke sharply, and the men gave a cheer of delight. + +The first shell went home. It cleared the bow of the first German vessel +apparently by the fraction of an inch and smashed squarely into the +bridge. The crash of the shell striking home was followed almost instantly +by an explosion. Timber and steel, intermingled with human bodies, flew +high in the air. This much those aboard the Essex could see by the flare +of the searchlight. + +"A good shot, men!" cried Jack. "An excellent shot!" + +An excellent shot it was indeed. + +Something appeared to have gone wrong with the steering apparatus of the +first German ship. She veered slightly to port. + +The target thus presented was an excellent one. + +"Fire!" cried Jack again. + +The aft battery crashed out and once more the British cheered. + +Two shells plowed into the crippled German just on the water line. + +"A death wound," muttered Frank. + +The lad was right. + +The German vessel staggered under the force of the impact and seemed to +reel backward. Men leaped to the rails and hurled themselves into the sea. + +Suddenly there was a loud explosion and the ship seemed to split in two, a +blaze of red fire stretching high into the heavens from the middle of the +vessel as it did so. Then blackness enveloped it again and the two parts +of the ship fell back into the water with a hiss like that of a thousand +serpents. The first German ship was gone. + +It was first blood to the Essex and the crew cheered again. + +But the other five German vessels came on apace. The gun on the forward +ship spoke, but the shell went wild. + +"If they'll keep that formation, we might get away with the whole bunch of +them," said Frank. + +"Yes, but they won't," replied Jack. + +He was a good prophet. + +Even now, the German vessels began to spread out, and within ten minutes +had formed a semi-circle. It was possible now for the forward guns on each +ship to rake the Essex without interfering with each other's fire. + +"Train your guns on the ship farthest to port," Jack instructed. + +The order was obeyed. Again came the order for range finders, and the +report that the range was O.K. + +"Fire!" cried Jack. + +Once more fortune was with the crew of the Essex. The range had been +absolutely accurate, and the heavy shell from the Essex carried away the +superstructure of the German. At the same moment came a cry from the +lookout aft: + +"Warship coming up astern, sir!" + +Quickly Jack looked around. + +"The first of our reinforcements," he said quietly. + +He gave his attention again to the enemy, who was drawing uncomfortably +close. + +"Crash!" + +Jack whirled sharply. + +A shell had struck the Essex just above the water line on the port side. + +"Go below and report, Mr. Chadwick!" Jack ordered. + +Frank hurried away in response to this command. He sought the engine room. + +"What's the damage, chief?" he asked. + +"Slight," was the reply. "Shell passed clear through us, but cleared the +boilers. Better round up the carpenter, though, sir." + +Frank hurried back to the bridge and reported the extent of the damage. +Then he sent a midshipman for the ship's carpenter. + +"Crash! Bang!" + +Another shell had struck the Essex, this time in the aft gun turret. + +"Report, Mr. Chadwick," said Jack briefly. + +Frank hurried to the turret. + +"What's the damage, Captain?" he asked of the chief of the gun crew. + +"One gun smashed, sir," was the reply. "Three of the crew killed and five +injured." + +"Other guns still working?" + +"Can't you hear 'em, sir?" + +Frank smiled in spite of himself and cast a quick glance around. + +In spite of the death that had overtaken their comrades, the surviving gun +crews in the turret were working like Trojans. The big guns continued to +spit defiance at the enemy. + +Now and then a cheer rose on the Essex as a shot went home. + +Frank again returned to the bridge to report. + +"Boom!" + +It was a deeper voice that spoke this time. + +The radio operator himself rushed to the bridge. + +"Lion firing, sir," he said. "Says she has sighted us and for us to +retire. No need of sacrificing ourselves Captain Jacobs says. The enemy +can't get away." + +At the same moment the lookout aft sang out again. + +"Warship coming up astern, sir!" + +"The second of our reinforcements," said Jack quietly. "I'll bet these +fellows wish they had stayed home." + +"I'm betting the same way," declared Frank. + +"Well, it's getting too hot here," said Jack. "We'll get back and let the +big fellows get in the game." + +"Good idea, sir," said Lieutenant Hetherton. + +"Full speed ahead!" Jack ordered. + +At the sound of the great gun on the British warship Lion, the German +admiral in command of the flotilla ordered his ships to slow down. Until +that moment he had not been appraised of the fact that the German raid was +known to the British fleet. He supposed, upon seeing the Essex, that he +had encountered a single vessel which just happened to be in that part of +the sea, but when the Lion came into the fight he began to have his +doubts. + +As yet, however, there was no other vessel in sight, and as the Germans +heavily outnumbered the British, the admiral decided to continue the +engagement. + +"I suppose this fellow happened to hear the firing and came to +investigate," muttered the German admiral. "Our raid can hardly have been +discovered yet." + +Accordingly he gave the word to advance again. + +And a moment later he was sorry that he had done so. + +Far astern of the Lion, and yet not so far that the German admiral could +not have seen her but for the darkness, came two other long gray shapes; +and from farther east, and closer, appeared a third. + +The German admiral gritted his teeth. + +"Confound these English!" he exclaimed. "Can nobody beat them?" + +For a moment he debated with himself. He had half a mind to continue the +struggle, for the odds were still, with the Germans. Then he changed his +mind. + +The wireless aboard the German flagship flashed a signal to retire. + +But the German admiral had delayed too long for a successful retreat. +Other British ships hove into view--seven of them. There was nothing for +the German fleet to do but fight it out. The admiral gave the order: + +"Advance!" + + + + +CHAPTER XXV + +THE LAST SEA BATTLE + + +The cannonading became terrific. + +Now that assistance arrived, Jack ordered the Essex, which still was the +nearest British vessel to the enemy, back into the fray. + +"The big fellows will look out for us," he confided to Frank. + +The revolving turrets of the Essex were kept on the move and guns crashed +as fast as they could be brought to bear. Shells struck on all sides of +the destroyer and occasionally one came aboard. But thanks to Jack's +maneuvering of the vessel, so far she had not been struck in a vital part. + +The main British fleet bore down on the enemy from two sides, and to +protect themselves against these new foes, the Germans were forced to turn +their attention elsewhere than the Essex. Already big shells from the +British warships were striking aboard the enemy. The range had been found +almost with the first fire from the approaching war vessels and the +Germans were replying as fast as they were able. + +The fighting was at such close range now that Jack was able to distinguish +the names of the German battleships. In the center, flying the flag of +Admiral Krauss, was the Bismarck. On the right of the flagship were the +Hamburg and the Potsdam, while on the left the flagship was flanked by the +Baden and the Wilhelm II. + +The fire of all five German vessels, at order of the admiral, was now +directed upon the Lion, which bore down swiftly and was perhaps a quarter +of a mile closer to the enemy than any other British craft except the +destroyer Essex, commanded by Jack. + +The forward guns of the Lion roared angrily and spat fire in the darkness +as she bore down on the Germans at full speed. As yet no enemy shell had +struck the Lion, but she had put several shells aboard the nearest German +battleship--the Baden. + +Now that the German fire had been momentarily lifted from the Essex, Jack +ordered his ship in closer; and a veritable hail of shells were dropped on +the Potsdam. For a moment or so the Germans paid no attention to the +destroyer, but the fire from Jack's men became so accurate that the +captain of the German ship found it necessary to disregard the admiral's +orders and turn his attention to the Essex in self-defense. + +The first shell from the Potsdam flew screaming over the bridge of the +destroyer, but did no damage. The second was aimed better. It struck the +bow of the destroyer on the port side and plowed through. The destroyer +quivered through her entire length. + +"Go below and report, Mr. Chadwick," Jack commanded. + +Upon investigation, Frank learned that the shell had plowed through the +forward bulkheads and that the outside compartments were awash. But the +inner compartments had not been penetrated. He rounded up the ship's +carpenter, who announced that the damage could be repaired in half an +hour. There had been no casualties. + +Jack accepted Frank's report with a brief nod; then gave his attention +again to fighting his ship. + +Forward and to the right of the Essex there sounded a terrific explosion, +followed by a blinding glare. The Baden, one of the largest of the German +warships, sprang into a mighty sheet of flame. A shell from the Lion had +penetrated the engine room and exploded her boilers. Came wild cries from +aboard the vessel and escaping steam and boiling water poured on the crew +and scalded them. + +With the searchlights of the British ships playing on her, the Baden +reared high out of the water, and as men jumped into the sea for safety, +she settled by the head, and sank. + +This left only four of the enemy to continue the struggle and opposed to +these the British offered eight unwounded vessels. Admiral Krauss gazed in +every direction, seeking a possible avenue of escape. And at last he +believed he saw it. + +To the east--back in the direction from which he had come--the space +between the British battleships Peerless and Falcon seemed to offer a +chance. The German admiral calculated rapidly. To the eye it appeared that +the German ships could pass through that opening before the British could +close in. + +The wireless aboard the German flagship sputtered excitedly. Instantly the +four remaining German ships turned and dashed after the flagship, which +was showing the way. + +Instantly the commander of every British ship realized the purpose of the +enemy. Even the distant Falcon and Peerless seemed to know what was +expected of them. Their speed increased and they dashed forward in an +effort to intercept the enemy. + +It was nip and tuck. The Lion was the first to dash in pursuit, followed +by the Tiger and the White Hawk. The Brewster and Southampton, closely +followed by the more or less crippled Essex, brought up the rear, each +doing its utmost to pass the other in order to get another chance at the +enemy. + +Slowly the Lion, the Tiger and the White Hawk gained on the enemy; and it +became apparent now that the Germans would be unable to get through the +space between the Peerless and Falcon without a fight. + +Aboard the Bismarck, the German admiral gritted his teeth. + +"It will have to be fight now," he muttered, "and the odds are all against +me." + +The Falcon and the Peerless, from either side and forward of the Germans, +now opened with their big guns almost simultaneously. Every available gun +aboard the German vessels replied. From astern, the guns of the Lion were +pounding the sterns of the fleeing enemy battleships. The Brewster and the +Southampton, together with the Tiger and the White Hawk, also were hurling +shells after the Germans, although with little effect, for they were +trailing too far behind. + +Jack urged the Essex forward in the wake of the others. He was far behind +and was rapidly being outdistanced by the larger ships, but he determined +to see the thing through if possible. + +The last German ship in line, struck by a shell from the pursuing Lion, +staggered and fell to one side. The Lion darted on, pouring a broadside +into the crippled enemy as she passed, then dashed after the vessels +ahead. + +The Tiger, White Hawk, Brewster and Southampton, also poured broadsides +into the Wilhelm II as they passed, but they did not even slacken their +pace. + +But the Wilhelm II apparently had not received her death blow. Her crew +continued to fight the ship heroically, and as the Essex approached she +was greeted with a heavy fire from the German. + +"The big fellows don't seem to have made a very good job of this," said +Jack to Frank. "We'll finish it for them." + +The Essex slowed down and turned sharply toward the Wilhelm II. Her guns +still in condition to fight burst forth anew. The British showed +excellent marksmanship. Shell after shell was poured into the crippled +foe. Jack ordered "cease firing." + +Taking a megaphone that lay nearby, he put it to his mouth and called: + +"Surrender!" + +His answer was a shell that came crashing aboard aft from one of the +Wilhelm II's big guns. Jack turned quietly to Frank. + +"Sink her!" he said. + +Frank dashed across the deck to where the crew of the forward gun turret +was anxiously awaiting some command. He addressed the captain of the crew. + +"See if you can put a shell into her engine room," he said. "Take your +time." + +The latter did so; and it was several seconds before the big gun spoke, +but when it did Frank uttered an exclamation of satisfaction. + +The shell had gone true. Watching eyes aboard the Essex saw it plow its +way through the side of the Wilhelm II. Then came the explosion and the +Wilhelm II seemed to part in the middle. She sank in less than five +minutes. + +Meanwhile, the Peerless and Falcon had headed off the other three German +ships, which, forced to fight, now stood at bay, with every gun pounding. +The Lion, Tiger and the other vessels bore down on them rapidly from +astern. + +For the space of half an hour the view of those aboard the Essex was +obscured by the smoke from the big guns, which could not be penetrated +even by the bright lights of the searchlights. They could hear the boom of +the big guns, the crash of the shells as they struck home and occasional +sharp explosions that told of irrepairable damage aboard the enemy +vessels, but they could see nothing. + +"This will be the last of the enemy," was Frank's comment. + +Jack nodded. + +"I should think so," he agreed. "If they let one of those fellows get away +now they should be court-martialed." + +"Don't fret," said Frank, "they won't get away." + +They didn't get away. + +Firing ceased just as the first streak of light appeared in the eastern +sky, and when the smoke of battle cleared away, Jack and Frank saw that +the British victory had been complete. + +Only two German ships were still above water. These were the Bismarck, +flagship of Admiral Krauss, and the Hamburg. The others had all been sunk. + +The Hamburg, the lads could see, was slowly sinking by the head. She was +being abandoned by her crew, who, in small boats, some even swimming, were +hurrying to the side of the Bismarck, where they were lifted aboard. + +"Why didn't they sink her, too?" demanded Frank pointing to the German +flagship. + +"Why?" repeated Jack. "Why should they? Can't you see that white flag +flying at the masthead?" + +"By George! I hadn't noticed that." + +"And there," said Jack, pointing, "goes a prize crew from the Lion to take +over the vessel." + +A launch loaded with British tars had put off from the Lion and was making +toward the German flagship. + +Admiral Krauss and his officers and men were soon transferred to the Lion +and a British crew was in possession of the Bismarck. + +Thus ended the last sea battle of the great war. In all the times that +Germany had tested the naval power of Great Britain and her allies, she +had found it great--too much for German naval tactics to overcome. And now +that the great war was drawing to an end, she did not test it again. + + + + +CHAPTER XXVI + +THE END APPROACHES + + +With the coming of November, it became apparent to every officer and man +in the Grand Fleet--as well as the rest of the world--that the beginning +of the end was at hand--that the German war machine was disintegrating and +was about to break. + +This was strengthened by the announcement on November 2 that the preceding +day England, France and Italy had concluded an armistice with Turkey, thus +depriving Germany of her second ally. This left only Germany and Austria +to continue the struggle, and upon the same day that the armistice with +Turkey was announced came word that Austria also had made overtures for +peace. + +"You can take it from me," said Jack, as the destroyer Essex continued her +patrol of the North Sea, "that this war is about to end. I'm willing to +bet that Germany will sue for peace within a couple of weeks." + +Frank expressed his doubts. + +"She's likely to continue the struggle for some time yet," he said. + +"But that would be foolish," declared Jack. "She can hope to gain nothing +thereby." + +"Perhaps not. But if Germany sues for peace now there is likely to be such +an internal upheaval in the Empire that the French revolution will look +like a house party." + +"Maybe you're right, but I stick to my opinion nevertheless." + +Events proved that Jack was right. + +On the morning of November 5, word reached the Grand Fleet that an +armistice had been concluded with Austria the day before. + +"As I expected," said Jack. "What did I tell you, Frank?" + +"Well, I anticipated that myself," said Frank. "But Germany hasn't asked +for peace yet, you know." + +"True, but I can tell you something you don't know. I just got word this +morning." + +"What's that?" + +"Why Germany, through Chancellor Ebert, already is in negotiations with +President Wilson." + +"What?" + +"Exactly. President Wilson has replied that he will stick to his original +principles of peace, announced some time ago. Germany is requested to +announce whether she will accept such terms." + +"But it seems to me," said Frank, "that if Germany wants peace she should +be made to ask it on the field of battle." + +And that is exactly what happened, for when the armistice negotiations +were finally begun it was at a conference between Marshal Foch, +commander-in-chief of all the allied forces, and a commission of German +officers. + +It was on November 8, that news of the armistice conference was flashed to +the Grand Fleet. + +"Armistice commission will meet November 10 at Hirson, France," read the +message, flashed to every vessel in the fleet. + +All that day and the next, every man in the fleet waited anxiously for +further word of the approaching armistice conference. None came. Neither +had any word been received on the evening of November 10. + +"Must have been a hitch some place," said Frank, as they sat in the +latter's cabin that night. + +"Not necessarily," replied Jack, "You know these things take time. A +matter like this can't be fixed up in an hour, or a day." + +"Well," said Frank, "I'd like to know what terms Marshal Foch will impose +on the foe." + +"They'll be stringent enough, don't you worry," said Jack. "He'll impose +terms harsh enough to make sure that Germany doesn't renew the struggle +while final peace negotiations are in progress." + +"I hope so. But I'll tell you one thing I hope he does." + +"What's that?" Jack wanted to know. + +"I hope he insists on the surrender of the whole German fleet." + +"Whew!" exclaimed Jack. "You don't want much, do you?" + +"Well, he should insist on it," declared Frank. + +"But he probably won't," returned Jack. "I figure, however that he will +insist that a large share of the ships be turned over to the allies, +including their most powerful submarines and battleships and cruisers. But +you can't expect them to give up the whole business, particularly when the +entire High Seas Fleet is practically intact." + +"Maybe not; but I'm for taking all we can get." + +"So am I," Jack agreed, "all that we can get without danger of causing a +hitch in the armistice proceedings." + +"Seems to me," said Frank, "that by this time we should have had some word +of the proceedings at Hirson to-day." + +"It would seem so, that's a fact. However, I guess we will get the +information all in good time." + +"That's all right. But I'm anxious to know what's going on." + +"Well, we won't know to-night; so I am in favor of turning in." + +"Guess we may as well." + +But early the next morning, an account of the first day's proceedings of +the armistice delegates was flashed to the fleet. This, however, did not +bring much jubilation, for the announcement simply said that the German +delegates had refused the terms offered by Marshal Foch and had returned +to their own lines for further instructions. + +"Told you so!" exclaimed Frank. "This war is not over yet." + +"Don't you believe it," declared Jack. "These Germans may do a little +bluffing--I'd probably try the same thing under similar conditions--but +you mark my words, they'll accept the terms, all right." + +"The conference is to be resumed some time this afternoon," said Frank. +"That means that we will hear nothing before morning." + +"It depends," said Jack. "If the armistice is signed to-day, we'll +probably get the word immediately; but if it stretches out for a day or +two, we probably won't" + +"I guess that's about the size of it," Frank admitted. + +All during the day excitement aboard the Essex, and all other vessels +patrolling the North Sea, for that matter, was at fever heat. While every +man knew that there was little likelihood of receiving news until long +after dark, each one nevertheless lived in hopes. + +Nevertheless, patrol work was still being done carefully. It had become an +axiom of a British sailor that a German was not to be trusted--that when +he appeared the least dangerous, it was time to watch him more carefully. +Consequently, in spite of the impending armistice, the vigilance of the +British fleet was not relaxed. + +Six o'clock came, and seven; and still there had been no word from the +scene of the armistice conference. At eight o'clock Frank said: + +"I don't know what we are sitting up for. Something must have gone wrong +again. If the armistice had been signed we would know something of it by +this time." + +"Hold your horses," said Jack. "I'm just as anxious as you are, but there +is no use getting excited about it." + +"Well," said Frank, "if we haven't heard something by nine o'clock, I'm +going to turn in." + +But at nine o'clock no word had been received. + +"I know we shall hear nothing to-night," said Frank, rising, "so I'm going +to tumble into my bunk." + +"Help yourself," said Jack, looking up from a book he was reading. "I'll +wait a little longer." + +Frank retired to his own cabin and was soon asleep. At ten o'clock, no +word having been received, Jack put down his book and rose. + +"Frank may be right," he told himself. "At all events, I may as well turn +in. My remaining up won't alter the facts, whatever they are." + +He undressed, extinguished the light in his cabin and climbed into bed. + +Aboard practically every ship in the fleet, almost the same scenes were +enacted that night. Officers and men alike remained up for hours, awaiting +possible word that the armistice had been signed. But at midnight no word +had been received, and while the big ships moved about their patrol work, +the men slept--those of them who had no duties to perform at that hour. +Only the officers and members of the crew watch, and the night radio +operators, remained awake. + +To Jack it seemed that he had just closed his eyes when he was aroused by +the sound of the Essex's signal whistle. It screeched and screeched. Jack +leaped from his bunk and scrambled into his clothes. + +"Something wrong," he muttered. "Wonder why they didn't call me?" + +He hurried on deck. + +Frank, in his cabin, also had been aroused by the noise. He, too, sprang +into his clothes and hurried on deck. + +There the first thing that his eyes encountered was a circle of figures, +with hands joined, dancing about the bridge and yelling at the top of +their voices. Among them was Jack, who, for the moment, seemed to have +forgotten the dignity that went with his command. Also, the shrill signal +whistle continued to give long, sharp blasts. Frank looked at Jack in pure +amazement. + +"Must have gone crazy," he muttered. + +He hurried to the bridge and standing behind the dancing figures, caught +Jack by the coat as he whirled by. + +"I say," he demanded. "What's the meaning of this? Have you gone mad?" + +Jack stopped and broke away from the circle which danced on without him. + +"Almost," said Jack, in answer to Frank's question, "and with good +reason." + +"What--" began Frank. + +"By George! Can't you think?" demanded Jack. + +Gradually comprehension dawned on Frank. + +"You mean--" he began again. + +"Of course, I mean it," shouted Jack. "Why else do you think I'd be +dancing around here like a whirling dervish? Come on and join the crowd. +The armistice has been signed!" + +"Hurrah!" shouted Frank. + +A moment later he was circling madly about the bridge with the others. + + + + +CHAPTER XXVII + +PREPARING FOR THE SURRENDER + +ALTHOUGH the armistice had now been officially signed and fighting had +ceased, under orders from Admiral Beatty, commander of the Grand Fleet, +every ship was still stripped for action. While it appeared that +everything was open and above-board, the British admiral intended to take +no chances. He recalled other German treachery and he was not at all sure +in his own mind that the enemy might not attempt some other trick. + +Two days after the signing of the armistice, upon instructions from the +admiralty, Admiral Beatty got in touch by wireless with the German fleet +commander in Helgoland, Admiral Baron von Wimpfen. With the latter Admiral +Beatty was to arrange for the surrender for such portions of the German +High Seas Fleet as had been decided upon by Marshal Foch and the German +armistice commission. + +All day the wireless sputtered incessantly aboard the flagship, while +other ship commanders within radio distance listened to what was going on. +Jack was among these. He relieved his radio operator for the day and took +the instrument himself. + +"The German fleet," ticked Admiral Beatty's flagship wireless, "will steam +forth from Helgoland on November 19 and move due west toward the English +coast, where the British fleet will be stationed to await its coming." + +"Shall we dismantle our guns?" asked Admiral von Wimpfen. + +"Yes." + +"And what of the size of our crews?" + +"They shall be large enough to handle the vessel. That is all. The crew of +each ship shall be reduced to the minimum." + +"And how about our submarines?" + +"They must be surrendered first." + +"But the surrender cannot be completed in one day." + +"I am aware of it," replied Admiral Beatty. "As I have instructed you, the +first of the German fleet will leave Helgoland on the night of November +19. By that I mean the submarines. They must steam on the surface. The +first flotilla to be composed of twenty-seven vessels." + +"I understand," returned the German admiral. + +"Very well. My ships will be stretched out in a fifty-mile line on either +side of your ships as they approach and will fire at the first sign of +treachery." + +"There shall be no treachery, sir. You have the word of a German admiral." + +"Very well I shall acquaint you with other details from time to time." + +This was the conversation that Jack heard that day. + +At noon on November 18, Jack, together with other commanders, received +word from Admiral Beatty to steam toward Harwich, on the English coast, +and to take his place in the long line of ships that would be gathered +there to receive the surrender of the enemy fleet. + +Excitement thrilled the crew of the Essex. They were about to witness one +of the greatest events of world history and there wasn't a man aboard who +didn't know it. Nevertheless, there was no confusion, and the Essex +steamed rapidly westward. + +"Hope we get up near the front of the line," said Frank to his chum. "Also +that we are close to Admiral Beatty's flagship." + +"Here too," said Jack. "It will be a sight worth seeing." + +"Rather." + +"Well, we can't kick no matter where they place us, you know. I suppose I +shall receive the necessary instructions in plenty of time." + +Jack did. The instructions came the following morning, while the Essex was +still possibly a hundred miles off the English coast. + +"You will report to Admiral Tyrwhitt," Jack's message read, "who will +assign you to your station." + +Jack immediately got in touch with Admiral Tyrwhitt by wireless. The +latter gave his position and informed the lad that his place in line would +be next to the Admiral's flagship. + +"I thought Admiral Beatty would be up toward the front," said Jack. + +"He probably will," was Frank's reply. "I have it figured out like this, +from what you have told me of the fact that the submarines will be +surrendered first: Admiral Tyrwhitt probably will receive the surrender of +the U-Boats, while Admiral Beatty will receive the formal surrender of +Admiral von Wimpfen himself." + +"Maybe that's it," Jack agreed. + +It was well after noon when the Essex sighted the flagship of Admiral +Tyrwhitt, the Invincible, and reported for duty. Jack received +instructions to lay to just west of the flagship. He obeyed. + +From time to time now other vessels appeared and reported to Admiral +Tyrwhitt and were assigned places in the long line. + +Suddenly there was a cheer from the crews of the many ships. Jack glanced +across the water, as did Frank. And then the latter went wild with +excitement. + +Steaming majestically toward them came five great battleships flying the +Stars and Stripes. + +"So the Americans will be in at the finish," said Jack. + +"You bet they will," declared Frank. "We're always in at the finish." + +"Well, you deserve to be this time, I guess," said Jack with a smile. + +"We always deserve to be," declared Frank. + +"So?" replied Jack. "I'm not going to argue with you about it." + +"It wouldn't do any good," declared Frank. "Let me tell you something. If +it hadn't been for the United States this war wouldn't be over yet." + +"Is that so?" demanded Jack. "Why wouldn't it?" + +"Because all the British and French together don't seem to have been able +to lick the Germans." + +"Rats," exclaimed Jack. "We would have done it in time." + +"Maybe so, but there is nothing sure about it It was the Americans who +turned the tide at Chateau-Thierry." + +"They did some wonderful work, I'm not gain-saying that," Jack admitted. +"But I can't see that it was any more remarkable than what the Canadians +did at Vimy Ridge." + +"Well," said Frank smiling, "while the Canadians are really British +subjects, nevertheless they come from the same part of the world as the +Yankees. They're made out of the same pattern." + +Jack smiled. + +"I seem to have spoiled my own argument there, don't I?" he said. + +Frank grinned too. + +"You've got to admit," he said, "that when the Americans start a thing +they go through with it. They never turn back." + +"True enough," Jack admitted, "but to my mind it takes them a deuced long +time to get started." + +"They just want to be sure they're right first," Frank explained. + +"Have it your own way. But those five American ships approaching now look +mighty good, I'll admit that." + +"I never saw a more beautiful sight," declared Frank, and he meant it. + +Majestically the American warships steamed along, the leading vessel +flying the flag of Admiral Sims. They approached almost to the flagship of +Admiral Tyrwhitt and the guns of the two flagships boomed out an exchange +of salutes. Then the American flotilla slowed down and swung to leeward, +and took its places in the long line. + +"Going to be quite an event this surrender, if you ask me," said Frank. + +"It certainly is," Jack replied. "I understand King George and Queen Mary, +together with many other distinguished British, French, Americans and +Italians, will be present to witness the surrender." + +"Including ourselves," grinned Frank. + +"Well, we're probably not such big fry," Jack commented, "but we've done +as much--and a whole lot more--than a good many of them, if you ask me." + +"My sentiments exactly," declared Frank. "And for that reason we're just +as much entitled to be in at the finish as any of the rest." + +"More so," said Jack quietly. + +"Well, we'll be there. So we have no kick coming." + +All day great vessels of war continued to arrive and take their places in +the line. As far as the eye could see long gray shapes lay in the +water--two lines of them--with perhaps half a mile between. Through this +space the German warships would pass when they came out to surrender. + +When the eye could no longer see ships, the presence of other vessels was +noted by smudges of smoke on the horizon. The line of ships, or rather the +two lines, Jack and Frank knew, stretched almost to the distant shore. + +"Yes," said Jack, "it's going to be quite an event." + +Suddenly the guns of every ship burst out with a roar. The flagship of +Admiral Beatty was approaching down the line from shore. Aboard it, every +man of the great fleet knew, besides the admiral, were King George and +Queen Mary of England; and it was the royal salute that was being fired. +Even the American ships joined in the greeting. + +The guns of Admiral Beatty's flagship were kept busy acknowledging the +salutes. On every deck handkerchiefs and caps waved frantically as the +flagship passed. + +As the vessel drew abreast of the Essex, Jack and Frank, standing together +on the bridge, made out the forms of the King and Queen of England on the +bridge. + +Both lads doffed their caps, and Jack ordered the royal salute fired by +the big guns of the destroyer. + +The vessel trembled under the detonation and the crew seemed to go wild as +they cheered at the top of their voices. + +The flagship passed on. + +A mile or so to the east, the flagship slowed down and turned into line. + +"And that's where I suppose she will remain until after the surrender," +said Jack. + +The lad was right. + + + + +CHAPTER XXVIII + +THE SURRENDER + + +Germany's sea surrender began at dawn on November 20, nine days after the +signing of the armistice. + +Out in this misty expanse of the North Sea the allied battleships had +taken up their positions in a fifty-mile line of greyhounds. Aboard the +allied battleships every eye was strained to the east; every man was on +the alert. The British and allied war vessels presented a noble sight, +stretched out as far as the eye could see, and beyond. + +Every ship was stripped for action. Crews were at their posts. Not until +the surrender was an accomplished fact would the vigilance of the British +naval authorities be relaxed. Not until the German vessels were safe in +the hands of the allies would British officers and crews be certain that +the enemy was not meditating trickery up to the last moment. + +The destroyer Essex, commanded by Jack, as has already been said, was at +the extreme east of the long line of battleships. Beyond it were the +flagship of Admiral Beatty, flanked still farther east by three big war +vessels, and Admiral Tyrwhitt's flagship. + +Jack and Frank were on the bridge of the destroyer. Other officers were at +their posts. The crews stood to their guns. Below, the engine room was the +scene of activity. A full head of steam was kept up, for there was no +telling at what moment it might be needed. + +Came a shrill whistle from the farthest advanced British vessel, followed +by a cry from the lookout aboard the destroyer: + +"Here they come!" + +As the red sun rose above the horizon the first submarine appeared in +sight. Soon after seven o'clock, twenty-seven German submarines were seen +in line, accompanied by two destroyers. These latter were the Tibania and +the Serra Venta, which accompanied the flotilla to take the submarine +crews back to Germany. + +All submarines were on the surface, with their hatches open and their +crews standing on deck. They were flying no flags whatever, and their guns +were trained fore and aft in accordance with previous instructions from +Admiral Beatty. + +Until the moment that they had sighted the first ship of the British +fleet, the German flag had flown from the mastheads of the various +undersea craft, but they had been hauled down at once when the allied war +vessels came into view. + +The leading destroyer, in response to a signal from Admiral Beatty on his +flagship, altered her course slightly and headed toward the coast of +England. + +The wireless instrument aboard the destroyer Essex clattered and a few +moments later the radio operator rushed to the bridge with a message for +Jack. The latter read it quickly, then said: + +"Send an O.K. to the admiral?' + +"What's up, Jack?" asked Frank. + +"Lower half a dozen small boats, Mr. Hetherton," instructed Jack before +replying to Frank's question, "and have them manned by a score of men +each, fully armed." + +"Aye, aye, sir." + +Lieutenant Hetherton hurried away. + +"What's up, Jack?" asked Frank again. + +"I have been ordered to inspect each submarine as it comes abreast of us," +Jack replied. "Apparently the admiral still fears treachery. I'll remain +aboard here, and leave the work to you and the other officers." + +This was done. As each submarine drew up with the Essex she was boarded by +a score of the Essex's men. Some stood guard at the hatches with weapons +held ready, while an officer and the others of the crew went below for a +hurried trip of inspection, searching them diligently for "booby traps," +and other signs of treachery. + +This necessitated a slowing down in the speed of the German craft, but at +length the work was accomplished and Frank and his men, and all others +belonging aboard the Essex, returned to their ship. + +"All serene, Jack," Frank reported. + +"Very well, I shall so inform the admiral." + +He scribbled off a brief message, which he sent to the radio room. + +Now, with the submarines well along the line, the British fleet began to +move--escorting the U-Boats toward Harwich. The fleet would return the +next day to receive the surrender of the larger enemy war vessels, but +to-day it meant to make sure that the submarines were taken safely to +port. + +There was one brief halt while the German admiral in command of the +flotilla went aboard Admiral Tyrwhitt's flagship to make formal surrender +of the submarines. He was accompanied by two members of his staff. + +Admiral Tyrwhitt received him on the bridge. There were tears in the eyes +of the German admiral as he said: + +"Sir, I surrender to you this submarine fleet of the Imperial German +navy." + +He extended his sword. + +Admiral Tyrwhitt waved back the sword and accepted the surrender in a few +brief words. The German admiral turned on his heel and walked to the rail. +There one of his officers held out his hand to a British lieutenant who +was nearby. + +The latter refused it, and the German turned away muttering to himself in +his native tongue. The German admiral and his officers returned to the +destroyer, and the march of the fleets continued. + +It was a procession of broken German hopes--in the van, a destroyer of the +unbeaten navy; behind, the cruel pirate craft that were to subjugate the +sea. Each of the allied warships turned, and keeping a careful lookout, +steamed toward Harwich. + +As the Essex passed one of the largest submarines, which carried two 5.9 +guns, Frank counted forty-three officers and men on her deck. The craft +was at least three hundred feet long. + +"By George! Isn't she a whopper?" exclaimed the lad. + +Jack nodded. + +"She is indeed. The largest submarine I ever saw." + +Near the Shipwash lightship, three large British seaplanes appeared +overhead. They were followed by a single airship. The sight of the Harwich +forces, which soon appeared in the distance, together with the seaplanes +and the airship, was a most impressive one. + +Suddenly two carrier pigeons were released aboard one of the captured +submarines. + +A shock ran through the officers and crew of every allied vessel in sight. +Apparently something was wrong. Sharp orders rang out. But the matter +passed over. It was explained that the pigeons had been released merely to +carry back to Germany the news that the surrender had been made. + +Nevertheless, the act called forth a vigorous protest from the flagship of +the British commander-in-chief. + +"Another act like that and I shall sink you," was Admiral Beatty's +message. + +Still ten miles off shore, the procession came to a halt. Feverish +activity was manifest aboard the British vessels. Small boats were lowered +and put off toward the submarines. These carried British crews that were +to take over the vessels and conduct them to port. As fast as a British +crew took possession, the German crews were transferred to the German +destroyers there for the purpose of taking them back to Germany. + +Then the procession moved toward Harwich again. + +As the boats went through the gates into Harwich harbor, a white ensign +was run up on each of them, with the German flag flying underneath. + +Before being removed to the destroyers, which were to carry them back, +each submarine commander, who were the only Germans left aboard the +vessels as they passed into the harbor, was required to sign a declaration +that his submarine was in perfect running order, that his periscope was +intact, the torpedoes unloaded and the torpedo head safe. + +Despite orders issued to the Harwich forces in advance, to the effect that +no demonstration must be permitted in the city after the surrender of the +German fleet, wild cheering broke out on the water front as the +submarines, escorted by the great British warships, steamed into the +harbor. + +Military police cleared the water front of the dense throng that had +gathered, but the best efforts they put forth were unable to still the +bedlam that had broken loose. + +Commanders of the British ships had difficulty in restraining cheers by +their crews and later by the Harwich forces themselves when the fleet of +captured submarines was turned over to Captain Addison, the commandant at +that port. + +Harbor space for the surrendered U-Boats had been provided in advance, +and the vessels were now piloted to these places, where they were placed +under heavy guard. + +This work took time, and it was almost dark before the last submarine had +been escorted to its resting place. + +All day crowds thronged the streets of Harwich, cheering and yelling +madly. In vain the military authorities tried to stop the celebration. As +well have tried to shut out the sound of thunder in the heavens. At last +the authorities gave it up as a bad job, and joy and happiness ran rampant +and unrestrained. + +It was a glorious day for England, and thousands of persons from London +and the largest cities of the island had hurried to Harwich to witness the +formal surrender of the fleet and its internment. All night the thousands +paraded the streets of the little village, the celebration seeming to grow +rather than to diminish as the early morning hours approached. + +So passed the bulk of Germany's undersea fighting strength into the hands +of Great Britain and her allies. No longer would they terrorize with their +ruthless warfare. They were safe at last. The fangs of the undersea +serpents had been drawn. + +And on the night of November 20, 1918, thus made harmless, they lay +quietly in the harbor of Harwich, England, above them flying the Union +Jack. + + + + +CHAPTER XXIX + +THE SURRENDER COMPLETE + + +November 21! This was to be a day, perhaps, more historic than the one +that preceded it, for on this day was to be surrendered to the allied +fleet the bulk of the great war vessels that comprised the Imperial German +navy. + +Heading the great British flotilla that moved out to sea again was the +super-dreadnaught the Queen Elizabeth, Admiral Beatty's flagship, aboard +which were King George and Queen Mary, as they had been the day before. + +Following the first twenty-five British ships steamed the American +squadron, Admiral Rodman, aboard the dreadnaught New York, showing the +way. Following the New York were the Florida, Wyoming, Texas and Arkansas. +Behind the Americans trailed a pair of French cruisers, followed in turn +by a few Italian vessels, after which came the remainder of the great +British fleet. + +So the flotilla moved out again and took up the positions they had held +the day before. Again every eye was strained to catch sight of the first +German warship. And at last came the cry, sounding much as it had on the +preceding day: + +"Here they come!" + +The German fleet that approached now came much more swiftly than had the +flotilla of undersea craft. This time the halt was made while the German +flagship was abreast of the Queen Elizabeth. Admiral Baron von Wimpfen put +off for Admiral Beatty's vessel in a launch. + +Admiral Beatty received the German admiral on the bridge of the Queen +Elizabeth, with him were King George and Queen Mary. Admiral von Wimpfen +made the formal declaration of surrender and it was accepted by the +British admiral without ostentation. + +The German fleet thus turned over to Admiral Beatty consisted of +approximately one hundred and fifty vessels of all classes, including +dreadnaughts, battleships, cruisers and destroyers. Slowly these giant +vessels fell into line now and steamed toward Harwich, the British ships, +still cleared for action, accompanying them and watching carefully for the +signs of treachery. + +But no such signs showed themselves. No longer were the Germans thinking +of fight. They had been decisively beaten, and they knew it. Apparently +they considered themselves lucky to get off so easily. + +Still some distance off-shore, the crews of the German ships were +transferred to the half-dozen small vessels that were to carry them back +to the Fatherland, and British crews were put aboard the vessels. Then, +their eyes sad and watching what had once been the pride of Germany, the +German officers and sailors began their cheerless journey home. + +Again it was a night of festivity in Harwich, and in all England, and all +allied countries, for that matter. The surrender of the great German fleet +was now a thing of the past. Germany's hands were tied. She could continue +the struggle no longer even should she elect to do so. While a formal +declaration of peace had not been signed, and probably would not be signed +for months to come, the war was over, so far as actual fighting was +concerned. + +No wonder England, France, America, Italy and the smaller nations with +them went wild with joy. After four years of war, peace had again cast its +shadow over the earth, and everyone was glad. + +"So it's all over." + +It was Frank who spoke. He and Jack were in the latter's cabin on the +Essex. The ship was lying at anchor just outside Harwich harbor, riding +gently on the swell of the waves. + +"Yes, it's all over," said Jack, "and I'm glad." + +"So am I," Frank declared; "and yet we have had a good time." + +"So we have, of a kind. And still you can't rightly call it a good time +when all we have been doing is to seek, kill and destroy." + +"But it had to be done," Frank protested. + +"Oh, I know that as well as you do. But war is a terrible thing, and the +more you see of it the more certain you become that it is all +foolishness." + +"And yet, you can't permit a big bully to run amuck and smash up things +all over the world." + +"That's true, of course, and it's exactly what the kaiser and his war +machine tried to do. Now, the machine had to be smashed, of course, and it +has been smashed. But how long will it take the world to recover? How long +will it take to rebuild what has been destroyed in these four years of +war?" + +Frank shrugged his shoulders. + +"I'm not good at conundrums," he replied. + +"Nor I; and yet I'll venture to say that the reconstruction days will be +as hard as many we have experienced in the war." + +"The thing that I want to know," said Frank, changing the subject +abruptly, "is just what will be done with Germany in the final peace +conference." + +"You know as much about it as I do," replied Jack, "but my own idea is +that the German empire will be dismembered--divided into the states of +Prussia, Saxony, and so forth, as they were years before they united under +one head." + +"I'm sure I hope so. Certainly the allies will never permit Germany to +attain such power that may make all our fighting futile--they'll never let +her grow strong enough to start another world struggle." + +The lads conversed far into the night before retiring. Nevertheless they +were astir at an early hour, awaiting orders that they knew must come that +day; and they came shortly after noon in the shape of a wireless from Lord +Hastings. + +"Return to Dover at once," the message read. + +Again the Essex put to sea. + +But it was upon a peaceful voyage that the destroyer was bound now. No +longer did her decks bristle with shining guns, crew at quarters and ready +for action. True, the Essex still showed plainly that she was a ship of +war, but her threatening attitude was gone. The war was over and all was +quiet aboard. + +That night the destroyer put into Dover harbor and the lads went ashore to +report to Lord Hastings. It was after ten o'clock, but their former +commander received them at once in spite of the lateness of the hour. + +"Sorry to disturb you at this hour, sir," said Jack, "but I thought +perhaps you would wish us to report to you immediately." + +"And I am glad you did," returned Lord Hastings. "Come, tell me something +about yourselves. So you were in at the finish, eh?" + +"You bet!" exclaimed Frank enthusiastically. "You should have been there, +sir." + +"I was," replied Lord Hastings. + +"You were, sir?" + +"Yes." + +"But we didn't see you, sir," said Jack. + +"I know you didn't. But I saw you. And I saw Frank when he inspected the +submarines on the first day of the surrender." + +"Where were you, sir?" demanded Frank. + +"Aboard the Queen Elizabeth. I viewed the surrender as the guest of +Admiral Beatty, and their majesties." + +For some time the conversation dealt only with the surrender of the fleet. +Then Lord Hastings said: + +"Well, boys, the war is over. What do you intend to do now?" + +"I know what I shall do, sir," said Frank. + +"Well, let's hear it." + +"I shall return to America as soon as I am able to procure my discharge." + +"As I thought," said Lord Hastings. "And you, Jack?" + +"I hardly know, sir. I have no relatives, few friends. There is no one +dependent on me, and I am dependent on no one. It strikes me, sir, that +the navy might be a good place to stick." + +"And I had expected that, too," said Lord Hastings quietly. "But I don't +agree with you, Jack." + +"Why not, sir?" asked Jack, in some surprise. + +"In the first place," said Lord Hastings, "the life would begin to pall on +you when it settled down to dull routine. Now in active service, of +course, it's different. I know, because I've tried both. No, my advice to +you Jack, is to get out of the navy." + +"But what shall I do, sir?" + +"There are many things," said Lord Hastings quietly. "There is the +consular service, the diplomatic service. Who knows how far you may rise? +Already you have made a name for yourself and have won distinction. You +may go far, if you apply yourself." + +"That's true, too, sir," said Jack. "I have thought of that, at odd +moments. But I guess you are right about the navy, sir." + +"I know I am. And the sooner you get out of it the better." + +"Then I'll take your advice, sir. But I'm afraid it won't be possible to +get a discharge for some time yet." + +"It will be much simpler that you think, for both of you," said Lord +Hastings with a smile. "I still have some influence, you know, and I shall +see you receive your discharges within a fortnight, if you wish." + +"Hurray!" shouted Frank. "That suits me. There is no use sticking in the +navy now. There is nothing to do." + +"And," continued Lord Hastings to Jack. "In the meantime I'll look around +and see what I can turn up for you, Jack." + +"Thank you, sir," said Jack. + +"And in the meantime, Jack," added Frank, "you are going home with me for +a visit. That is, as soon as we get our discharges." + +Jack hesitated. + +"But I don't know that I should," he said. "Lord Hastings----" + +"Go by all means," said Lord Hastings. "You have earned a rest and should +take it. Now I'll see about the discharges at once, and as soon as you +receive them, both of you take my advice and go to the United States. That +will give me additional time to look around, Jack. And when you get there, +stay until I send for you." + +"All right, sir," said Jack with a smile. "You're still my superior +officer, sir. I must obey your commands." + +The three shook hands and Jack and Frank returned to the Essex. + + + + +CHAPTER XXX + +HOME AT LAST + + +"Recognize that, Jack?" asked Frank, pointing across the water. + +The lads were standing on the forward deck of a great trans-Atlantic liner +that was edging its way into New York harbor. + +Jack looked in the direction Frank indicated. + +"Rather," he said, "although I only saw it once before. That's the Statue +of Liberty." + +"Right," said Frank, "the emblem of that for which America went to war." + +"And the spirit for which we all fought," Jack added. + +"Exactly. Well, it's been a long time since I saw her. I'm glad to see her +again." + +It was morning of the last day of the year 1918. + +True to his word, Lord Hastings had been able to secure discharges for the +lads within two weeks after the surrender of the German fleet. They +accompanied Lord Hastings to London, where they remained some time at his +home. Frank, meanwhile, communicated with his father and announced that he +would be home soon. He did not give the exact date, for he wished his +return to be a surprise. And a surprise he knew it would be, as he now +stood on the deck of the incoming liner. + +The ship docked a short time later and Jack and Frank went ashore at once. +They took a taxi to the Grand Central station, where they caught a fast +train for Boston. It was night when they arrived there, but Frank +determined to go out to his home in Woburn, ten miles from Boston, at +once. + +Accordingly they took an elevated train at the South Station. This put +them in the North Station ten minutes later, and Frank found that there +was a train for Woburn in half an hour. + +It was after dark when the lads alighted from the train in the little town +of Woburn. Jack had been there with Frank before, when the lads had +crossed the Atlantic to New York soon after the United States entered the +war. Accordingly, he knew the way from the station to Frank's home almost +as well as the latter did himself. + +"Know where you are?" asked Frank. + +Jack grinned. + +"I've been here once," he said. "That should answer that question. You +know my memory is pretty good." + +"Then you can show me which house I live in," said Frank. + +Jack pointed to a house a block away where a dim light showed from beneath +a drawn curtain. + +"There's the house," he said, "and there appears to be some one home." + +"That's father, of course," said Frank. "He seldom goes out in the +evening." + +The lads quickened their steps and soon were before the house. Quietly +they mounted the steps and as quietly tip-toed across the porch. Frank +tried the door. It was unlocked. + +"Careless of father," he whispered. "I'll have to speak to him about +that." + +He opened the door gently and the two lads passed within. Frank closed the +door noiselessly behind him. The lads dropped their grips silently in the +hall and then tip-toed toward a room at the far end, where a light showed. + +Keeping out of sight, Frank peered in the door. There, with his back to +his son, sat Dr. Chadwick, reading. Frank stepped softly across the room +leaving Jack standing, grinning, at the door. + +Frank reached out and put both hands across his father's eyes. + +Dr. Chadwick's book dropped to the floor and for a moment Frank was afraid +he had frightened him by this unceremonious greeting. But Dr. Chadwick's +hands reached up and clasped the hands that for the moment blinded him. + +"Frank!" he cried, and sprang to his feet. + +The next moment father and son were in each other's arms. + +Dr. Chadwick held his son off at arm's length, and looked at him. + +"You're a sight for sore eyes," he declared. "You look better than you did +the last time I saw you, and you were looking fine then." + +"Here, Father," said Frank, "is a friend of mine come to see you." + +Dr. Chadwick turned and saw Jack in the doorway. He stepped forward and +gripped Jack's hand heartily. + +"Jack Templeton, eh?" he exclaimed. "I'm glad to see you. And you are +Captain Templeton now, I perceive." + +Jack blushed. + +"They insisted on making me one, sir, and I couldn't refuse," he said. + +"Now," said Dr. Chadwick, "you two boys sit right down here and tell me +all about yourselves. But first, are you hungry?" + +"No, sir," said Frank. "We had dinner on the train just before we reached +Boston." + +"Then let's hear what you have been doing. I understand you were present +at the surrender of the German fleet. Give me some of the details." + +Until long after midnight the three sat there, Dr. Chadwick listening +eagerly to the tales of his son and the latter's chum. But at last he +looked at his watch. + +"Why, it's after midnight," he exclaimed. "Time for bed." + +Frank led the way to the room he had occupied since babyhood. This Jack +was to share with him during his stay. + +"I'll tell you," said Frank, as he climbed into bed, "it feels pretty good +to a fellow to get back into his own bed after all these years." + +"I should think it would," agreed Jack. "But mine is a long ways from +here. However, I guess I shall see it again some day." + +"Of course you will, old fellow, and I'll go along with you." + +They fell asleep. + +Both lads were awakened by the sound of a commotion without. They jumped +out of bed. It was broad daylight of the first day of January, 1919. + +"Still celebrating the new year, I guess," said Frank. "Remember we heard +'em shooting before we went to bed?" + +Jack nodded. + +Frank went to the window and stuck his head out. Instantly there was a +wild yell outside. Frank drew his head hurriedly back again. + +"What's the matter?" asked Jack. + +"I don't know," said Frank. "There is a whole gang of fellows out there +and they all seem to be crazy about something." + +Jack had a faint suspicion. He crossed to the window and looked out. + +Again a yell went up, followed by a cry from many throats: + +"We want Frank!" + +Even Frank heard this. His face turned red and he began to act flustered. + +"Some of the fellows know I'm home, I guess," he said. + +"That's what's the matter, all right," Jack agreed. "Better show yourself +again." + +"Wait till I get some clothes on and I'll go down and see 'em," said +Frank. + +"They'll probably want you to make a speech," Jack suggested. + +Frank was alarmed. + +"Speech?" he repeated. "I can't make a speech." + +"Oh, yes you can. You don't mean to tell me that a fellow who has done +what you have--who has talked with kings and czars--is afraid to talk to +some of his old friends and companions?" + +"That's different," declared Frank. + +Jack smiled. + +"I catch your point, and maybe you're right," he admitted. "However, +you'll have to do it." + +"I suppose I shall," said Frank with a sigh, "so the sooner I get it over +with the better." + +He led the way downstairs and on to the front porch. Jack stepped forward +close beside him. Again there was a wild cheer from many throats. + +Both lads still wore their British uniforms, and they both presented a +manly and handsome appearance as they stood there on the front porch of +Frank's home. + +"Hello, Frank!" "Glad to see you back!" "Are you going to stay here?" +"Tell us about yourself." + +These were some of the cries hurled at the lad. + +Frank's face turned red and he would have turned away had not Jack's +stalwart frame stayed him. + +"Speech! Speech!" came the cry. + +The hubbub increased. + +"I can't do it, Jack!" Frank exclaimed. + +"Oh, yes you can," replied his chum. "I'll help you." + +He raised his right hand for silence, still keeping his left tightly on +Frank's shoulder, for the latter showed signs of bolting at the first +opportunity. Instantly the shouting died away and the crowd of young +fellows waited expectantly. + +"I just want to introduce my friend," said Jack smiling. "Lieutenant +Chadwick, gentlemen, of His British Majesty's service, though an American +citizen, and a good one at that. Lieutenant Chadwick will be glad to say a +few words to you." + +The cheering burst forth again, but died away as Jack pushed Frank +forward. + +Frank made a brave effort and finally managed to say a few words. He grew +more at ease as he went along and his audience listened intently. He +spoke for perhaps five minutes, then concluded: + +"And now, fellows, I want you all to step up and shake hands with my +friend--also my commander--Captain Jack Templeton. He's an Englishman, but +a pretty good fellow at that--and he's no older than any of us." + +There was another cheer and the boys gathered around to shake Jack's hand +and get acquainted with him. And after they had talked and talked and +feasted their eyes on the British uniforms to their hearts' content they +went away. Then Jack and Frank went in to breakfast, where Dr. Chadwick +was awaiting them at the table. + +A few words more and the history of The Boy Allies on the Sea is complete. + +Jack remained with Frank for several weeks, then returned to England upon +receipt of a message from Lord Hastings announcing that he had found a +place for the lad in the diplomatic service. The story of Jack's struggles +in his chosen profession would make interesting reading, perhaps, but it +is in no wise connected with the great war. Suffice it to say that he is +rapidly rising to fame and fortune and that in years to come, in all +probability, he will hold one of the most important posts in the British +government. + +Frank, for his part, remained in his home town, where he took up the +study of law. He proved an apt student and soon showed signs of talent +that undoubtedly will make him famous. + +So here we shall take our leave of Jack Templeton and Frank Chadwick, +knowing that, in years to come, they will meet again, both famous then, +and that through all the years their friendship shall survive, and grow +stronger than it was in the days when they fought side by side for the +freedom of the world. + +THE END + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Boy Allies with the Victorious +Fleets, by Robert L. Drake + +*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 14626 *** diff --git a/14626-h/14626-h.htm b/14626-h/14626-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..71695fa --- /dev/null +++ b/14626-h/14626-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,7599 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> +<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd"> + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> + <head> + <title> + The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Boy Allies, by Ensign Robert L. Drake. + </title> + <style type="text/css"> +/*<![CDATA[ XML blockout */ +<!-- + p { margin-top: .75em; + text-align: justify; + margin-bottom: .75em; + } + h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6 { + text-align: center; /* all headings centered */ + clear: both; + } + hr { width: 33%; + margin-top: 2em; + margin-bottom: 2em; + margin-left: auto; + margin-right: auto; + clear: both; + } + + table {margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;} + + body{margin-left: 10%; + margin-right: 10%; + } + + .linenum {position: absolute; top: auto; left: 4%;} /* poetry number */ + .blockquot{margin-left: 5%; margin-right: 10%;} + .pagenum {position: absolute; left: 92%; font-size: smaller; text-align: right;} /* page numbers */ + .sidenote {width: 20%; padding-bottom: .5em; padding-top: .5em; + padding-left: .5em; padding-right: .5em; margin-left: 1em; + float: right; clear: right; margin-top: 1em; + font-size: smaller; background: #eeeeee; border: dashed 1px;} + + .bb {border-bottom: solid 2px;} + .bl {border-left: solid 2px;} + .bt {border-top: solid 2px;} + .br {border-right: solid 2px;} + .bbox {border: solid 2px;} + + .center {text-align: center;} + .smcap {font-variant: small-caps;} + + .figcenter {margin: auto; text-align: center;} + + .figleft {float: left; clear: left; margin-left: 0; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: + 1em; margin-right: 1em; padding: 0; text-align: center;} + + .figright {float: right; clear: right; margin-left: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; + margin-top: 1em; margin-right: 0; padding: 0; text-align: center;} + + .footnotes {border: dashed 1px;} + .footnote {margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-size: 0.9em;} + .footnote .label {position: absolute; right: 84%; text-align: right;} + .fnanchor {vertical-align: super; font-size: .8em; text-decoration: none;} + + .poem {margin-left:10%; margin-right:10%; text-align: left;} + .poem br {display: none;} + .poem .stanza {margin: 1em 0em 1em 0em;} + .poem span {display: block; margin: 0; padding-left: 3em; text-indent: -3em;} + .poem span.i2 {display: block; margin-left: 2em;} + .poem span.i4 {display: block; margin-left: 4em;} + img {border: 0} + // --> + /* XML end ]]>*/ + </style> + </head> +<body> +<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 14626 ***</div> + +<h1>The Boy Allies</h1> + +<h2>With the Victorious Fleets</h2> + +<p class="center">OR</p> + +<h2>The Fall of the German Navy</h2> + +<h2>By ENSIGN ROBERT L. DRAKE</h2> + +<p class="center">AUTHOR OF</p> + +<p class="center">"The Boy Allies With the Navy Series"</p> + +<p class="figcenter"><a href="./images/1.jpg"><img src="./images/1-tb.jpg" alt="A.L. BURT COMPANY NEW YORK" title="A.L. BURT COMPANY NEW YORK" /></a></p> + +<hr style='width: 45%;' /> +<h2>The Boy Allies</h2> + +<p class="center">(Registered in the United States Patent Office)</p> + +<h2>With the Navy Series</h2> + +<hr style='width: 45%;' /> + +<h3>By Ensign ROBERT L. DRAKE</h3> + +<p> +<span style="margin-left: 2em;">The Boy Allies on the North Sea Patrol</span><br /> +<span style="margin-left: 3em;">or, Striking the First Blow at the German Fleet</span><br /> +<br /> +<span style="margin-left: 2em;">The Boy Allies Under Two Flags</span><br /> +<span style="margin-left: 3em;">or, Sweeping the Enemy from the Sea.</span><br /> +<br /> +<span style="margin-left: 2em;">The Boy Allies with the Flying Squadron</span><br /> +<span style="margin-left: 3em;">or, The Naval Raiders of the Great War.</span><br /> +<br /> +<span style="margin-left: 2em;">The Boy Allies with the Terror of the Seas</span><br /> +<span style="margin-left: 3em;">or, The Last Shot of the Submarine D-16.</span><br /> +<br /> +<span style="margin-left: 2em;">The Boy Allies in the Baltic</span><br /> +<span style="margin-left: 3em;">or, Through Fields of Ice to Aid the Czar.</span><br /> +<br /> +<span style="margin-left: 2em;">The Boy Allies at Jutland</span><br /> +<span style="margin-left: 3em;">or, The Greatest Naval Battle in History.</span><br /> +<br /> +<span style="margin-left: 2em;">The Boys Allies Under the Sea</span><br /> +<span style="margin-left: 3em;">or, The Vanishing Submarine.</span><br /> +<br /> +<span style="margin-left: 2em;">The Boy Allies with Uncle Sam's Cruisers</span><br /> +<span style="margin-left: 3em;">or, Convoying the American Army Across the Atlantic.</span><br /> +<br /> +<span style="margin-left: 2em;">The Boy Allies with the Submarine D-32</span><br /> +<span style="margin-left: 3em;">or, The Fall of the Russian Empire.</span><br /> +<br /> +<span style="margin-left: 2em;">The Boy Allies with the Victorious Fleet</span><br /> +<span style="margin-left: 3em;">or, The Fall of the German Navy.</span><br /> +</p> + +<hr style='width: 45%;' /> +<p class="center">Copyright, 1919<br /> +By A.L. BURT COMPANY</p> + +<hr style='width: 25%;' /> + +<p class="center">THE BOY ALLIES WITH THE VICTORIOUS FLEET</p> + +<hr style='width: 45%;' /> + +<p> + <a href="#CHAPTER_I"><b>CHAPTER I ABOARD U.S.S. PLYMOUTH</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_II"><b>CHAPTER II THE BOY CAPTAIN AND HIS LIEUTENANT</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_III"><b>CHAPTER III OFF FOR AMERICA</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_IV"><b>CHAPTER IV THE START</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_V"><b>CHAPTER V A RESCUE</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_VI"><b>CHAPTER VI CHANGED ORDERS</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_VII"><b>CHAPTER VII A BIT OF EXPLANATION</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_VIII"><b>CHAPTER VIII THE ATTACK BEGINS</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_IX"><b>CHAPTER IX THE BATTLE CONTINUES</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_X"><b>CHAPTER X THE RAID SUCCESSFUL</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XI"><b>CHAPTER XI THE WARNING GIVEN</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XII"><b>CHAPTER XII THE U-BOATS APPEAR</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XIII"><b>CHAPTER XIII THE SUBMARINES GROW BOLDER</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XIV"><b>CHAPTER XIV THE U-87</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XV"><b>CHAPTER XV JACK GIVES CHASE</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XVI"><b>CHAPTER XVI THE FIGHT ON THE U-87</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XVII"><b>CHAPTER XVII CAPTURE OF THE SUBMARINE</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XVIII"><b>CHAPTER XVIII ASHORE</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XIX"><b>CHAPTER XIX IN THE NIGHT</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XX"><b>CHAPTER XX THE BATTLE</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XXI"><b>CHAPTER XXI THE END OF THE SUBMARINE</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XXII"><b>CHAPTER XXII WASHINGTON AGAIN</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XXIII"><b>CHAPTER XXIII BACK IN ENGLAND</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XXIV"><b>CHAPTER XXIV THE ENGAGEMENT</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XXV"><b>CHAPTER XXV THE LAST SEA BATTLE</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XXVI"><b>CHAPTER XXVI THE END APPROACHES</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XXVII"><b>CHAPTER XXVII PREPARING FOR THE SURRENDER</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XXVIII"><b>CHAPTER XXVIII THE SURRENDER</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XXIX"><b>CHAPTER XXIX THE SURRENDER COMPLETE</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XXX"><b>CHAPTER XXX HOME AT LAST</b></a><br /> + </p> +<!-- End Autogenerated TOC. --> + +<hr style='width: 45%;' /> + +<h1>THE BOY ALLIES WITH THE VICTORIOUS FLEET</h1> + +<hr style='width: 45%;' /> + + + + +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_I" id="CHAPTER_I" />CHAPTER I</h2> + +<h3>ABOARD U.S.S. PLYMOUTH</h3> + + +<p>"Sail at 4 a.m.," said Captain Jack Templeton of the U.S.S. Plymouth, +laying down the long manila envelope marked "Secret." "Acknowledge by +signal," he directed the ship's messenger, and then looked inquiringly +about the wardroom table.</p> + +<p>"Aye, aye, sir," said the first officer, Lieutenant Frank Chadwick.</p> + +<p>"Ready at four, sir," said the engineer officer, Thomas; and left his +dinner for a short trip to the engine room to push some belated repairs.</p> + +<p>"Send a patrol ashore to round up the liberty party," continued Captain +Templeton, this time addressing the junior watch officer. "Tell them to +be aboard at midnight instead of eight in the morning."</p> + +<p>"Aye, aye, sir," said the junior watch officer, and departed in haste.</p> + +<p>There was none of the bustle and confusion aboard the U.S.S. Plymouth, at +that moment lying idle in a British port, that the landsman would commonly +associate with sailing orders to a great destroyer. Blowers began to hum +in the fire rooms. The torpedo gunner's mates slipped detonators in the +warheads and looked to the rack load of depth charges. The steward made a +last trip across to the depot ship. Otherwise, things ran on very much as +before.</p> + +<p>At midnight the junior watch officer called the captain, who had turned in +several hours earlier, and reported:</p> + +<p>"Liberty party all on board, sir."</p> + +<p>Then he turned in for a few hours' rest himself.</p> + +<p>The junior watch was astir again at three o'clock. He routed out a sleepy +crew to hoist boats and secure for sea. Seven bells struck on the +Plymouth.</p> + +<p>Captain Templeton appeared on the bridge. Lieutenant Chadwick was at his +side, as were Lieutenants Shinnick and Craib, second and third officers +respectively. Captain Templeton gave a command. The cable was slipped from +the mooring buoy. Ports were darkened and the Plymouth slipped out. A bit +inside the protection of the submarine nets, but just outside the +channel, she lay to, breasting the flood tide. There she lay for almost an +hour.</p> + +<p>"Coffee for the men," said Captain Templeton.</p> + +<p>The morning coffee was served on deck in the darkness.</p> + +<p>Lights appeared in the distance, and presently another destroyer joined +the Plymouth. Running lights of two more appeared as the clock struck 4 +a.m.</p> + +<p>Captain Templeton signalled the engine room for two-thirds speed ahead. +Running lights were blanketed on the four destroyers, and the ships fell +into column.</p> + +<p>Lieutenant Chadwick felt a drop on his face. He held out a hand.</p> + +<p>"Rain," he said briefly.</p> + +<p>Jack—Captain Templeton—nodded.</p> + +<p>"So much the better, Frank," he replied.</p> + +<p>The four destroyers cleared the channel light and spread out like a fan +into line formation.</p> + +<p>"Full speed ahead!" came Jack's next command.</p> + +<p>The Plymouth leaped ahead, as did her sister ships on either side.</p> + +<p>"We're off," said Frank.</p> + +<p>Away they sped in the darkness, a division of four Yankee destroyers, +tearing through the Irish sea on a rainy morning; Frank knew there were +four ships in line, but all he could see was his guide, a black smudge in +the darkness, a few ship lengths away on his port bow. Directly she was +blotted from sight by a rain squall.</p> + +<p>"Running lights!" shouted Frank.</p> + +<p>The lights flashed. Frank kept an eye forward. Directly he got a return +flash from the ship ahead, and then picked up her shape again.</p> + +<p>Morning dawned and still the fleet sped on. Toward noon the weather +cleared. Officer and men kept their watches by regular turn during the +day. At sundown the four destroyers slowed down and circled around in a +slow column. The eyes of every officer watched the clock. They were +watching for something. Directly it came—a line of other ships, +transports filled with wounded soldiers returning to America. These must +be safely convoyed to a certain point beyond the submarine zone by the +Plymouth and her sister ships.</p> + +<p>On came the transports camouflaged like zebras. The Plymouth and the other +destroyers fell into line on either side of the transports.</p> + +<p>"Full speed ahead," was Captain Templeton's signal to the engine room.</p> + +<p>"Take a look below, Frank," said Jack to his first officer.</p> + +<p>"Aye, aye, sir."</p> + +<p>Frank descended a manhole in the deck. He closed the cover and secured it +behind him. At the foot of the ladder was a locked door. As it opened, +came a pressure on Frank's ear drums like the air-lock of a caisson. +Frank threaded his way amid pumps and feed water heaters and descended +still further to the furnace level.</p> + +<p>Twenty-five knots—twenty-eight land miles an hour—was the speed of the +Plymouth at that moment. It was good going.</p> + +<p>Below, instead of dust, heat, the clatter of shovels, grimy, sweating +fireman, such as the thought of the furnace room of a ship of war calls to +the mind of the landsman, a watertender stood calmly watching the glow of +oil jets feeding the furnace fire. Now and then he cast an eye to the +gauge glasses. The vibration of the hull and the hum of the blower were +the only sounds below.</p> + +<p>For the motive power of the Plymouth was not furnished by coal. Rather, it +was oil—crude petroleum—that drove the vessel along. And though oil has +its advantage over coal, it has its disadvantages as well. It was Frank's +first experience aboard an oil-burner, and he had not become used to it +yet. He smelled oil in the smoke from the funnels, he breathed it from the +oil range in the galley. His clothes gathered it from stanchions and +rails.</p> + +<p>The water tanks were flavored with the seepage from neighboring +compartments. Frank drank petroleum in the water and tasted it in the +soup. The butter, he thought, tasted like some queer vaseline. But Frank +knew that eventually he would get used to it.</p> + +<p>"How's she heading?" Frank asked of the chief engineer.</p> + +<p>"All right, sir," was the reply. "Everything perfectly trim. I can get +more speed if necessary."</p> + +<p>Frank smiled.</p> + +<p>"Let's hope it won't be necessary, chief," he replied.</p> + +<p>He inspected the room closely for some moments, then returned to the +bridge and reported to Captain Templeton.</p> + +<p>The sea was rough, but nevertheless the speed of the flotilla was not +slackened. It was the desire of Captain Petlow, in charge of the destroyer +fleet, to convoy the transports beyond the danger point at the earliest +possible moment.</p> + +<p>The Plymouth lurched up on top of a crest, then dived head-first into the +trough. On the bridge the heave and pitch of the vessel was felt +subconsciously, but the eyes and minds of the officers were busied with +other things. At every touch of the helm the vessel vibrated heavily.</p> + +<p>Eight bells struck.</p> + +<p>"Twelve o'clock," said Frank. "Time to eat."</p> + +<p>The bridge was turned over to the second officer, and Frank and Jack went +below.</p> + +<p>"Eat is right, Frank," said Jack as they sat down. "We can't dine in this +weather."</p> + +<p>It was true. The rolling boards, well enough for easy weather, proved a +mockery in a sea like the one that raged now. Butter balls, meat and +vegetables shot from plates and went sailing about. It was necessary to +drink soup from teacups and such solid foods as Jack and Frank put into +their stomachs was only what they succeeded in grabbing as they leaped +about on the table.</p> + +<p>The two returned on deck.</p> + +<p>The day passed quietly. No submarines were sighted, and at last the +flotilla reached the point where the destroyers were to leave the homeward +bound transports to pursue their voyage alone. The transports soon grew +indistinguishable, almost, in the semi-darkness. The senior naval officer +aboard the Plymouth hoisted signal flags.</p> + +<p>"Bon Voyage," they read.</p> + +<p>Through a glass Jack read the reply.</p> + +<p>"Thank you for your good work. Best of luck."</p> + +<p>From the S.N.O. (senior naval officer) came another message. Frank picked +it up.</p> + +<p>"Set course 188 degrees. Keep lookout for inbound transports to be +convoyed. Ten ships."</p> + +<p>Again the destroyer swung into line. It was almost seven o'clock—after +dark—when the lookout aboard the Plymouth reported:</p> + +<p>"Smoke ahead!"</p> + +<p>Instantly all was activity aboard the destroyers. Directly, through his +glass, Jack sighted nine rusty, English tramp steamers, of perhaps eight +thousand tons, and a big liner auxiliary flying the Royal Navy ensign.</p> + +<p>Under the protection of the destroyers, the ships made for an English +port. The night passed quietly. With the coming of morning, the flotilla +was divided. The Plymouth stood by to protect the big liner, while the +other three destroyers and the tramp steamers moved away toward the east.</p> + +<p>"This destroyer game is no better than driving a taxi," Frank protested to +Jack on the bridge that afternoon. You never see anything. I'd like to get +ashore for a change. I've steamed sixty thousand miles since last May and +what have I seen? Three ports, besides six days' leave in London."</p> + +<p>"You had plenty of time ashore before that," replied Jack.</p> + +<p>"Maybe I did. But I'd like to have some more. Besides, this isn't very +exciting business."</p> + +<p>Night fell again, and still nothing had happened to break the quiet +monotony of the trip. Lights of trawlers flashed up ahead. Interest on the +bridge picked up.</p> + +<p>"Object off the port bow," called the lookout.</p> + +<p>"Looks like a periscope," reported the quartermaster.</p> + +<p>Frank snapped his binoculars on a bobbing black spar.</p> + +<p>"Buoy and fishnet," he decided after a quick scrutiny.</p> + +<p>Frank kept the late watch that night. At 4 a.m. he turned in. At five he +climbed hastily from his bunk at the jingle of general alarm, and reached +the bridge on the run in time to see the exchange of recognition signals +with a British man-o'-war, which vessel had run into a submarine while the +latter was on the surface in a fog. The warship had just rammed the +U-boat.</p> + +<p>"Can we help you?" Frank called across the water.</p> + +<p>"Thanks. Drop a few depth charges," was the reply.</p> + +<p>This was done, but nothing came of it Frank returned to his bunk.</p> + +<p>"Pretty slow life, this, if you ask me," he told himself.</p> + +<p>He went back to sleep.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_II" id="CHAPTER_II" />CHAPTER II</h2> + +<h3>THE BOY CAPTAIN AND HIS LIEUTENANT</h3> + + +<p>The U.S.S. Plymouth was Jack Templeton's first command. He had been +elevated to the rank of captain only a few weeks before. Naturally he was +not a little proud of his vessel. When Jack was given his ship, it was +only natural, too, that Frank Chadwick, who had been his associate and +chum through all the days of the great war, should become Jack's first +officer.</p> + +<p>In spite of the fact that Jack's rating as captain was in the British +navy, he was at this moment in command of an American vessel. This came +about through a queer combination of circumstances.</p> + +<p>The American commander of the Plymouth had been taken suddenly ill. At +almost the same time the Plymouth had been ordered to proceed from Dover +to Liverpool to join other American vessels. Almost on the eve of +departure, the first officer also was taken ill. It was to him the command +naturally would have fallen in the captain's absence. The second officer +was on leave of absence. Thus, without a skipper, the Plymouth could not +have sailed.</p> + +<p>Jack and Frank had recently returned with a British convoy from America. +They were in Dover at the time. From his sick bed in a hospital, the +captain of the Plymouth had appealed to the British naval authorities. In +spite of the fact that he was in no condition to leave when he received +his orders, he did not wish to deny his crew the privilege of seeing +active service, which the call to Liverpool, he knew, meant.</p> + +<p>The captain's appeal had been turned over to Lord Hastings, now connected +prominently with the British admiralty. Lord Hastings, in the early days +of the war, had been the commander under whom Jack and Frank had served. +In fact, the lads were visiting the temporary quarters of Lord Hastings in +Dover when the appeal was received from the commander of the Plymouth.</p> + +<p>"How would you like to tackle this job, Jack?" Lord Hastings asked.</p> + +<p>"I'd like it," the lad replied, "if you think I can do it, sir."</p> + +<p>"Of course you can do it," was Lord Hastings' prompt reply. "I haven't +sailed with you almost four years for nothing."</p> + +<p>"You mean, sir," replied Jack with a smile, "that I haven't sailed with +you that long for nothing."</p> + +<p>"That's more like it, Jack," put in Frank laughingly. "I've learned a few +things from Lord Hastings myself."</p> + +<p>"It is hardly probable," continued Lord Hastings, "that your promotion has +been unearned, Jack. No, I believe you can fill the bill."</p> + +<p>"In that case, I shall be glad to take command of the Plymouth +temporarily, sir."</p> + +<p>"And how about me?" Frank wanted to know. "Where do I come in, sir?"</p> + +<p>"Why," said Lord Hastings, "I have no doubt it can be arranged so you can +go along as first officer. I understand the first officer of the Plymouth +is also under the weather."</p> + +<p>"But isn't all this a bit irregular, sir?" Jack asked.</p> + +<p>"Very much so," was Lord Hastings' reply. "At the same time, many +precedents are being broken every day, and I can see no reason why two +British officers cannot lend their services to an ally if they are asked +to do so."</p> + +<p>"It is a little different with me, sir," said Frank. I'm an American."</p> + +<p>"All the same," said Lord Hastings, "you're a British naval officer, no +matter what your nativity."</p> + +<p>"That's true, too, sir," Frank agreed. "I haven't thought of it in just +that way."</p> + +<p>"Well," said Lord Hastings, "I shall report then that Captain Templeton +and First Lieutenant Chadwick will go aboard the Plymouth this evening."</p> + +<p>"Very well, sir," said Jack.</p> + +<p>This is the reason then that Jack and Frank found themselves aboard an +American destroyer in the Irish sea.</p> + +<p>Frank Chadwick, as we have seen, was an American. He had been in Italy +with his father when the great war began. He had been shanghaied in Naples +soon after Germany's declaration of war on France. When he came to his +senses he found that his captors were a band of mutinous sailors. Aboard +the vessel he found a second prisoner, who turned out to be a member of +the British secret service.</p> + +<p>Frank met Jack Templeton, a British youth, aboard the schooner. Jack came +aboard in a peculiar way.</p> + +<p>The schooner, in control of the mutineers, had put into a north African +port for provisions. Now it chanced that the store where the mutineers +sought to buy provisions was conducted by Jack. The lad was absent when +the supplies were purchased and returned a few moments later to find that +the mutineers had departed without making payment.</p> + +<p>Jack's anger bubbled over. He put off for the schooner in a small boat. +Aboard, the chief of the mutineers refused the demand for payment. A fight +ensued. Jack, facing heavy odds, sought refuge in the hold of the vessel, +where he was made a prisoner.</p> + +<p>During the night Jack was able to force his way from the hold into the +cabin where Frank and the British secret service agent were held captives. +He released them, and joining forces, the three were able to overcome the +mutineers and make themselves masters of the ship.</p> + +<p>Now Jack Templeton was an experienced seaman and knew more than the +rudiments of navigation. Under his direction the schooner returned to the +little African port that he called home. There the three erstwhile +prisoners left the ship to the mutineers.</p> + +<p>Later, through the good offices of the British secret service, Frank and +Jack made the acquaintance of Lord Hastings, also in the diplomatic +service. They were able to render some service to the latter and later +accompanied him to his home in London. There, at their request, Lord +Hastings, who in the meantime had been given command of a ship of war, had +them attached to his ship with the rank of midshipmen.</p> + +<p>Both Jack and Frank had risen swiftly in the British service. They had +seen active service in all quarters of the globe and had fought under many +flags.</p> + +<p>Under Lord Hastings' command they had been with the British fleet in the +North Sea when it struck the first decisive blow against the Germans just +off Helgoland. Later they were found under the Tricolor of France and with +the Italians in the Adriatic. With the British fleet again when it sallied +forth to clear the seven seas of enemy vessels, they had traversed the +Atlantic, the Pacific and the Indian oceans. It had been their fortune, +too, to see considerable land fighting. They had been with the +Anglo-Japanese forces in the east and had conducted raiding parties in +some of the German colonial possessions.</p> + +<p>Several times they had successfully run the blockade in the Kiel canal, +passing through the narrow straits in submarines just out of reach of the +foe. In Russia, they had, early in the war, lent invaluable assistance to +the Czar; and more lately, they had been in the eastern monarchy when Czar +Nicholas had been forced to renounce his throne.</p> + +<p>Once since the war began they had been to America. This was shortly after +the United States entered the war. They were ordered to the North Atlantic +in order to help the American authorities snare a German commerce raider +which, in some unaccountable manner, had run the British blockade in the +North sea, and was wreaking havoc with allied shipping. Later they went to +New York, and then returned to Europe with a combined British-American +convoy for the first expeditionary force to cross the seas.</p> + +<p>In temperament and disposition Jack and Frank were as unlike as one could +conceive. Jack, big for his age, broad-shouldered and strong, was always +cool and collected. Frank, on the other hand, was of a more fiery nature, +easily angered and often rash and reckless. Jack's steadying influence had +often kept the two out of trouble, or brought them through safely when +they were in difficulties.</p> + +<p>Both lads spoke French and German fluently and each had a smattering of +Italian. Also, as the result of several trips to Russia, they had a few +words of the Russian tongue at their command.</p> + +<p>In physical strength, Jack excelled Frank by far, although the latter was +by no means a weakling. On the other hand again, Frank was a crack shot +with either rifle or revolver; in fact, he was such an excellent marksman +as to cause his chum no little degree of envy. Then, too, both lads were +proficient in the art of self defense and both had learned to hold their +own with the sword.</p> + +<p>Up to the time this story opens the combined allied fleets had succeeded +in keeping the Germans bottled up in the strong fortress of Helgoland. +True, the enemy several times had sallied forth in few numbers, apparently +seeking to run the blockade in an effort to prey upon allied merchant +ships. But every time they had offered battle they had received the worst +of it. They had been staggered with a terrible defeat at Jutland almost a +year before this story opens, and since that time had not ventured forth.</p> + +<p>But even now, in the security of their hiding places, the Germans were +meditating a bold stroke. Submarines were being coaled and victualed in +preparation for a dash across the Atlantic. Already, one enemy +submarine—a merchantman—had passed the allied ships blocking the English +channel and had crossed to America and returned. Some months later, a +U-Boat of the war type had followed suit. A cordon of ally ships had been +thrown around American ports to snare this venturesome submarine on its +return, but it had eluded them and returned safely to its home port.</p> + +<p>But soon—very soon, indeed—German undersea craft were to strike a more +severe blow at allied shipping, carrying, for the moment, the war in all +its horrors to the very door of America. While the United States was +arming and equipping its millions to send across the sea to destroy the +kaiser and German militarism, these enemy undersea craft were crossing the +Atlantic determined to reap a rich harvest upon American, allied and +neutral shipping off the American coast.</p> + +<p>And the blow was to be delivered without warning—almost.</p> + +<p>When the U.S.S. Plymouth, under Jack's command, returned to Liverpool, the +captain of the vessel, having somewhat recovered, came aboard and relieved +Jack of command.</p> + +<p>"I'm obliged for your services, Captain," he said, "but I'll take charge +of the old scow again myself, with your leave."</p> + +<p>Jack and Frank went ashore, where, at their hotel, they received a brief +telegram from Lord Hastings. It read as follows:</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p>"Return to Dover at once. Important."</p></div> + +<p>"Now I wonder what is up," said Frank after reading the message.</p> + +<p>"The simplest way to find out," replied Jack, "is to go and see."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_III" id="CHAPTER_III" />CHAPTER III</h2> + +<h3>OFF FOR AMERICA</h3> + + +<p>"Then everything went first rate your first trip, Captain?" questioned +Lord Hastings.</p> + +<p>"First rate, sir," Jack replied.</p> + +<p>The lads were back in Dover where, the first thing after their arrival, +they sought an audience with their former commander.</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir," Frank agreed, "Jack makes an A-1 captain."</p> + +<p>"I'm glad to hear it," was Lord Hastings' comment. "I've other work in +hand and I wouldn't want to trust it to a man who is nervous under fire."</p> + +<p>"But we were not under fire this time, sir," said Jack.</p> + +<p>"You mustn't always take me literally, Jack," smiled Lord Hastings. "It +was your first venture in your present rank and you acquitted yourself +creditably. That is what I meant."</p> + +<p>"And what is the other venture, sir?" Frank asked eagerly.</p> + +<p>"There you go again, Frank," said Lord Hastings. "How many times have I +told you that you must restrain your impatience."</p> + +<p>Frank was abashed.</p> + +<p>"Your warnings don't seem to do much good, I'll admit, sir. Nevertheless, +I'll try to do better."</p> + +<p>"See that you do," returned Lord Hastings gravely. "Nothing was ever +gained by too great impatience. Remember that."</p> + +<p>"I'll try, sir."</p> + +<p>"Very well. Then I shall acquaint you with the nature of the work in +hand."</p> + +<p>The boys listened intently to Lord Hastings' next words.</p> + +<p>"As you know," His Lordship began, "the seas have virtually been cleared +of all enemy ships. All German merchant vessels have been captured or +sunk. What few raiders that preyed on our commerce for a time have been +put out of business."</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir," said Jack. "Our merchant vessels no longer have anything to +fear from the foe."</p> + +<p>"They shouldn't, that's true enough," replied Lord Hastings.</p> + +<p>"You mean they have, sir?" asked Jack, incredulously.</p> + +<p>Lord Hastings nodded.</p> + +<p>"I do," he admitted gravely. "Particularly shipping on the other side of +the Atlantic."</p> + +<p>"America, sir?"</p> + +<p>"Exactly."</p> + +<p>"But surely," Frank put in, "surely our blockade is tight enough to +prevent the enemy from breaking through."</p> + +<p>"We have not yet found means," replied Lord Hastings, "of effectually +blockading the submarine."</p> + +<p>"Oh, I see," said Frank. "You mean that the Germans plan to open a +submarine campaign upon allied shipping in American waters."</p> + +<p>"Such is my information," declared Lord Hastings.</p> + +<p>"And," said Jack, "you wish us to cross the Atlantic and take a hand in +the game of taming the U-Boats, sir."</p> + +<p>"Such is my idea," Lord Hastings admitted. "Let me explain. My information +is not authentic, but nevertheless, knowing the Germans as I do, I am +tempted to credit it."</p> + +<p>"Then why not warn the United States, sir?" asked Frank. "There are enough +American ships of war off the coast to deal effectually with all the +submarines the Germans can get across."</p> + +<p>"So I would," was Lord Hastings' reply, "but for the fact that some +officials of the admiralty are opposed to it."</p> + +<p>"Opposed?" exclaimed Jack. "And why, sir?"</p> + +<p>"Because they labor under the delusion that such a warning would throw the +people of the United States into a panic and would prevent the sending of +additional troops to France."</p> + +<p>"What a fool idea! By George!" exclaimed Frank, "what do they think the +American people are made of?"</p> + +<p>"You'll have to ask them," was Lord Hastings' answer to this question. +"For my own part, I feel that it is hardly fair to keep this information +from the American authorities."</p> + +<p>"I should say it isn't fair," declared Frank.</p> + +<p>"I agree with you," said Jack. "But just where do Frank and I come in, +sir?"</p> + +<p>"I'll make that plain to you very quickly," replied Lord Hastings.</p> + +<p>He drew a paper from his pocket and passed it to Jack.</p> + +<p>"Here," he said, "is your commission as captain of H.M.S. Brigadier." He +passed a second paper to Frank. "This," he continued, "is your commission +as first officer of the same vessel. Now, through channels known only to +myself, I have induced the admiralty to send you to America with certain +papers for Secretary Daniels of the navy department. At the same time, I +have other personal papers which I shall have you deliver to the secretary +of the navy for me. These will acquaint him with the facts I have just +laid before you."</p> + +<p>"I see, sir," said Jack. "But, if you will pardon my asking, what will +happen to you sir should it be found out you have acted contrary to the +wishes of the admiralty majority?"</p> + +<p>Lord Hastings shrugged his shoulders disdainfully.</p> + +<p>"What's the difference?" he wanted to know. "Our allies must be warned."</p> + +<p>"I agree with you, sir," declared Jack.</p> + +<p>"And I, sir," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"It is possible," said Lord Hastings, "that should I take the matter up +with the King or with the war ministry I might get action; but that would +take time, and I want this message delivered at the earliest possible +moment. Should I entrust it to the cables, under the circumstances, there +is nothing certain of its arrival."</p> + +<p>"I see, sir," said Jack. "Then you may be sure that I shall deliver the +message personally to Secretary Daniels."</p> + +<p>"It is well," said Lord Hastings. "I knew I could depend upon you boys."</p> + +<p>"Always, sir," replied Jack simply.</p> + +<p>"Then be off with you," said Lord Hastings, rising. "You can go aboard +your ship to-night. Here is the message I wish delivered to the American +secretary of the navy," and he passed a second paper to Jack. "The +admiralty message you are to take will probably reach you some time in the +morning, together with your sailing orders."</p> + +<p>Lord Hastings extended his hand.</p> + +<p>"Good-bye and good luck," he said.</p> + +<p>Jack and Frank shook hands with him and took their departure.</p> + +<p>"I'll be glad to get back to America if only for a short time," said +Frank, as they walked toward the water front.</p> + +<p>"I won't mind another look at the United States myself," Jack declared. +"It looks like a pretty good country to me, from what I saw of it last +trip. Almost as good as England, I guess."</p> + +<p>"Almost?" repeated Frank. "Say, let me tell you something. The United +States is the greatest country under the sun and don't you forget it. You +Johnny Bulls seem to think that England is the only spot on the map."</p> + +<p>"Well," returned Jack with a smile, "it strikes me that you boast +considerably about your own land."</p> + +<p>Frank's face reddened a trifle.</p> + +<p>"Maybe I do," he admitted, "but it's worth it."</p> + +<p>"So is England," said Jack quietly.</p> + +<p>"By George! So it is, Jack," said Frank. "Maybe it is a fact that I talk +too much sometimes."</p> + +<p>"No 'maybes' about it," declared Jack. "It's just a plain fact."</p> + +<p>"Look here," said Frank, somewhat nettled, "you may be my boss aboard +ship, but right now, with no witnesses present to hear what I say, I'll +say what I like."</p> + +<p>"Come, come, now," said Jack with a smile, "don't get all out of humor +just because I joke you a little bit."</p> + +<p>Frank grinned.</p> + +<p>"Well, then don't always thinks I'm angry just because I make a hot +reply," he said.</p> + +<p>Jack let it go at that.</p> + +<p>"Well, here we are at the water front," he said a few moments later, "and +if I'm not mistaken that's the Brigadier about a hundred yards off shore +there."</p> + +<p>"That's the Brigadier, all right," said Frank, "I can see her name +forward even at this distance. By George! but the camouflage artists have +certainly done a good job on her."</p> + +<p>"So they have," Jack agreed. "But we may as well go aboard."</p> + +<p>They commandeered a small boat and rowed rapidly to the Brigadier. Jack +swung himself up on deck and Frank climbed up behind him.</p> + +<p>A young lieutenant greeted Jack respectfully after a quick glance at the +latter's bars.</p> + +<p>"What can I do for you, sir?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"You may go below and tell the engineer to get steam up immediately," +replied Jack. "We may not sail before morning, but I may desire to leave +before."</p> + +<p>"Very well, sir," replied the young officer, "but may I ask who you are, +sir?"</p> + +<p>"Certainly," replied Jack, "I'm the commander of this ship, Captain +Templeton. This is Mr. Chadwick, my first officer. What is your name, +sir?"</p> + +<p>"Hetherton, sir, second officer of the Brigadier."</p> + +<p>"Very good, Lieutenant. You shall stay on here as second officer until +further notice. Now below with you."</p> + +<p>Lieutenant Hetherton disappeared.</p> + +<p>"I guess he won't ask many more questions," said Frank grimly.</p> + +<p>"Perhaps not," said Jack. "Now, Mr. Chadwick, will you be so kind as to +take the deck while I go to my cabin."</p> + +<p>Frank seemed about to remark upon Jack's sudden change in manner. Then he +thought better of it and walked off, grumbling to himself.</p> + +<p>"Wonder what he's in such an all-fired rush about? He's not wasting any +time, that's sure."</p> + +<p>He took the deck. Ten minutes later Lieutenant Hetherton reported to him, +saluting at the same time.</p> + +<p>"Engineer says he'll have steam up in two hours, sir."</p> + +<p>"Very well," replied Frank, returning the salute. "Will you kindly take +the deck, Lieutenant Hetherton? I'm going below."</p> + +<p>Lieutenant Hetherton took the deck, and thus relieved, Frank went below +and sought out Jack's cabin.</p> + +<p>"Now," he said, "I'll find out what all this rush is about."</p> + +<p>Without the formality of a knock, he went in.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IV" id="CHAPTER_IV" />CHAPTER IV</h2> + +<h3>THE START</h3> + + +<p>Inside Jack's cabin, Frank found his commander and chum engaged in +conversation with the engineer officer, who had sought his new commander +immediately after giving instructions below. He saluted Frank as the lad +entered.</p> + +<p>"My first officer, Lieutenant Chadwick, Mr. Winslow," Jack introduced +them. "I am sure you will get along together."</p> + +<p>"So am I, sir," agreed the engineer. "And when shall we be moving, sir?"</p> + +<p>"I can't say, exactly," replied Jack. "Probably not before morning, but I +wish to be ready to leave on a moment's notice."</p> + +<p>"Very well, sir," said the engineer, "As I said before, I'll have steam up +in two hours."</p> + +<p>"Do so, sir."</p> + +<p>The engineer saluted and left Jack's cabin.</p> + +<p>Jack turned to Frank.</p> + +<p>"Now," he said, "what are you doing here? I thought I left you to take the +deck?"</p> + +<p>"I turned the deck over to Hetherton," replied Frank with a grin. "I +wanted to find out what all this rush is about?"</p> + +<p>"Don't you know it's bad form to ask questions of your commander?" Jack +said severely.</p> + +<p>"Maybe it is," Frank agreed, "but I just wanted to find out."</p> + +<p>"Well, I wouldn't do it in front of any of the other officers or the men," +said Jack. "It's bad for the ship's discipline. However, I'll tell you, I +just wanted to have things ready, that's all. Come, we'll go on deck."</p> + +<p>They ascended to the bridge. Jack addressed Lieutenant Hetherton.</p> + +<p>"Pipe all hands on deck for inspection, Lieutenant," he ordered.</p> + +<p>Lieutenant Hetherton passed the word. A moment later men came tumbling up +the companion way and fell into line aft. Jack and Frank walked forward to +look them over. Jack addressed a few words to the men.</p> + +<p>"I've just taken over command of the Brigadier," he said. "To-morrow +morning, or sooner, we shall sail, our destination temporarily to be known +only to myself. I believe that I may safely promise you some action before +many days have passed."</p> + +<p>A hearty British cheer swept the ship.</p> + +<p>"Hurrah!" cried the men.</p> + +<p>A few moments later Jack dismissed them. Then the officers returned to the +bridge, where Jack told off the watches.</p> + +<p>"Now," he said, "I'll have to look over the ship."</p> + +<p>Frank accompanied him on his tour of inspection. They found everything +absolutely clean and ship-shape. The muzzles of the big guns were shining +brightly beneath their coat of polish. After the inspection, Jack and +Frank went below for a look at the ship's papers.</p> + +<p>The Brigadier was a small destroyer, not more than 200 feet long. It had a +complement of 250 men, officers and crew; carried two batteries of 9-inch +guns in turrets forward and aft and was equipped with three 2-inch torpedo +tubes. It was not one of the latest of British destroyers, but still it +was modern in many respects.</p> + +<p>"A good ship," said Jack, after a careful examination of the papers. "As +to speed, we should get twenty-three knots on a pinch. Her fighting +equipment is excellent, everything is spick and span, and I was impressed +with the officers and crew. Yes, she is a good ship."</p> + +<p>"And you're the boss of the whole ranch, Jack," said Frank. "Think of it. +Less than four years ago you knew nothing at all of naval tactics, and now +you're in command of a British destroyer. By George! I wouldn't mind +having your job myself."</p> + +<p>Jack smiled.</p> + +<p>"Never mind," he said. "You'll get yours some day. I've just been more +fortunate, that's all. Besides, I knew something of navigation before you +did, and while you have mastered it now, I had a long start."</p> + +<p>"That's true enough," Frank admitted, "but at the same time you are +considerably more fit for the job than I am. Another thing. I don't know +that I would trade my berth here for a command of a ship."</p> + +<p>Jack looked his surprise.</p> + +<p>"Why?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"Because it would separate us," was Frank's reply. "We've been together +now since the war began, almost. I hope that we may see it through +together."</p> + +<p>"Here, too," declared the commander of the Brigadier, "but at the same +time you should not let a matter of friendship stand between you and what +may be your big opportunity."</p> + +<p>"Oh, I'd probably take the job if it were offered me," said Frank. "I'm +just hoping the offer will not be made; that's all."</p> + +<p>The lads conversed for some moments longer. Then Frank looked at his +watch.</p> + +<p>"My watch," he said quietly. "I'll be going on deck."</p> + +<p>"Right," said Jack. "Call me if anything happens."</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir," said Frank, saluting his commander gravely.</p> + +<p>Jack grinned.</p> + +<p>"By Jove! It seems funny to have you talk like that to me," he said. "At +the same time I suppose it must be done for the sake of discipline. +However, it is not necessary in private."</p> + +<p>"Nevertheless," said Frank, "I had better stick to it or I'm liable to +forget in public some time."</p> + +<p>"Well, maybe you're right," said Jack.</p> + +<p>Frank turned on his heel and went on deck, where he relieved Lieutenant +Hetherton, who had been on watch.</p> + +<p>"Nothing to report, sir," said Lieutenant Hetherton, saluting.</p> + +<p>"Very well, sir," was Frank's reply, as he, too, saluted.</p> + +<p>It was after midnight, and Frank's watch was nearing its end when the +lookout on the port side called:</p> + +<p>"Boat off the port bow, sir."</p> + +<p>Frank advanced to the rail. A moment later there was a hail from the +water.</p> + +<p>"What ship is that?'</p> + +<p>"His Majesty's Ship Brigadier," Frank called back.</p> + +<p>"I'm coming aboard you," said the voice from the darkness. "Lower a +ladder."</p> + +<p>Frank gave the necessary command. A few moments later a man attired in the +uniform of a British captain came over the side. He approached Frank, who +was barely visible in the darkness.</p> + +<p>"Captain Templeton?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"No, sir. I'm Lieutenant Chadwick. A moment, sir, and I'll call the +captain."</p> + +<p>"If you please," said the visitor.</p> + +<p>Frank passed the word for the quartermaster, who arrived within a few +moments.</p> + +<p>"Call Captain Templeton," Frank directed.</p> + +<p>Jack arrived on deck a few moments later and exchanged greetings with his +visitor. The latter produced a packet of papers.</p> + +<p>"From the admiralty," he said. "You will know what to do with them."</p> + +<p>Jack took the papers and stowed them in his pocket.</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir," he said.</p> + +<p>"That is all, then," said the visitor. "I shall be going."</p> + +<p>He stepped to the side of the vessel and disappeared.</p> + +<p>"This means," said Jack, after the other had gone, "that we can sail any +time now."</p> + +<p>"Then why not at once?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>"You anticipated me," replied Jack. "Will you kindly pipe all hands on +deck, Mr. Chadwick?"</p> + +<p>Frank passed the word.</p> + +<p>Sleepy men came tumbling from their bunks below. All became bustle and +hurry aboard the Brigadier. Jack himself took the bridge. Frank stood +beside him. Other officers took their places.</p> + +<p>"Man the guns!" came Jack's order.</p> + +<p>It was the lad's intention to overlook nothing that would protect the ship +should it encounter an enemy submarine en route, and, as the lad knew, it +was just as possible they would encounter one in the English Channel as +elsewhere.</p> + +<p>For, despite all precautions taken by British naval authorities, enemy +submarines more than once had crept through the channel, once penetrating +Dover harbor itself, where they had wreaked considerable damage before +being driven away by British destroyers and submarine chasers.</p> + +<p>A few moments later Jack signaled the engine room.</p> + +<p>"Half speed ahead."</p> + +<p>Slowly the Brigadier slipped from her anchorage and moved through the +still waters of the harbor. Directly she pushed her nose into the channel, +then headed east.</p> + +<p>"Full speed ahead!" Jack signaled the engine room.</p> + +<p>The Brigadier leaped forward.</p> + +<p>"Better turn in, Jack," said Frank. "It's Thompson's watch."</p> + +<p>"No, I'll stick until we reach the Atlantic," returned Jack.</p> + +<p>"Then I'll stick along," said Frank.</p> + +<p>This they did.</p> + +<p>It was hours later when the Brigadier ran clear of the channel and +breasted the heavy swell of the Atlantic. Jack spoke to Thompson, the +third officer.</p> + +<p>"I'm going to turn in," he said. "If anything happens, call me at once."</p> + +<p>"Very well, sir," was the third officer's reply.</p> + +<p>He saluted briefly. Jack and Frank went below.</p> + +<p>"Come in a moment before you turn in, if you wish," Jack said to Frank.</p> + +<p>"May as well," replied the latter. "I don't feel like turning in for an +hour yet."</p> + +<p>"Well, you can't keep me out of bed that long," declared Jack. "I've got +to be stirring before you go on watch again. But I thought we might talk a +few moments."</p> + +<p>Nevertheless, it was an hour later that Frank went to his own cabin. He +turned in at once and was soon fast asleep.</p> + +<p>On the other hand, sleep did not come to Jack so soon. For an hour or more +he lay in his bunk, reviewing the events of the past and his +responsibilities of the present.</p> + +<p>"It's a big job I have now," he told himself. "I hope I can carry it +through successfully."</p> + +<p>But he didn't have the slightest doubt that he could. Jack's one best +characteristic was absolute confidence in himself.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_V" id="CHAPTER_V" />CHAPTER V</h2> + +<h3>A RESCUE</h3> + + +<p>H.M.S. Brigadier was steaming steadily along at a speed of twenty knots. +Jack himself held the bridge. Frank and Lieutenant Hetherton, who stood +nearby, were discussing the sinking several days before of a large allied +transport by a German submarine in the Irish sea.</p> + +<p>"She was sunk without warning, the same as usual," said Hetherton.</p> + +<p>"The Germans never give warning any more," replied Frank, "Of course, the +reason is obvious enough. To give warning it would be necessary for the +submarine to come to the surface, in which case the merchant ship might be +able to place a shell aboard the U-Boat before she could submerge again. +So to take time to give warning would be a disadvantage to the submarine."</p> + +<p>"At the same time," said Hetherton, "it's an act of barbarism to sink a +big ship without giving passengers and crew a word of warning."</p> + +<p>"Oh, I'm not defending the German system," declared Frank. "I am just +giving you what I believe is the German viewpoint."</p> + +<p>"Nevertheless," said Hetherton, "it's about time such activities were +stopped."</p> + +<p>"It certainly is. But it seems that the U-Boats are growing bolder each +day."</p> + +<p>"It wouldn't surprise me," declared Lieutenant Hetherton, "to hear almost +any day that U-Boats had crossed the Atlantic to prey on shipping in +American waters."</p> + +<p>Frank looked at the second officer sharply. He was sure that Jack had not +divulged the real reason for their present voyage, and he had said nothing +about the matter himself.</p> + +<p>"Just a chance remark, I guess," Frank told himself. Aloud he said: "I +hardly think it will come to that."</p> + +<p>"I hope not," replied Hetherton, "but you never can tell, you know."</p> + +<p>"That's true enough, too," Frank agreed, "but at the same—"</p> + +<p>He broke off suddenly as he caught the sharp hail of the forward lookout.</p> + +<p>"Ship in distress off the port bow, sir," came the cry.</p> + +<p>Jack was at once called to the deck.</p> + +<p>Instantly Frank and Lieutenant Hetherton sprang to Jack's side. At almost +the same moment the radio operator emerged from below on the run.</p> + +<p>"Message, sir," he exclaimed, and thrust a piece of paper in Jack's hand. +Jack read it quickly. It ran like this:</p> + +<p>"Merchant steamer Hazelton, eight thousand tons, New York to Liverpool +with munitions and supplies, torpedoed by submarine. Sinking. Help."</p> + +<p>"Did you get her position?" demanded Jack of the wireless operator.</p> + +<p>"No, sir. The wireless failed before he could give it."</p> + +<p>"Don't you think it may be the vessel ahead, sir?" asked Lieutenant +Hetherton.</p> + +<p>"Can't tell," was Jack's reply. "It may be, in which case there are +probably more submarines about. Clear ship for action, Mr. Chadwick."</p> + +<p>No sooner said than done.</p> + +<p>Frank and others of the ship's officers darted hither and yon, making sure +that everything was in readiness. At the guns, the gunners grinned +cheerfully. Frank approached the battery in the forward turret.</p> + +<p>"All right?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"O.K., sir," replied the officer in command of the gun crew. "Show us a +submarine, that's all we ask."</p> + +<p>"There are probably a dozen or so about here some place," returned Frank. +"Keep your eyes peeled and don't wait an order to fire if you see anything +that looks like one."</p> + +<p>"Right, sir."</p> + +<p>The officer turned to his men with a sharp command.</p> + +<p>Frank continued his inspection of the ship as the Brigadier dashed toward +the vessel in distress, probably ten miles ahead.</p> + +<p>Every man aboard the Brigadier was on the alert as the destroyer plowed +swiftly through the water. It was possible, of course, that the submarines +had made off after attacking the vessel, but there was always the +possibility that some were still lurking in the neighborhood.</p> + +<p>"Can't be too careful," Jack told himself.</p> + +<p>Fifteen minutes later, the lookout was able to make out more clearly the +ship ahead of them.</p> + +<p>"Steamer Hazelton," he called to the quartermaster, who reported to Jack.</p> + +<p>"Same vessel that sent the wireless, Frank," was Jack's comment. "We will +have to look sharp. It's more than an even bet that some of those undersea +sharks are watching for a ship to come to the rescue so they can have a +shot at her also."</p> + +<p>"We're ready for 'em," said Frank significantly.</p> + +<p>"All right," said Jack. "In the meantime we'll stand by the Hazelton and +see if we can lend a hand."</p> + +<p>As the Brigadier drew closer those on deck could see signs of confusion +aboard the Hazelton. Then there arose a large cloud of smoke that for a +moment hid the Hazelton from view. This was followed by a loud explosion.</p> + +<p>When the smoke cleared away, the water nearby was filled with struggling +figures.</p> + +<p>"Lower the boats," shouted Jack.</p> + +<p>Instantly men sprang to obey the command, while others of the British tars +still stood quietly behind their guns, their eyes scanning the sea.</p> + +<p>Aboard the Hazelton, the crew, or what remained of the crew, were +attempting to lower lifeboats. Directly one was lowered safely, and loaded +to the guards with human freight. A second and a third were lowered +safely, and put off toward the Brigadier.</p> + +<p>In the meantime, lifeboats from the destroyer had darted in among the +struggling figures and willing hands were lifting the victims to safety. +Then these, in turn, started back to the destroyer.</p> + +<p>"I guess they're all off," said Frank to Jack.</p> + +<p>"I hope so," was Jack's reply. "If I am not mistaken, there are women +among the survivors."</p> + +<p>"By George! I thought I saw some myself," was Frank's answer.</p> + +<p>Suddenly there was a crash as the forward turret guns aboard the Brigadier +burst into action. Looking ahead, Jack gave a startled cry, and no wonder.</p> + +<p>For, from beneath the water, appeared a periscope and then the long low +outline of a German submarine came into view.</p> + +<p>Again the Brigadier's guns crashed, but the shells did not strike home.</p> + +<p>Before the destroyer could fire again, a gun appeared as if by magic on +the submarine's deck, and a hail of bullets was poured into the first of +the nearby lifeboats. At the same time the U-Boat launched a torpedo at +the Brigadier.</p> + +<p>Jack gave a cry of horror at the predicament of those in the small boats. +But he did not lose his head, and at the same time maneuvered his ship out +of the path of the torpedo.</p> + +<p>Came a hail from the lookout aft.</p> + +<p>"Submarine off the stern, sir!"</p> + +<p>At the same moment the battery in the Brigadier's turret aft burst into +action.</p> + +<p>"Forward with you, Mr. Chadwick," cried Jack, "and see if you can't get +better results there. The men seem to have lost their nerve."</p> + +<p>Frank sprang forward. Jack's words were true. It appeared that the crew in +the forward turret were so anxious to sink the first submarine that they +had not taken time to find the range.</p> + +<p>"Cease firing!" shouted Frank as he sprang into the turret.</p> + +<p>The order was obeyed, but there came a grumble from the men at what they +deemed such a strange command under the circumstances.</p> + +<p>"I thought you fellows were gunners," said Frank angrily. "Smith, get the +range."</p> + +<p>Smith did so, and announced it a moment later.</p> + +<p>"Now," said Frank, "get your aim, men."</p> + +<p>No longer was there confusion in the forward turret. The guns were trained +carefully.</p> + +<p>"Ready," cried Frank. "Fire!"</p> + +<p>"Crash!"</p> + +<p>A moment and there was a loud cheer from the crew. The German submarine +seemed to leap high from the water, and then fell back in a dozen pieces.</p> + +<p>Frank wasted no further time on the first submarine. Leaving the forward +turret, he dashed aft to where other guns were firing on the second +submarine. Meantime Jack, perfectly cool on the bridge, had maneuvered his +vessel out of the way of several torpedoes from the second U-Boat. But, +as he very well knew, this combat must be brought to a quick end or one +of the torpedoes was likely to find its mark.</p> + +<p>From the deck of the second submarine, a hail of fire from a machine gun +was still being poured into the helpless lifeboats. What execution had +been done Jack had no means of telling at the moment, but he knew there +must have been some casualties.</p> + +<p>"The brutes!" he muttered.</p> + +<p>The duel between the submarine and the destroyer still raged. It appeared +that the commander of the submarine was a capable officer, for he had +succeeded in keeping his vessel from being struck by a shell from the +Brigadier.</p> + +<p>In the aft turret of the Brigadier the British tars were sweating and +muttering imprecations at their inability to put a shell aboard the enemy.</p> + +<p>"Here," said Frank, "let me get at that gun."</p> + +<p>The crew stepped aside and the lad sighted the weapon himself. Then he +fired.</p> + +<p>Again a cheer arose aboard the Brigadier. Frank's shot had been +successful. The shell struck the submersible squarely amidships, and +carried away the periscope.</p> + +<p>"Fire!" cried Frank, and the other guns broke into action.</p> + +<p>Again there was a wild cheer.</p> + +<p>The submarine began to settle a few moments later. Men emerged from below +and sprang into the sea.</p> + +<p>"Lower a boat!" cried Jack. "I want a few of those fellows."</p> + +<p>A boat was lowered instantly and strong hands pulled it toward the Germans +floundering in the water.</p> + +<p>By this time the lifeboats that had escaped the German fire came alongside +the Brigadier and the occupants climbed aboard the destroyer. These were +quickly fitted out with dry clothing. It developed that there had been +three women passengers aboard the Hazelton and all of these had been +saved. A dozen members of the crew, however, had been killed by the enemy +in the lifeboats.</p> + +<p>Jack assigned quarters to the victims as quickly as he was able, and then +calling his officers about him, awaited the return of the boat which had +gone after the Germans who had leaped into the sea.</p> + +<p>"If the act I have just seen is a sample of the German heart," Jack said, +"I never want another German within sight of me so long as I live."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VI" id="CHAPTER_VI" />CHAPTER VI</h2> + +<h3>CHANGED ORDERS</h3> + + +<p>As the Germans came aboard—ten of them—they were herded before Jack. +They stood there sullenly, their eyes on the deck. One of them wore a +heavily braided and imposing uniform. Jack addressed him.</p> + +<p>"You are the commander of that submarine?" he questioned.</p> + +<p>"I was," answered the German.</p> + +<p>"You were, what?" asked Jack sharply.</p> + +<p>"I was the commander."</p> + +<p>"You don't seem to catch my meaning," said Jack, taking a step forward. +"When you speak to me say 'sir.'"</p> + +<p>"Then you shall say 'sir' to me," said the German.</p> + +<p>"Oh, no I won't," Jack declared. "I never say sir to a murderer."</p> + +<p>The German's eyes lighted angrily.</p> + +<p>"It would be well to be more careful of your words," he said.</p> + +<p>"Nevertheless," said Jack, "I repeat them. You, are a murderer, and as +such should be hanged at once. I'm not sure it is in my province to string +you up, but I'm strongly tempted to do so and take the consequences."</p> + +<p>"But I guess you won't," sneered the German.</p> + +<p>"Then don't try me too far," said Jack quietly. "To my mind, men like you +and your cowardly followers should be put out of the way the same as a mad +dog; and certainly there is no law against killing a dog."</p> + +<p>"I warn you," said the German, taking a step nearer the lad, "to be more +choice in your words."</p> + +<p>"Silence!" Jack thundered, "and don't you dare step toward me unless I +tell you to do so." He turned to Frank. "Take those men below and put them +in irons," he ordered.</p> + +<p>Frank stepped forward to obey, and again the German commander protested.</p> + +<p>"You can't do that," he said. "My men are prisoners of war and as such are +entitled to all the usual courtesies."</p> + +<p>"They are, eh?" asked Jack. "Then I'll modify that order a bit, +temporarily, Mr. Chadwick, will you kindly bring irons for this man here," +and he indicated the German officer. "I want his men and all our +passengers to see how he looks in shackles, which he should have been made +to wear long ago."</p> + +<p>Frank hurried away. The German commander, after taking one step back at +Jack's words, stepped quickly forward again. His hand went to his side and +he produced a long knife. Then he sprang.</p> + +<p>Jack smiled slightly, stepped quickly to one side and with his left hand +caught the German's knife arm. He twisted sharply, and the knife dropped +to the deck.</p> + +<p>Jack released his hold and the German staggered back. Deliberately Jack +cuffed the man across the face with his right hand, then with his left. +Twice more he did this, following the German as he retreated across the +deck.</p> + +<p>"Let that teach you," he said, "that attempting to stab a British naval +officer is very bad business. But here comes something that will teach +you more," and he pointed to Frank, who reappeared at that moment followed +by two sailors bearing heavy chains. "These irons," Jack continued, "will +show you just what is in store for you when you are landed in England. +Hold out your hands."</p> + +<p>The German did so. Quickly handcuffs were snapped on.</p> + +<p>"Shackle his legs," said Jack.</p> + +<p>The sailors needed no urging. Quickly the German's legs were shackled with +the heavy iron. Jack took a couple of steps back and surveyed his +prisoner.</p> + +<p>"If you had been dressed up in those several years ago," he said, "I've no +doubt lots of innocent women and children now at the bottom of the sea +would be alive still."</p> + +<p>The German commander scowled, but he said nothing.</p> + +<p>"Now, Frank," said Jack, "you will take the other prisoners below and put +them in irons. I guess our friend here will no longer object."</p> + +<p>The German sailors were led below, where they were soon safely chained and +Frank returned to the bridge.</p> + +<p>"Kindly pass the word for all the passengers and the crew to come on deck, +Mr. Hetherton," ordered Jack.</p> + +<p>The second officer obeyed and soon the deck was crowded. The German +commander became the center of an angry group.</p> + +<p>"I've just called you all here," said Jack, "that you may cast your eyes +upon one of the kaiser's paid murderers. It is men like this who have made +an outcast of Germany. Not satisfied with killing in battle, they fire on +helpless lifeboats, sending women and children as well as unarmed +noncombatants to the bottom of the sea. In fact, it is men like this, or a +man like this, who so recently took a heavy toll in lives from the crew of +the Hazelton, after the vessel had been put out of commission."</p> + +<p>There was an angry murmur among the crowd on deck.</p> + +<p>"Hang him," said a voice.</p> + +<p>The German officer's face turned a chalky white.</p> + +<p>"I'd be pleased to do so," said Jack, "were it not for the fact that I +must retain him as a prisoner of war and turn him over to the proper +authorities. However, it wouldn't surprise me a bit if he were tried for +murder and hanged, and I'm not sure that even such a fate isn't too good +for him."</p> + +<p>"Hang him!" came a voice from the crowd again.</p> + +<p>"No," said Jack quietly, "it can't be done. Take him away."</p> + +<p>These last words were addressed to Lieutenant Hetherton, who stepped +forward and took the German commander by the arm.</p> + +<p>"Come on," he said somewhat roughly.</p> + +<p>The German commander was led below, where he was made secure.</p> + +<p>The passengers and crew rescued from the Hazelton dispersed and Jack held +a consultation with his officers.</p> + +<p>"If we were not so far from land," he said, "I would land those we have +rescued. As it stands, I am under rush orders, so I am afraid I shall have +to take them to America."</p> + +<p>"That cannot be helped, sir," said Lieutenant Hetherton. "I am sure they +will understand that, sir."</p> + +<p>"I think so, too," agreed Frank.</p> + +<p>"At all events," said Jack, "there seems nothing else to do under the +circumstances. Ring for full speed ahead, Mr. Chadwick."</p> + +<p>Frank did so.</p> + +<p>At that moment the radio operator again emerged from below and hurried to +Jack.</p> + +<p>"Admiralty orders, sir," he said, passing a slip of paper to the commander +of the Brigadier.</p> + +<p>Jack read the paper quickly, then turned to Frank with a sharp command.</p> + +<p>"Slow to half speed," he said. "Then come about and head for Dover."</p> + +<p>Frank asked no questions. He knew that Jack would explain the reason for +the change soon enough. Besides, the matter was none of his business. He +gave the necessary orders. Jack turned to the second officer.</p> + +<p>"Will you take the bridge, Mr. Hetherton? Mr. Chadwick, please come to my +cabin."</p> + +<p>The lads went below together.</p> + +<p>"Now," said Frank, after he had taken a seat, "what's it all about?"</p> + +<p>"Well," was Jack's reply, "the admiralty wants the Brigadier back in +Dover. That's all I know about it. I'm instructed to report to Lord +Hastings immediately on my return."</p> + +<p>"No other explanation?"</p> + +<p>"No."</p> + +<p>"Funny," commented Frank. "Must be something up, though."</p> + +<p>"So it would seem. However, I guess we'll learn soon enough. Hope they are +not going to deprive me of my command."</p> + +<p>"No fear, I guess," declared Frank.</p> + +<p>The return trip was made in record time and without incident. Jack saw the +victims of the Hazelton landed safely and then, turning the ship over to +Lieutenant Hetherton, went ashore with Frank to report to Lord Hastings.</p> + +<p>The latter greeted them with a wry smile.</p> + +<p>"It seems that my warning to America is not to be delivered after all," he +said.</p> + +<p>"And why, sir?" asked Jack. "Are you not still convinced that the warning +is necessary?"</p> + +<p>"I am," declared Lord Hastings, "but, as I told you, I was sending the +warning without knowledge of the Admiralty. Naturally, then, when it was +announced that the Brigadier was to be recalled to take part in other +operations, I could not announce that you carried secret dispatches from +me."</p> + +<p>"I see," said Jack. "And what is the nature of the other operation?"</p> + +<p>"It is a desperate undertaking," said Lord Hastings slowly, "and one that, +at first, I was tempted to advise against. And still, if successful it +will do much toward insuring an allied victory."</p> + +<p>"Since when have you become so cautious, sir?" asked Frank with a smile.</p> + +<p>"It's not a matter of caution, Frank," replied Lord Hastings. "It's simply +a matter of prudence. In a word, the Admiralty is determined to block the +harbors of Ostend and Zeebrugge."</p> + +<p>Frank was on his feet and clapping his hands.</p> + +<p>"Fine!" he exclaimed. "I don't see why it hasn't been done sooner. I +remember what Hobson did to the Spanish fleet at Santiago in the +Spanish-American war."</p> + +<p>"It's an exploit of the same nature," Lord Hastings admitted, "though it +will be attended with even greater danger. If successful, as I say, it +will do inestimable good. The admiralty has been training specially for +this move for months, but the matter has now come to a head."</p> + +<p>"And how does it happen that we shall be fortunate enough to lend a hand?" +asked Jack.</p> + +<p>"My fault, I suppose," returned Lord Hastings. "Admiral Keyes, the day +after your departure, was bemoaning the fact that one ship had been taken +away from him at the last moment. I said that if Captain Templeton and the +Brigadier were here, you could easily replace the other vessel. The +admiral was of the opinion that you had not had the necessary training. I +said you didn't need it. Apparently he was convinced, for the next I heard +you had been recalled to Dover. Thus, through talking too much, I balked +my own plans."</p> + +<p>"Perhaps," said Frank, "it won't be too late for the other when the +harbors of Ostend and Zeebrugge have been sealed."</p> + +<p>"But perhaps you won't come back," said Lord Hastings.</p> + +<p>"Oh, we'll be back, never fear," grinned Jack. "But what are we to do +now?"</p> + +<p>"You will report to Admiral Keyes aboard the Warwick at once. If you +return safely, report to me. Good-bye and good luck."</p> + +<p>The lads shook hands with Lord Hastings and left him.</p> + +<p>"Here," said Frank, "is what I call a piece of luck."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VII" id="CHAPTER_VII" />CHAPTER VII</h2> + +<h3>A BIT OF EXPLANATION</h3> + + +<p>It is probable that the sealing of the harbors of Ostend and Zeebrugge, +two of the most important German submarine bases, was one of the greatest +feats of the whole European war. The attempt was extremely hazardous and +could never have been successful except for the gallantry and heroism of +the British crews.</p> + +<p>Not the least of the bravest among them were Jack and Frank and the other +officers and crew of the destroyer Brigadier. It is true that the +operation has been planned primarily with the idea of having the destroyer +Daffodil in line, but it was the withdrawal of this vessel that permitted +Jack and Frank to have a hand in the operation.</p> + +<p>In order that all parts of the naval service might share in the +expedition, representative bodies of men had been drawn from the Grand +Fleet, the three home depots, the Royal marine artillery and light +infantry. The ships and torpedo craft were furnished by the Dover patrol, +which was reinforced by vessels from the Harwich force and the French and +American navies. The Royal Australian navy and the admiralty experimental +station at Stratford and Dover were also represented.</p> + +<p>A force thus composed and armed, obviously needed collective training and +special preparation to adapt both the men and their weapons to their +purpose. With these objects, the blocking ships and the storming forces +were assembled toward the end of February, and from the fourth of April on +in the West Swim Anchorage—where training especially adapted to the plan +of operation was given—and the organization of the expedition was carried +on.</p> + +<p>The material as it was prepared was used to make the training practical +and was itself tested thereby. Moreover, valuable practice was afforded by +endeavors to carry out the project on two previous occasions, on which the +conditions of wind and weather compelled its postponement, and much was +learned from these temporary failures.</p> + +<p>The Hindustan, at first at Chatham and later at the Swim, was the parent +ship and training depot. After the second attempt, when it became apparent +that there would be a long delay, the Dominion joined the Hindustan and +the pressure upon the available accommodation was relieved by the transfer +of about 350 seamen and marines to her.</p> + +<p>Two special craft, Liverpool ferry steamers, Iris and Gloucester, were +selected after a long search by Captain Herbert Grant. They were selected +because of their shallow draft, with a view in the first place to their +pushing the Vindictive, which was to bear the brunt of the work, alongside +Zeebrugge Mole; to the possibility, should the Vindictive be sunk, of +their bringing away all her crew and the landing parties; and to their +ability to maneuver in shallow water or clear of mine fields or torpedoes. +The blocking ships and the Vindictive were especially prepared for their +work long before the start.</p> + +<p>Vice-Admiral Sir Roger Keyes devoted personal attention and time to +working out the plan of operations and the preparation of the personnel +and material. Rear Admiral Cecil F. Dampier, second in command of the +Dover flotilla, and Commodore Algernon Boyle, chief of staff, gave +considerable assistance.</p> + +<p>When, as vice-admiral of the Dover patrol, Admiral Keyes first began to +prepare for the operation, it became apparent that without an effective +system of smoke screening such an attack could hardly hope to succeed. The +system of making smoke previously employed in the Dover patrol was +unsuitable for a night operation, as this production generated a fierce +flame, and no other means of making an effective smoke screen was +available. Nevertheless Wing Commander Brock, at last devised the way.</p> + +<p>The commander-in-chief of the Grand Fleet, Admiral Beatty, sent to Admiral +Keyes a picked body of officers and men. Support also was received from +the neighboring commands at Portsmouth and the Nore, the adjutant general, +Royal Marines, and the depot at Chatham. The rear-admiral commanding the +Harwich force sent a flotilla leader and six destroyers, besides +protecting the northern flank of the area in which operations were to be +conducted.</p> + +<p>To afford protection at a certain point in the route and to maintain the +aids to navigation during the approach and retirement of the expedition, a +force consisting of the flotilla leaders Scott and the destroyers +Ulleswater, Teazer and Stork, and the light cruiser Attentive, flying the +pennant of Commodore Boyle, was organized. This force, as it developed, +was instrumental in patroling and directing the movements of detached +craft in both directions, and relieved Admiral Keyes of all anxiety on +that score.</p> + +<p>At the moment of departing the forces were disposed as follows:</p> + +<p>In the Swim—For the attack on the Zeebrugge Mole: Vindictive, Iris, +Gloucester. To block the Bruges canal: Thetis, Interprid and Iphigenia. To +block the entrance to Ostend: Sirius and Brilliant.</p> + +<p>At Dover—Warwick, flagship of Vice-Admiral Keyes; Phoebe, North Star, +Brigadier, Trident, Mansfield, Whirlwind, Myngs, Velox, Morris, Moorsom, +Melpomene, Tempest and Tetrarch.</p> + +<p>To damage Zeebrugge—Submarines C-1 and C-3.</p> + +<p>A special picket boat to rescue crews of C-1 and C-3.</p> + +<p>Minesweeper Lingfield to take off surplus steaming parties of block +ships, which had 100 miles to steam.</p> + +<p>Eighteen coastal motorboats.</p> + +<p>Thirty-three motor launches.</p> + +<p>To bombard vicinity of Zeebrugge—Monitors Erebus and Terror.</p> + +<p>To attend monitors—Termagant, Truculent, and Manly.</p> + +<p>Outer patrol off Zeebrugge—Attentive, Scot, Ulleswater, Teazer and Stork.</p> + +<p>At Dunkirk—Monitors for bombarding Ostend: Marshal Soult, Lord Clive, +Prince Eugene, General Sraufurd, M-24 and M-26.</p> + +<p>For operating off Ostend—Swift, Faulknor, Matchless, Mastiff and Afridi.</p> + +<p>The British destroyers Mentor, Lightfoot, Zubian and French torpedo boats +Lestin, Capitaine Mehl, Francis Garnier, Roux and Boucier to accompany the +monitors.</p> + +<p>There were in addition to these, three American destroyers—the Taylor, +the Alert and the Cyprus.</p> + +<p>Eighteen British motor launches for smoke screening duty inshore and +rescue work, and six for attending big monitors.</p> + +<p>Four French motor launches attending M-24 and M-26 and five coastal motor +boats.</p> + +<p>Navigational aids having been established on the routes, the forces from +the Swim and Dover were directed to join Admiral Keyes off the Goodwin +Sands and to proceed in company to a rendezvous, and thereafter as +requisite to their respective stations.</p> + +<p>Those from Dunkirk were given their orders by the commodore.</p> + +<p>An operation time table was issued to govern the movements of all the +forces. Wireless signals were prohibited, visual signals of every sort +were reduced to a minimum and maneuvering prearranged as far as foresight +could provide.</p> + +<p>With few and slight delays the program for the passage was carried out as +laid down, the special aids to navigation being found of great assistance.</p> + +<p>The Harwich force, under Rear-Admiral Tyrwhitt, was posted to cover the +operations and prevent interference from the north.</p> + +<p>Jack and Frank, having reported to Admiral Keyes upon leaving Lord +Hastings, had received necessary instructions as to their part in the +raid. They had passed the word to the other officers of the Brigadier, who +in turn had informed members of the crew what was about to happen.</p> + +<p>There was wild cheering among the British tars on the Brigadier when they +learned they were to have a hand in one of the greatest and most dangerous +enterprises attempted in the whole war. Needless to say, Jack and Frank +also were immensely pleased.</p> + +<p>"Tell you what, Jack," said Frank, after they had returned aboard the +Brigadier, "it seems to me as though your work had come to the ears of the +Admiralty with a vengeance."</p> + +<p>"Oh, I guess that isn't it," Jack laughed. "They just happened to need +another ship and picked on me. That's all."</p> + +<p>"Perhaps," Frank admitted. "But just the same it seems that we are always +in the midst of things. I wouldn't call it all luck, if I were you."</p> + +<p>"Well, it's not good judgment, that much is certain," said Jack. "For good +judgment would tell me to keep in a safe place as long as possible."</p> + +<p>"If you want to know what I think about it," said Frank, "this raid is +going to be one of the greatest blows struck at the enemy."</p> + +<p>"It certainly will do the enemy a lot of harm if it's successful," Jack +confessed.</p> + +<p>"It'll be successful all right. I can feel that."</p> + +<p>"A hunch, eh?" laughed Jack.</p> + +<p>"Call it what you like. Nevertheless, I am absolutely certain Admiral +Keyes will not fail. And what are the Germans going to do for submarine +bases if Ostend and Zeebrugge are bottled up?"</p> + +<p>"Maybe we'll catch most of them in there," said Jack hopefully.</p> + +<p>"They won't be able to get out again if we do," declared Frank.</p> + +<p>"Right," Jack agreed, "and the ones that are outside won't be able to get +back in again."</p> + +<p>"So you see," Frank continued, "we have them coming and going, as we say +in America."</p> + +<p>"I see," said Jack.</p> + +<p>"And what time are we to start?" asked Frank. "You must remember you were +in private conference with Admiral Keyes. You're a captain now, and the +big fellows talk to you. I'm still only a lieutenant."</p> + +<p>"The passage will most likely be made by daylight," said Jack. "That has +been decided in order that we may do our work there under the cover of +darkness so far as possible. Of course, this may be changed, but that's +the way the plan lies now."</p> + +<p>"Strikes me we are taking a pretty big force along, from what you say."</p> + +<p>"Necessary, I guess," said Jack. "It seems that the admiral has overlooked +nothing that will go toward making the attack a success."</p> + +<p>"Well, we can't start any too soon to suit me," declared Frank. "When do +you expect to get orders to move?"</p> + +<p>"I'm not certain, but I wouldn't be surprised to receive them early in the +morning."</p> + +<p>As it developed Jack was a good prophet.</p> + +<p>Bright and early next morning, a small boat approached the Brigadier. A +few moments later an officer came aboard and presented Jack with a +document. Then he departed.</p> + +<p>Jack read the paper, then leaped to the bridge.</p> + +<p>"To your post, Mr. Chadwick," he called to Frank, who had been standing +near by. "Pipe all men to quarters and signal for half speed ahead."</p> + +<p>The passage was about to begin.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VIII" id="CHAPTER_VIII" />CHAPTER VIII</h2> + +<h3>THE ATTACK BEGINS</h3> + + +<p>The main force was divided into three columns. The center column was led +by the Vindictive, with the Brigadier second and the Iris in tow, followed +by the five blocking ships and the paddle mine-sweeper Lingfield, +escorting five motor launches for taking off the surplus steaming parties +of the blocking ships. The starboard column was led by the Warwick, flying +the flag of Admiral Keyes, followed by the Phoebe and North Star, which +three ships were to cover the Vindictive from torpedo attack while the +storming operations were in progress.</p> + +<p>The submarines were towed by the Trident and Mansfield. The Tempest +escorted the two Ostend block ships.</p> + +<p>The port column was led by the Whirlwind, followed by Myngs and Moorsom, +which ships were to patrol to the northward of Zeebrugge; and the +Tetrarch, also to escort the Ostend block ships. Every craft was towing +one or more coastal motor boats, and between the columns were motor +launches.</p> + +<p>The greater part of the passage, as Jack had explained, had to be carried +out in broad daylight, with the consequent likelihood of discovery by +enemy aircraft or submarines. This risk was largely countered by the +escort of all the scouting escort under Admiral Keyes' command.</p> + +<p>On arrival at a certain position, it being then apparent that the +conditions were favorable and that there was every prospect of carrying +through the enterprise on schedule, a short prearranged wireless signal +was made to the detached forces that the program would be adhered to.</p> + +<p>On arrival at a position a mile and a half short of where Commodore +Boyle's force was stationed, the whole force stopped for fifteen minutes +to enable the surplus steaming parties of the block ships to be +disembarked and the coastal motor boats slipped. These and the motor +launches then proceeded in execution of previous orders. On resuming the +course, the Warwick and Whirlwind, followed by the destroyers, drew ahead +on either bow to clear the passage of enemy outpost vessels.</p> + +<p>When the Vindictive arrived at a position where it was necessary to alter +her course for the Mole, the Warwick, Phoebe and North Star swung to +starboard and cruised in the vicinity of the Mole until after the final +withdrawal of all the attacking forces. During the movement and through +the subsequent operations, the Warwick was maneuvered to place smoke +screens wherever they seemed to be most required, and when the wind +shifted from northeast to southwest, her services in this respect were +particularly valuable.</p> + +<p>The monitors Erebus and Terror, with the destroyers Termagant, Truculent +and Manly, were stationed at a position suitable for the long range +bombardment of Zeebrugge in co-operation with the attack.</p> + +<p>Similarly, the monitors Marshal Soult, General Sraufurd, Prince Eugene and +Lord Clive, and the small monitors M-21, M-24 and M-26 were stationed in +suitable positions to bombard specified batteries. These craft were +attended by the British destroyers Mentor, Lightfoot and Zubian, and the +French Capitaine Mehl, Francis Garnier, Roux and Bouclier. The bombardment +that ensued was undoubtedly useful in keeping down the fire of the shore +batteries.</p> + +<p>The attack on the Mole was primarily intended to distract the enemy's +attention from the ships engaged in blocking the Bruges canal. Its +immediate objectives were, first, the capture of the four 1-inch batteries +at the sea end of the Mole, which were a serious menace to the passage of +the block ships, and, second, the doing of as much damage to the material +on the Mole as time would permit, for it was not the intention of Admiral +Keyes to remain on the Mole after the primary object of the expedition +had been accomplished.</p> + +<p>The attack was to consist of two parts: The landing of storming and +demolition parties and the destruction of the iron viaduct between the +shore and the stone Mole.</p> + +<p>The units detailed for the attack were:</p> + +<p>H.M.S. Vindictive, Captain Alfred F.B. Carpenter; the Brigadier, Captain +Jack Templeton; special steamers Iris, Commander Valentine Gibbs; +Gloucester, Lieutenant H.G. Campbell, the latter detailed to push the +Vindictive alongside the Mole and keep her there as long as might be +necessary.</p> + +<p>Submarines C-3 and C-1, commanded by Lieutenants Richard Sanford and +Aubrey Newbold, respectively, attended by picket boat under Lieutenant +Commander Francis H. Sanford.</p> + +<p>Besides these, a flotilla of twenty-four motor launches and eight coastal +motorboats were told off for rescue work and to make smoke screens or lay +smoke floats, and nine more coastal motorboats to attack the Mole and +enemy vessels inside it.</p> + +<p>At 11.40 p.m. on April 22, 1918, the coastal motorboats detailed to lay +the first smoke screen ran in to very close range and proceeded to lay +smoke floats and by other methods make the necessary "fog." These craft +immediately were under fire, and only their small size and great speed +saved them from destruction.</p> + +<p>At this moment the Blankenberghe light buoy was abeam of the Vindictive +and the enemy had presumably seen or heard the approaching forces. Star +shells lighted the heavens. But still no enemy patrol craft were sighted. +At this time the wind had been from the northeast, and therefore favorable +to the success of the smoke screens. It now died away and began to blow +from a southerly direction.</p> + +<p>Many of the smoke floats laid just off the Mole extension were sunk by the +fire of the enemy, which now began to grow in volume. This, in conjunction +with the wind, lessened the effectiveness of the smoke screen.</p> + +<p>At 11.56 the Vindictive, the Brigadier close behind, having just passed +through a smoke screen, sighted the Mole in the semi-darkness about three +hundred yards off on the port bow. Speed was increased to full and the +course of both vessels altered so that, allowing for cross tide, the +Vindictive would make good a closing course of forty-five degrees to the +Mole. The Vindictive purposely withheld her fire to avoid being +discovered, but almost at the moment of her emerging from the smoke the +enemy opened fire.</p> + +<p>So promptly, under the orders of the commander, was this replied to by the +port 6-inch battery, the upper deck pompoms and the gun in the foretop +that the firing on both sides appeared to be almost simultaneous.</p> + +<p>The Brigadier, under Jack's command, opened fire at almost the same +moment. Heavy shells flew screaming into the enemy lines. German +projectiles began to kick up the water close to the Vindictive and the +Brigadier. But in the first few volleys, none of the enemy shells found +their marks. Jack was conning the ship from the port forward, the +flame-thrower hut. Frank, with directions as to handling of the ship +should Jack be disabled, was in the conning tower, from which the +Brigadier was being steered.</p> + +<p>At one minute after midnight on April 23, the program time for attack +being midnight, the Vindictive was put alongside the Mole and the +starboard anchor was let go.</p> + +<p>At this time the noise of cannonading was terrific. During the previous +few minutes, the ship had been hit by a large number of shells, which had +resulted in heavy casualties.</p> + +<p>As there was some doubt as to the starboard anchor having gone clear, the +port anchor was dropped close to the foot of the Mole and the cable +bowsed-to, with less than a shackle out. A three-knot tide was running +past the Mole, and the scene alongside, created by the slight swell, +caused the ship to roll. There was an interval of three or four minutes +before the Brigadier or the Gloucester could arrive and commence to push +the Vindictive bodily alongside.</p> + +<p>During the interval the Vindictive could not be got close enough for the +special Mole anchors to hook and it was a very trying period. Many of the +brows had been broken by shell fire and the heavy roll had broken the +foremost Mole anchor as it was being placed. The two foremost brows, +however, reached the wall and enabled storming parties, led by +Lieutenant-Commander Bryan F. Adams, to land and run out alongside them, +closely followed by the Royal marines.</p> + +<p>It was at this juncture that a slight change was made in the original +program. It developed, as the first storming party moved out, that +Commander Adams' men were not in sufficient strength for the work ahead. +Captain Carpenter of the Vindictive called for support from the Brigadier. +Jack acted promptly.</p> + +<p>"Lieutenant Chadwick!" he called.</p> + +<p>Frank stepped forward and saluted.</p> + +<p>"You will take one hundred men and join the storming party," said Jack.</p> + +<p>At this moment the Brigadier was rubbing close to the Vindictive. This was +fortunate at the moment, for there was then no other means by which a +party from the Brigadier could reach the Mole.</p> + +<p>Hurriedly Frank gathered the men, and then leaped from his own vessel to +the deck of the Vindictive. A moment later they joined Commander Adams and +his party.</p> + +<p>Owing to the rolling of the ship, a most disconcerting motion was +imparted to the brows, the outer ends of which were "sawing" considerably +on the Mole parapet. Officers and men were equipped with Lewis guns, +bombs, ammunition, etc., and were under heavy machine-gun fire at close +range; add to this a drop of thirty feet between the ship and the Mole, +and some idea of the conditions which had to be faced may be realized.</p> + +<p>Yet the storming of the Mole was carried out without the slightest delay +and without any apparent consideration of self preservation. Some of the +first men on the Mole dropped in their tracks under the German fire, but +the others pushed on, with the object of hauling one of the large Mole +anchors across the parapet.</p> + +<p>The Brigadier arrived alongside the Mole three minutes after Frank and his +men had leaped to the deck of the other ship, followed by the little Iris. +Both suffered less in their approach, the Vindictive occupying all the +enemy's attention. The Gloucester also came up now to push the Vindictive +bodily on to the Mole to enable her to be secured, after doing which the +Gloucester landed her parties over that ship. Her men disembarked from her +bows on to the Vindictive, as it was found essential to continue to push +the Vindictive on to the Mole throughout the entire action.</p> + +<p>This duty was magnificently carried out. Without the assistance of the +Gloucester very few of the storming parties from the Vindictive could +have landed, or could have re-embarked.</p> + +<p>The landing from the Iris was made under even more trying circumstances. +She rolled heavily in the sea, which rendered the use of the scaling +ladders very difficult. But at this time, according to calculations, +enough men had been landed to complete the work.</p> + +<p>The fighting on the Mole became hand-to-hand.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IX" id="CHAPTER_IX" />CHAPTER IX</h2> + +<h3>THE BATTLE CONTINUES</h3> + + +<p>A shell suddenly exploded among the Vindictive's foremost 7.5-inch +howitzer's marine crew. Many were killed or wounded. A naval crew from a +6-inch gun took their places and were almost annihilated.</p> + +<p>At this time the Vindictive was being hit every few seconds, chiefly in +the upper works, from which the splinters caused many casualties. It was +difficult for the British to locate the guns which were doing the most +damage, but Jack, from the Brigadier, with men posted in the fortop of the +vessel, kept up a continuous fire with pompoms and Lewis machine-guns, +changing rapidly from one target to another in an attempt to destroy the +guns that were raking the Vindictive fore and aft.</p> + +<p>Two heavy shells struck the foretop of the Brigadier almost +simultaneously. Half a dozen men were killed. A score of others were +wounded.</p> + +<p>To return for a moment to Frank and his men.</p> + +<p>The attack on the Mole had been designed to be carried out by a storming +force to prepare the way for, and afterward to cover and protect, the +operations of a second force, which was to carry out the actual work of +destruction. The storming force, which had embarked in the Vindictive, was +now reinforced by a hundred British tars from the Brigadier, headed by +Frank, and additional sailors from the Iris and Gloucester.</p> + +<p>For the first time it was now ascertained that the Vindictive, in +anchoring off the Mole, had over-run her station and was berthed some four +hundred yards farther to the westward than had been intended.</p> + +<p>It had been realized beforehand that the Vindictive might not exactly +reach the exact position mapped out, but the fact that the landing was +carried out in an unexpected place, combined with the heavy losses already +sustained by the vessel, seriously disorganized the attacking force. The +intention had been to land the storming parties right on top of the 4 +1-inch guns in position on the seaward end of the Mole, the silencing of +which was of the first importance, as they menaced the approach of the +block ships.</p> + +<p>The leading block ship had been timed to pass the lighthouse twenty-five +minutes after the Vindictive came alongside. This period of time proved +insufficient to organize and carry through an attack against the enemy on +the seaward end of the Mole, the enemy, it developed, being able to bring +heavy machine-gun fire to bear on the attacking forces. As a result the +block ships, when they approached, came under an unexpected fire from the +light guns on the Mole extension, though the 4.1-inch batteries on the +Mole had remained silent.</p> + +<p>Commander Adams, followed by Frank and his men, were the first to land. At +that moment no enemy was seen on the Mole. They found themselves on a +pathway on the Mole parapet about eight feet wide, with a wall four feet +high on the seaward side, and an iron railing on the Mole side. From this +pathway, there was a drop of fifteen feet on the Mole proper.</p> + +<p>Followed by his men and Frank and the latter's command, Commander Adams +went alongside the parapet to the left, where he found a lookout station +or control, with a range finder behind and above it.</p> + +<p>"Blow it up!" he shouted to Frank, who was close to him at that moment.</p> + +<p>Frank gave a command to one of his men. A moment later there was an +explosion and the station disappeared as though by magic.</p> + +<p>Near the lookout station aft iron ladder led down to the Mole and three of +Frank's men descended it. Frank went with them. Below they encountered +half a dozen of the enemy.</p> + +<p>It was no time to hesitate and Frank knew it.</p> + +<p>"Bombs, men," he said simply.</p> + +<p>Three hands drew back, then were brought forward. Three hand grenades +dropped among the foes. There were three short blasts, and when the smoke +cleared away, there were no Germans to be seen at that point. Then Frank +and his men rejoined the others.</p> + +<p>The situation now was that Commander Adams, Frank, their few men and a few +Lewis guns, were beyond the lookout station protected from machine-gun +fire from the direction of the Mole head, but exposed to fire from their +own destroyers, alongside the Mole.</p> + +<p>Commander Adams called Frank to him.</p> + +<p>"We're in a ticklish position here, lieutenant," he said. "We're in danger +of being shot down by our own guns. At the same time, if we move from +behind this station, we are not in sufficient strength to drive the enemy +away."</p> + +<p>"Why not risk our own, fire, sir," said Frank, "and ask for +reinforcements."</p> + +<p>"That's a request that will have to be made in person," said Commander +Adams, "and it will be rather risky."</p> + +<p>"I'll be glad to try it sir," said Frank.</p> + +<p>Commander Adams shrugged.</p> + +<p>"It'd about as broad as it is long," he said. "If you're shot on the way I +guess it will be no worse than dying here. Go ahead, if you wish."</p> + +<p>Now to gain the needed reinforcements, Frank knew that it would be +necessary to return to the side of the Vindictive. To reach that vessel it +would be necessary to pass through places exposed to enemy machine-gun +fire. However, at the moment, the German guns covering those particular +spots were silent, so Frank decided to take the risk.</p> + +<p>He set out at a run. At first his appearance was apparently unnoticed, but +soon a rain of bullets poured after him. Two or three times the lad threw +himself to the ground just in time. He was on his feet again a moment +later, however, and at last reached his destination safely.</p> + +<p>As the lad reached the side of the Vindictive he saw a second storming +party coming over the side, equipped with Lewis machine-guns and rifles +and hand bombs. Frank approached the commander of the party, +Lieutenant-Commander Hastings, and outlined the plight of those he had +left behind.</p> + +<p>"Come with us," said Commander Hastings, "we'll soon clear those fellows +out back there."</p> + +<p>Machine-guns were wheeled into position and the British raked the German +line wherever heads appeared. In this method they relieved the +hard-pressed party under Commander Adams.</p> + +<p>The first objective of the storming party ashore was a fortified zone +situated about a hundred and fifty yards from the seaward end of the Mole +proper. Its capture was of the first importance, as an enemy holding it +could bring a heavy fire to bear on the parties still to land from the +Vindictive.</p> + +<p>Commander Adams ordered an advance.</p> + +<p>Frank was placed in command of the left wing of the little army, Commander +Hastings of the right wing. Commander Adams led the center himself. The +British spread out.</p> + +<p>"Charge!" cried Commander Adams.</p> + +<p>"Charge!" repeated Frank and Commander Hastings a moment later.</p> + +<p>The British seamen went forward on the double, bayonets fixed.</p> + +<p>From out of their fortified positions the Germans sprang forth to meet +them, machine-guns from behind covering their advance. At the same moment +Frank ordered his own machine-guns wheeled into position, and swept the +advancing enemy with a hail of bullets.</p> + +<p>But neither side paid much attention to this rain of lead, and directly +the fighting became too close for either side to utilize its machine-guns. +Steel clashed on steel. Revolvers in the hands of the officers cracked. +Men fell to the right and to the left.</p> + +<p>For a moment it appeared that the attacking force must be hurled back by +the very weight of the numbers against them. But they rallied after one +brief moment in which it seemed that they must yield, and hurled +themselves forward again. This time there was no stopping them.</p> + +<p>Directly the thin German line wavered. Then it broke, and the enemy dashed +for the protection of their fortified position at top speed. But the +British sailors kept close on their heels, and they reached the coveted +spot at almost the same time. There the fighting was resumed, but after a +short resistance the enemy again retreated, leaving the position in the +hands of the British.</p> + +<p>Immediately Commander Adams ordered the machine-guns which had been +abandoned by the foe in his flight turned on them and the Germans were +mowed down in great numbers.</p> + +<p>Having gained his objective, Commander Adams ordered his men to proceed +down the Mole and hold a position there so as to cover the operations of +the party of destruction, which was now hard at work. To expel these +British, German troops were now advancing from the landward end of the +Mole.</p> + +<p>The destruction of the viaduct by the submarine C-3 had been designed to +aid the efforts of the landing party by preventing reinforcements reaching +the Mole from the shore. Owing to the Vindictive coming alongside to +landward of this zone, Commander Adams' men were now faced with a double +duty of preventing an enemy attack from the shore and of themselves +attacking a second fortified zone ahead of them. The casualties already +sustained were so great that the Iris could not remain alongside the +Vindictive to land her company of Royal Marines. This left insufficient +men in the early stages of the landing to carry out both operations.</p> + +<p>The situation was a difficult one, for to attack the fortified zone first +might enable the enemy to advance up the Mole and seize positions abreast +of the Vindictive, with the most serious consequences to the whole landing +force, whereas, by not attacking the fortified positions, the guns at the +Mole head could not be prevented from firing at the block ships.</p> + +<p>Therefore, Commander Adams instructed Frank to secure the landward side, +at the same time instructing Commander Hastings to attack the fortified +zone. Commander Adams knew that he was taking a long chance by thus +dividing his forces, but in no other manner, it seemed to him, could the +success of the expedition be assured.</p> + +<p>Frank led his men forward promptly. Apparently the Germans had not +realized the full strength of the British attack on the Mole, for no +effort had been made to get reinforcements to the men there from shore. +Consequently, Frank's work was not so hard as that set for Commander +Hastings.</p> + +<p>The few Germans who were guarding the landward side of the Mole fired one +volley at Frank's party, then turned and took to their heels.</p> + +<p>"By George! Pretty soft!" said Frank.</p> + +<p>He led his men to the positions recently vacated by the enemy, and then +sat down to await further instructions from Commander Adams.</p> + +<p>Commander Hastings, on the other hand, had hard work in taking the +fortified positions from the foe. Nevertheless he succeeded, due to the +heroic efforts of his men. Commander Adams surveyed the field carefully.</p> + +<p>"Well," he told himself, "I guess we've done the best we can. We'll stick +here till we get the signal to withdraw."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_X" id="CHAPTER_X" />CHAPTER X</h2> + +<h3>THE RAID SUCCESSFUL</h3> + + +<p>The platoon which was commanded by Commander Adams was officially +designated as No. 1; that commanded by Frank as No. 2 and that commanded +by Commander Hastings as No. 3.</p> + +<p>Units were now landing rapidly and No. 7 platoon succeeded in placing +heavy scaling ladders in positions, and then formed up to support Nos. 9 +and 10 platoons. Numbers 11 and 12 platoons were dispatched along the +parapet, and reached the lookout station, where they were checked. +Commander Adams and his men, who had again united with the parties +commanded by Frank and Commander Hastings, were some forty to fifty yards +ahead of them, and both parties could make no headway along the exposed +parapet. Meanwhile No. 5 platoon, which had been recalled from its +advanced position, with Nos. 7 and 8 platoons were forming up on the Mole +for an assault on the fortified zone and the 4.1-inch battery at the Mole +head. This attack was launched, but before it could be developed the +general recall was sounded.</p> + +<p>There was a cheer from the men. They knew by the sounding of the recall at +this moment meant that the expedition had been a success. Otherwise the +fighting on the Mole would have continued.</p> + +<p>The units fell back in good order, taking their wounded with them. The +passing of the men from the Mole on to the parapet by means of the scaling +ladders was rendered hazardous by the enemy opening fire at that portion +of the Mole. Several ladders were destroyed.</p> + +<p>The men were sent across in small batches from the comparative shelter +afforded by long distance fire from the battleships. Such rushes were made +as far as possible in the intervals between the bursts of German fire.</p> + +<p>The landing parties re-embarked in the manner which they had left their +ships—climbing to the deck of the Vindictive and then proceeding to +their deck of the Vindictive and then proceeding to their +various ships by small boats.</p> + +<p>This undertaking was hazardous, too, for enemy shells were falling +all about. Nevertheless, the most of the men reached their ship in safety, +and from the flagship came the signal to retreat.</p> + +<p>Upon returning to the Brigadier, Frank surveyed his own men. There had +been few casualties among them. Less than a dozen men had been killed and +left behind. Of wounded Frank counted fifteen. Immediately he ascended to +the bridge to report to Jack.</p> + +<p>Jack greeted his chum with a smile. Although the Brigadier had been in the +midst of the battle, and many German shells had found their marks aboard +her, Jack was as cool and unruffled as before the battle started.</p> + +<p>"What luck, Frank?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"Good," Frank replied. "We held the Mole until ordered back. And you?"</p> + +<p>"The best of luck. I've stuck tight to the Vindictive through the heat of +the battle, and I believe our guns have done some damage."</p> + +<p>"And the block ships?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>"They have been sunk at the mouths of both harbors, I am informed. The +raid has been a complete success."</p> + +<p>At that moment came the recall signal from the flagship.</p> + +<p>"See," said Jack, "there's proof of it. If we had not been successful, the +recall would not have been sounded yet. There is still plenty of time if +we needed it, and our damage has not been great enough to leave the job +unfinished."</p> + +<p>Jack was right. The harbors of Ostend and Zeebrugge had been effectually +sealed. No longer would enemy U-Boats make nightly raids into the North +Sea, only to scurry back to their bases when it grew light. As a submarine +base, Zeebrugge was extinct. So, for that matter, was Ostend.</p> + +<p>That the success of the British expedition had been a severe blow to the +Germans goes without saying. No other single feat since the beginning of +the war had done so much to dishearten them; and there is little doubt +that the sealing of their submarine bases did much toward hastening the +end of the war.</p> + +<p>British losses in the raid had been severe. The Vindictive, which had led +the attack, had literally been shot to pieces and it was a miracle how she +remained afloat. The Brigadier, also, had suffered severely, but her +condition was not so bad that a few months in drydock would not be +sufficient to make her whole again.</p> + +<p>A dozen or more of the little motorboats and coastal patrol vessels had +been sunk, and the loss of life had been heavy. Several others of the +destroyers had been badly damaged, but there was not one of the larger +vessels sunk or crippled so badly that she could not return to her home +port.</p> + +<p>It still lacked an hour of daylight when the allied fleet drew off, its +work accomplished; and behind in the ports now sealed, the anger of the +Germans flared forth anew.</p> + +<p>The damaged British ships were immediately put into drydock in British +ports, and Jack and Frank at once returned to Dover to report to Lord +Hastings. The latter greeted the lads with outstretched hands.</p> + +<p>"It was a gallant exploit," he exclaimed, "and I am sure both you boys had +important roles to play."</p> + +<p>"I guess we did, sir," Frank admitted. "At the same time, I'm glad to be +safely back here again."</p> + +<p>"I suppose, sir," said Jack, "now that the enemy submarines caught outside +are without bases, there is little fear of their attempting the +trans-Atlantic trip?"</p> + +<p>"On the contrary," said Lord Hastings, "they are more likely than ever to +do so."</p> + +<p>"But they must have a base, sir," protested Frank.</p> + +<p>"Not necessarily," smiled Lord Hastings.</p> + +<p>"Then how will they replenish their supplies of food and fuel?"</p> + +<p>"Well," said Lord Hastings, "if they can snare a victim every three or +four days it should be enough. From a merchant ship they can get all the +food and fuel they need before sinking her."</p> + +<p>"That's so, by George!" Frank exclaimed.</p> + +<p>"It stands to reason," said Lord Hastings, "that those submarines which +were not bottled up in the harbors have been warned not to return. Now, +it wouldn't surprise me a bit if they headed directly for America."</p> + +<p>Jack grew thoughtful.</p> + +<p>"It's too bad," he said at last, "that the Brigadier was so crippled that +we cannot resume our interrupted voyage."</p> + +<p>Lord Hastings smiled.</p> + +<p>"I understand she is in pretty bad shape," he said. "So you don't think +you can go now, eh?"</p> + +<p>"I'm afraid not, sir. A fellow can't cross the ocean except in a ship."</p> + +<p>"True enough. But why are you in Dover now?"</p> + +<p>"Why, sir?" Jack exclaimed. "Because we were instructed to report to you."</p> + +<p>"Exactly," said Lord Hastings; "and in your pocket, I presume, you have +the same packet of papers the admiralty wishes turned over to Secretary +Daniels of the American navy department?"</p> + +<p>Jack clapped a hand to his coat pocket.</p> + +<p>"By George! I had forgotten all about them," he said.</p> + +<p>"So I imagined. But it is my guess that the navy department still wishes +those papers delivered."</p> + +<p>"You're right, sir. Here, I'll turn them over to you, sir."</p> + +<p>Lord Hastings waved the packet away.</p> + +<p>"Keep them," he said quietly.</p> + +<p>"But—" Jack began.</p> + +<p>"Great Scott," Frank put in at this juncture, "you must be getting denser +every day, Jack."</p> + +<p>Jack wheeled on his chum.</p> + +<p>"What do you mean?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"Why, can't you see that you are still expected to deliver the papers?"</p> + +<p>Jack sank suddenly into a chair.</p> + +<p>"Now why didn't I think of that?" he muttered.</p> + +<p>"And I suppose, sir," said Frank to Lord Hastings, "that another ship is +to be put at Jack's disposal?"</p> + +<p>Lord Hastings nodded.</p> + +<p>"Exactly," he replied.</p> + +<p>Jack was on his feet again immediately.</p> + +<p>"What ship, sir?" he asked eagerly.</p> + +<p>"The Essex, a sister ship of the Brigadier."</p> + +<p>"By George! That's fine, isn't it?" exclaimed Jack.</p> + +<p>"And do I go along, sir?" Frank wanted to know.</p> + +<p>Again Lord Hastings nodded.</p> + +<p>"You do," he replied, "together with the officers and crew of the +Brigadier who survived the recent engagement. Your compliment will be +filled from other vessels damaged in the raid."</p> + +<p>"And where is the Essex now, sir?" asked Jack.</p> + +<p>"Here," replied Lord Hastings, "in Dover. You are to go aboard this +evening."</p> + +<p>"I can't get there too quickly to suit me," declared Jack.</p> + +<p>"Same here," Frank agreed.</p> + +<p>"Now, remember," enjoined Lord Hastings, "that I still am desirous of your +delivering to Secretary Daniels the document I gave you."</p> + +<p>"Is the Admiralty still unconvinced of the likelihood of submarines +reaching American waters, sir?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>"It is, but you know my opinion has not changed."</p> + +<p>"I begin to agree with you, sir," said Jack. "At first I'll admit I was +skeptical, but the way you explain the matter it sounds reasonable."</p> + +<p>"Well," said Frank, "I hope we get there in time to spoil their plans."</p> + +<p>"Amen to that, my boy," said Lord Hastings. "But, I'll detain you no +longer. You both probably are anxious to get a look at your new vessel."</p> + +<p>"But we have no sailing orders, sir," said Jack.</p> + +<p>"You will have before morning," was Lord Hastings reply. "I don't like to +hurry you off, but the truth is I'm busy and will have to get down to +work."</p> + +<p>"Sorry we have detained you so long," said Jack. "Goodbye, sir."</p> + +<p>They shook hands all around, and the lads wended their way to the harbor, +where they soon were put on board their new ship.</p> + +<p>"And now," said Frank, "while we had a good time and all that, I hope +this voyage won't be interrupted."</p> + +<p>"My sentiments exactly," Jack agreed. "I want to have another look at +America."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XI" id="CHAPTER_XI" />CHAPTER XI</h2> + +<h3>THE WARNING GIVEN</h3> + + +<p>"Land Ho!"</p> + +<p>The cry came from the forward lookout, posted aloft.</p> + +<p>Jack clapped his binoculars to his eyes and gazed earnestly ahead.</p> + +<p>"Where do you make our position, sir?" asked Lieutenant Hetherton.</p> + +<p>"Off the Virginia Capes," was Jack's reply. "We should pick up Fort Monroe +before noon."</p> + +<p>Jack was a good prophet. It still lacked half an hour of midday when the +outlines of the historic fortress at Old Point became distinguishable in +the distance.</p> + +<p>The Essex slipped quietly through the smooth waters of Hampton Roads and +dropped anchor some distance off shore. At Jack's command the launch was +made ready, and leaving Lieutenant Hetherton in command, Jack motioned +Frank to follow him into the launch.</p> + +<p>A moment later they were gliding shoreward through the water.</p> + +<p>"We'll have to pay our respects to the commandant," said Jack. "It would +be a breach of etiquette if we didn't. Also, I want to ascertain the best +place to anchor for the next week or so."</p> + +<p>"Surely you're not figuring on staying here," protested Frank.</p> + +<p>"Not at all, but you know these papers I have been entrusted with must be +delivered, and I can't deliver them here. I'll have to go to Washington."</p> + +<p>"Right," Frank agreed. "I had forgotten. And are you going to take me +along?"</p> + +<p>Jack smiled.</p> + +<p>"Well, I might, if you are real good," he said.</p> + +<p>"I'll be good," Frank promised.</p> + +<p>"Hello," said Jack at this point, "if I'm not mistaken, here comes a guard +of honor to escort us to the commandant."</p> + +<p>Toward the point where the launch now moved, half a dozen American +officers approached. They extended helping hands as Jack and Frank +scrambled ashore. Jack addressed the senior officer, a major.</p> + +<p>"I am Captain Templeton of H.M.S. Essex," he said. "Will you please escort +me into the presence of the commandant?"</p> + +<p>"With pleasure, sir," replied the major. "Come with me."</p> + +<p>He led the way, Frank and the other American officers following. Jack was +received immediately by the commandant. Their conference was brief, and +soon Jack returned to the place where he had left Frank.</p> + +<p>"Well, what did he say?" demanded Frank, as they made their way back +toward the launch.</p> + +<p>"Said it would be well to continue to Newport News," said Jack. "Docking +facilities are better there right now. We can tie up alongside one of the +piers there, or anchor off shore, as we choose. Said he would send word of +our coming."</p> + +<p>"Good," said Frank. "Then I suppose we shall continue without delay?"</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>"But if memory serves," said Frank, "Newport News is on the James River, +and not Hampton Roads."</p> + +<p>"Correct," replied Jack.</p> + +<p>"Well, I didn't know the river was navigable by a vessel of our draught."</p> + +<p>"It is, nevertheless," replied Jack.</p> + +<p>They stepped into the launch, and were soon back aboard the Essex. Jack +immediately gave the necessary commands and the vessel moved forward.</p> + +<p>Two hours later the Essex anchored in the James River half a mile off +shore. Frank took in the scene about him, and expressed his wonder.</p> + +<p>Shipping of all the allied and many of the neutral nations was to be seen +on every hand. Almost over night, it seemed, Newport News had grown from +a port of little importance to one of the greatest shipping centers in the +United States. There, half a mile away, Frank saw one of the great German +merchantmen, which had been interned soon after the outbreak of the war, +but which was later to be converted into a United States auxiliary +cruiser.</p> + +<p>"Well," said Jack, "there is no use delaying here. The commandant at the +fort informed me that about the quickest way to get to Washington now is +to take a boat up the Potomac."</p> + +<p>"And where do we get the boat?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>"Norfolk. But what's the matter with you, Frank? Where's your geography? +Seems to me that if I were born and lived most of my life in the United +States I would know something about it."</p> + +<p>"I do know something about it," declared Frank; "but how do you expect me +to know all these details? This is the first time I've ever been in +Newport News, and I've never been to Norfolk. How do we get there from +here?"</p> + +<p>"Either in the Essex's launch, or by ferry."</p> + +<p>"Which way do you choose?"</p> + +<p>"Ferry, I guess. It will save trouble all around."</p> + +<p>"Any way suits me," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"You talk like you were dead certain of going along," remarked Jack with a +grin.</p> + +<p>"Of course I do. I know you could not be hard-hearted enough to leave me +behind."</p> + +<p>"Nevertheless," Jack declared, "I'm not sure I shouldn't leave you in +command here."</p> + +<p>"By George! That's no way to talk," declared Frank. "Hetherton can stick +on the job here."</p> + +<p>"Well, I guess it will be all right," said Jack. "We may as well pack what +belongings we shall need. We shouldn't be gone more than a day or two."</p> + +<p>"I hope so, and I feel sure we shall. There has been no sign yet of enemy +activities in this water."</p> + +<p>"And there won't be any sign in advance. When the Germans strike it will +be suddenly."</p> + +<p>The lads threw what belongings they believed they would need into their +handbags and were rowed ashore. They proceeded at once to the pier of the +Chesapeake and Ohio ferry and soon were moving along toward Norfolk.</p> + +<p>It was a short ride to Norfolk. Arrived in the city an hour later, they +inquired the way to the offices of the Washington and Norfolk Steamboat +company, where they were fortunate enough to be able to secure a stateroom +that night.</p> + +<p>It was still early, so the lads spent the afternoon looking about the +city, called by the natives the "New York of the South." They went aboard +the steamer Northland at 5.30 o'clock, and at 6 the boat left its pier. +Jack and Frank remained on deck until after the Northland had put in at +Old Point and taken on additional passengers. Then they went below to +dinner.</p> + +<p>"You know this isn't a bad boat," Frank declared after a walk around, +following their dinner.</p> + +<p>"Indeed it isn't," Jack agreed. "It has all the comforts of home. It's +rather small, but outside of that I can't see anything wrong with it."</p> + +<p>"I guess it's big enough for us to-night," grinned Frank.</p> + +<p>There were a score or more of American army and navy officers aboard and +with some of these the lads struck up an acquaintance. In fact, so +interested were some of the Americans in the lads' experiences that they +sat up late regaling their newly found friends with accounts of warfare in +European waters.</p> + +<p>Nevertheless, Jack and Frank were up early the following morning and had a +substantial breakfast before the boat docked at the foot of Seventh street +in the nation's capital. There they took a taxi and were driven to the +Raleigh hotel.</p> + +<p>"Now," said Jack, "the first thing to do is to get in touch with the +British ambassador and have him arrange an audience with the secretary of +the navy at the earliest possible moment."</p> + +<p>Jack got the embassy on the telephone, told who he was and announced that +he would be on hand to see the ambassador within the hour. Then the lads +were driven to the embassy. Here Jack presented his credentials and +expressed his desire to see the secretary of the navy at once.</p> + +<p>"You return to your hotel," said the ambassador. "I'll arrange the +audience and call for you in my automobile."</p> + +<p>The lads followed these instructions.</p> + +<p>At 2 o'clock in the afternoon the ambassador called for them. They were +driven at once to the War and Navy department building on Pennsylvania +avenue and were ushered almost immediately to the offices of Secretary +Daniels. After a wait of perhaps five minutes, Mr. Daniels' private +secretary announced.</p> + +<p>"Mr. Daniels will see you now."</p> + +<p>The three passed into the secretary's private office, where the British +ambassador introduced the lads. Secretary Daniels expressed his pleasure +at the meeting, then said:</p> + +<p>"And now what can I do for you, gentlemen?"</p> + +<p>For answer Jack passed over the papers entrusted him by the Admiralty. +Secretary Daniels scanned them briefly.</p> + +<p>"These matters shall be attended to, gentlemen," he said. "Now, is there +anything else?"</p> + +<p>"There is, sir," said Jack, "and a matter probably of much greater +importance."</p> + +<p>He drew from his pocket the documents given him by Lord Hastings, and +these he also passed to Secretary Daniels. The latter read them +carefully, his face drawn into a scowl.</p> + +<p>"Hm-m-m," he said at last. "Hm-m-m."</p> + +<p>He grew silent, apparently lost in thought. At last he spoke.</p> + +<p>"I have had some such fears myself," he said at last, "but it seems they +are not shared by other officials of the department. I dislike to take +matters altogether into my hands, and yet I suppose I can do it. First, +however, I shall make an effort to convince my associates through these +documents."</p> + +<p>"I am instructed to say, sir," said Jack, "that it would be well if you +gave the matter prompt attention."</p> + +<p>"Oh," said Secretary Daniels, "I anticipate no immediate trouble; and +still this is a matter that should not be overlooked. I thank you, +gentlemen, for bringing the matter to my attention."</p> + +<p>He rose from his chair, signifying that the interview was ended.</p> + +<p>Jack and Frank left the Navy department, and the ambassador dropped them +at their hotel.</p> + +<p>"I don't know what to think of the Secretary of the Navy," said Jack when +they were alone. "He didn't seem greatly interested."</p> + +<p>"He is the man, you know," said Frank, "who wanted to change the technical +terms of port and starboard to right and left."</p> + +<p>"That's so," said Jack, "but I'll venture to say he can rise to an +emergency."</p> + +<p>"There is no doubt about that," Frank agreed, and added quietly: +"Americans always have."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XII" id="CHAPTER_XII" />CHAPTER XII</h2> + +<h3>THE U-BOATS APPEAR</h3> + + +<p>Three weeks passed and Jack and Frank were still in Washington. +Immediately after delivering his messages to Secretary Daniels, Jack got +in touch with the British Admiralty wireless and asked for instructions. +When the reply came it was signed Lord Hastings and said merely:</p> + +<p>"Stay where you are pending further orders."</p> + +<p>And after three weeks no word had come.</p> + +<p>Several times during the three weeks Jack and Frank, or one of the lads at +a time, had returned to Newport News to look to the needs of the Essex, +which still lay quietly in the James river. Steam was kept up in the +destroyer every moment of the day, and she was ready to put to sea on an +instant's notice.</p> + +<p>"Chances are when we need her it will be in a hurry," said Jack.</p> + +<p>Therefore nothing was overlooked that would enable the destroyer to go +into action on a moment's notice. Provisions were added to the stores from +time to time, and the crew were put through their drills daily.</p> + +<p>Meanwhile, from what Jack and Frank learned from the British ambassador, +no steps had been taken to prepare for a possible German attack on +shipping in American waters. True, the coast defenses had been +strengthened, but that was merely a matter of routine for a country at +war.</p> + +<p>Off the coast, warships were on patrol. But there were comparatively few +of these, for the bulk of the American fleet had been sent abroad to +reinforce the British grand fleet patroling the North Sea.</p> + +<p>Jack and Frank discussed these matters frequently.</p> + +<p>"It would be a great time for the Germans to strike," said Jack one +evening, as the lads sat in their rooms at the hotel. "The American people +don't seem to realize the possibilities of the submarine."</p> + +<p>"That's true," said Frank, "but at the same time such an attack might +prove a boomerang to the Germans."</p> + +<p>"What do you mean?"</p> + +<p>"Why," said Frank, "you haven't forgotten, have you, that it took a number +of air raids on England to fully arouse the British people to the fact +that the Germans must be licked?"</p> + +<p>"That's true enough," agreed Jack. "The Germans, of course, figured that +they would frighten England and scare her out of the war."</p> + +<p>"Exactly, and the result was altogether different from what they had +anticipated. That's why I say submarine activities off the American coast +will prove a boomerang to the foe."</p> + +<p>"I see," commented Jack. "You mean it would arouse the American people to +the necessity of prompt action."</p> + +<p>"Exactly."</p> + +<p>"Well," said Jack, "it begins to look as though Lord Hastings were wrong. +We've been here three weeks now and nothing has transpired to indicate +that the Germans are meditating a submarine raid in American waters."</p> + +<p>"You don't expect them to tip the Washington government off in advance, do +you?" asked Frank with a laugh.</p> + +<p>"Hardly; but it would seem that if such a campaign had been planned it +would have been started before this."</p> + +<p>"It wouldn't surprise me," said Frank, "to get a flash any day that a ship +had been submarined off the American coast."</p> + +<p>Came a rap at the door.</p> + +<p>"Come in," Frank called.</p> + +<p>A bell boy entered. He held a tray in his hand and on the tray was a +cablegram.</p> + +<p>"From Lord Hastings, I suppose," said Frank, taking the message and +passing it to Jack.</p> + +<p>Jack broke the seal, spread out the paper. The message, in code, was this:</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p>"Authentic information flotilla submarines headed for America. + Warn Navy Department at once."</p></div> + +<p>Jack sprang to the telephone and got the British embassy on the wire.</p> + +<p>"The ambassador, quick!" he said to the voice that answered his call.</p> + +<p>There was a short pause, and then Jack recognized the ambassador's voice.</p> + +<p>"I've just had a wireless from Lord Hastings relative to the matter which +we discussed with Secretary Daniels several weeks ago," he explained. "Can +you arrange another interview immediately?"</p> + +<p>"I'll see," said the ambassador and rang off.</p> + +<p>The telephone in the lads' room jangled sharply ten minutes later. Jack +sprang to the wire.</p> + +<p>"Yes," he said in response to a query. "Ten o'clock? You'll call for us? +Very well."</p> + +<p>He replaced the receiver and turned to Frank.</p> + +<p>"We will see Secretary Daniels in his office at ten," he said. He looked +at his watch. "Hurry and dress. It's after nine now. The ambassador should +be here in fifteen minutes."</p> + +<p>The lads jumped into their clothes, then went downstairs, where they +awaited the arrival of the ambassador. The latter arrived ten minutes +before ten o'clock, and the three were driven to the War and Navy +building. Secretary Daniels received them at once.</p> + +<p>"I understand that you come on a very important matter," he said. "Pray, +what is it, gentlemen?"</p> + +<p>For answer Jack laid before the American naval secretary the decoded +message from Lord Hastings. The secretary read it, then looked up.</p> + +<p>"Well?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"Why, sir," said Jack, "Lord Hastings simply wishes you to take all +precautions to prevent sinking of vessels by submarines in American +waters."</p> + +<p>Secretary Daniels smiled.</p> + +<p>"I don't know what we can do that has not already been done," he replied. +"The off-coast waters are mined, and American warships are patroling the +regular channels of navigation."</p> + +<p>"All that may be true, sir," said Jack, "but these submarines are slippery +customers, as I have reason to know. It would be well to take even further +precautions."</p> + +<p>"And what would you suggest?" asked Secretary Daniels.</p> + +<p>"Why, sir," said Jack, "I'd suggest cancelling sailing orders of all +transports temporarily, at least until such time as I felt sure they could +go in safety. Then I'd flash a warning broadcast to all vessels within +reach of the wireless to be on the lookout for enemy submarines. I'd rush +every available submarine chaser in the Atlantic ports beyond the mine +fields and I would order a destroyer as protection for every vessel known +to be inward bound."</p> + +<p>Secretary Daniels smiled.</p> + +<p>"You wouldn't overlook anything, would you, Captain?"</p> + +<p>"I certainly would not," said Jack firmly.</p> + +<p>"Very well, then," said Secretary Daniels. "I'll set your mind at rest. +Your suggestions shall be followed out. I'll give the necessary directions +the first thing in the morning."</p> + +<p>"In the morning, sir?" repeated Jack. "The morning may be too late."</p> + +<p>"Oh, I guess not," Secretary Daniels smiled. "It has been three weeks or +more since your first warning and nothing has happened. I guess we can +safely depend upon being let alone a few hours after the second warning."</p> + +<p>Jack was about to protest, thought better of it and said simply:</p> + +<p>"Very well, sir."</p> + +<p>A moment later the lads took their departure with the ambassador. In the +seclusion of the latter's automobile, Jack said:</p> + +<p>"I can't see how the secretary dares let time slip by like that."</p> + +<p>"Never mind," said the ambassador, "you'll find in a day or two that +Secretary Daniels knows what he's doing. Don't make any mistake about him. +He's a capable man."</p> + +<p>"I have no doubt of that, sir," replied Jack. "But if he had seen three +years of war, as we have, he would never delay. Besides, he doesn't know +these German submarines as well as I do. Neither do any of the Americans."</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes they do," declared Frank.</p> + +<p>"They do, eh?" exclaimed Jack. "Well, I'd like to know the name of one of +them."</p> + +<p>"His name," said Frank, "is Lieutenant Chadwick, and I think he knows just +about as much about the U-Boats as you do; and he agrees with your ideas +perfectly."</p> + +<p>Jack smiled.</p> + +<p>"That's right," he said. "I had forgotten you were a native of this land. +Well, here's hoping nothing happens before Secretary Daniels takes all +necessary precautions."</p> + +<p>The British ambassador left the lads at their hotel, and they returned at +once to their rooms, where for several hours they discussed the situation.</p> + +<p>"There is no use talking about it," said Frank at last. "Let's go to bed."</p> + +<p>They undressed.</p> + +<p>Just before extinguishing the light, as was his custom, Frank raised the +window. As he looked out he saw below a crowd of excited men and women +moving about the street.</p> + +<p>"Hey, Jack!" he called. "Come here."</p> + +<p>Jack joined him at the window.</p> + +<p>"Now what's up, do you suppose?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>"Too deep for me," declared Jack, "but something surely. Let's go down and +find out."</p> + +<p>Hurriedly they slipped back into their clothes, and went down stairs. They +stepped out of the hotel and mingled with the people on the streets, quite +a crowd for Washington at that hour of the night.</p> + +<p>The stream of people led toward Eleventh and Pennsylvania avenue, where a +larger crowd was gathered in front of a bulletin board in the window of a +newspaper office.</p> + +<p>"Big news of some kind," said Jack as they hurried along.</p> + +<p>"And not good news, either," Frank declared. "There'd be some cheering if +it were."</p> + +<p>"You're right," said Jack.</p> + +<p>By main force they wormed their way through the crowd, until they were +close enough to read the bulletin board. Then Jack uttered an exclamation +of alarm.</p> + +<p>"I knew it!" he cried.</p> + +<p>For what he read was this:</p> + +<p>"Navy Department announces sinking of two freight vessels off New Jersey +coast by German submarines."</p> + +<p>"I knew it!" Jack said again.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIII" id="CHAPTER_XIII" />CHAPTER XIII</h2> + +<h3>THE SUBMARINES GROW BOLDER</h3> + + +<p>The boys returned to their rooms.</p> + +<p>"Now what?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>"I don't know," was Jack's reply. "I hate to sit here quietly when the +whole American navy, or what part of it is still here, is in chase of the +Germans, but what are we going to do about it?"</p> + +<p>"Search me," replied Frank.</p> + +<p>"Our instructions," Jack continued, "are to stay here pending further +orders."</p> + +<p>"Maybe we'll get them soon," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"Yes; and maybe we won't."</p> + +<p>"Then we'll just have to sit tight."</p> + +<p>"That's what worries me."</p> + +<p>There was a knock at the door.</p> + +<p>"Come in," Frank called.</p> + +<p>A bell boy entered with a second cablegram.</p> + +<p>Jack tore it open hastily.</p> + +<p>"Hurray!" he cried.</p> + +<p>"What's up?" demanded Frank.</p> + +<p>He arose and peered over his chum's shoulder. What he read was this:</p> + +<p>"Offer your services and the services of the Essex to the U.S. Navy +Department at once."</p> + +<p>"Fine!" cried Frank. "Let's get busy."</p> + +<p>It was the work of half an hour, however, to get Secretary Daniels on the +telephone. He had been aroused at the first news of the sinkings off the +coast and had been kept on the jump ever since. But he took time to talk +to Jack.</p> + +<p>"I am authorized by the British Admiralty, sir," said Jack over the +'phone, "to offer the services of my ship to the American government."</p> + +<p>"Accepted with thanks," snapped Secretary Daniels. "You will proceed +immediately to your vessel in Newport News, after which you will join the +American vessels on patrol duty off the coast of Virginia. I shall inform +Admiral Sellings that you will report to him for instructions."</p> + +<p>Without awaiting a reply, Secretary Daniels hung up.</p> + +<p>"By George!" said Jack. "He's a man of action when he gets to moving."</p> + +<p>"What did he say?" demanded Frank.</p> + +<p>"Hurry and pack your things," was Jack's reply. "I'll explain as we work."</p> + +<p>It was the work of only a few minutes for the lads to gather their +belongings and dump them in their handbags. Then they hurried downstairs, +where they paid their bill and learned that they could catch a train to +Richmond within the hour.</p> + +<p>"Going after the submarines?" asked the night clerk.</p> + +<p>"Yes," replied Jack shortly.</p> + +<p>"Good! I hope you get 'em. Here's your taxi."</p> + +<p>The lads jumped into the taxi and were driven to the station, where they +caught their train with time to spare.</p> + +<p>It lacked two hours of daylight when they arrived in Richmond. They took a +taxi across town to the Chesapeake and Ohio station, where they caught a +train for Newport News an hour later. At eight o'clock they were in +Newport News, and fifteen minutes later stepped aboard the Essex.</p> + +<p>"Glad to see you back, sir," said Lieutenant Hetherton, who held the deck. +"I suppose you've heard——"</p> + +<p>"Pipe all hands to quarters, Mr. Hetherton," Jack interrupted sharply, +"and clear ship for action. We sail within the hour."</p> + +<p>Lieutenant Hetherton hurried away.</p> + +<p>"Frank," said Jack, "go below and have a look at the engine room. Then +find the quartermaster and see about provisions and fuel."</p> + +<p>Frank also hurried away.</p> + +<p>Sailing preparations aboard the Essex were made hurriedly and within less +than an hour all was ready for departure. Meanwhile, crowds had collected +ashore, upon learning that the Essex was about to set out in pursuit of +the German undersea raiders.</p> + +<p>Loud cheers split the air. Men and women waved their handkerchiefs. From a +group of soldiers on the shore came expressions of good luck. In response +to Jack's request, a pilot had been hurried aboard and now took the wheel.</p> + +<p>"Half speed ahead," Jack ordered.</p> + +<p>The water churned up ahead of the Essex, and she moved majestically toward +the center of the stream.</p> + +<p>Gradually the cheering died away in the distance, and the city of Newport +News was lost to sight. In Hampton Roads again, the pilot was dropped in a +small boat and rowed shoreward.</p> + +<p>Frank took his place behind the helmsman and Jack rang for full speed +ahead. At last the Essex was off in pursuit of the German submarines.</p> + +<p>Meanwhile, an account of the activity of the enemy off the coats is in +order. Besides the sinking of the first two freight vessels, which had +been reported to the Navy Department by survivors who had reached shore in +small boats, other vessels had been sent to the bottom. Most of these were +freighters or small trading ships, including two sailing vessels. Some had +been sunk off the New Jersey coast, others off the coasts of Delaware and +Virginia.</p> + +<p>In some cases the vessels attacked had attempted to flee, but they were +quickly overhauled by the submarines, which, besides firing torpedoes into +their hulls, shelled them with rapid fire guns and later attacked the +small boats in which the crews sought to make the shore.</p> + +<p>Casualties had been heavy aboard the ships sunk by the raiders. One or two +of the enemy submarines had been fired on by armed ships, but to no avail; +and as a result of those efforts, the death lists aboard such vessels had +been increased, for the Germans, angered, had swept the survivors in small +boats with rapid fire guns.</p> + +<p>How many submarines were operating in American waters, the Navy department +did not know. From the fact that ships were attacked in at least three +places, within a short space of time, however, it was believed that there +were at least three or four of the raiders.</p> + +<p>From all ports along the coast, destroyers, submarine chasers, motor boats +armed with single guns, had put to sea in an effort to run down the +raiders. But off the New Jersey coast, almost in the midst of these +vessels, a sailing ship was sunk by a submarine. Before any of the +patroling vessels could reach the scene, however, the U-Boat had submerged +and fled.</p> + +<p>Depth bombs were dropped by ships of war wherever it was thought a +submarine might be lurking beneath the water. But these efforts met with +no success. Reports of sinkings in other parts of the water reached the +Navy department.</p> + +<p>The first sinking was reported on May 10. In the week that followed, +eighteen other vessels were sent to the bottom by German submarines off +the American coast. At the end of that time, however, the waters were +being so well patrolled that it would have been suicide for a submarine to +have showed itself.</p> + +<p>Reports of sinkings ceased. But, from time to time, word was received that +submarines had been sighted farther south, first off the coast of the +Carolinas and then off Florida. No attacks were made in these waters, +however, and the next that was heard of the submarines they were off the +coast of South America.</p> + +<p>During the activities of the enemy raiders, one submarine was sunk, and +one was captured, both through the efforts of Jack and the crew and +officers of the Essex.</p> + +<p>After leaving Hampton Roads, the Essex steamed out beyond the Virginia +Capes. Immediately Jack sought to get into communication with Admiral +Sellings by wireless. And at last he raised the admiral's flagship, the +Dakota.</p> + +<p>"What do you want?" came the query from the Dakota, after Jack's flash had +been picked up.</p> + +<p>"British destroyer Essex, Captain Templeton, reporting to Admiral Sellings +for orders at the request of Secretary Daniels," was the message Jack sent +back.</p> + +<p>"One moment," was the reply.</p> + +<p>Jack waited in the radio room aboard the Essex.</p> + +<p>"Essex! Essex!" came the call five minutes later.</p> + +<p>"Answer," Jack directed the operator.</p> + +<p>"Essex replying," the operator flashed.</p> + +<p>"Admiral Sellings orders Essex to proceed north and stand out to sea to +protect inbound vessels. Understand one submarine sighted five miles out +five hours ago. Repeat."</p> + +<p>The operator repeated the message to show that he had caught in correctly.</p> + +<p>Jack went on deck and gave instructions necessary to putting the Essex out +at sea. Then, "Full speed ahead!" he signalled.</p> + +<p>The British destroyer Essex stood out to sea magnificently. Aboard, her +crew stood to their posts, ready for action. Jack, surrounded by his +officers, held the bridge.</p> + +<p>"We've got to keep a sharp eye out," said Jack.</p> + +<p>"Right," Frank agreed. "We're likely to come upon one of the enemy any +moment, and we can't afford to let him see us first."</p> + +<p>"Very true, sir," Lieutenant Hetherton agreed. "Fortunately all our +lookouts have sharp eyes. I'll venture to say a submarine won't come to +the surface very close to us without being seen."</p> + +<p>"That's the way to talk, Mr. Hetherton," said Jack. "It shows the proper +spirit."</p> + +<p>"And the men are imbued with the same spirit," declared Frank, "and yet +see how cool they are."</p> + +<p>It was perfectly true. There was no confusion aboard the Essex in spite of +the fact that each member of the crew knew he was bent on a dangerous +mission. One shot from the submarine, they knew, if truly aimed and Jack +was unable to maneuver the vessel out of harm's way, would be the end. +However, like all British tars, they had absolute confidence in their +commander; for, according to their line of reasoning, if he were not a +capable officer and to be depended upon he would not be in command of the +ship.</p> + +<p>Suddenly the radio operator appeared on deck and hurried toward the +bridge. Jack stepped forward to meet him. The lad took the message the +operator passed him and read:</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p>"S.O.S. Pursued by submarine eighteen miles off Cape May light. + Am running south by west, but foe is gaining. Capt. Griswold, + Ventura."</p></div> + +<p>"This," said Jack quietly, "means that there is still another U-Boat to be +reckoned with, but I had no idea they were operating so far out. We'll +have to get busy."</p> + +<p>Jack looked at his officers with a slight smile on his face, then ordered: +"Shape your course due east, Frank. Full speed ahead."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIV" id="CHAPTER_XIV" />CHAPTER XIV</h2> + +<h3>THE U-87</h3> + + +<p>As the Essex sped forward the radio operator from time to time picked up +other messages from the Ventura.</p> + +<p>"She's headed directly toward us," Jack explained to Frank. "We should +sight her within the hour."</p> + +<p>The Ventura was sighted in less, but under peculiar conditions.</p> + +<p>"Ship on the starboard bow, sir," sang the lookout forward.</p> + +<p>A moment later the officers on the bridge sighted the vessel through their +glasses.</p> + +<p>"By George! She seems to be standing still," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"So she does," Lieutenant Hetherton agreed, "Wonder what's the matter?"</p> + +<p>"We'll find out fast enough," returned Jack quietly.</p> + +<p>"Take the bridge, Mr. Chadwick," said Jack. "I'm going below to the radio +room."</p> + +<p>"See if you can raise the Ventura," he instructed the radio operator, a +few moments later.</p> + +<p>"Ventura! Ventura!" went the call through the air.</p> + +<p>There was no response.</p> + +<p>"Try it again," said Jack.</p> + +<p>The operator obeyed. Still there was no reply from the Ventura.</p> + +<p>"Something wrong," Jack muttered under his breath, "and still I saw no +sign of a submarine. Try 'em again, Wilkins."</p> + +<p>Again the radio operator sent the call flashing through the air:</p> + +<p>"Ventura! Ventura! Ventura!"</p> + +<p>The instrument at Wilkins' side began to click.</p> + +<p>"Ventura replying, sir," Wilkins reported.</p> + +<p>"I hear him," said Jack briefly. "Let me get at that key, Wilkins."</p> + +<p>The operator sprang up and Jack took his place and strapped the receiver +over his head.</p> + +<p>"What's the trouble, Ventura?" he clicked.</p> + +<p>"Held up by submarine," was the reply. "U-Boat due east of us. You can't +see her. We sighted you just after we were boarded."</p> + +<p>"Then how does it come you are at the key?" Jack clicked.</p> + +<p>"Broke away from captors on deck. They are pounding at the door now."</p> + +<p>"Have they sighted us?"</p> + +<p>"They hadn't. There goes the door, Good-bye."</p> + +<p>The flashes from the Ventura ceased. Jack sprang up and turned the +receiver over to the operator.</p> + +<p>"Keep calling," he said. "If you pick the Ventura up again, let me know. +I'll send a man so you can report to me through him."</p> + +<p>Jack hurried on deck.</p> + +<p>In the distance the Ventura was plainly visible now. Jack changed the +course of the ship slightly, and after the vessel had gone half a mile he +made out the form of a submarine lying close astern of the Ventura.</p> + +<p>"By George! They must see us," he muttered. "If the lookout on the U-Boat +hasn't espied us, surely some of the Germans on the deck of the Ventura +must have done so. Wonder why the submarine captain doesn't sink the +steamer and submerge. Surely he is not going to risk an encounter with +me."</p> + +<p>Nevertheless, it seemed that such must be the submarine commander's +intention, for the submarine showed no sign of submerging as the Essex +bore down on her.</p> + +<p>Through his binoculars Frank was now able to ascertain the fact that a +struggle was in progress on the deck of the Ventura. A dozen or more +figures, closely interlocked, were scuffling to and fro across the bridge. +Frank gave an exclamation.</p> + +<p>"I know what's wrong," he ejaculated.</p> + +<p>"Well, what?" demanded Jack, turning to him.</p> + +<p>"Why, the crew, or some of the crew, has jumped the commander of the +submarine and his escort. That's why the officer left on the U-Boat +doesn't dare sink the vessel. And the crew of the steamer is keeping the +German and his friends so busy aboard that they haven't had a chance to +jump overboard."</p> + +<p>"By George! I guess you're right," declared Jack. "Now if they can hold +them fifteen minutes longer we'll get in the game ourselves."</p> + +<p>Again Jack altered the course of the Essex and approached the submarine at +an angle from the Ventura.</p> + +<p>"Forward turret guns there!" he roared.</p> + +<p>It was the signal the men had been eagerly awaiting. Quickly the signal +"ready" was flashed in the forward turret. The men were already at their +posts.</p> + +<p>"Range finders!" ordered Jack.</p> + +<p>"Aye, aye, sir," came the reply of the officer in charge of this work, and +he calculated the range swiftly and passed the word to the captain of the +gun crew in the forward turret.</p> + +<p>"Fire!"</p> + +<p>A heavy shell flew screaming across the water.</p> + +<p>But the range had not been correct and the shell flew past the submarine. +Again the range was calculated, taking into consideration the first error. +Again the command to fire was given.</p> + +<p>This time the range had been gauged perfectly and the shell must have gone +home had it not been for one thing.</p> + +<p>A moment before the command to fire was given, a torpedo was launched by +the submarine. Jack saw the torpedo come dashing through the water, and he +was forced to order the helm over promptly to escape the deadly messenger. +This maneuver was made at the precise moment that the Essex fired for the +second time, and consequently the shell again went wide.</p> + +<p>Almost at the same instant Frank, who had kept his eyes glued to the deck +of the Ventura where the struggle on the bridge had continued fiercely, +uttered an exclamation of alarm.</p> + +<p>"They've broken away," he cried.</p> + +<p>It was true, The submarine commander and his followers had succeeded in +eluding the crew of the Ventura and dashed to the rail. There they poised +themselves a brief moment, and then flung themselves headlong into the +sea. Directly, dripping, they appeared on the deck of the submarine and +dashed for the conning tower.</p> + +<p>"Quick!" roared Jack. "Forward turret guns again there!"</p> + +<p>Once more the range was calculated and an explosion shook the Essex. But +as before the range had not been true. The shell barely skimmed the top of +the U-Boat and went screaming half a mile past, where it struck the water +with a hiss.</p> + +<p>Slowly the submarine began to submerge.</p> + +<p>"Again!" cried Jack.</p> + +<p>But the next shot had no better success.</p> + +<p>The submarine disappeared from sight.</p> + +<p>Jack stamped his foot.</p> + +<p>"What's the matter with those fellows forward?" he demanded. "Can't they +shoot? Didn't they ever see a gun before?"</p> + +<p>There was no reply from the other officers and gradually Jack cooled down.</p> + +<p>"Pretty tough," said Frank then. "We should have had that fellow."</p> + +<p>Jack nodded gloomily.</p> + +<p>"So we should," he cried, "but we didn't get him. Well, better luck next +time. All the same, I'm inclined to believe that Ensign Carruthers needs a +talking to. He didn't take the time to calculate the range correctly."</p> + +<p>"I'll speak to him," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"Do," said Jack. "In the meantime we'll run close to the Ventura and I'll +go aboard for a word with her captain."</p> + +<p>The Ventura's wireless was working again now, and Jack himself took the +key.</p> + +<p>"Lay to," he ordered. "I'm coming aboard you."</p> + +<p>"Very well," was the reply.</p> + +<p>The two vessels drew close together. Jack had the destroyer's launch +lowered, climbed in and crossed to the Ventura, where a ladder was lowered +for him. On deck he was greeted by a grizzled old sailor, who introduced +himself as Captain Griswold.</p> + +<p>"Come to my cabin, sir," he said to Jack. "We can talk there without being +interrupted."</p> + +<p>Jack followed the captain of the Ventura below, and took a seat the latter +motioned him to. The captain set out liquor and cigars, but Jack waved +them away.</p> + +<p>"I neither smoke nor drink, thanks," he said.</p> + +<p>Captain Griswold shrugged his shoulders and put a match to a cigar.</p> + +<p>"Well, what can I do for you, Captain?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"First," said Jack, "did you get the number of the submarine?"</p> + +<p>"I did. The U-87, Commander Frederich, the captain styled himself; and if +there ever was a murderer unhung, he's the man."</p> + +<p>"Why?" asked Jack curiously.</p> + +<p>"Because he proposed setting my passengers and crew adrift in small boats, +without water or provisions, before sinking my ship. And when I told him +that I had him figured correctly—that he intended to shell the +lifeboats—the cold-blooded scoundrel admitted it! That's why we had the +nerve to jump him on deck. I figured we might as well die on the Ventura +as in the lifeboats—and we had a chance of taking him to Davy Jones' +locker along with us."</p> + +<p>"I see," said Jack. "Not a bad idea."</p> + +<p>"It was offered by the wireless operator," continued Captain Griswold, +"although he offered it unconsciously."</p> + +<p>"Explain," Jack requested.</p> + +<p>"Well, Harrington thought he heard his instrument clicking. He figured it +was you, whom we had just sighted. He broke through the Germans on deck +and dashed below. He locked himself in his room and began talking to you. +Three of the enemy went after him and broke in the door, but I guess he +had told you enough by that time."</p> + +<p>"I'd like a word with this Harrington," said Jack. "He is a brave man. +Where is he?"</p> + +<p>"Dead," said Captain Griswold quietly.</p> + +<p>Jack jumped to his feet</p> + +<p>"Dead?" he repeated.</p> + +<p>"Yes. After the Germans broke in the door, they overpowered him, tied him +and then brought back on deck. Said the German commander: 'I'll show you +how we treat men who defy us.' He stepped back several paces, drew his +revolver and fired. Then three of the enemy threw the body into the sea. +That's when we jumped them, for it was more than we could stand."</p> + +<p>"Then who answered the wireless when I called a moment ago?"</p> + +<p>"I did."</p> + +<p>"I guess that is enough, Captain," said Jack. He returned to the Essex.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XV" id="CHAPTER_XV" />CHAPTER XV</h2> + +<h3>JACK GIVES CHASE</h3> + + +<p>"Any sight of the submarine, Frank?" asked Jack, when he stepped on deck +again.</p> + +<p>"None," was the reply. "In accordance with instructions you gave before +you went overside we dropped depth bombs in the spot where the U-Boat +disappeared, but without result."</p> + +<p>"I guess he's gone, then," said Jack. "But I'd like to get my hands on +that fellow," and he related to Frank the manner in which the German +commander had shot down the wireless operator aboard the Ventura.</p> + +<p>"By Jove! What a murderous scoundrel!" muttered Frank.</p> + +<p>Jack nodded.</p> + +<p>"No worse than the rest of them, I'll wager," he said. "But, hello! The +Ventura's moving again."</p> + +<p>As soon as Jack had left the deck of the steamer, Captain Griswold had +ordered the engines started and prepared for a quick dash to shore.</p> + +<p>"There are likely to be more of those pesky submarines about here," he +muttered, "and the sooner I reach port the better."</p> + +<p>Accordingly he ordered full speed ahead.</p> + +<p>"Do you know," said Frank, "I've a hunch that the U-87 is not through with +the Ventura. You know how the German is. He doesn't like to admit he's +been licked, so I figure the submarine commander is likely to have gone +ahead and will be awaiting the approach of the Ventura."</p> + +<p>"Now by George! I wouldn't be a bit surprised," Jack agreed. "Well, we'll +be ready for him."</p> + +<p>"What are you going to do, Jack?"</p> + +<p>"I'll show you. Come."</p> + +<p>Jack dashed to the radio room, Frank at his heels.</p> + +<p>"Get the Ventura for me," Jack instructed the operator.</p> + +<p>It was perhaps five minutes later that the Ventura answered the call. Jack +took the key.</p> + +<p>"Captain Griswold?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"Yes. Who are you?"</p> + +<p>"Captain Templeton, destroyer Essex."</p> + +<p>"Well, what do you want this time?"</p> + +<p>"Slow down. I'm coming aboard again."</p> + +<p>"What for?"</p> + +<p>"I'll explain when I get there."</p> + +<p>"All right, but I'll tell you I don't like this business."</p> + +<p>The instrument became silent.</p> + +<p>"Now tell me what you're going to do, Jack," said Frank, as he followed +his chum and commander on deck.</p> + +<p>"It's very simple," said Jack. "As you have said, I believe that the +submarine commander will intercept the Ventura again farther along toward +the shore. Now, I'm going to turn the Essex over to you temporarily and +go aboard the Ventura. You know the Germans as well as I do. This man will +no more think of sinking the Ventura without doing a bit of bragging to +the captain, who fooled him once, than he will of flying."</p> + +<p>"That's true enough," Frank admitted.</p> + +<p>"All right. Now I'll be aboard when he gets there. If he comes aboard, +I'll grab him there. If he doesn't I'll jump to the deck of the submarine +after him and tumble him overboard. I'll trust to you to keep the +submarine occupied and to get a boat to me."</p> + +<p>"It's a desperate venture, Jack," Frank protested.</p> + +<p>"So it is," was Jack's reply, "but I've a longing to capture this fellow. +If we just sink the submarine, I can't do it of course. Another thing, it +may be that I am not doing just right in leaving my ship, but it will only +be for a couple of hours and I know you can handle it as well as I can."</p> + +<p>"Oh, I won't sink her," grinned Frank. "But why not let me be the one to +go?"</p> + +<p>"Because I'm not sure you can handle the German commander."</p> + +<p>"But you're sure you can, eh?"</p> + +<p>"He'll have to be something new in the line of a German if I can't."</p> + +<p>"All right," said Frank. "Have it your own way. You're boss here, you +know."</p> + +<p>Meantime the Essex and the Ventura had been drawing closer together. +Directly a boat put off from the destroyer and ran alongside of the +steamer. Jack clambered over the side and the launch returned to the +destroyer.</p> + +<p>Captain Griswold was waiting for Jack.</p> + +<p>"Now what's up?" he wanted to know.</p> + +<p>"Come to your cabin and I'll explain," said Jack.</p> + +<p>In the seclusion of the cabin he outlined the situation. When he had +concluded a sketch of his plans, Captain Griswold demurred.</p> + +<p>"But I don't like to risk my passengers," he said.</p> + +<p>"You won't be risking them any more with me aboard than you will without +me," Jack explained. "Besides, you will have the additional protection of +the destroyer. In fact, it may be that the presence of the Essex will +scare the submarine off, but I doubt it. The German commander, as all of +his ilk, is angry at having been balked of his prey. He'll probably have +one more try, destroyer or no destroyer."</p> + +<p>"Well," said Captain Griswold, "you're a British naval officer and should +know something, whether you do or not. But I'll tell you right now I hope +the submarine doesn't show up again."</p> + +<p>Nevertheless, Captain Griswold was doomed to disappointment, for the U-87 +did reappear.</p> + +<p>It was almost 6 o'clock in the evening when all on board were startled by +a cry from the lookout.</p> + +<p>"Submarine on the port bow, sir."</p> + +<p>Instantly all became confusion on the big merchant ship. Passengers, of +whom there were perhaps fifty, became greatly excited. Every man on board +strapped on a life preserver, and waited for he knew not what.</p> + +<p>The fact that, directly astern, the Essex, British destroyer, was in plain +sight and trailing them, did not allay their fears. Came a shot from a gun +mounted forward on the submarine, a signal to heave to.</p> + +<p>"Obey it," said Jack, to Captain Griswold, on the bridge.</p> + +<p>Captain Griswold ordered his engines stopped.</p> + +<p>"I'll keep out of sight for a moment," said Jack. "The commander may come +on board."</p> + +<p>He stooped down in the shelter of the pilot house.</p> + +<p>The submarine drew close to the Ventura, and a voice hailed Captain +Griswold:</p> + +<p>"Thought you'd get away did you, you Yankee pig."</p> + +<p>It was the voice of the German commander.</p> + +<p>"Oh, we may get away yet," said Captain Griswold.</p> + +<p>"Don't depend on the destroyer this time," shouted the commander of the +submarine. "I see her approaching, but she won't be soon enough. I'll sink +you and submerge before she can fire a shot."</p> + +<p>"Well, you big cut throat," shouted Captain Griswold, losing his temper, +"why don't you do it?"</p> + +<p>"You dare to talk to a German officer like that?" thundered the submarine +commander. "You shall be sunk immediately. But first I wanted a word with +you. I just wanted to tell you what fate I hold in store for you."</p> + +<p>"It's my opinion," said Captain Griswold, "that you're a big bluff, like +all the rest of your stripe."</p> + +<p>Meantime, realizing that the German commander did not intend to board the +Ventura a second time, Jack crept from the shelter of the pilot house +unobserved and stole across the deck until he was beside the rail just +above the U-Boat, whose sides almost scraped the Ventura, so close were +the two vessels together.</p> + +<p>Jack removed his coat and his cap, which he dropped on deck. Then he stood +up in full view of the German submarine commander. The latter gazed at him +carelessly, for without his cap and coat Jack showed no sign of being a +British naval officer.</p> + +<p>Jack took in the scene about him with a careful eye. The German commander +stood close to the conning tower. There were perhaps half a dozen men +beside him, presumably his officers. The commander was directly below the +spot where Jack stood.</p> + +<p>One of the Germans, Jack noticed, kept a close eye on the approaching +Essex and from time to time spoke to the commander in a low tone.</p> + +<p>"Oh, these English can't shoot," Jack heard the commander say at last. +"However, I guess we have delayed long enough. Inside with you, +gentlemen."</p> + +<p>Two of the Germans descended through the conning tower. This left four on +the deck of the submarine besides the commander. These, too, moved toward +the conning tower.</p> + +<p>"Guess it's time to get busy," Jack muttered.</p> + +<p>With a single movement he leaped to the rail of the Ventura, and with a +second hurled himself to the deck of the submarine, landing in the midst +of the startled Germans.</p> + +<p>At the same moment, Captain Griswold, on the Ventura, signalled his engine +room for full speed ahead in accordance with Jack's instructions.</p> + +<p>The reason for this was obvious. First, it would take the steamer out of +the way of the torpedoes already trained on her, which would not be +launched without a command from one of the enemy officers, and, second, it +would draw the Ventura away so as to present the submarine as a clear +target for the guns of the approaching Essex.</p> + +<p>Jack, on the deck of the submarine, recovered himself before the German +officers could get over their surprise. He sprang to his feet and waded +into them, striking out right and left.</p> + +<p>Two men went staggering across the narrow deck and toppled into the sea. +The others reached for their revolvers. Before they could fire, however, +Jack sprang forward quickly and floored one of the enemy with a smashing +blow. This left the commander and one other officer on deck.</p> + +<p>The commander fired at Jack, but in his haste the bullet went wild. Jack +hurled himself forward, and the men gave ground. One, retreating, lost his +balance and went staggering across the deck and fell overboard.</p> + +<p>Only the commander of the submarine now faced Jack, and he covered the lad +with a revolver.</p> + +<p>"Hands up!" he said.</p> + +<p>For answer Jack smiled slightly, and took a quick step forward.</p> + +<p>"Crack!" the German's revolver spoke sharply, and Jack felt a hot pain in +his left arm. But the German had no time to fire again, for Jack was upon +him, pinning his revolver arm to his side.</p> + +<p>"Now," said the lad, "I've got you!"</p> + +<p>The two wrestled across the deck.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVI" id="CHAPTER_XVI" />CHAPTER XVI</h2> + +<h3>THE FIGHT ON THE U-87</h3> + + +<p>In the meantime, members of the crew hearing the commotion on deck, rushed +up to see what was going on. Seeing their commander struggling with an +enemy, they hurried across the deck.</p> + +<p>Jack saw them coming out of the tail of his eye. It was not time to +hesitate and the lad knew it.</p> + +<p>With his arms still wrapped about the German commander, Jack struggled to +the rail and leaped into the sea. Down and down he went, never for a +moment relaxing his hold on the German. Then they came to the surface.</p> + +<p>With a sudden jerk the German freed himself and aimed a heavy blow at +Jack. This Jack dodged and sought to regain his hold on his foe. But the +German wriggled away and struck out for the submarine.</p> + +<p>In the meantime, Captain Griswold of the Ventura had been watching the +struggle as his vessel sped away from the scene. There was a strange light +in his eyes and he muttered to himself. At last he muttered an +imprecation.</p> + +<p>"He's a brave boy," he said. "I can't run away and leave him like that."</p> + +<p>He brought the head of the vessel around in spite of the protests of some +of the passengers, and headed back for the submarine.</p> + +<p>"Man the forward gun there!" he cried.</p> + +<p>For the Ventura, like other allied ships plying in the seas in those days, +carried small guns for defensive purposes. The gun crew sprang to obey +this order and the gun was trained on the submarine.</p> + +<p>"Fire!" shouted Captain Griswold.</p> + +<p>"Crash!"</p> + +<p>The gun spoke and a geyser of water was kicked up just beyond the +submarine.</p> + +<p>At this point the officer left in command of the submarine seemed to +realize his own danger. He sprang to the conning tower, unmindful of the +fact that his commander was struggling in the water.</p> + +<p>"Down, men!" he cried.</p> + +<p>But it appeared that the German sailors were made of sterner stuff than +was the officer. They refused to go below until their commander had been +brought safely aboard. In vain the officer pointed out their danger.</p> + +<p>Jack struck out after the German commander as the latter swam for the +submarine. The lad was a powerful swimmer and he felt confident he could +overtake the man before help could reach him.</p> + +<p>The destroyer Essex had now drawn close. Frank had been afraid to order a +shot at the submarine for fear the shell might hit Jack in the water.</p> + +<p>"Take the bridge, Mr. Hetherton!" he cried. "Lower a boat, men!"</p> + +<p>The boat was lowered in a trice and Frank and a score of sailors sprang +in. The launch darted toward Jack at full speed, Frank standing erect and +with the quartermaster at the rudder.</p> + +<p>They were close enough to see the struggle between Jack and the German +commander in the water. Frank saw the man break loose from Jack and strike +out for the submarine. He saw Jack make after him, and he saw something +more.</p> + +<p>Half a dozen German sailors leaped into the water and made for Jack, who +apparently did not realize his own danger, so interested was he in the +pursuit of the German commander.</p> + +<p>"Faster!" cried Frank, and drew his revolver.</p> + +<p>Now, for the first time, Jack realized his danger. But it was too late to +draw back, and it is doubtful if he would have done so anyway.</p> + +<p>"I'm going to get that fellow," he gritted between his teeth, referring to +the German commander.</p> + +<p>One of the German sailors struck at the lad with a knife. Jack caught the +man's arm with his left hand and twisted sharply. There was a snap, and +the knife dropped into the water. The sailor uttered a cry of pain and +turning, struck out for the submarine with his good arm.</p> + +<p>Two sailors now beset Jack on either side, and the German commander turned +to renew the struggle.</p> + +<p>"Kill him!" he cried angrily.</p> + +<p>One of the sailors raised himself high in the water, and a knife flashed +above him.</p> + +<p>"Crack!"</p> + +<p>A revolver spoke sharply and the knife dropped from limp fingers.</p> + +<p>Frank, standing erect in the Essex's launch, had fired. Now, as has been +said, Frank was a crack shot, and in spite of the pitching of the small +boat, his aim had been true. The bullet had struck the German sailor's arm +just below the elbow, shattering the nerve.</p> + +<p>Perceiving the approach of reinforcements, at an order from their +commander, the Germans turned and swam rapidly toward the submarine. The +sailors reached the vessel and climbed aboard. Their commander did +likewise.</p> + +<p>Unmindful of the cries of his friends behind him, Jack also laid hold of +the edge of the submarine and drew himself, dripping, aboard the vessel. A +sailor near the conning tower raised his revolver in deliberate aim.</p> + +<p>"Crack! Crack!"</p> + +<p>Two revolvers spoke almost as one, the first Frank's, the second that of +the sailor who aimed at Jack. But Frank's bullet went home, thus +deflecting the aim of the man who covered Jack, and the German's bullet +went wild.</p> + +<p>The commander of the submarine, at this juncture, losing his temper at +being pursued to the very door of safety, turned and sprang for Jack with +a wild cry. He was a big and powerful man, and as he wrapped his arms +about Jack, the lad staggered back.</p> + +<p>But he recovered his balance in a moment and struck out with his right +fist. Struck in the stomach, the German grunted and stepped back.</p> + +<p>Now the remainder of the German crew came pouring on deck. At the same +time Frank's launch grated alongside and his men poured a volley of rifle +bullets into the enemy. The latter turned and scampered for safety below +decks.</p> + +<p>Jack, still struggling with the German commander, paused and looked around +long enough to cry:</p> + +<p>"After them, Frank! Don't let them shut you out."</p> + +<p>Frank understood and led his men toward the conning tower at a run. Most +of the enemy were already inside and descending, but Frank arrived in time +to prevent the closing of the conning tower, which would have permitted +the submarine to submerge, leaving the struggling figures in the water. +With the conning tower open, it was, of course, impossible for the U-Boat +to submerge, for she would have been flooded immediately.</p> + +<p>Frank's men made prisoners of the half a dozen Germans who had not time to +get below, and then the lad ran over to help Jack.</p> + +<p>"Keep away, Frank," said Jack. "I've got this fellow, and I hope he +doesn't give up too easily. We've heavy accounts to settle with him."</p> + +<p>The big German showed no symptoms of giving up. He lashed out with both +arms and Jack was kept busy warding off the blows. But the German +commander was a novice at this sort of fighting, while Jack, only a year +or so before, had won the heavyweight boxing championship of the British +navy. So there was no doubt in Frank's mind as to the outcome. He and his +men formed a circle around the struggling figures, at the same time +guarding the conning tower to prevent the enemy from closing it.</p> + +<p>"Shoot the first head you see down there," Frank enjoined the men he left +on guard, and he knew they would be only too glad to obey this order.</p> + +<p>Jack, with a smile still on his face, permitted the German commander to +waste his energy in ineffective blows. Then Jack stepped forward and +delivered a heavy blow to the man's mouth. The German staggered back. Jack +doubled him up with a left-handed punch to the pit of the stomach, then +straightened him with a second hard right to the point of the chin.</p> + +<p>The German commander reeled backward. Jack followed up his advantage, and +for the space of a minute played a tattoo on the man's face with both +fists. Then he stepped back, and as the German came toward him, the lad +muttered:</p> + +<p>"I guess this has gone far enough. Now for the finish."</p> + +<p>He started a blow almost from the deck, and putting his full force behind +it, struck.</p> + +<p>"Crack!"</p> + +<p>The blow could be heard even aboard the Ventura, which had approached +close by this time.</p> + +<p>The German commander seemed to stagger back all of ten paces, the British +sailors scurrying back to keep out of his way. Then the man fell, his head +striking the deck with a sickening thud.</p> + +<p>"There," said Jack, "I guess that will settle you. Tie him up, men."</p> + +<p>A wild cheer had burst from the sailors as Jack delivered the finishing +touch. None of these men had ever seen Jack in action before, and it was +only natural that they should be greatly impressed at this exhibition of +their commander's prowess.</p> + +<p>"By glory! What a blow!" one of them exclaimed. "Did you see it, Tom?"</p> + +<p>"Did I?" exclaimed the man addressed as Tom; "did I? I'll say I did, and I +thought I was pretty handy with my fists. But not against Captain Jack, +not for me."</p> + +<p>As bidden by Jack, the sailors rolled the German commander over and bound +him. Then they carried him to the Essex's launch and threw him in, none +too gently, either, for there was no man there who had not a disgust for +Germans, German tactics and everything German.</p> + +<p>"Now," said Frank to Jack, "I guess we may as well stand clear and let the +Essex pour a few shells into the vessel, eh?"</p> + +<p>Jack shook his head.</p> + +<p>"No," he said, "we shall take possession of the vessel. Call down below +and see if the Germans will surrender."</p> + +<p>Frank approached the conning tower and called down.</p> + +<p>"Hello!" he shouted.</p> + +<p>There was no response.</p> + +<p>"Hello below!" he shouted again in German.</p> + +<p>"What do you want?" came a sullen voice from below.</p> + +<p>"We're in possession of this vessel now," said Frank. "Come up here and +surrender."</p> + +<p>"We'll stay where we are," came the reply after a brief pause.</p> + +<p>"But you can't man," exclaimed Frank. "Don't you know when you have been +captured."</p> + +<p>"We'll stay here awhile," said the spokesman of the sailors.</p> + +<p>"But you can't stay there forever, and you can't submerge," said Frank. +"Come up and surrender."</p> + +<p>To this the lad received no response. Frank reported to Jack.</p> + +<p>"So they won't surrender, eh?" said Jack. "Then we'll go down and get +them."</p> + +<p>"Rather risky, Jack," Frank warned.</p> + +<p>"So it is," Jack agreed. "So's the whole war. But wait. We'll see."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVII" id="CHAPTER_XVII" />CHAPTER XVII</h2> + +<h3>CAPTURE OF THE SUBMARINE</h3> + + +<p>Captain Griwsold aboard the Ventura had watched the struggle on the +submarine with eager eyes. His fingers clenched and unclenched.</p> + +<p>"I'd like to get into that," he muttered. "I guess I'm not too old."</p> + +<p>Abruptly he turned to the first officer.</p> + +<p>"Lower a boat," he said. "I'm going aboard the submarine."</p> + +<p>The first officer protested.</p> + +<p>"But the passengers—" he began.</p> + +<p>"The passengers be hanged," said the captain of the Ventura. "Besides, +we're safer here under the nose of this destroyer than we would be +prowling off by ourselves."</p> + +<p>The first officer protested no longer. A boat was lowered and Captain +Griswold and half a dozen sailors climbed in and put off for the +submarine, where they arrived just in time to overhear Jack say that if +the Germans in the submarine didn't surrender they would go after them. +Captain Griswold laid a hand on Jack's shoulder.</p> + +<p>"You're some scrapper, youngster," he said.</p> + +<p>Jack was thus made aware for the first time that the Ventura had not +rushed for her home port.</p> + +<p>"I thought you'd gone, Captain," he said.</p> + +<p>"I was on my way," said the captain of the Ventura, "until I saw you +fighting these murderers single-handed. I came back to see if I could +help."</p> + +<p>"Thanks," Jack laughed, "but I guess there are enough of us to attend to +them without you, Captain."</p> + +<p>"I'm not sure about that," declared Captain Griswold. "I just heard you +say you were going below after those fellows?"</p> + +<p>"Well?" questioned Jack.</p> + +<p>"Pretty risky," responded Captain Griswold, shaking his head. "How do you +figure to get 'em?"</p> + +<p>"Rush 'em," said Jack briefly.</p> + +<p>Again the captain of the Ventura shook his head doubtfully.</p> + +<p>"Too risky altogether," he declared. "The first one of you that shows his +head down there will be potted, sure as fate."</p> + +<p>"But we've got to do it, Captain," said Jack. "How else is it to be done?"</p> + +<p>"Well," said Captain Griswold, removing his cap and scratching his head, +"I guess I can suggest a way."</p> + +<p>"I'm open to conviction, Captain," said Jack.</p> + +<p>"Aboard my ship," went on Captain Griswold, "I have a supply of a certain +sort of gas which, if used properly, will do in minutes what it may take +you hours to accomplish."</p> + +<p>"By George!" said Frank. "Kill 'em all at once, eh?"</p> + +<p>"Well, no, it won't do that," replied Captain Griswold, "but it'll put 'em +to sleep long enough for you fellows to go down and tie 'em up."</p> + +<p>"Bring on the gas, Captain," said Jack quietly.</p> + +<p>Captain Griswold hustled back to his boat with the agility of a small +school boy.</p> + +<p>"Back to the ship," he roared to the sailors who rowed him.</p> + +<p>He mounted the ladder swiftly and summoned his first officer.</p> + +<p>"Helgoson," he said, "those Britishers have gone and almost captured that +submarine. It's up to us to help 'em complete the job."</p> + +<p>"How, sir?" asked the first officer.</p> + +<p>"Do you know where that gas tank is below?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir."</p> + +<p>"Fetch it here. It's small enough so you can carry it. Also get the hose +and the pump."</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir."</p> + +<p>The first officer hurried away. He was back in a few moments with the +necessary articles, which Captain Griswold took charge of himself.</p> + +<p>"Helgoson," said Captain Griswold, "if you were a younger man I would +invite you to take a hand in this party yourself. As it is, you'll have to +stick behind with the passengers."</p> + +<p>"But I'm younger than you by almost twenty years, sir," protested the +first officer.</p> + +<p>"Oh, no you're not," laughed the commander of the Ventura, "you just think +you are. I've grown twenty years younger this day."</p> + +<p>He summoned a pair of sailors, whom he loaded down with the gas, hose and +pump with instructions to place them carefully in the small boat.</p> + +<p>"And now for the submarine," he confided to his first officer.</p> + +<p>On deck, half a dozen passengers approached the captain with inquiries as +to what was going on.</p> + +<p>"Why," he said with a grin, "we're just going to capture a submarine, +that's all. Stick close to the side of the ship and you'll see how it's +done. A lesson like this may come in handy some day."</p> + +<p>The passengers protested.</p> + +<p>"But the danger—" one began.</p> + +<p>"Danger be hanged," said the captain. "There is no danger. While there was +danger we were scuttling for the safety of land and now we come back when +it's all over. You should all be glad of this opportunity to render your +country a service. What sort of citizens are you, anyhow?"</p> + +<p>Without further words he climbed down to the launch and was hustled back +to the submarine, where Jack and the others were awaiting him eagerly.</p> + +<p>"Well," said Captain Griswold, motioning to the articles that the sailors +laid on the deck, "here's the stuff. Get busy."</p> + +<p>"How do you work it, Captain?" asked Jack.</p> + +<p>"Don't you know?" demanded Captain Griswold. "Well, I'll tell you what. +You just put me in command here for fifteen minutes and I'll do the job +for you."</p> + +<p>"All right, sir," said Jack. "Your commands shall be obeyed."</p> + +<p>Captain Griswold turned to the nearest sailor.</p> + +<p>"Take that hose and attach it to the nozzle on the tank," he directed. +The sailor did so.</p> + +<p>"Now the pump," said the captain, "you will find a place for it on the +other side of the tank."</p> + +<p>This was adjusted to the captain's satisfaction.</p> + +<p>"Now," said the captain, "all you have to do is to stick this nozzle down +the conning tower, turn it so as to give the gas full play and pump. Of +course the gas would carry without the pump, but you save time this way."</p> + +<p>"One moment, Captain," said Jack. "How about ourselves? Won't the gas +affect us as well as the Germans?"</p> + +<p>Captain Griswold clapped a hand to his side.</p> + +<p>"Now what do you think of that?" he demanded. "I must be getting old +before my time. Here, Lands," he called one of his own men, who +approached. "Go and tell Helgoson I want two dozen of those gas masks in +the store room; and hustle."</p> + +<p>The sailor hurried away. He was back within fifteen minutes, and Captain +Griswold distributed the gas masks. Then he took the nozzle of the hose, +poked it down the conning tower and looked around.</p> + +<p>"Everybody ready?" he asked.</p> + +<p>Jack also glanced around. Every man on the deck of the submarine wore a +gas mask.</p> + +<p>"All right, sir," said Jack.</p> + +<p>"Then you turn that screw there when I give the word. All right? Then +shoot!"</p> + +<p>There was a hissing sound as Jack turned on the gas.</p> + +<p>For perhaps ten minutes Captain Griswold moved the hose to and fro. Then +he pulled it forth and motioned Jack to turn the screw again. This the lad +did. Captain Griswold then motioned the others to follow him, and led the +way below.</p> + +<p>At the foot of the conning tower they stumbled across several figures, +overcome by the fumes. These were quickly bound and passed up on deck to +the men who remained behind.</p> + +<p>The search of the submarine took perhaps half an hour. Every nook and +cranny was explored. The gas had done its work well. Apparently it had +poured in so rapidly that the crew had had no time to open the portholes, +for they were all closed. Captain Griswold opened them now.</p> + +<p>Then he led the way on deck, and closing the conning tower, removed his +gas mask. The others followed his example.</p> + +<p>"Simple, wasn't it?" said the captain of the Ventura to Jack, grinning +like a boy. "Lucky I happened to come back."</p> + +<p>"It is indeed," said Jack. "But won't this gas affect us, Captain?"</p> + +<p>"Not out here," was the reply. "It's not strong enough. You can barely +smell it now. Now what are you going to do with the submarine?"</p> + +<p>Jack considered a moment.</p> + +<p>"I'll tell you Captain," he said, "it strikes me that this submarine is +really the prize of the Ventura. At all events, I cannot be bothered with +it, for there is still patrol work to do in these waters. Can't you tow +her into port?"</p> + +<p>"Can't I?" shouted Captain Griswold. "You bet I can. You give the word and +I'll tie her on behind right now."</p> + +<p>"All right, Captain," said Jack. "She's yours."</p> + +<p>Captain Griswold almost danced a jig there on the deck of the German +submarine.</p> + +<p>"Won't New York sit up and take notice when old Captain Griswold comes +into port towing a submarine?" he chortled. "Well, I guess. Here, Lands, +go back to the ship and throw me a line. Then come back and help make it +fast."</p> + +<p>This was accomplished with astonishing rapidity and amid the cheering of +the crew and passengers of the Ventura and the wild hurrahs of the British +tars of the Essex.</p> + +<p>"Well, she's all fixed," said Captain Griswold, "and to tell you the truth +I'm rather sorry. Of course I'm old and all that, but just the same I'd +like to go with you fellows."</p> + +<p>"You're doing your share, Captain," said Jack seriously. "All of us can't +do the fighting, you know. But there's work just as important, and you are +doing your part. But we must be moving now. We've wasted time enough."</p> + +<p>"So we have," declared Captain Griswold. "Shall you leave us here, sir?"</p> + +<p>"No," said Jack, "we'll follow and see you safely in harbor."</p> + +<p>"Very well. Then I shall return to the Ventura."</p> + +<p>"And I to the Essex, Captain. Good-bye and good luck to you."</p> + +<p>Captain Griswold shook hands heartily with Jack, and then insisted on +shaking hands as well with Frank, and every officer and member of the +British crew aboard the submarine. Then he put off for his ship.</p> + +<p>Jack and the others returned to the Essex. When the lad reached the +bridge, the Ventura was already moving, the submarine trailing behind.</p> + +<p>"A fine man, Captain Griswold," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"Right," Jack agreed. "And the U-87 is his so far as I'm concerned. He +might hang it on his parlor wall for a souvenir."</p> + +<p>"Or wear it as a watch charm," added Frank with a grin.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVIII" id="CHAPTER_XVIII" />CHAPTER XVIII</h2> + +<h3>ASHORE</h3> + + +<p>For two days the Essex had been cruising up and down the coast on patrol +duty, looking for submarines. Several times the destroyer had been +ordered farther out to sea to form an escort for an incoming steamer, but +after her encounter with the U-87 she had sighted no more of the enemy.</p> + +<p>Following the report of two vessels sunk off the coast on May 10, the day +on which the presence of German raiders off the coast was first reported, +the number of sinkings increased the following day, and the next. After +that they fell off, however, and upon the fifth day only one ship—a small +schooner—was sent to the bottom off the coast of Delaware.</p> + +<p>The prisoners taken from the U-87 were stowed safely away below-decks on +the Essex, after which Jack got in touch with Admiral Sellings, on the +Dakota, by wireless. He reported the capture of the submarine and the fact +that it was being towed into port by the Ventura. Admiral Sellings ordered +Jack to continue his patrol of the coast until further notice.</p> + +<p>Nevertheless, the Essex escorted the Ventura almost to port, before +putting about and resuming her patrol duty.</p> + +<p>All the remainder of that day and the two days that followed Jack kept his +ship moving up and down the coast, but he caught no sight of an enemy +vessel, nor were any of the sinkings reported in that time close enough to +be considered within his territory.</p> + +<p>On the fourth day came a message from Admiral Sellings.</p> + +<p>"German submarine reported twenty miles north of Cape Charles," read the +message. "Investigate."</p> + +<p>Jack acknowledged receipt of the order and addressed Frank, who stood +beside him on the bridge.</p> + +<p>"Something definite to act on at last," he said, and read the admiral's +message aloud, adding: "Shape your course accordingly, Mr. Chadwick."</p> + +<p>Frank gave the necessary directions. The big ship came about and headed +south again.</p> + +<p>It was well along in the afternoon when the Essex reached the approximate +point designated by Admiral Sellings. Jack ran the destroyer as close +in-shore as he dared, and for several hours cruised about in the +neighborhood. But he saw nothing to indicate the presence of a submarine.</p> + +<p>"If there's a U-Boat here, it's keeping pretty well under cover," said +Frank.</p> + +<p>"So it is," replied Jack. "I don't know where the admiral got his +information, but I've got my doubts of its authenticity."</p> + +<p>Frank's eyes were caught at that moment by the sight of a small row boat +putting off from the shore. He watched it idly for a moment, and then +noted that it was headed directly for the Essex.</p> + +<p>"Hello," he said, "here comes some one to visit us."</p> + +<p>Directly the little boat scraped alongside the now stationary destroyer +and the figure in the boat indicated that he wanted to come aboard.</p> + +<p>"Don't know what he wants," muttered Jack, "but it'll be just as well to +have him up and find out."</p> + +<p>A few moments later the occupant stood before Jack and his officers on the +bridge.</p> + +<p>"My name," he said, "is Charles Cutlip, and I live back there." He waved a +hand shoreward. "I suppose you are hunting for submarines, Captain?"</p> + +<p>Jack nodded.</p> + +<p>"That's what we're here for," he affirmed.</p> + +<p>"I thought so," said young Cutlip—he was a little more than a boy. "Well, +Captain, maybe I can help you."</p> + +<p>Jack gave an exclamation of astonishment.</p> + +<p>"What do you mean?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"I don't know exactly," replied the boy. "Yesterday afternoon, while I was +in the house alone, three strange men appeared at the door. They wore the +costume of an ordinary seafaring man, but when they asked me for food they +had a strange manner of speech. They weren't Americans, I'm sure of that."</p> + +<p>"And you think they were from a submarine, eh?" asked Jack.</p> + +<p>"I'm sure of it, Captain. There were no other ships near, and they could +not have come overland, for it is a long ways to the nearest village and +they had neither horses nor automobile."</p> + +<p>"And what did you say to them?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>"I gave them what food there was in the house, but they said it wasn't +enough. About this time my father came in unexpectedly. The strangers drew +revolvers and covered him. They told him they would be back to-night and +that they required him to have a certain amount of food on hand. They +threatened to kill him if he gave the alarm—and they threatened to kill +me too."</p> + +<p>"By George!" exclaimed Frank. "It looks as though we had come to the right +spot, Jack."</p> + +<p>"It certainly does," agreed Jack. "Now tell us the rest of your tale, +son."</p> + +<p>"That's about all," said the boy. "They devoured what food I gave them and +then disappeared."</p> + +<p>"And your father sent you for help, I suppose," added Frank.</p> + +<p>"No," said the boy. "I came of my own accord. My father is badly +frightened. He has gone to find the food for the strangers. I slipped away +and ran toward the sea. Then I saw your ship, sir, and I hurried to tell +you."</p> + +<p>"You have done well," said Jack, laying a hand on the lad's shoulder. "And +now you will be willing to help us further, will you not?"</p> + +<p>"Of course I shall, sir."</p> + +<p>"Very good. Now you look around the ship to your heart's content, while I +hold a conference with my officers."</p> + +<p>"Very well, sir."</p> + +<p>The boy walked away. Jack held a consultation with his officers on the +bridge.</p> + +<p>"If the boy is telling the truth," he said, "and I have no doubt of it, we +are in luck. It may be that we can capture this German crew ashore and +then take possession of the submarine."</p> + +<p>"But, sir," protested Lieutenant Hetherton, "if the submarine were to come +to the surface now and catch sight of the Essex it would never come back +again."</p> + +<p>"I had thought of that," replied Jack, "and I have a plan that will offset +it. You see that projecting reef there?" and Jack pointed to the north. +The others signified that they did. "Well," Jack continued, "back of that +is as cosy a little harbor as you would care to see. I noticed it as we +came by. We'll take the Essex there, and she will be hidden well enough."</p> + +<p>"Unless the submarine should chance to come to the surface there," was +Frank's objection.</p> + +<p>"We'll have to leave something to chance," declared Jack.</p> + +<p>"In which event your plan is as good as any I can conceive," said Frank. +"But after we get the Essex there, then what?"</p> + +<p>"Why," said Jack, "I'll take a party of half a hundred men or so and +surround the house of this Cutlip boy. When the Germans arrive we'll nab +'em. After that we can find the submarine."</p> + +<p>"Hasn't it struck you, sir," Frank asked of Jack, "that maybe the men who +accosted this boy and his father were merely bluffing? That they may not +return to-night?"</p> + +<p>"It has," Jack replied, "but at the same time there is a chance that they +will. Therefore, in lieu of any other clue as to the whereabouts of the +submarine, I deem it well to act on what information, we have."</p> + +<p>"It won't hurt anything, that's sure, sir," was Lieutenant Hetherton's +comment.</p> + +<p>In this the other officers agreed.</p> + +<p>"Very well then," said Jack. "It shall be as I suggested. Mr. Chadwick, +will you shape your course for the point I have mentioned."</p> + +<p>"But the boy, sir?" said Frank. "Shall we not put him over the side +first?"</p> + +<p>"No; we'll take him with us," Jack decided.</p> + +<p>As the destroyer began to forge ahead, the Cutlip boy grew alarmed and +hurried to Jack's side.</p> + +<p>"You are not taking me away, are you, sir?" he asked fearfully.</p> + +<p>"No," replied Jack, and outlined the situation as fully as he deemed wise.</p> + +<p>Young Cutlip was plainly eager to help in the capture of the German +submarine crew.</p> + +<p>"And you feel sure they will come back to-night?" Jack questioned.</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir. They must be very hungry. If you could have seen those three +men devour what little food I gave them! They seemed to be half starved."</p> + +<p>"Strange, too," Jack muttered, "considering the number of ships they have +sunk in these waters recently. They should have replenished their stores."</p> + +<p>"It may be that this was one of the less fortunate submarines," said +Frank. "The sinkings may have been done by other U-Boats."</p> + +<p>"That's true, too," said Jack. "I hadn't thought of that. I guess that +must be the answer."</p> + +<p>Less than an hour later, the Essex passed behind the shelter of the reef +Jack had mentioned. There Jack ordered her stopped, and anchor dropped.</p> + +<p>"We should be out of sight here," he said, "unless, as you suggested, +Frank, the enemy should come to the surface at this point. And we'll have +to trust to luck that they don't."</p> + +<p>"And now what, sir?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>"I'll let you select a hundred men of the crew for shore duty," said Jack.</p> + +<p>This task did not take long, and Frank had picked and armed his men within +half an hour.</p> + +<p>"Now," said Jack, "I'm going to put you in command of the party, Frank. +Lieutenant Hetherton shall go along as your immediate subordinate. Two +officers are enough. The rest of us will wait here. But if you have not +returned soon after daylight, we'll start a search for you."</p> + +<p>"I can see no reason why we should be longer," said Frank. "We'll do the +best we can."</p> + +<p>"Then I would suggest that you go ashore at once," said Jack. "You must +reach the Cutlip home while it is yet daylight in order to lay your +plans."</p> + +<p>"Right, sir," said Frank, saluting. "We shall go ashore at once."</p> + +<p>They put off over the side in small boats and rowed toward the shore, +where they landed less than an hour after the Essex dropped anchor. Jack +waved a hand to his chum from the bridge.</p> + +<p>"Good luck!" he called.</p> + +<p>Frank waved back at him, then addressed his men.</p> + +<p>"By fours! Forward march!" he commanded.</p> + +<p>The party, with young Cutlip in their midst, moved inland.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIX" id="CHAPTER_XIX" />CHAPTER XIX</h2> + +<h3>IN THE NIGHT</h3> + + +<p>It was not a long march to the Cutlip home, and the Essex party reached +there some time before nightfall. Young Cutlip now whispered a word of +caution to Frank.</p> + +<p>"My father will not like this," he said. "He is naturally a cautious man. +If he thinks I have given the alarm—am responsible for your being +here—it will go hard with me."</p> + +<p>"Then he must not know it," said Frank decidedly. "Do you think he will be +home now?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir; most likely."</p> + +<p>Frank considered.</p> + +<p>"Then I'll call a halt here," he said. "You can return home and we will +come later. In that way he will not know that you gave the alarm. But by +the way, when he sees us is he not likely to try and warn the enemy?"</p> + +<p>"He might, sir. He is terribly afraid of submarines and men who control +them. He appears to think they are something supernatural. He believes the +crews of the submarines can whip anyone, sir. That is why he is likely to +tarry and give an alarm."</p> + +<p>"In that case," said Frank, "we'll have to tie him up until the game is +over."</p> + +<p>"He's my father, sir, and I don't want you to hurt him," said young +Cutlip, "but that would be the best way, sir."</p> + +<p>"Very well," said Frank. "You run ahead, now; we'll wait here for an +hour."</p> + +<p>He called a halt. Young Cutlip ran on ahead. Frank explained the reason +for the halt to Lieutenant Hetherton, who agreed that the lad had acted +wisely.</p> + +<p>"No use getting the boy in trouble if we can help, it, sir," he said.</p> + +<p>An hour later Frank ordered the march resumed. Young Cutlip had given +necessary directions and the party from the Essex reached the Cutlip home +without trouble. As they drew near, a man came to the door of the little +cabin that nestled in among a group of trees. Beside him, Frank made out +the figure of the boy who had given notice of the visit of some of the +submarine crew.</p> + +<p>Frank motioned his men to halt some distance away, called Lieutenant +Hetherton to follow him, and approached the cabin.</p> + +<p>"How do you do, sir?" he asked civilly of the big man in the doorway.</p> + +<p>"What do you want here?" was the growling response.</p> + +<p>"We're from a British destroyer out there," said Frank, waving a hand in +the general direction of the Atlantic, "and we are hunting for submarines +that have sunk a dozen or more ships off the coast."</p> + +<p>"You don't expect to find them here on land, do you?" demanded Cutlip.</p> + +<p>"Not exactly," said Frank. "But I have reason to believe that the crew of +one of the vessels has come ashore. Have you seen anything of them, sir?"</p> + +<p>"I have not," replied Cutlip firmly.</p> + +<p>"No one resembling a German, even?" persisted Frank.</p> + +<p>"No."</p> + +<p>"You are quite sure?"</p> + +<p>"Quite sure."</p> + +<p>"Think again, my man," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"Look here," said Cutlip, "do you mean to insinuate that I'm lying?"</p> + +<p>"I don't insinuate anything. I know you are lying. Hold up there!"</p> + +<p>For Cutlip had taken a threatening step forward.</p> + +<p>"A party of three German sailors from a submarine nearby were seen to come +this way," Frank went on. "You must have seen them. Now, if you are not +trying to shield them, tell me where they are."</p> + +<p>"I don't know. I haven't seen them."</p> + +<p>"Call a couple of men, Lieutenant," said Frank to Hetherton.</p> + +<p>Hetherton raised a hand, and two sailors came forward.</p> + +<p>"Once more," said Frank to Cutlip, "will you tell me what you know of +those men?"</p> + +<p>"I tell you I don't know anything," answered Cutlip doggedly.</p> + +<p>"Tie him up, men," said Frank briefly.</p> + +<p>The sailors sprang forward and laid rough hands on Cutlip. The latter +protested vigorously with his mouth, but he offered only feeble +resistance.</p> + +<p>"Now," said Frank to Hetherton, "we can't leave him around here for if the +Germans saw him they might take alarm. We'll have to have him sent back to +the ship. I guess those two men are big enough to get him there."</p> + +<p>"Plenty big enough, sir," said one of them with a grin.</p> + +<p>"Good. Take him back, then, and come back when you have turned him over +to Captain Templeton. Tell the captain to hold him until we return."</p> + +<p>The man touched his cap.</p> + +<p>"Aye, aye, sir," he said. Then to Cutlip in a rough voice: "March, now."</p> + +<p>The three disappeared, Cutlip grumbling to himself and the sailors +grinning.</p> + +<p>Frank turned to young Cutlip, who had watched these proceedings with some +disfavor.</p> + +<p>"Now, my boy," he said, "we can get ready for business."</p> + +<p>"They won't hurt him, will they?" asked the boy, pointing after his +father.</p> + +<p>"They will not," said Frank. "Only keep him safe until the trouble is +over."</p> + +<p>"All right. Then, I'll help you the best I can, sir."</p> + +<p>"That's the way to talk, my boy. Now let me look around a bit."</p> + +<p>Lieutenant Hetherton and young Cutlip accompanied Frank on his tour of +inspection. The lad found that the cabin was cuddled securely in a +miniature forest, or rather at one end of it. On both sides and in the +rear were a profusion of dense trees. Only the approach from the front was +in the clear.</p> + +<p>"It's all right," Frank said. I'll throw my men around the house from +three sides, and when the Germans have gone in we can surround it +completely. If they come after dark, there is little doubt they will +approach from the front."</p> + +<p>"And what shall I do, sir?" asked young Cutlip.</p> + +<p>Frank turned the matter over in his mind.</p> + +<p>"I am afraid I shall have to ask you to play rather a dangerous part," he +said at last. "You must be inside to receive them. If there were no one +there they might take alarm and run. Now, we'll go inside and see if your +father has complied with the enemy's demand."</p> + +<p>The three entered the cabin. Inside, Frank made out several big sacks +scattered about the floor. "Potatoes," he said, and looked further. There +he also found an extraordinary amount of salt meats and a bountiful supply +of vegetables.</p> + +<p>"Looks like your good father had been very busy," he said to young Cutlip +with a smile. "That's what the Germans will have the whole world doing for +them if we don't lick 'em."</p> + +<p>"You're right there, sir," agreed Lieutenant Hetherton.</p> + +<p>"Well," said Frank, "we'll leave these things as they are. It will help +divert suspicion from young Cutlip here when the Germans find his father +is not on hand. But I guess there is nothing more we can do now. Come, +we'll go outside."</p> + +<p>Frank now saw to the disposition of his men. These, as he had decided, he +stationed on three sides of the cabin. He himself took command of the men +on the left, Lieutenant Hetherton commanding the right wing and a sailor +named Hennessy the left. A short time later the sailors who had conducted +Cutlip the elder to the Essex returned and took their places.</p> + +<p>"Did he go along peaceably?" asked Frank of one of the newcomers.</p> + +<p>"Well, he kicked once or twice," replied the man, "but he went along all +the same, sir."</p> + +<p>Frank grinned.</p> + +<p>"Just so long as you got him there," he said.</p> + +<p>"Oh, he's there, all right," grinned the sailor, "but when I left he was +threatening to have the whole American navy down on us and hoping that +these German submarines shoot us to little pieces."</p> + +<p>"I think we'll do most of the shooting, if there is any to be done," said +Frank dryly.</p> + +<p>There was silence in the ranks after this, for it was now growing dark and +it was possible that the Germans might appear at any moment. Every man +strained his eyes as he peered through the trees.</p> + +<p>Inside the cabin a faint light glowed. Young Cutlip was in there, playing +a braver part than could his father, doing his best for his country as +enemies threatened her existence. Frank smiled to himself.</p> + +<p>"A nervy kid," he muttered; "yet, I wish I didn't have to use him. I shall +take especial care that no harm comes to him."</p> + +<p>He grew silent.</p> + +<p>In the distance came the sound of tramping feet—many of them. Gradually +they drew nearer and directly Frank could hear voices. Heavy, guttural +voices they were and the tongue they spoke was German.</p> + +<p>Up to that moment Frank had not been at all sure in his own mind that the +Germans would return to the cabin, as they had told the Cutlips. +Nevertheless, here they were, and the lad's heart leaped high.</p> + +<p>"They must be pretty close to starvation to take such chances," the lad +muttered to himself. "Wonder why they don't try a raid on one of the +nearby towns? Guess they don't want to stir up any more trouble than +possible, though. Well, we'll get 'em."</p> + +<p>Frank peered from his hiding place. The Germans were in sight now, and +approaching the house four abreast.</p> + +<p>"Four, eight, twelve, sixteen, twenty-four," Frank counted.</p> + +<p>"That's not so many. We can grab them easy enough."</p> + +<p>But a moment later additional footsteps were heard. Again Frank counted +moving figures to himself.</p> + +<p>"Twenty more," he muttered. "Where on earth did they all come from? By +George! They certainly are taking a long chance marching around like this. +Well, the more we can get the better."</p> + +<p>At the door of the cabin the Germans halted. Three of their number stepped +forward and went inside. This was not at all in line with Frank's plans, +and he realized now that the situation of young Cutlip, inside, was +dangerous in the extreme. Something must be done to protect him.</p> + +<p>As the Germans went inside the house, the others, meanwhile, standing +guard, Frank gave the signal agreed upon, a soft whistle, like the call of +a bird of the night. The British began to move from their hiding places +and to draw closer to the Germans, standing there in the open.</p> + +<p>"Well," Frank muttered to himself at last, "I guess the sooner we get busy +the better."</p> + +<p>He sprang to his feet and leaped forward.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XX" id="CHAPTER_XX" />CHAPTER XX</h2> + +<h3>THE BATTLE</h3> + + +<p>Meanwhile, inside the cabin young Cutlip was facing the Germans cooly +enough. He rose to his feet as the door opened and the first German stuck +his head inside. The latter surveyed the interior rapidly, and seeing a +single figure there, advanced quickly, gun in hand.</p> + +<p>"Oho! It's the boy," he said in clumsy English. "And where is your +father?"</p> + +<p>"I don't know," answered the boy. "He went away."</p> + +<p>"But did he get the food?"</p> + +<p>Cutlip motioned to the sacks of provisions on the floor.</p> + +<p>"Good!" said the German, rubbing his hands.</p> + +<p>He returned his revolver to his belt and motioned his two companions to +enter. They closed the door behind them.</p> + +<p>"You have told no one of our presence here?" asked the first German, as he +stooped over to examine the sacks.</p> + +<p>"No."</p> + +<p>"How about your father?"</p> + +<p>"He has told no one, either."</p> + +<p>"It is well. For if you had, we would kill you now."</p> + +<p>Young Cutlip said nothing, but he knew by the hard look in the man's eyes +that he told the truth. In spite of the fact that the boy knew he was in +grave peril, he was perfectly cool.</p> + +<p>He sat down again as the Germans passed from sack to sack, examining the +contents. At last the first man stood up and faced the boy.</p> + +<p>"Your father, by chance, didn't say anything about pay for this food, did +he?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"No," returned Cutlip.</p> + +<p>The German grinned.</p> + +<p>"Guess he knew it wouldn't do much good," he said. "Well, men, let's roll +this stuff outside."</p> + +<p>Again the men bent over the sacks.</p> + +<p>At that moment there came a shot from without, followed by a volley. On +the instant young Cutlip leaped to his feet, rushed to the door, threw it +open and dashed outside.</p> + +<p>There he was right in the midst of the Germans. But the latter were too +busy and too surprised to pay any attention to him at that moment. They +had wheeled at the first volley from the woods, and had turned their own +weapons against the trees on three sides of the cabin.</p> + +<p>Two or three of their number had gone down at the first fire, and they +were almost demoralized, so sudden and unexpected was the attack. +Consequently, young Cutlip had time almost to get clear of the enemy. In +fact, by quick dodging, he did get beyond them.</p> + +<p>Out the door now rushed the three Germans in the cabin, apparently in +command of the men without. One issued harsh orders, and the Germans +dropped to the ground, thus making much smaller targets.</p> + +<p>Frank, as he sprang forward from among the trees, saw young Cutlip throw +open the door and dash out. Frank ran toward him despite the fact that he +was charging the enemy almost single-handed. But he knew that the boy was +in danger through no fault of the lad's own, and that he must be +protected.</p> + +<p>"Here, Cutlip!" he called.</p> + +<p>The boy ran toward him.</p> + +<p>Frank, a revolver in each hand, stopped and awaited the lad's approach.</p> + +<p>Two Germans raised their rifles to shoot Cutlip down. Frank's eye caught +the glint of the steel in the darkness. His revolvers spoke sharply twice, +and Cutlip came on unharmed.</p> + +<p>A bullet sang past Frank's right ear, another grazed his left. More +bullets began to sing by him. Cutlip stumbled forward, and sheathing one +revolver, Frank caught him by the hand.</p> + +<p>"Run!" he cried.</p> + +<p>Cutlip needed no further urging. Together he and Frank sped for the +shelter of the woods, which they reached safely and threw themselves on +the ground as a rain of bullets passed overhead.</p> + +<p>"Close shave, son," said Frank.</p> + +<p>Young Cutlip was trembling, but he was not afraid.</p> + +<p>"Give me a gun," he cried. "I can pick off a few of 'em."</p> + +<p>But Frank shook his head.</p> + +<p>"You've done your part," he said. "Now you get away from here until we +clean these fellows up."</p> + +<p>Frank circled among the trees until he came into the midst of his own men +again. These were still peppering away at the enemy from among the trees +and the Germans, lying on the ground, were returning the fire.</p> + +<p>"We're wasting too much time here," Frank told himself.</p> + +<p>He looked across to where Lieutenant Hetherton and his men were also +blazing away at the foe.</p> + +<p>"Forward men!" cried Frank suddenly. "Charge!"</p> + +<p>The British tars under Frank's command went forward with a wild yell. +Seeing their companions dashing across the open, the forces commanded by +Lieutenant Hetherton and the sailor Hennessy also broke from the trees and +charged.</p> + +<p>The Germans poured several sharp volleys into the attackers, then threw +down their arms.</p> + +<p>"Kamerad! Kamerad!" came the cry.</p> + +<p>"Cease firing!" Frank shouted.</p> + +<p>Silence reigned after the noise of the battle.</p> + +<p>"Take charge of those men, Mr. Hetherton," said Frank quietly, "but be +careful how you approach. I don't trust 'em. I'll keep 'em covered."</p> + +<p>Lieutenant Hetherton ordered his men to make prisoners of the Germans.</p> + +<p>There came a sudden interruption.</p> + +<p>The three Germans who had been in the cabin, as though by a prearranged +plan, suddenly dashed back into the little building and flung to the door +before they could be stopped.</p> + +<p>"Never mind," said Frank, "remove the others, Mr. Hetherton. We'll attend +to the men inside later."</p> + +<p>From the window of the cabin there came a sharp crack. A bullet zipped by +Frank's ear, but the lad did not flinch. He moved his position and saw the +German prisoners marched to the rear.</p> + +<p>"Now," he said, "we'll have to get those fellows inside. First, however, +we'll give them a chance."</p> + +<p>He raised his voice in a shout.</p> + +<p>"What do you want?" came the response from the cabin.</p> + +<p>"You are outnumbered ten to one," said Frank. "Come out and surrender. We +don't want to kill you."</p> + +<p>"Come and take us," was the sneering response.</p> + +<p>"Don't be fools," called Frank. "We're sure to get you."</p> + +<p>"Well, I'll get you first," came a sharp cry.</p> + +<p>Frank stepped back and none too quickly, for a bullet passed through the +space where his head had been a moment before.</p> + +<p>"If you must have it, all right," the lad muttered. He turned to his men. +"I want ten volunteers to go with me," he said quietly.</p> + +<p>Every man stepped forward.</p> + +<p>Frank smiled.</p> + +<p>"Sorry I can't use you all, men," he said. "But ten will be enough. +Gregory, step forward."</p> + +<p>A sailor a short distance away did so.</p> + +<p>"Now, Gregory," said Frank, "you pick nine more men and bring them here."</p> + +<p>This was the work of only a moment, and the men surrounded Frank. For a +moment the lad surveyed the cabin. They were now out of the line of fire +from the window on that side and consequently safe. It would be possible, +Frank knew, to tire the Germans out, but he had no mind for such slow +methods. He addressed his men.</p> + +<p>"Two of you," he said, "break in the door with your rifle butts. We'll +cover you from either side."</p> + +<p>Two men stepped forward and the others stationed themselves on either side +of the stout door. Frank called to Lieutenant Hetherton.</p> + +<p>"Guard all the windows," he shouted. "Don't let them get away."</p> + +<p>The door began to tremble under the blows of the two sailors. Directly +there was a crash as it fell inward.</p> + +<p>Now, although this had been no part of Frank's plans, the minute the door +crashed in, the two sailors reversed their rifles and sprang over the +threshold.</p> + +<p>"Crack! Crack! Crack! Crack! Crack!"</p> + +<p>The rifles of the three Germans within and the two British sailors spoke +almost as one. One of the tars crumpled up in the doorway, while one of +the Germans also threw up his hands and slid to the floor.</p> + +<p>With wild shouts of anger, the other sailors surged forward and poured +through the door in spite of German bullets, which now flew so fast that +accurate aim was impossible.</p> + +<p>Frank dashed forward with the others. Down went the second German, leaving +but one alive. Frank found himself face to face with the latter.</p> + +<p>"Stand back, men," he called.</p> + +<p>The sailors obeyed.</p> + +<p>In one hand the German gripped a revolver, but Frank held this arm with +his left hand and straightened it high above the German's head. Thus the +German was unable to bring his revolver to bear on the lad.</p> + +<p>Nevertheless, his left arm was still free, and he struck Frank a heavy +blow in the stomach with his fist. The pain was severe and Frank loosened +his hold on the man's revolver arm. With a cry of triumph, the German +deliberately lowered his revolver.</p> + +<p>Frank, having dropped one of his revolvers, was in a bad way. True, a +second was in his belt, but it did not appear that he had time to draw and +fire before the German's finger pressed the trigger.</p> + +<p>But now came an action on the lad's part that proved his right to be +called an expert with the revolver—an action that often had bewildered +Jack and aroused his envy.</p> + +<p>So quickly that the eye could not follow the movement, Frank dropped his +hand to his belt, whipped out his revolver, and without taking aim, fired.</p> + +<p>A fraction of a second later there was a second report, as the German, +with Frank's bullet already in his shoulder, pressed the trigger, almost +involuntarily. But ere he fired, Frank had dropped to the floor and the +bullet passed harmlessly overhead.</p> + +<p>Frank rose quietly.</p> + +<p>"Bind him men," he said simply. "He's not badly hurt. He'll probably live +to face the gallows. Where is young Cutlip? Has anyone seen the boy?"</p> + +<p>"Here he is, sir," answered the boy himself, and came forward. "And will +you release my father now, sir?"</p> + +<p>"As soon as we return to the ship," replied Frank. "Come, men."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXI" id="CHAPTER_XXI" />CHAPTER XXI</h2> + +<h3>THE END OF THE SUBMARINE</h3> + + +<p>Frank now took account of his casualties. Five men had been killed and +twenty more or less seriously wounded. As many more nursed slight +injuries.</p> + +<p>The enemy's casualties, proportionately, had been more severe. Half of the +original number were stretched on the ground. Hardly a man of the others +but had been wounded.</p> + +<p>Frank had his dead made ready for transportation back to the Essex, and +litters were improvised for the wounded who were unable to walk. The +grounded Germans also were carried—that is, those of them who were so +severely hurt they could not walk. Those who could walk were surrounded by +the British and marched on ahead.</p> + +<p>The return trip was made without incident. The wounded were hurried aboard +the ship where their injuries could be attended to. The unwounded +prisoners were promptly locked up below with the other captives. Then +Frank and Jack, accompanied by young Cutlip, went to Jack's cabin. The +third officer held the bridge.</p> + +<p>Frank gave an account of the events of the night as briefly as possible. +When he had concluded, Cutlip again asked:</p> + +<p>"Will you release my father now, sir?"</p> + +<p>"Certainly," said Jack. "You have borne yourself right bravely, and we +have much to thank you for, as has your country. It is too bad that your +father is not of a different stripe."</p> + +<p>The boy's face flushed.</p> + +<p>"He's a good father in many ways, sir," he said, "but he seems to be +scared to death of the Germans, especially of their submarine boats."</p> + +<p>"We'll have him up here before we let him go," said Jack. "Mr. Hetherton, +pass the word to have; Cutlip brought to my cabin."</p> + +<p>Lieutenant Hetherton left the cabin. He returned a few moments later +accompanied by two sailors, who walked on either side of the older Cutlip. +The man was still bound.</p> + +<p>"Remove his bonds," Jack instructed.</p> + +<p>Cutlip's hands were released, and he rubbed them together as he eyed the +group in the cabin. His eyes rested on his son.</p> + +<p>"So!" he exclaimed, "I had an idea you were at the bottom of this."</p> + +<p>"But, father—" began the boy.</p> + +<p>"I'll attend to you later," said the father, "not that I'll have need to, +probably, for the Germans will attend to both of us. What ails you, +anyhow? Don't you know that the Germans eventually will be masters of the +world? If we stand in with them, it may help."</p> + +<p>"The Germans will never be masters of the world," said Jack. "You are +laboring under a delusion, Cutlip. Your son is a brave boy. Not only did +he warn us of the presence of a German submarine off the coast, but he +rendered such other assistance that the entire crew has been either killed +or captured."</p> + +<p>Cutlip showed his surprise.</p> + +<p>"You can't mean it!" he exclaimed. "Why, how could you overcome them. They +are supermen. Ever since the war started I have been reading about them. +They are wonderful fighters—marvelous."</p> + +<p>"Your trouble, Cutlip," said Frank, "is that you have read too much about +them. I know that the country has been flooded with German propaganda, but +I'd no idea it had affected anyone like that."</p> + +<p>"But—" Cutlip began.</p> + +<p>Jack silenced him with a gesture.</p> + +<p>"You'll have to change all your ideas now, Cutlip," he said. "You see that +the German is not a superman. We have beaten them. Besides, your country +is at war with Germany. Only a traitor, or a coward, would refuse to help +his country."</p> + +<p>Cutlip seemed a bit startled.</p> + +<p>"I guess that's true," he said at last. "Yes, I guess you're right."</p> + +<p>"You and your son had better remain aboard until morning," Jack continued. +"We'll put you both ashore then."</p> + +<p>"Jack," said Frank at this point, "don't you think we should make an +effort to destroy the submarine before we go?"</p> + +<p>"By George! We certainly should," declared Jack. "That had slipped my mind +for the moment. We'll have one of the captured officers up and see if he +will reveal its hiding place."</p> + +<p>One of the Germans—a petty officer—entered the cabin a moment later in +response to Jack's summons. Jack explained briefly what he wanted.</p> + +<p>"Tell you? Of course I won't tell you," said the young officer. "Why +should I? Do you think I am a traitor to my country, or a coward?"</p> + +<p>Jack shrugged.</p> + +<p>"I was just offering the opportunity," he said.</p> + +<p>The officer was removed and one of the men brought in. Jack quizzed him +with no better results. One after another the unwounded men were +questioned, but none would reveal the location of the submarine.</p> + +<p>"Looks like we would have to find it ourselves," said Jack at length. +"There is no use questioning any of the others. They won't tell."</p> + +<p>Assistance came from an unexpected source.</p> + +<p>"Maybe I can help out a bit," said the elder Cutlip quietly.</p> + +<p>Jack, Frank and Lieutenant Hetherton looked at him in surprise.</p> + +<p>"You mean that you know and will tell?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>"I do. You have made my duty plain to me. No longer am I afraid of the +Germans."</p> + +<p>"How do you come to know this hiding place?" asked Jack.</p> + +<p>"I discovered it to-day by accident. I was standing some distance back on +shore when I saw the vessel lying on the water."</p> + +<p>"How far from here?"</p> + +<p>"Just the other side of the reef."</p> + +<p>Jack whistled.</p> + +<p>"By Jove! We came awfully close," he said.</p> + +<p>"You did indeed," said Cutlip. "But for the reef you must have been +discovered. Fortunately, it is very high."</p> + +<p>"I suppose the U-Boat is on the surface at this moment," Frank +interjected.</p> + +<p>"Most likely," Hetherton agreed. "A small crew has probably been left on +board, and they more than likely are awaiting the return of their +comrades."</p> + +<p>"Strange they didn't hear the firing," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"Not at all," said Jack. "I heard none of it here."</p> + +<p>"The wind was blowing the wrong way," Hetherton explained.</p> + +<p>"That must be the answer," Frank admitted. "Well, Jack, what do you say? +Shall we make an effort to get the boat to-night?" Jack hesitated.</p> + +<p>"We may as well," he said at last. "Of course it will have to be taken +from the land, for we can't work the destroyer around the reef in the +darkness. Even if we got around safely, we should be discovered."</p> + +<p>"Right," said Frank. "Then let's be moving. I take it, however, we will +need boats to reach the submarine."</p> + +<p>"Our prisoners probably have left all the boats we need," Jack returned.</p> + +<p>"That's so," said Frank. "Funny I didn't think of that. Will you be our +guide, Cutlip?"</p> + +<p>"Glad to be," was the reply. "I want to redeem myself in some way."</p> + +<p>"Let's be moving, then," said Frank, starting for the door.</p> + +<p>"Hold on," said Jack "We've got to take a force with us, you know. Mr. +Hetherton, I'm going to leave you in command of the ship this time. I +shall command the shore party."</p> + +<p>Lieutenant Hetherton's face fell, but all he said was:</p> + +<p>"Very well, sir."</p> + +<p>"In the meantime," said Jack, "pick fifty men and set them ashore. We'll +be there directly."</p> + +<p>Lieutenant Hetherton saluted and left the cabin.</p> + +<p>Half an hour later Jack led his men around the reef. There, a scant +hundred yards from shore, lay the submarine. The little party moved +silently to the edge of the water, and as silently embarked in the half a +dozen small boats they found there.</p> + +<p>"Push off!" Jack commanded in a whisper.</p> + +<p>Now young Cutlip had been left behind, but the father had elected to go +with the men in the boats. So earnest was his plea that Jack did not have +the heart to refuse him.</p> + +<p>A dim light showed on the bow of the submarine as the little flotilla +approached; and then so suddenly that the night appeared to be lighted up +by magic, a flare of white made the boats approaching the submarine as +plain as day.</p> + +<p>The submarine's searchlight had been turned on them.</p> + +<p>"Down men," cried Jack.</p> + +<p>The men, or those of them who were not needed at the oars, dropped to the +bottom of the boats. But the distance was so close that those on board +were able to make out the fact that the boats approaching were not filled +with their own men.</p> + +<p>"Americans!" was the cry that carried across the water. "Man the forward +gun there!"</p> + +<p>"Fire, men!" cried Jack in a loud voice. "Sweep the deck with your rifles. +Don't let 'em bring that gun to bear."</p> + +<p>There was a crash of rifles as Jack's command was obeyed. Nevertheless the +Germans succeeded in training their rapid-firer, and it crashed out a +moment later. A veritable hail of bullets flew over Jack's men.</p> + +<p>At a quick command from the lads, the boats drew farther apart, thus +making the task of the enemy more difficult. Then they closed in on the +submarine from both sides.</p> + +<p>Harsh German cries and imprecations were wafted to the ears of the British +as the boats drew closer.</p> + +<p>"Submerge!" shouted a voice.</p> + +<p>"Quick, or we shall be too late," Jack roared.</p> + +<p>The men at the oars exerted themselves to further efforts. Then Jack +caught another cry from the submarine.</p> + +<p>"We can't submerge. The tanks are still broken."</p> + +<p>"Good!" said Jack to himself. "Now I see what the trouble is. Faster," he +cried to his men.</p> + +<p>"Quick," came a voice from the submarine, "we cannot let the ship fall +into the hands of the accursed Yankees. The fuse, man."</p> + +<p>Jack understood this well enough. He raised his voice in a shout:</p> + +<p>"Cease rowing!"</p> + +<p>Frank's voice repeated the command and the little flotilla advanced no +more.</p> + +<p>"Put about and make for shore," shouted Jack. "Quick."</p> + +<p>The order was obeyed without question, and it was well that it was. Hardly +had the boats reached the shore when there was a terrific explosion, and +the water kicked up an angry geyser.</p> + +<p>"And that," said Jack calmly, "is the end of the submarine. They've blown +her up—and themselves with her!"</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXII" id="CHAPTER_XXII" />CHAPTER XXII</h2> + +<h3>WASHINGTON AGAIN</h3> + + +<p>Early the following morning the Essex slipped from her little harbor and +put to sea. Cutlip and his son, who had been put ashore shortly before the +departure, stood at the edge of the water and waved farewell. Following +the father's conversion, he and his son seemed to be closer than before, +and they went away happily together.</p> + +<p>Jack descended to the radio room.</p> + +<p>"Get the Dakota for me," he instructed the operator.</p> + +<p>"Dakota! Dakota!" flashed the wireless.</p> + +<p>Ten minutes later the answer came.</p> + +<p>"Destroyer Essex," flashed the operator again, following Jack's direction. +"Submarine reported to me yesterday destroyed. Crew either killed or +captured."</p> + +<p>"Fine work, Templeton," was the reply flashed back a few moments later.</p> + +<p>"I'm awaiting instructions," Jack flashed.</p> + +<p>"Proceed to Newport News," came the answer, "and report in person to +Secretary of the Navy."</p> + +<p>"O.K." flashed the operator.</p> + +<p>Jack went to the bridge, where Frank was on watch.</p> + +<p>"Well, old fellow," said Jack, "I guess our present cruise is ended."</p> + +<p>"How's that?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>"We're ordered back to Newport News, and I must report to Secretary +Daniels."</p> + +<p>"And after that, England again, I suppose?"</p> + +<p>"I suppose so."</p> + +<p>"Too bad," said Frank, "I would like to have had time to go to New York +and Boston to see my father. He could have met me at either place."</p> + +<p>"You'll see him when the war's over, I guess," said Jack, "and to my mind +that will be before long now."</p> + +<p>"Think so?" asked Frank. "Why?"</p> + +<p>"Well, take for example the submarine raid off the American coast. It +looks to me like the dying gasp of a conquered foe. They must be nearing +the end of their rope to tackle such a problem."</p> + +<p>"And still they have had some success," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"True. But not much after all. What is the total tonnage destroyed in +comparison with the tonnage still sailing the seas unharmed?"</p> + +<p>"There's something in that," Frank agreed. "But I can't say that I'm of +your opinion."</p> + +<p>"Personally," declared Jack, "I believe that the war will be over before +Christmas."</p> + +<p>"I hope so. But I can't be as optimistic as you are."</p> + +<p>The run to Newport News was made without incident and the Essex dropped +anchor close to the spot where she had been stationed before.</p> + +<p>She was greeted with wild cheers, for news of her success had preceded her +to the little Virginia city. Jack and his officers and men were hailed +with acclaim when they went ashore.</p> + +<p>"Want to go to Washington with me, Frank?" asked Jack.</p> + +<p>"That's a foolish question," was Frank's reply. "Of course I want to go."</p> + +<p>"All right. Then we'll catch the ten o'clock train this morning. That will +put us in the capital some time before five."</p> + +<p>"Suits me," declared Frank.</p> + +<p>This program was carried out. Arrived again in the capital of the nation, +the lads went straight to the Raleigh hotel, where they got in touch with +the British ambassador.</p> + +<p>"I've been hearing good reports about you, Captain," said the ambassador's +voice over the telephone.</p> + +<p>"We were a bit lucky, sir, that is all," replied Jack deprecatingly.</p> + +<p>"Nevertheless," said the ambassador, "Secretary Daniels wishes to thank +you in person, as does the President. I shall call for you within the +hour."</p> + +<p>"Very well, sir."</p> + +<p>Jack hung up the 'phone.</p> + +<p>The ambassador was as good as his word. He arrived less than an hour later +and the lads accompanied him to the Navy Department, where they were +ushered into the presence of the Secretary of the Navy at once.</p> + +<p>Secretary Daniels shook hands with both of the lads.</p> + +<p>"You deserve the thanks of the whole nation for your gallant work," he +said. "I am instructed to take you to the President."</p> + +<p>Jack and Frank flushed with pleasure, but there was nothing either could +say. From the Navy Department, the lads were escorted to the White House +immediately across the street, where President Wilson was found in his +office. The President was reached with little ceremony, and Secretary +Daniels himself made the introduction.</p> + +<p>"So," said the President, "these are the young officers who commanded the +British destroyer Essex, which accounted for two of the enemy's +submarines? They look rather young for such important posts." He gazed +closely at Frank. "Surely," he said finally, "surely you are an American."</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir," said Frank. "Born in Massachusetts, sir."</p> + +<p>"Chadwick," mused the President. "Not, by any chance, related to Dr. +Chadwick, of Woburn."</p> + +<p>"He is my father, sir."</p> + +<p>The President seemed surprised.</p> + +<p>"But I didn't know my old friend Chadwick had a son of your age," he said.</p> + +<p>"Well, he has, sir," replied Frank with a smile.</p> + +<p>"But how do you happen to be in the British service?"</p> + +<p>Frank explained briefly.</p> + +<p>"You have certainly seen excitement," said the President. "I am glad to +have seen you. Give my regards to your father when you see him. I am glad +to have met you, too, Captain," and the President shook hands with Jack. +"I hope to have the pleasure of meeting you both again some day."</p> + +<p>The lads understood by this that the interview was ended. They followed +Secretary Daniels and the British ambassador back to the former's office, +where the latter handed Jack a paper.</p> + +<p>"Cable from the British Admiral, I judge," he said.</p> + +<p>Jack read the message.</p> + +<p>"You are right, sir," he said. "We are ordered to home waters whenever you +are through with us, sir."</p> + +<p>"I judged as much," said the Secretary, "which is the reason I had Admiral +Sellings order you to report to me. You are at liberty to return whenever +you please, sir. But first let me thank you for your services in the name +of the American people."</p> + +<p>"Thank you, sir," said Jack, and saluted stiffly.</p> + +<p>The lads now took their leave. The ambassador insisted on their going home +with him to dinner.</p> + +<p>"But we should get back to our ship at once, sir," Jack demurred.</p> + +<p>"Never mind," said the ambassador, "I'll take the responsibility of +holding you over an extra day."</p> + +<p>So Jack and Frank dined with the ambassador, and took a late train to +Richmond, where they changed early in the morning for Newport News. When +they boarded the Essex later in the day they found in Jack's cabin the +commandant of Fortress Monroe, who, having learned that the Essex would +soon depart for home, had come to pay his respects while he yet had time.</p> + +<p>"I want to tell you," he said to Jack, "that the Essex has made quite a +name for herself among my men."</p> + +<p>"I'm glad to hear that, sir," declared Jack.</p> + +<p>"The men are only sorry, and naturally," continued the commandant, "that +she was not manned by an American crew."</p> + +<p>"Naturally, as you say, sir," Jack agreed. "Yet my first officer is an +American."</p> + +<p>The Commandant glanced at Frank.</p> + +<p>"Can that be true?" he asked.</p> + +<p>Frank smiled.</p> + +<p>"It's true enough, sir," he said. "Yes, I'm a native of the Bay state and +am in the British service merely as the result of an accident."</p> + +<p>He explained.</p> + +<p>"Well," said the Commandant, 'I'm glad of it. I'll have something to tell +my officers and men that will make them proud. I hope that the next time +either of you find yourselves in these parts you will look me up."</p> + +<p>"Thank you, sir. We certainly shall," said Jack.</p> + +<p>The Commandant took his departure.</p> + +<p>"And now," said Jack, "for England."</p> + +<p>First, Jack made a personal tour of inspection of the destroyer. Finding +everything ship-shape, the crew was piped to quarters and Jack rang for +half speed ahead.</p> + +<p>A crowd had gathered at the water's edge and the Essex was speeded on her +way by cheering and waving thousands. It was a touching scene, and Jack +was very proud.</p> + +<p>"A great country," he confided to Frank, as the vessel moved slowly out +into the Roads. "A great country. I am glad to have seen it again, and I +hope to come back some day."</p> + +<p>"Oh, you'll come back," said Frank. "You'll come back when the war's over, +to visit me."</p> + +<p>"I certainly will," Jack declared.</p> + +<p>The fortifications of Fortress Monroe now loomed ahead.</p> + +<p>"I suppose the Commandant is somewhere about to wish us God-speed," Frank +remarked.</p> + +<p>The lad was right. And he did it in imposing manner.</p> + +<p>The boom of a great gun was heard. This was followed by the roar of many +more; and the rumble continued as the Essex drew near, was louder as she +breasted the fort and continued as the ship passed on. Jack ordered a +reply to the salute from the forward guns, and for the space of several +minutes, the very sea seemed to tremble.</p> + +<p>Then the Essex gathered speed and plowed ahead.</p> + +<p>"Quite an ovation," said Frank, as he and Jack descended to the latter's +cabin, leaving Lieutenant Hetherton on the bridge.</p> + +<p>"It was, indeed. Yes, as I said before, it's a great country. You should +be proud to be a native of it."</p> + +<p>"I am," said Frank simply.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIII" id="CHAPTER_XXIII" />CHAPTER XXIII</h2> + +<h3>BACK IN ENGLAND</h3> + + +<p>Following the return of the Essex to English waters, Jack reported at once +to Lord Hastings in Dover.</p> + +<p>"I hear great things of you boys," said Lord Hastings. "Great things +indeed."</p> + +<p>"We were a bit fortunate, sir," Jack admitted.</p> + +<p>"It was more than good fortune," declared Lord Hastings. "But it's nothing +more than I expected of you both."</p> + +<p>They conversed about various matters for some minutes. Then Jack asked:</p> + +<p>"And what is in store for us now, sir?"</p> + +<p>"You will report to Admiral Beatty," said Lord Hastings. "The Essex will +be assigned to duty with the Grand Fleet in the North Sea. Patrol work, +mostly. There is little likelihood that the Germans will make another +effort, but the sea must be patrolled, nevertheless."</p> + +<p>"When do we report, sir?"</p> + +<p>"At once. You will weigh anchor in the morning. Admiral Beatty's flagship +is somewhere off the coast of Belgium."</p> + +<p>"Very well, sir," said Jack, and departed.</p> + +<p>The next day the Essex left Dover. Fifty miles out, Jack picked up the +flagship by wireless and received his instructions.</p> + +<p>Days lengthened into weeks now and weeks into months and the Essex was +still patrolling the North Sea with others of the Grand Fleet—composed +besides British vessels of an American squadron in command of Vice-Admiral +Sims. August passed and September came and still the Germans failed to +venture from their fortress of Helgoland and offer battle to the allies.</p> + +<p>The work became monotonous. Occasionally, the Essex put back to port for +several days to replenish her bunkers and to take on provisions. At such +times Jack and Frank usually went ashore for short periods, and the crew, +portions at a time, were granted shore leave.</p> + +<p>It was upon the last day of September that great news reached the +fleet—news that indicated that the war was nearing its end and that now, +if ever, the German fleet might venture from its hiding place and risk an +engagement.</p> + +<p>Bulgaria had broken with Germany and sued for a separate peace.</p> + +<p>Several days later came the news that an armistice had been signed and +that Bulgaria had ordered all German and Austrian troops to leave her +boundaries. King Ferdinand abdicated in favor of his eldest son, Boris, +who immediately ordered the demobilization of the Bulgarian armies.</p> + +<p>"Turkey will come next, mark my words," declared Frank as he and Jack +stood on the bridge, looking off across the broad expanse of the North +Sea.</p> + +<p>"Most likely," Jack agreed; "and after Turkey, Austria. That will leave +Germany to fight the world by herself."</p> + +<p>"She'll never attempt that," Frank declared. "The minute she sees her last +chance gone, she'll squeal for help, the same as a hog. It's not in a +German to take a licking, you know. He begins to show, yellow when the +game goes against him."</p> + +<p>"Perfectly true," said Jack, with a nod. "Now, it strikes me that Germany, +facing the problem of fighting it out alone—for she must see that +Bulgaria's action will soon be followed by her other allies—may send out +her fleet for a grand blow."</p> + +<p>Frank shook his head.</p> + +<p>"Not a chance," he said.</p> + +<p>"But," said Jack, "it has been the opinion of war critics and experts +right along that Germany was saving her fleet for the final effort when +all other means had failed."</p> + +<p>"I don't care what the experts think," declared Frank, "I don't think the +Germans will dare risk an engagement. In the first place, it would be +suicidal—she would have everything to lose and nothing to gain. Don't +fret. The German naval authorities know just as well as we do what would +happen to the German fleet should it issue from Helgoland."</p> + +<p>"Maybe you're right," said Jack, "but in the enemy's place, I wouldn't +give up without a final effort."</p> + +<p>"That's just it," Frank explained. "You wouldn't, and neither would I. +Neither, for that matter, would any British or American officer, nor +French. But the German is of different caliber. He doesn't fight half as +well when he knows the odds are against him. No, I believe that the German +fleet will be virtually intact when the war ends."</p> + +<p>"Then we'll take it away from them," declared Jack.</p> + +<p>"I'm sure I hope so. It would be dangerous to the future peace of the +world to allow the Germans to keep their vessels."</p> + +<p>"Well," said Jack, "you can talk all you please, but you can't convince me +our work is over—not until peace has been declared—or an armistice +signed, or something."</p> + +<p>"I agree with you there. There will be plenty of work for us right up to +the last minute."</p> + +<p>As it developed the lads were right.</p> + +<p>"It was shortly after midnight when Jack was aroused by the third officer.</p> + +<p>"Message from Admiral Beatty, sir," said the third officer, and passed +Jack a slip of paper.</p> + +<p>Jack read the message, which had been hastily scribbled off by the radio +operator.</p> + +<p>"German squadron of six vessels reported to have left Helgoland and to be +headed for the coast of Scotland," the message read. "Proceed to intercept +them at full speed. Other vessels being notified."</p> + +<p>Jack sprang into his clothes, meanwhile having Frank summoned from his +cabin. Frank dashed into Jack's cabin, clothes in hand.</p> + +<p>"What's up?" he demanded.</p> + +<p>"Germans headed for the Scottish coast," replied Jack briefly, and dashed +out of the door.</p> + +<p>Frank followed him a few moments later. Jack was standing on the bridge +giving orders hastily.</p> + +<p>"Have a look at the engine room, Frank," said Jack, "and tell the engineer +to crowd on all possible steam. We'll have need of speed this trip, or I +miss my guess."</p> + +<p>Frank obeyed.</p> + +<p>The Essex, which had been proceeding east by south at a leisurely pace, +had come about now and was dashing due north at top speed. Jack himself +shaped the course and gave the necessary instructions to the helmsman.</p> + +<p>Below in the radio room, the wireless began to clatter. The operator, from +time to time, was getting into touch with other vessels of the Grand Fleet +ordered north to intercept the German raiders.</p> + +<p>First he received a flash from the Lion; then the Brewster replied, and +after her, the Tiger, Southampton, Falcon, White Hawk and Peerless. +Counting the Essex this made eight ships speeding northward to intercept +the enemy.</p> + +<p>"I take it," said Jack, "that this is about the last blow the enemy will +attempt to deliver. The Germans, knowing they are beaten, are intent now +only upon doing what damage they can while there is yet time. This raid, I +suppose, they figure will throw a scare into the coast cities, as similar +raids did earlier in the war. However, they'll have a surprise this time, +for all the coast ports are fortified now. There will be guns there to +stand them off until we get there."</p> + +<p>"Let's hope we get there in time," muttered Frank. "I'd like one more +crack at the enemy. I'm afraid they are going to get off too easily when +peace comes."</p> + +<p>"We've got to get there in time," declared Jack.</p> + +<p>From time to time the radio operator sent reports to Jack giving the +positions of other vessels rushing to the defense of the coast ports.</p> + +<p>"We'll get there first, at this rate," said Jack. "We're closer than the +others."</p> + +<p>"But we're no match for the enemy single-handed," declared Frank. "Chances +are that the German squadron is composed mostly of battleships."</p> + +<p>"True enough," Jack admitted, "but we'll do what damage we can. The +Tiger, Lion, White Hawk, Falcon and Peerless are warships, you know. +They'll be more than enough for the foe."</p> + +<p>"Yes; but we may be at the bottom of the sea by that time."</p> + +<p>"Don't worry. We'll hold our own until assistance arrives."</p> + +<p>Jack made a rapid calculation.</p> + +<p>"If we had any idea of the approximate position of the enemy at this time, +we would know better how to go about our work," he said.</p> + +<p>"You might call the enemy and find out?" said Frank with a grin.</p> + +<p>"Don't be funny, Frank," said Jack severely. "This is no time for levity."</p> + +<p>Came a cry from the lookout.</p> + +<p>"Battle squadron off the port bow, sir!"</p> + +<p>Jack clapped his glass to his eye.</p> + +<p>The ships were too far distant and the night was too dark, however, to +permit him to ascertain the identity of the approaching vessels.</p> + +<p>"May be the enemy, Jack," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"Right," Jack agreed.</p> + +<p>A shrill whistle rang out on the Essex.</p> + +<p>This was the answer to Jack's order to pipe the crew to quarters.</p> + +<p>"Clear ship for action!" was Jack's next command.</p> + +<p>"If it is the enemy," he confided to Frank, "we'll try and keep him +engaged until reinforcements arrive."</p> + +<p>"It may not be so hard, after all," Frank said "They may turn and beat a +retreat when they find they are discovered."</p> + +<p>"Not if there is only one of us," said Jack. "Pass the word to the forward +lookout to sing out as soon as he can identify the enemy. I'll flash my +light on them. He may be able to make them out."</p> + +<p>The huge searchlight of the Essex flashed forth across the water, and +played upon the approaching ships.</p> + +<p>"Germans!" came the cry from the lookout.</p> + +<p>"I thought so," said Jack. "Frank, go to the radio room and find out how +close our nearest support is."</p> + +<p>Frank was back in a few minutes.</p> + +<p>"Lion says to engage," he reported. "Says she'll be with us in less than +an hour. Tiger says she will arrive not more than fifteen minutes later. +Falcon and Hawk report they are less than an hour and a half away."</p> + +<p>"Right," said Jack. "Trouble is those fellows are likely to out-range us, +in which event we'll have to retire slowly, trying to draw them after us. +In that way reinforcements may arrive sooner. Hello! There she goes!"</p> + +<p>The roar of a great gun came across the water.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIV" id="CHAPTER_XXIV" />CHAPTER XXIV</h2> + +<h3>THE ENGAGEMENT</h3> + + +<p>"If we retire," said Jack, "we will leave the way open to the coast. At +this minute we are in their way."</p> + +<p>"But if we try to stick it out here we'll be sunk," said Frank. "And if we +retire toward the coast, we'll be moving away from our supports."</p> + +<p>"True enough," Jack agreed. "There's only one thing to do. That is to +retire as slowly as possible and try to entice all six ships after us. But +I'd much rather wade right in."</p> + +<p>"Same here. But discretion is the better part of valor, you know."</p> + +<p>"Boom!"</p> + +<p>Again a gun spoke aboard one of the enemy.</p> + +<p>"We're still out of range," said Jack. "Let 'em come a little closer."</p> + +<p>As Jack could now see, all six ships had altered their course slightly and +were heading directly for the Essex.</p> + +<p>"You may come about, Mr. Chadwick," said Jack.</p> + +<p>Slowly the Essex swung about.</p> + +<p>"Train your left guns on the enemy," Jack ordered.</p> + +<p>This was done.</p> + +<p>"Range finders!"</p> + +<p>"Still out of range, sir," was the report.</p> + +<p>"All right But let me know the minute we can strike."</p> + +<p>"Aye, aye, sir."</p> + +<p>"Half speed ahead, Mr. Chadwick."</p> + +<p>"Aye, aye, sir."</p> + +<p>Frank signalled the engine room.</p> + +<p>"Boom! Boom! Boom!"</p> + +<p>Guns spoke simultaneously aboard three of the enemy ships.</p> + +<p>"Still beyond range."</p> + +<p>It was Lieutenant Hetherton who spoke.</p> + +<p>"Trouble is," said Frank, "that they will be within range before we are."</p> + +<p>"We'll risk it," said Jack. "It's up to us to keep them busy until the +warships arrive."</p> + +<p>The next fire from the enemy resulted in a screaming shell to port.</p> + +<p>"They've got the range, sir," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"Make it two-thirds speed ahead."</p> + +<p>The speed of the Essex increased.</p> + +<p>But the German vessels were bearing down on her swiftly, and eventually +Jack was forced to call for full speed ahead.</p> + +<p>But still the German warships gained.</p> + +<p>"They've the heels of us, too," muttered Jack. "Well, we'll slow down a +bit and trust to luck. We can't do any damage unless we get within +range."</p> + +<p>The Essex slowed suddenly to half speed.</p> + +<p>The German fleet dashed ahead, now in single formation. This was fortunate +for the Essex, for it meant that the guns of only one ship could be +brought to bear on the British destroyer at one time.</p> + +<p>"Range, sir!" cried the range finder at this point.</p> + +<p>"Then fire!" shouted Jack to the aft turret battery captain.</p> + +<p>The battery spoke sharply, and the men gave a cheer of delight.</p> + +<p>The first shell went home. It cleared the bow of the first German vessel +apparently by the fraction of an inch and smashed squarely into the +bridge. The crash of the shell striking home was followed almost instantly +by an explosion. Timber and steel, intermingled with human bodies, flew +high in the air. This much those aboard the Essex could see by the flare +of the searchlight.</p> + +<p>"A good shot, men!" cried Jack. "An excellent shot!"</p> + +<p>An excellent shot it was indeed.</p> + +<p>Something appeared to have gone wrong with the steering apparatus of the +first German ship. She veered slightly to port.</p> + +<p>The target thus presented was an excellent one.</p> + +<p>"Fire!" cried Jack again.</p> + +<p>The aft battery crashed out and once more the British cheered.</p> + +<p>Two shells plowed into the crippled German just on the water line.</p> + +<p>"A death wound," muttered Frank.</p> + +<p>The lad was right.</p> + +<p>The German vessel staggered under the force of the impact and seemed to +reel backward. Men leaped to the rails and hurled themselves into the sea.</p> + +<p>Suddenly there was a loud explosion and the ship seemed to split in two, a +blaze of red fire stretching high into the heavens from the middle of the +vessel as it did so. Then blackness enveloped it again and the two parts +of the ship fell back into the water with a hiss like that of a thousand +serpents. The first German ship was gone.</p> + +<p>It was first blood to the Essex and the crew cheered again.</p> + +<p>But the other five German vessels came on apace. The gun on the forward +ship spoke, but the shell went wild.</p> + +<p>"If they'll keep that formation, we might get away with the whole bunch of +them," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"Yes, but they won't," replied Jack.</p> + +<p>He was a good prophet.</p> + +<p>Even now, the German vessels began to spread out, and within ten minutes +had formed a semi-circle. It was possible now for the forward guns on each +ship to rake the Essex without interfering with each other's fire.</p> + +<p>"Train your guns on the ship farthest to port," Jack instructed.</p> + +<p>The order was obeyed. Again came the order for range finders, and the +report that the range was O.K.</p> + +<p>"Fire!" cried Jack.</p> + +<p>Once more fortune was with the crew of the Essex. The range had been +absolutely accurate, and the heavy shell from the Essex carried away the +superstructure of the German. At the same moment came a cry from the +lookout aft:</p> + +<p>"Warship coming up astern, sir!"</p> + +<p>Quickly Jack looked around.</p> + +<p>"The first of our reinforcements," he said quietly.</p> + +<p>He gave his attention again to the enemy, who was drawing uncomfortably +close.</p> + +<p>"Crash!"</p> + +<p>Jack whirled sharply.</p> + +<p>A shell had struck the Essex just above the water line on the port side.</p> + +<p>"Go below and report, Mr. Chadwick!" Jack ordered.</p> + +<p>Frank hurried away in response to this command. He sought the engine room.</p> + +<p>"What's the damage, chief?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"Slight," was the reply. "Shell passed clear through us, but cleared the +boilers. Better round up the carpenter, though, sir."</p> + +<p>Frank hurried back to the bridge and reported the extent of the damage. +Then he sent a midshipman for the ship's carpenter.</p> + +<p>"Crash! Bang!"</p> + +<p>Another shell had struck the Essex, this time in the aft gun turret.</p> + +<p>"Report, Mr. Chadwick," said Jack briefly.</p> + +<p>Frank hurried to the turret.</p> + +<p>"What's the damage, Captain?" he asked of the chief of the gun crew.</p> + +<p>"One gun smashed, sir," was the reply. "Three of the crew killed and five +injured."</p> + +<p>"Other guns still working?"</p> + +<p>"Can't you hear 'em, sir?"</p> + +<p>Frank smiled in spite of himself and cast a quick glance around.</p> + +<p>In spite of the death that had overtaken their comrades, the surviving gun +crews in the turret were working like Trojans. The big guns continued to +spit defiance at the enemy.</p> + +<p>Now and then a cheer rose on the Essex as a shot went home.</p> + +<p>Frank again returned to the bridge to report.</p> + +<p>"Boom!"</p> + +<p>It was a deeper voice that spoke this time.</p> + +<p>The radio operator himself rushed to the bridge.</p> + +<p>"Lion firing, sir," he said. "Says she has sighted us and for us to +retire. No need of sacrificing ourselves Captain Jacobs says. The enemy +can't get away."</p> + +<p>At the same moment the lookout aft sang out again.</p> + +<p>"Warship coming up astern, sir!"</p> + +<p>"The second of our reinforcements," said Jack quietly. "I'll bet these +fellows wish they had stayed home."</p> + +<p>"I'm betting the same way," declared Frank.</p> + +<p>"Well, it's getting too hot here," said Jack. "We'll get back and let the +big fellows get in the game."</p> + +<p>"Good idea, sir," said Lieutenant Hetherton.</p> + +<p>"Full speed ahead!" Jack ordered.</p> + +<p>At the sound of the great gun on the British warship Lion, the German +admiral in command of the flotilla ordered his ships to slow down. Until +that moment he had not been appraised of the fact that the German raid was +known to the British fleet. He supposed, upon seeing the Essex, that he +had encountered a single vessel which just happened to be in that part of +the sea, but when the Lion came into the fight he began to have his +doubts.</p> + +<p>As yet, however, there was no other vessel in sight, and as the Germans +heavily outnumbered the British, the admiral decided to continue the +engagement.</p> + +<p>"I suppose this fellow happened to hear the firing and came to +investigate," muttered the German admiral. "Our raid can hardly have been +discovered yet."</p> + +<p>Accordingly he gave the word to advance again.</p> + +<p>And a moment later he was sorry that he had done so.</p> + +<p>Far astern of the Lion, and yet not so far that the German admiral could +not have seen her but for the darkness, came two other long gray shapes; +and from farther east, and closer, appeared a third.</p> + +<p>The German admiral gritted his teeth.</p> + +<p>"Confound these English!" he exclaimed. "Can nobody beat them?"</p> + +<p>For a moment he debated with himself. He had half a mind to continue the +struggle, for the odds were still, with the Germans. Then he changed his +mind.</p> + +<p>The wireless aboard the German flagship flashed a signal to retire.</p> + +<p>But the German admiral had delayed too long for a successful retreat. +Other British ships hove into view—seven of them. There was nothing for +the German fleet to do but fight it out. The admiral gave the order:</p> + +<p>"Advance!"</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXV" id="CHAPTER_XXV" />CHAPTER XXV</h2> + +<h3>THE LAST SEA BATTLE</h3> + + +<p>The cannonading became terrific.</p> + +<p>Now that assistance arrived, Jack ordered the Essex, which still was the +nearest British vessel to the enemy, back into the fray.</p> + +<p>"The big fellows will look out for us," he confided to Frank.</p> + +<p>The revolving turrets of the Essex were kept on the move and guns crashed +as fast as they could be brought to bear. Shells struck on all sides of +the destroyer and occasionally one came aboard. But thanks to Jack's +maneuvering of the vessel, so far she had not been struck in a vital part.</p> + +<p>The main British fleet bore down on the enemy from two sides, and to +protect themselves against these new foes, the Germans were forced to turn +their attention elsewhere than the Essex. Already big shells from the +British warships were striking aboard the enemy. The range had been found +almost with the first fire from the approaching war vessels and the +Germans were replying as fast as they were able.</p> + +<p>The fighting was at such close range now that Jack was able to distinguish +the names of the German battleships. In the center, flying the flag of +Admiral Krauss, was the Bismarck. On the right of the flagship were the +Hamburg and the Potsdam, while on the left the flagship was flanked by the +Baden and the Wilhelm II.</p> + +<p>The fire of all five German vessels, at order of the admiral, was now +directed upon the Lion, which bore down swiftly and was perhaps a quarter +of a mile closer to the enemy than any other British craft except the +destroyer Essex, commanded by Jack.</p> + +<p>The forward guns of the Lion roared angrily and spat fire in the darkness +as she bore down on the Germans at full speed. As yet no enemy shell had +struck the Lion, but she had put several shells aboard the nearest German +battleship—the Baden.</p> + +<p>Now that the German fire had been momentarily lifted from the Essex, Jack +ordered his ship in closer; and a veritable hail of shells were dropped on +the Potsdam. For a moment or so the Germans paid no attention to the +destroyer, but the fire from Jack's men became so accurate that the +captain of the German ship found it necessary to disregard the admiral's +orders and turn his attention to the Essex in self-defense.</p> + +<p>The first shell from the Potsdam flew screaming over the bridge of the +destroyer, but did no damage. The second was aimed better. It struck the +bow of the destroyer on the port side and plowed through. The destroyer +quivered through her entire length.</p> + +<p>"Go below and report, Mr. Chadwick," Jack commanded.</p> + +<p>Upon investigation, Frank learned that the shell had plowed through the +forward bulkheads and that the outside compartments were awash. But the +inner compartments had not been penetrated. He rounded up the ship's +carpenter, who announced that the damage could be repaired in half an +hour. There had been no casualties.</p> + +<p>Jack accepted Frank's report with a brief nod; then gave his attention +again to fighting his ship.</p> + +<p>Forward and to the right of the Essex there sounded a terrific explosion, +followed by a blinding glare. The Baden, one of the largest of the German +warships, sprang into a mighty sheet of flame. A shell from the Lion had +penetrated the engine room and exploded her boilers. Came wild cries from +aboard the vessel and escaping steam and boiling water poured on the crew +and scalded them.</p> + +<p>With the searchlights of the British ships playing on her, the Baden +reared high out of the water, and as men jumped into the sea for safety, +she settled by the head, and sank.</p> + +<p>This left only four of the enemy to continue the struggle and opposed to +these the British offered eight unwounded vessels. Admiral Krauss gazed in +every direction, seeking a possible avenue of escape. And at last he +believed he saw it.</p> + +<p>To the east—back in the direction from which he had come—the space +between the British battleships Peerless and Falcon seemed to offer a +chance. The German admiral calculated rapidly. To the eye it appeared that +the German ships could pass through that opening before the British could +close in.</p> + +<p>The wireless aboard the German flagship sputtered excitedly. Instantly the +four remaining German ships turned and dashed after the flagship, which +was showing the way.</p> + +<p>Instantly the commander of every British ship realized the purpose of the +enemy. Even the distant Falcon and Peerless seemed to know what was +expected of them. Their speed increased and they dashed forward in an +effort to intercept the enemy.</p> + +<p>It was nip and tuck. The Lion was the first to dash in pursuit, followed +by the Tiger and the White Hawk. The Brewster and Southampton, closely +followed by the more or less crippled Essex, brought up the rear, each +doing its utmost to pass the other in order to get another chance at the +enemy.</p> + +<p>Slowly the Lion, the Tiger and the White Hawk gained on the enemy; and it +became apparent now that the Germans would be unable to get through the +space between the Peerless and Falcon without a fight.</p> + +<p>Aboard the Bismarck, the German admiral gritted his teeth.</p> + +<p>"It will have to be fight now," he muttered, "and the odds are all against +me."</p> + +<p>The Falcon and the Peerless, from either side and forward of the Germans, +now opened with their big guns almost simultaneously. Every available gun +aboard the German vessels replied. From astern, the guns of the Lion were +pounding the sterns of the fleeing enemy battleships. The Brewster and the +Southampton, together with the Tiger and the White Hawk, also were hurling +shells after the Germans, although with little effect, for they were +trailing too far behind.</p> + +<p>Jack urged the Essex forward in the wake of the others. He was far behind +and was rapidly being outdistanced by the larger ships, but he determined +to see the thing through if possible.</p> + +<p>The last German ship in line, struck by a shell from the pursuing Lion, +staggered and fell to one side. The Lion darted on, pouring a broadside +into the crippled enemy as she passed, then dashed after the vessels +ahead.</p> + +<p>The Tiger, White Hawk, Brewster and Southampton, also poured broadsides +into the Wilhelm II as they passed, but they did not even slacken their +pace.</p> + +<p>But the Wilhelm II apparently had not received her death blow. Her crew +continued to fight the ship heroically, and as the Essex approached she +was greeted with a heavy fire from the German.</p> + +<p>"The big fellows don't seem to have made a very good job of this," said +Jack to Frank. "We'll finish it for them."</p> + +<p>The Essex slowed down and turned sharply toward the Wilhelm II. Her guns +still in condition to fight burst forth anew. The British showed +excellent marksmanship. Shell after shell was poured into the crippled +foe. Jack ordered "cease firing."</p> + +<p>Taking a megaphone that lay nearby, he put it to his mouth and called:</p> + +<p>"Surrender!"</p> + +<p>His answer was a shell that came crashing aboard aft from one of the +Wilhelm II's big guns. Jack turned quietly to Frank.</p> + +<p>"Sink her!" he said.</p> + +<p>Frank dashed across the deck to where the crew of the forward gun turret +was anxiously awaiting some command. He addressed the captain of the crew.</p> + +<p>"See if you can put a shell into her engine room," he said. "Take your +time."</p> + +<p>The latter did so; and it was several seconds before the big gun spoke, +but when it did Frank uttered an exclamation of satisfaction.</p> + +<p>The shell had gone true. Watching eyes aboard the Essex saw it plow its +way through the side of the Wilhelm II. Then came the explosion and the +Wilhelm II seemed to part in the middle. She sank in less than five +minutes.</p> + +<p>Meanwhile, the Peerless and Falcon had headed off the other three German +ships, which, forced to fight, now stood at bay, with every gun pounding. +The Lion, Tiger and the other vessels bore down on them rapidly from +astern.</p> + +<p>For the space of half an hour the view of those aboard the Essex was +obscured by the smoke from the big guns, which could not be penetrated +even by the bright lights of the searchlights. They could hear the boom of +the big guns, the crash of the shells as they struck home and occasional +sharp explosions that told of irrepairable damage aboard the enemy +vessels, but they could see nothing.</p> + +<p>"This will be the last of the enemy," was Frank's comment.</p> + +<p>Jack nodded.</p> + +<p>"I should think so," he agreed. "If they let one of those fellows get away +now they should be court-martialed."</p> + +<p>"Don't fret," said Frank, "they won't get away."</p> + +<p>They didn't get away.</p> + +<p>Firing ceased just as the first streak of light appeared in the eastern +sky, and when the smoke of battle cleared away, Jack and Frank saw that +the British victory had been complete.</p> + +<p>Only two German ships were still above water. These were the Bismarck, +flagship of Admiral Krauss, and the Hamburg. The others had all been sunk.</p> + +<p>The Hamburg, the lads could see, was slowly sinking by the head. She was +being abandoned by her crew, who, in small boats, some even swimming, were +hurrying to the side of the Bismarck, where they were lifted aboard.</p> + +<p>"Why didn't they sink her, too?" demanded Frank pointing to the German +flagship.</p> + +<p>"Why?" repeated Jack. "Why should they? Can't you see that white flag +flying at the masthead?"</p> + +<p>"By George! I hadn't noticed that."</p> + +<p>"And there," said Jack, pointing, "goes a prize crew from the Lion to take +over the vessel."</p> + +<p>A launch loaded with British tars had put off from the Lion and was making +toward the German flagship.</p> + +<p>Admiral Krauss and his officers and men were soon transferred to the Lion +and a British crew was in possession of the Bismarck.</p> + +<p>Thus ended the last sea battle of the great war. In all the times that +Germany had tested the naval power of Great Britain and her allies, she +had found it great—too much for German naval tactics to overcome. And now +that the great war was drawing to an end, she did not test it again.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVI" id="CHAPTER_XXVI" />CHAPTER XXVI</h2> + +<h3>THE END APPROACHES</h3> + + +<p>With the coming of November, it became apparent to every officer and man +in the Grand Fleet—as well as the rest of the world—that the beginning +of the end was at hand—that the German war machine was disintegrating and +was about to break.</p> + +<p>This was strengthened by the announcement on November 2 that the preceding +day England, France and Italy had concluded an armistice with Turkey, thus +depriving Germany of her second ally. This left only Germany and Austria +to continue the struggle, and upon the same day that the armistice with +Turkey was announced came word that Austria also had made overtures for +peace.</p> + +<p>"You can take it from me," said Jack, as the destroyer Essex continued her +patrol of the North Sea, "that this war is about to end. I'm willing to +bet that Germany will sue for peace within a couple of weeks."</p> + +<p>Frank expressed his doubts.</p> + +<p>"She's likely to continue the struggle for some time yet," he said.</p> + +<p>"But that would be foolish," declared Jack. "She can hope to gain nothing +thereby."</p> + +<p>"Perhaps not. But if Germany sues for peace now there is likely to be such +an internal upheaval in the Empire that the French revolution will look +like a house party."</p> + +<p>"Maybe you're right, but I stick to my opinion nevertheless."</p> + +<p>Events proved that Jack was right.</p> + +<p>On the morning of November 5, word reached the Grand Fleet that an +armistice had been concluded with Austria the day before.</p> + +<p>"As I expected," said Jack. "What did I tell you, Frank?"</p> + +<p>"Well, I anticipated that myself," said Frank. "But Germany hasn't asked +for peace yet, you know."</p> + +<p>"True, but I can tell you something you don't know. I just got word this +morning."</p> + +<p>"What's that?"</p> + +<p>"Why Germany, through Chancellor Ebert, already is in negotiations with +President Wilson."</p> + +<p>"What?"</p> + +<p>"Exactly. President Wilson has replied that he will stick to his original +principles of peace, announced some time ago. Germany is requested to +announce whether she will accept such terms."</p> + +<p>"But it seems to me," said Frank, "that if Germany wants peace she should +be made to ask it on the field of battle."</p> + +<p>And that is exactly what happened, for when the armistice negotiations +were finally begun it was at a conference between Marshal Foch, +commander-in-chief of all the allied forces, and a commission of German +officers.</p> + +<p>It was on November 8, that news of the armistice conference was flashed to +the Grand Fleet.</p> + +<p>"Armistice commission will meet November 10 at Hirson, France," read the +message, flashed to every vessel in the fleet.</p> + +<p>All that day and the next, every man in the fleet waited anxiously for +further word of the approaching armistice conference. None came. Neither +had any word been received on the evening of November 10.</p> + +<p>"Must have been a hitch some place," said Frank, as they sat in the +latter's cabin that night.</p> + +<p>"Not necessarily," replied Jack, "You know these things take time. A +matter like this can't be fixed up in an hour, or a day."</p> + +<p>"Well," said Frank, "I'd like to know what terms Marshal Foch will impose +on the foe."</p> + +<p>"They'll be stringent enough, don't you worry," said Jack. "He'll impose +terms harsh enough to make sure that Germany doesn't renew the struggle +while final peace negotiations are in progress."</p> + +<p>"I hope so. But I'll tell you one thing I hope he does."</p> + +<p>"What's that?" Jack wanted to know.</p> + +<p>"I hope he insists on the surrender of the whole German fleet."</p> + +<p>"Whew!" exclaimed Jack. "You don't want much, do you?"</p> + +<p>"Well, he should insist on it," declared Frank.</p> + +<p>"But he probably won't," returned Jack. "I figure, however that he will +insist that a large share of the ships be turned over to the allies, +including their most powerful submarines and battleships and cruisers. But +you can't expect them to give up the whole business, particularly when the +entire High Seas Fleet is practically intact."</p> + +<p>"Maybe not; but I'm for taking all we can get."</p> + +<p>"So am I," Jack agreed, "all that we can get without danger of causing a +hitch in the armistice proceedings."</p> + +<p>"Seems to me," said Frank, "that by this time we should have had some word +of the proceedings at Hirson to-day."</p> + +<p>"It would seem so, that's a fact. However, I guess we will get the +information all in good time."</p> + +<p>"That's all right. But I'm anxious to know what's going on."</p> + +<p>"Well, we won't know to-night; so I am in favor of turning in."</p> + +<p>"Guess we may as well."</p> + +<p>But early the next morning, an account of the first day's proceedings of +the armistice delegates was flashed to the fleet. This, however, did not +bring much jubilation, for the announcement simply said that the German +delegates had refused the terms offered by Marshal Foch and had returned +to their own lines for further instructions.</p> + +<p>"Told you so!" exclaimed Frank. "This war is not over yet."</p> + +<p>"Don't you believe it," declared Jack. "These Germans may do a little +bluffing—I'd probably try the same thing under similar conditions—but +you mark my words, they'll accept the terms, all right."</p> + +<p>"The conference is to be resumed some time this afternoon," said Frank. +"That means that we will hear nothing before morning."</p> + +<p>"It depends," said Jack. "If the armistice is signed to-day, we'll +probably get the word immediately; but if it stretches out for a day or +two, we probably won't"</p> + +<p>"I guess that's about the size of it," Frank admitted.</p> + +<p>All during the day excitement aboard the Essex, and all other vessels +patrolling the North Sea, for that matter, was at fever heat. While every +man knew that there was little likelihood of receiving news until long +after dark, each one nevertheless lived in hopes.</p> + +<p>Nevertheless, patrol work was still being done carefully. It had become an +axiom of a British sailor that a German was not to be trusted—that when +he appeared the least dangerous, it was time to watch him more carefully. +Consequently, in spite of the impending armistice, the vigilance of the +British fleet was not relaxed.</p> + +<p>Six o'clock came, and seven; and still there had been no word from the +scene of the armistice conference. At eight o'clock Frank said:</p> + +<p>"I don't know what we are sitting up for. Something must have gone wrong +again. If the armistice had been signed we would know something of it by +this time."</p> + +<p>"Hold your horses," said Jack. "I'm just as anxious as you are, but there +is no use getting excited about it."</p> + +<p>"Well," said Frank, "if we haven't heard something by nine o'clock, I'm +going to turn in."</p> + +<p>But at nine o'clock no word had been received.</p> + +<p>"I know we shall hear nothing to-night," said Frank, rising, "so I'm going +to tumble into my bunk."</p> + +<p>"Help yourself," said Jack, looking up from a book he was reading. "I'll +wait a little longer."</p> + +<p>Frank retired to his own cabin and was soon asleep. At ten o'clock, no +word having been received, Jack put down his book and rose.</p> + +<p>"Frank may be right," he told himself. "At all events, I may as well turn +in. My remaining up won't alter the facts, whatever they are."</p> + +<p>He undressed, extinguished the light in his cabin and climbed into bed.</p> + +<p>Aboard practically every ship in the fleet, almost the same scenes were +enacted that night. Officers and men alike remained up for hours, awaiting +possible word that the armistice had been signed. But at midnight no word +had been received, and while the big ships moved about their patrol work, +the men slept—those of them who had no duties to perform at that hour. +Only the officers and members of the crew watch, and the night radio +operators, remained awake.</p> + +<p>To Jack it seemed that he had just closed his eyes when he was aroused by +the sound of the Essex's signal whistle. It screeched and screeched. Jack +leaped from his bunk and scrambled into his clothes.</p> + +<p>"Something wrong," he muttered. "Wonder why they didn't call me?"</p> + +<p>He hurried on deck.</p> + +<p>Frank, in his cabin, also had been aroused by the noise. He, too, sprang +into his clothes and hurried on deck.</p> + +<p>There the first thing that his eyes encountered was a circle of figures, +with hands joined, dancing about the bridge and yelling at the top of +their voices. Among them was Jack, who, for the moment, seemed to have +forgotten the dignity that went with his command. Also, the shrill signal +whistle continued to give long, sharp blasts. Frank looked at Jack in pure +amazement.</p> + +<p>"Must have gone crazy," he muttered.</p> + +<p>He hurried to the bridge and standing behind the dancing figures, caught +Jack by the coat as he whirled by.</p> + +<p>"I say," he demanded. "What's the meaning of this? Have you gone mad?"</p> + +<p>Jack stopped and broke away from the circle which danced on without him.</p> + +<p>"Almost," said Jack, in answer to Frank's question, "and with good +reason."</p> + +<p>"What—" began Frank.</p> + +<p>"By George! Can't you think?" demanded Jack.</p> + +<p>Gradually comprehension dawned on Frank.</p> + +<p>"You mean—" he began again.</p> + +<p>"Of course, I mean it," shouted Jack. "Why else do you think I'd be +dancing around here like a whirling dervish? Come on and join the crowd. +The armistice has been signed!"</p> + +<p>"Hurrah!" shouted Frank.</p> + +<p>A moment later he was circling madly about the bridge with the others.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVII" id="CHAPTER_XXVII" />CHAPTER XXVII</h2> + +<h3>PREPARING FOR THE SURRENDER</h3> + +<p>ALTHOUGH the armistice had now been officially signed and fighting had +ceased, under orders from Admiral Beatty, commander of the Grand Fleet, +every ship was still stripped for action. While it appeared that +everything was open and above-board, the British admiral intended to take +no chances. He recalled other German treachery and he was not at all sure +in his own mind that the enemy might not attempt some other trick.</p> + +<p>Two days after the signing of the armistice, upon instructions from the +admiralty, Admiral Beatty got in touch by wireless with the German fleet +commander in Helgoland, Admiral Baron von Wimpfen. With the latter Admiral +Beatty was to arrange for the surrender for such portions of the German +High Seas Fleet as had been decided upon by Marshal Foch and the German +armistice commission.</p> + +<p>All day the wireless sputtered incessantly aboard the flagship, while +other ship commanders within radio distance listened to what was going on. +Jack was among these. He relieved his radio operator for the day and took +the instrument himself.</p> + +<p>"The German fleet," ticked Admiral Beatty's flagship wireless, "will steam +forth from Helgoland on November 19 and move due west toward the English +coast, where the British fleet will be stationed to await its coming."</p> + +<p>"Shall we dismantle our guns?" asked Admiral von Wimpfen.</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>"And what of the size of our crews?"</p> + +<p>"They shall be large enough to handle the vessel. That is all. The crew of +each ship shall be reduced to the minimum."</p> + +<p>"And how about our submarines?"</p> + +<p>"They must be surrendered first."</p> + +<p>"But the surrender cannot be completed in one day."</p> + +<p>"I am aware of it," replied Admiral Beatty. "As I have instructed you, the +first of the German fleet will leave Helgoland on the night of November +19. By that I mean the submarines. They must steam on the surface. The +first flotilla to be composed of twenty-seven vessels."</p> + +<p>"I understand," returned the German admiral.</p> + +<p>"Very well. My ships will be stretched out in a fifty-mile line on either +side of your ships as they approach and will fire at the first sign of +treachery."</p> + +<p>"There shall be no treachery, sir. You have the word of a German admiral."</p> + +<p>"Very well I shall acquaint you with other details from time to time."</p> + +<p>This was the conversation that Jack heard that day.</p> + +<p>At noon on November 18, Jack, together with other commanders, received +word from Admiral Beatty to steam toward Harwich, on the English coast, +and to take his place in the long line of ships that would be gathered +there to receive the surrender of the enemy fleet.</p> + +<p>Excitement thrilled the crew of the Essex. They were about to witness one +of the greatest events of world history and there wasn't a man aboard who +didn't know it. Nevertheless, there was no confusion, and the Essex +steamed rapidly westward.</p> + +<p>"Hope we get up near the front of the line," said Frank to his chum. "Also +that we are close to Admiral Beatty's flagship."</p> + +<p>"Here too," said Jack. "It will be a sight worth seeing."</p> + +<p>"Rather."</p> + +<p>"Well, we can't kick no matter where they place us, you know. I suppose I +shall receive the necessary instructions in plenty of time."</p> + +<p>Jack did. The instructions came the following morning, while the Essex was +still possibly a hundred miles off the English coast.</p> + +<p>"You will report to Admiral Tyrwhitt," Jack's message read, "who will +assign you to your station."</p> + +<p>Jack immediately got in touch with Admiral Tyrwhitt by wireless. The +latter gave his position and informed the lad that his place in line would +be next to the Admiral's flagship.</p> + +<p>"I thought Admiral Beatty would be up toward the front," said Jack.</p> + +<p>"He probably will," was Frank's reply. "I have it figured out like this, +from what you have told me of the fact that the submarines will be +surrendered first: Admiral Tyrwhitt probably will receive the surrender of +the U-Boats, while Admiral Beatty will receive the formal surrender of +Admiral von Wimpfen himself."</p> + +<p>"Maybe that's it," Jack agreed.</p> + +<p>It was well after noon when the Essex sighted the flagship of Admiral +Tyrwhitt, the Invincible, and reported for duty. Jack received +instructions to lay to just west of the flagship. He obeyed.</p> + +<p>From time to time now other vessels appeared and reported to Admiral +Tyrwhitt and were assigned places in the long line.</p> + +<p>Suddenly there was a cheer from the crews of the many ships. Jack glanced +across the water, as did Frank. And then the latter went wild with +excitement.</p> + +<p>Steaming majestically toward them came five great battleships flying the +Stars and Stripes.</p> + +<p>"So the Americans will be in at the finish," said Jack.</p> + +<p>"You bet they will," declared Frank. "We're always in at the finish."</p> + +<p>"Well, you deserve to be this time, I guess," said Jack with a smile.</p> + +<p>"We always deserve to be," declared Frank.</p> + +<p>"So?" replied Jack. "I'm not going to argue with you about it."</p> + +<p>"It wouldn't do any good," declared Frank. "Let me tell you something. If +it hadn't been for the United States this war wouldn't be over yet."</p> + +<p>"Is that so?" demanded Jack. "Why wouldn't it?"</p> + +<p>"Because all the British and French together don't seem to have been able +to lick the Germans."</p> + +<p>"Rats," exclaimed Jack. "We would have done it in time."</p> + +<p>"Maybe so, but there is nothing sure about it It was the Americans who +turned the tide at Chateau-Thierry."</p> + +<p>"They did some wonderful work, I'm not gain-saying that," Jack admitted. +"But I can't see that it was any more remarkable than what the Canadians +did at Vimy Ridge."</p> + +<p>"Well," said Frank smiling, "while the Canadians are really British +subjects, nevertheless they come from the same part of the world as the +Yankees. They're made out of the same pattern."</p> + +<p>Jack smiled.</p> + +<p>"I seem to have spoiled my own argument there, don't I?" he said.</p> + +<p>Frank grinned too.</p> + +<p>"You've got to admit," he said, "that when the Americans start a thing +they go through with it. They never turn back."</p> + +<p>"True enough," Jack admitted, "but to my mind it takes them a deuced long +time to get started."</p> + +<p>"They just want to be sure they're right first," Frank explained.</p> + +<p>"Have it your own way. But those five American ships approaching now look +mighty good, I'll admit that."</p> + +<p>"I never saw a more beautiful sight," declared Frank, and he meant it.</p> + +<p>Majestically the American warships steamed along, the leading vessel +flying the flag of Admiral Sims. They approached almost to the flagship of +Admiral Tyrwhitt and the guns of the two flagships boomed out an exchange +of salutes. Then the American flotilla slowed down and swung to leeward, +and took its places in the long line.</p> + +<p>"Going to be quite an event this surrender, if you ask me," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"It certainly is," Jack replied. "I understand King George and Queen Mary, +together with many other distinguished British, French, Americans and +Italians, will be present to witness the surrender."</p> + +<p>"Including ourselves," grinned Frank.</p> + +<p>"Well, we're probably not such big fry," Jack commented, "but we've done +as much—and a whole lot more—than a good many of them, if you ask me."</p> + +<p>"My sentiments exactly," declared Frank. "And for that reason we're just +as much entitled to be in at the finish as any of the rest."</p> + +<p>"More so," said Jack quietly.</p> + +<p>"Well, we'll be there. So we have no kick coming."</p> + +<p>All day great vessels of war continued to arrive and take their places in +the line. As far as the eye could see long gray shapes lay in the +water—two lines of them—with perhaps half a mile between. Through this +space the German warships would pass when they came out to surrender.</p> + +<p>When the eye could no longer see ships, the presence of other vessels was +noted by smudges of smoke on the horizon. The line of ships, or rather the +two lines, Jack and Frank knew, stretched almost to the distant shore.</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Jack, "it's going to be quite an event."</p> + +<p>Suddenly the guns of every ship burst out with a roar. The flagship of +Admiral Beatty was approaching down the line from shore. Aboard it, every +man of the great fleet knew, besides the admiral, were King George and +Queen Mary of England; and it was the royal salute that was being fired. +Even the American ships joined in the greeting.</p> + +<p>The guns of Admiral Beatty's flagship were kept busy acknowledging the +salutes. On every deck handkerchiefs and caps waved frantically as the +flagship passed.</p> + +<p>As the vessel drew abreast of the Essex, Jack and Frank, standing together +on the bridge, made out the forms of the King and Queen of England on the +bridge.</p> + +<p>Both lads doffed their caps, and Jack ordered the royal salute fired by +the big guns of the destroyer.</p> + +<p>The vessel trembled under the detonation and the crew seemed to go wild as +they cheered at the top of their voices.</p> + +<p>The flagship passed on.</p> + +<p>A mile or so to the east, the flagship slowed down and turned into line.</p> + +<p>"And that's where I suppose she will remain until after the surrender," +said Jack.</p> + +<p>The lad was right.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVIII" id="CHAPTER_XXVIII" />CHAPTER XXVIII</h2> + +<h3>THE SURRENDER</h3> + + +<p>Germany's sea surrender began at dawn on November 20, nine days after the +signing of the armistice.</p> + +<p>Out in this misty expanse of the North Sea the allied battleships had +taken up their positions in a fifty-mile line of greyhounds. Aboard the +allied battleships every eye was strained to the east; every man was on +the alert. The British and allied war vessels presented a noble sight, +stretched out as far as the eye could see, and beyond.</p> + +<p>Every ship was stripped for action. Crews were at their posts. Not until +the surrender was an accomplished fact would the vigilance of the British +naval authorities be relaxed. Not until the German vessels were safe in +the hands of the allies would British officers and crews be certain that +the enemy was not meditating trickery up to the last moment.</p> + +<p>The destroyer Essex, commanded by Jack, as has already been said, was at +the extreme east of the long line of battleships. Beyond it were the +flagship of Admiral Beatty, flanked still farther east by three big war +vessels, and Admiral Tyrwhitt's flagship.</p> + +<p>Jack and Frank were on the bridge of the destroyer. Other officers were at +their posts. The crews stood to their guns. Below, the engine room was the +scene of activity. A full head of steam was kept up, for there was no +telling at what moment it might be needed.</p> + +<p>Came a shrill whistle from the farthest advanced British vessel, followed +by a cry from the lookout aboard the destroyer:</p> + +<p>"Here they come!"</p> + +<p>As the red sun rose above the horizon the first submarine appeared in +sight. Soon after seven o'clock, twenty-seven German submarines were seen +in line, accompanied by two destroyers. These latter were the Tibania and +the Serra Venta, which accompanied the flotilla to take the submarine +crews back to Germany.</p> + +<p>All submarines were on the surface, with their hatches open and their +crews standing on deck. They were flying no flags whatever, and their guns +were trained fore and aft in accordance with previous instructions from +Admiral Beatty.</p> + +<p>Until the moment that they had sighted the first ship of the British +fleet, the German flag had flown from the mastheads of the various +undersea craft, but they had been hauled down at once when the allied war +vessels came into view.</p> + +<p>The leading destroyer, in response to a signal from Admiral Beatty on his +flagship, altered her course slightly and headed toward the coast of +England.</p> + +<p>The wireless instrument aboard the destroyer Essex clattered and a few +moments later the radio operator rushed to the bridge with a message for +Jack. The latter read it quickly, then said:</p> + +<p>"Send an O.K. to the admiral?'</p> + +<p>"What's up, Jack?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>"Lower half a dozen small boats, Mr. Hetherton," instructed Jack before +replying to Frank's question, "and have them manned by a score of men +each, fully armed."</p> + +<p>"Aye, aye, sir."</p> + +<p>Lieutenant Hetherton hurried away.</p> + +<p>"What's up, Jack?" asked Frank again.</p> + +<p>"I have been ordered to inspect each submarine as it comes abreast of us," +Jack replied. "Apparently the admiral still fears treachery. I'll remain +aboard here, and leave the work to you and the other officers."</p> + +<p>This was done. As each submarine drew up with the Essex she was boarded by +a score of the Essex's men. Some stood guard at the hatches with weapons +held ready, while an officer and the others of the crew went below for a +hurried trip of inspection, searching them diligently for "booby traps," +and other signs of treachery.</p> + +<p>This necessitated a slowing down in the speed of the German craft, but at +length the work was accomplished and Frank and his men, and all others +belonging aboard the Essex, returned to their ship.</p> + +<p>"All serene, Jack," Frank reported.</p> + +<p>"Very well, I shall so inform the admiral."</p> + +<p>He scribbled off a brief message, which he sent to the radio room.</p> + +<p>Now, with the submarines well along the line, the British fleet began to +move—escorting the U-Boats toward Harwich. The fleet would return the +next day to receive the surrender of the larger enemy war vessels, but +to-day it meant to make sure that the submarines were taken safely to +port.</p> + +<p>There was one brief halt while the German admiral in command of the +flotilla went aboard Admiral Tyrwhitt's flagship to make formal surrender +of the submarines. He was accompanied by two members of his staff.</p> + +<p>Admiral Tyrwhitt received him on the bridge. There were tears in the eyes +of the German admiral as he said:</p> + +<p>"Sir, I surrender to you this submarine fleet of the Imperial German +navy."</p> + +<p>He extended his sword.</p> + +<p>Admiral Tyrwhitt waved back the sword and accepted the surrender in a few +brief words. The German admiral turned on his heel and walked to the rail. +There one of his officers held out his hand to a British lieutenant who +was nearby.</p> + +<p>The latter refused it, and the German turned away muttering to himself in +his native tongue. The German admiral and his officers returned to the +destroyer, and the march of the fleets continued.</p> + +<p>It was a procession of broken German hopes—in the van, a destroyer of the +unbeaten navy; behind, the cruel pirate craft that were to subjugate the +sea. Each of the allied warships turned, and keeping a careful lookout, +steamed toward Harwich.</p> + +<p>As the Essex passed one of the largest submarines, which carried two 5.9 +guns, Frank counted forty-three officers and men on her deck. The craft +was at least three hundred feet long.</p> + +<p>"By George! Isn't she a whopper?" exclaimed the lad.</p> + +<p>Jack nodded.</p> + +<p>"She is indeed. The largest submarine I ever saw."</p> + +<p>Near the Shipwash lightship, three large British seaplanes appeared +overhead. They were followed by a single airship. The sight of the Harwich +forces, which soon appeared in the distance, together with the seaplanes +and the airship, was a most impressive one.</p> + +<p>Suddenly two carrier pigeons were released aboard one of the captured +submarines.</p> + +<p>A shock ran through the officers and crew of every allied vessel in sight. +Apparently something was wrong. Sharp orders rang out. But the matter +passed over. It was explained that the pigeons had been released merely to +carry back to Germany the news that the surrender had been made.</p> + +<p>Nevertheless, the act called forth a vigorous protest from the flagship of +the British commander-in-chief.</p> + +<p>"Another act like that and I shall sink you," was Admiral Beatty's +message.</p> + +<p>Still ten miles off shore, the procession came to a halt. Feverish +activity was manifest aboard the British vessels. Small boats were lowered +and put off toward the submarines. These carried British crews that were +to take over the vessels and conduct them to port. As fast as a British +crew took possession, the German crews were transferred to the German +destroyers there for the purpose of taking them back to Germany.</p> + +<p>Then the procession moved toward Harwich again.</p> + +<p>As the boats went through the gates into Harwich harbor, a white ensign +was run up on each of them, with the German flag flying underneath.</p> + +<p>Before being removed to the destroyers, which were to carry them back, +each submarine commander, who were the only Germans left aboard the +vessels as they passed into the harbor, was required to sign a declaration +that his submarine was in perfect running order, that his periscope was +intact, the torpedoes unloaded and the torpedo head safe.</p> + +<p>Despite orders issued to the Harwich forces in advance, to the effect that +no demonstration must be permitted in the city after the surrender of the +German fleet, wild cheering broke out on the water front as the +submarines, escorted by the great British warships, steamed into the +harbor.</p> + +<p>Military police cleared the water front of the dense throng that had +gathered, but the best efforts they put forth were unable to still the +bedlam that had broken loose.</p> + +<p>Commanders of the British ships had difficulty in restraining cheers by +their crews and later by the Harwich forces themselves when the fleet of +captured submarines was turned over to Captain Addison, the commandant at +that port.</p> + +<p>Harbor space for the surrendered U-Boats had been provided in advance, +and the vessels were now piloted to these places, where they were placed +under heavy guard.</p> + +<p>This work took time, and it was almost dark before the last submarine had +been escorted to its resting place.</p> + +<p>All day crowds thronged the streets of Harwich, cheering and yelling +madly. In vain the military authorities tried to stop the celebration. As +well have tried to shut out the sound of thunder in the heavens. At last +the authorities gave it up as a bad job, and joy and happiness ran rampant +and unrestrained.</p> + +<p>It was a glorious day for England, and thousands of persons from London +and the largest cities of the island had hurried to Harwich to witness the +formal surrender of the fleet and its internment. All night the thousands +paraded the streets of the little village, the celebration seeming to grow +rather than to diminish as the early morning hours approached.</p> + +<p>So passed the bulk of Germany's undersea fighting strength into the hands +of Great Britain and her allies. No longer would they terrorize with their +ruthless warfare. They were safe at last. The fangs of the undersea +serpents had been drawn.</p> + +<p>And on the night of November 20, 1918, thus made harmless, they lay +quietly in the harbor of Harwich, England, above them flying the Union +Jack.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIX" id="CHAPTER_XXIX" />CHAPTER XXIX</h2> + +<h3>THE SURRENDER COMPLETE</h3> + + +<p>November 21! This was to be a day, perhaps, more historic than the one +that preceded it, for on this day was to be surrendered to the allied +fleet the bulk of the great war vessels that comprised the Imperial German +navy.</p> + +<p>Heading the great British flotilla that moved out to sea again was the +super-dreadnaught the Queen Elizabeth, Admiral Beatty's flagship, aboard +which were King George and Queen Mary, as they had been the day before.</p> + +<p>Following the first twenty-five British ships steamed the American +squadron, Admiral Rodman, aboard the dreadnaught New York, showing the +way. Following the New York were the Florida, Wyoming, Texas and Arkansas. +Behind the Americans trailed a pair of French cruisers, followed in turn +by a few Italian vessels, after which came the remainder of the great +British fleet.</p> + +<p>So the flotilla moved out again and took up the positions they had held +the day before. Again every eye was strained to catch sight of the first +German warship. And at last came the cry, sounding much as it had on the +preceding day:</p> + +<p>"Here they come!"</p> + +<p>The German fleet that approached now came much more swiftly than had the +flotilla of undersea craft. This time the halt was made while the German +flagship was abreast of the Queen Elizabeth. Admiral Baron von Wimpfen put +off for Admiral Beatty's vessel in a launch.</p> + +<p>Admiral Beatty received the German admiral on the bridge of the Queen +Elizabeth, with him were King George and Queen Mary. Admiral von Wimpfen +made the formal declaration of surrender and it was accepted by the +British admiral without ostentation.</p> + +<p>The German fleet thus turned over to Admiral Beatty consisted of +approximately one hundred and fifty vessels of all classes, including +dreadnaughts, battleships, cruisers and destroyers. Slowly these giant +vessels fell into line now and steamed toward Harwich, the British ships, +still cleared for action, accompanying them and watching carefully for the +signs of treachery.</p> + +<p>But no such signs showed themselves. No longer were the Germans thinking +of fight. They had been decisively beaten, and they knew it. Apparently +they considered themselves lucky to get off so easily.</p> + +<p>Still some distance off-shore, the crews of the German ships were +transferred to the half-dozen small vessels that were to carry them back +to the Fatherland, and British crews were put aboard the vessels. Then, +their eyes sad and watching what had once been the pride of Germany, the +German officers and sailors began their cheerless journey home.</p> + +<p>Again it was a night of festivity in Harwich, and in all England, and all +allied countries, for that matter. The surrender of the great German fleet +was now a thing of the past. Germany's hands were tied. She could continue +the struggle no longer even should she elect to do so. While a formal +declaration of peace had not been signed, and probably would not be signed +for months to come, the war was over, so far as actual fighting was +concerned.</p> + +<p>No wonder England, France, America, Italy and the smaller nations with +them went wild with joy. After four years of war, peace had again cast its +shadow over the earth, and everyone was glad.</p> + +<p>"So it's all over."</p> + +<p>It was Frank who spoke. He and Jack were in the latter's cabin on the +Essex. The ship was lying at anchor just outside Harwich harbor, riding +gently on the swell of the waves.</p> + +<p>"Yes, it's all over," said Jack, "and I'm glad."</p> + +<p>"So am I," Frank declared; "and yet we have had a good time."</p> + +<p>"So we have, of a kind. And still you can't rightly call it a good time +when all we have been doing is to seek, kill and destroy."</p> + +<p>"But it had to be done," Frank protested.</p> + +<p>"Oh, I know that as well as you do. But war is a terrible thing, and the +more you see of it the more certain you become that it is all +foolishness."</p> + +<p>"And yet, you can't permit a big bully to run amuck and smash up things +all over the world."</p> + +<p>"That's true, of course, and it's exactly what the kaiser and his war +machine tried to do. Now, the machine had to be smashed, of course, and it +has been smashed. But how long will it take the world to recover? How long +will it take to rebuild what has been destroyed in these four years of +war?"</p> + +<p>Frank shrugged his shoulders.</p> + +<p>"I'm not good at conundrums," he replied.</p> + +<p>"Nor I; and yet I'll venture to say that the reconstruction days will be +as hard as many we have experienced in the war."</p> + +<p>"The thing that I want to know," said Frank, changing the subject +abruptly, "is just what will be done with Germany in the final peace +conference."</p> + +<p>"You know as much about it as I do," replied Jack, "but my own idea is +that the German empire will be dismembered—divided into the states of +Prussia, Saxony, and so forth, as they were years before they united under +one head."</p> + +<p>"I'm sure I hope so. Certainly the allies will never permit Germany to +attain such power that may make all our fighting futile—they'll never let +her grow strong enough to start another world struggle."</p> + +<p>The lads conversed far into the night before retiring. Nevertheless they +were astir at an early hour, awaiting orders that they knew must come that +day; and they came shortly after noon in the shape of a wireless from Lord +Hastings.</p> + +<p>"Return to Dover at once," the message read.</p> + +<p>Again the Essex put to sea.</p> + +<p>But it was upon a peaceful voyage that the destroyer was bound now. No +longer did her decks bristle with shining guns, crew at quarters and ready +for action. True, the Essex still showed plainly that she was a ship of +war, but her threatening attitude was gone. The war was over and all was +quiet aboard.</p> + +<p>That night the destroyer put into Dover harbor and the lads went ashore to +report to Lord Hastings. It was after ten o'clock, but their former +commander received them at once in spite of the lateness of the hour.</p> + +<p>"Sorry to disturb you at this hour, sir," said Jack, "but I thought +perhaps you would wish us to report to you immediately."</p> + +<p>"And I am glad you did," returned Lord Hastings. "Come, tell me something +about yourselves. So you were in at the finish, eh?"</p> + +<p>"You bet!" exclaimed Frank enthusiastically. "You should have been there, +sir."</p> + +<p>"I was," replied Lord Hastings.</p> + +<p>"You were, sir?"</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>"But we didn't see you, sir," said Jack.</p> + +<p>"I know you didn't. But I saw you. And I saw Frank when he inspected the +submarines on the first day of the surrender."</p> + +<p>"Where were you, sir?" demanded Frank.</p> + +<p>"Aboard the Queen Elizabeth. I viewed the surrender as the guest of +Admiral Beatty, and their majesties."</p> + +<p>For some time the conversation dealt only with the surrender of the fleet. +Then Lord Hastings said:</p> + +<p>"Well, boys, the war is over. What do you intend to do now?"</p> + +<p>"I know what I shall do, sir," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"Well, let's hear it."</p> + +<p>"I shall return to America as soon as I am able to procure my discharge."</p> + +<p>"As I thought," said Lord Hastings. "And you, Jack?"</p> + +<p>"I hardly know, sir. I have no relatives, few friends. There is no one +dependent on me, and I am dependent on no one. It strikes me, sir, that +the navy might be a good place to stick."</p> + +<p>"And I had expected that, too," said Lord Hastings quietly. "But I don't +agree with you, Jack."</p> + +<p>"Why not, sir?" asked Jack, in some surprise.</p> + +<p>"In the first place," said Lord Hastings, "the life would begin to pall on +you when it settled down to dull routine. Now in active service, of +course, it's different. I know, because I've tried both. No, my advice to +you Jack, is to get out of the navy."</p> + +<p>"But what shall I do, sir?"</p> + +<p>"There are many things," said Lord Hastings quietly. "There is the +consular service, the diplomatic service. Who knows how far you may rise? +Already you have made a name for yourself and have won distinction. You +may go far, if you apply yourself."</p> + +<p>"That's true, too, sir," said Jack. "I have thought of that, at odd +moments. But I guess you are right about the navy, sir."</p> + +<p>"I know I am. And the sooner you get out of it the better."</p> + +<p>"Then I'll take your advice, sir. But I'm afraid it won't be possible to +get a discharge for some time yet."</p> + +<p>"It will be much simpler that you think, for both of you," said Lord +Hastings with a smile. "I still have some influence, you know, and I shall +see you receive your discharges within a fortnight, if you wish."</p> + +<p>"Hurray!" shouted Frank. "That suits me. There is no use sticking in the +navy now. There is nothing to do."</p> + +<p>"And," continued Lord Hastings to Jack. "In the meantime I'll look around +and see what I can turn up for you, Jack."</p> + +<p>"Thank you, sir," said Jack.</p> + +<p>"And in the meantime, Jack," added Frank, "you are going home with me for +a visit. That is, as soon as we get our discharges."</p> + +<p>Jack hesitated.</p> + +<p>"But I don't know that I should," he said. "Lord Hastings——"</p> + +<p>"Go by all means," said Lord Hastings. "You have earned a rest and should +take it. Now I'll see about the discharges at once, and as soon as you +receive them, both of you take my advice and go to the United States. That +will give me additional time to look around, Jack. And when you get there, +stay until I send for you."</p> + +<p>"All right, sir," said Jack with a smile. "You're still my superior +officer, sir. I must obey your commands."</p> + +<p>The three shook hands and Jack and Frank returned to the Essex.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXX" id="CHAPTER_XXX" />CHAPTER XXX</h2> + +<h3>HOME AT LAST</h3> + + +<p>"Recognize that, Jack?" asked Frank, pointing across the water.</p> + +<p>The lads were standing on the forward deck of a great trans-Atlantic liner +that was edging its way into New York harbor.</p> + +<p>Jack looked in the direction Frank indicated.</p> + +<p>"Rather," he said, "although I only saw it once before. That's the Statue +of Liberty."</p> + +<p>"Right," said Frank, "the emblem of that for which America went to war."</p> + +<p>"And the spirit for which we all fought," Jack added.</p> + +<p>"Exactly. Well, it's been a long time since I saw her. I'm glad to see her +again."</p> + +<p>It was morning of the last day of the year 1918.</p> + +<p>True to his word, Lord Hastings had been able to secure discharges for the +lads within two weeks after the surrender of the German fleet. They +accompanied Lord Hastings to London, where they remained some time at his +home. Frank, meanwhile, communicated with his father and announced that he +would be home soon. He did not give the exact date, for he wished his +return to be a surprise. And a surprise he knew it would be, as he now +stood on the deck of the incoming liner.</p> + +<p>The ship docked a short time later and Jack and Frank went ashore at once. +They took a taxi to the Grand Central station, where they caught a fast +train for Boston. It was night when they arrived there, but Frank +determined to go out to his home in Woburn, ten miles from Boston, at +once.</p> + +<p>Accordingly they took an elevated train at the South Station. This put +them in the North Station ten minutes later, and Frank found that there +was a train for Woburn in half an hour.</p> + +<p>It was after dark when the lads alighted from the train in the little town +of Woburn. Jack had been there with Frank before, when the lads had +crossed the Atlantic to New York soon after the United States entered the +war. Accordingly, he knew the way from the station to Frank's home almost +as well as the latter did himself.</p> + +<p>"Know where you are?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>Jack grinned.</p> + +<p>"I've been here once," he said. "That should answer that question. You +know my memory is pretty good."</p> + +<p>"Then you can show me which house I live in," said Frank.</p> + +<p>Jack pointed to a house a block away where a dim light showed from beneath +a drawn curtain.</p> + +<p>"There's the house," he said, "and there appears to be some one home."</p> + +<p>"That's father, of course," said Frank. "He seldom goes out in the +evening."</p> + +<p>The lads quickened their steps and soon were before the house. Quietly +they mounted the steps and as quietly tip-toed across the porch. Frank +tried the door. It was unlocked.</p> + +<p>"Careless of father," he whispered. "I'll have to speak to him about +that."</p> + +<p>He opened the door gently and the two lads passed within. Frank closed the +door noiselessly behind him. The lads dropped their grips silently in the +hall and then tip-toed toward a room at the far end, where a light showed.</p> + +<p>Keeping out of sight, Frank peered in the door. There, with his back to +his son, sat Dr. Chadwick, reading. Frank stepped softly across the room +leaving Jack standing, grinning, at the door.</p> + +<p>Frank reached out and put both hands across his father's eyes.</p> + +<p>Dr. Chadwick's book dropped to the floor and for a moment Frank was afraid +he had frightened him by this unceremonious greeting. But Dr. Chadwick's +hands reached up and clasped the hands that for the moment blinded him.</p> + +<p>"Frank!" he cried, and sprang to his feet.</p> + +<p>The next moment father and son were in each other's arms.</p> + +<p>Dr. Chadwick held his son off at arm's length, and looked at him.</p> + +<p>"You're a sight for sore eyes," he declared. "You look better than you did +the last time I saw you, and you were looking fine then."</p> + +<p>"Here, Father," said Frank, "is a friend of mine come to see you."</p> + +<p>Dr. Chadwick turned and saw Jack in the doorway. He stepped forward and +gripped Jack's hand heartily.</p> + +<p>"Jack Templeton, eh?" he exclaimed. "I'm glad to see you. And you are +Captain Templeton now, I perceive."</p> + +<p>Jack blushed.</p> + +<p>"They insisted on making me one, sir, and I couldn't refuse," he said.</p> + +<p>"Now," said Dr. Chadwick, "you two boys sit right down here and tell me +all about yourselves. But first, are you hungry?"</p> + +<p>"No, sir," said Frank. "We had dinner on the train just before we reached +Boston."</p> + +<p>"Then let's hear what you have been doing. I understand you were present +at the surrender of the German fleet. Give me some of the details."</p> + +<p>Until long after midnight the three sat there, Dr. Chadwick listening +eagerly to the tales of his son and the latter's chum. But at last he +looked at his watch.</p> + +<p>"Why, it's after midnight," he exclaimed. "Time for bed."</p> + +<p>Frank led the way to the room he had occupied since babyhood. This Jack +was to share with him during his stay.</p> + +<p>"I'll tell you," said Frank, as he climbed into bed, "it feels pretty good +to a fellow to get back into his own bed after all these years."</p> + +<p>"I should think it would," agreed Jack. "But mine is a long ways from +here. However, I guess I shall see it again some day."</p> + +<p>"Of course you will, old fellow, and I'll go along with you."</p> + +<p>They fell asleep.</p> + +<p>Both lads were awakened by the sound of a commotion without. They jumped +out of bed. It was broad daylight of the first day of January, 1919.</p> + +<p>"Still celebrating the new year, I guess," said Frank. "Remember we heard +'em shooting before we went to bed?"</p> + +<p>Jack nodded.</p> + +<p>Frank went to the window and stuck his head out. Instantly there was a +wild yell outside. Frank drew his head hurriedly back again.</p> + +<p>"What's the matter?" asked Jack.</p> + +<p>"I don't know," said Frank. "There is a whole gang of fellows out there +and they all seem to be crazy about something."</p> + +<p>Jack had a faint suspicion. He crossed to the window and looked out.</p> + +<p>Again a yell went up, followed by a cry from many throats:</p> + +<p>"We want Frank!"</p> + +<p>Even Frank heard this. His face turned red and he began to act flustered.</p> + +<p>"Some of the fellows know I'm home, I guess," he said.</p> + +<p>"That's what's the matter, all right," Jack agreed. "Better show yourself +again."</p> + +<p>"Wait till I get some clothes on and I'll go down and see 'em," said +Frank.</p> + +<p>"They'll probably want you to make a speech," Jack suggested.</p> + +<p>Frank was alarmed.</p> + +<p>"Speech?" he repeated. "I can't make a speech."</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes you can. You don't mean to tell me that a fellow who has done +what you have—who has talked with kings and czars—is afraid to talk to +some of his old friends and companions?"</p> + +<p>"That's different," declared Frank.</p> + +<p>Jack smiled.</p> + +<p>"I catch your point, and maybe you're right," he admitted. "However, +you'll have to do it."</p> + +<p>"I suppose I shall," said Frank with a sigh, "so the sooner I get it over +with the better."</p> + +<p>He led the way downstairs and on to the front porch. Jack stepped forward +close beside him. Again there was a wild cheer from many throats.</p> + +<p>Both lads still wore their British uniforms, and they both presented a +manly and handsome appearance as they stood there on the front porch of +Frank's home.</p> + +<p>"Hello, Frank!" "Glad to see you back!" "Are you going to stay here?" +"Tell us about yourself."</p> + +<p>These were some of the cries hurled at the lad.</p> + +<p>Frank's face turned red and he would have turned away had not Jack's +stalwart frame stayed him.</p> + +<p>"Speech! Speech!" came the cry.</p> + +<p>The hubbub increased.</p> + +<p>"I can't do it, Jack!" Frank exclaimed.</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes you can," replied his chum. "I'll help you."</p> + +<p>He raised his right hand for silence, still keeping his left tightly on +Frank's shoulder, for the latter showed signs of bolting at the first +opportunity. Instantly the shouting died away and the crowd of young +fellows waited expectantly.</p> + +<p>"I just want to introduce my friend," said Jack smiling. "Lieutenant +Chadwick, gentlemen, of His British Majesty's service, though an American +citizen, and a good one at that. Lieutenant Chadwick will be glad to say a +few words to you."</p> + +<p>The cheering burst forth again, but died away as Jack pushed Frank +forward.</p> + +<p>Frank made a brave effort and finally managed to say a few words. He grew +more at ease as he went along and his audience listened intently. He +spoke for perhaps five minutes, then concluded:</p> + +<p>"And now, fellows, I want you all to step up and shake hands with my +friend—also my commander—Captain Jack Templeton. He's an Englishman, but +a pretty good fellow at that—and he's no older than any of us."</p> + +<p>There was another cheer and the boys gathered around to shake Jack's hand +and get acquainted with him. And after they had talked and talked and +feasted their eyes on the British uniforms to their hearts' content they +went away. Then Jack and Frank went in to breakfast, where Dr. Chadwick +was awaiting them at the table.</p> + +<p>A few words more and the history of The Boy Allies on the Sea is complete.</p> + +<p>Jack remained with Frank for several weeks, then returned to England upon +receipt of a message from Lord Hastings announcing that he had found a +place for the lad in the diplomatic service. The story of Jack's struggles +in his chosen profession would make interesting reading, perhaps, but it +is in no wise connected with the great war. Suffice it to say that he is +rapidly rising to fame and fortune and that in years to come, in all +probability, he will hold one of the most important posts in the British +government.</p> + +<p>Frank, for his part, remained in his home town, where he took up the +study of law. He proved an apt student and soon showed signs of talent +that undoubtedly will make him famous.</p> + +<p>So here we shall take our leave of Jack Templeton and Frank Chadwick, +knowing that, in years to come, they will meet again, both famous then, +and that through all the years their friendship shall survive, and grow +stronger than it was in the days when they fought side by side for the +freedom of the world.</p> + +<p>THE END</p> + +<div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 14626 ***</div> +</body> +</html> diff --git a/14626-h/images/1-tb.jpg b/14626-h/images/1-tb.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..78e56c8 --- /dev/null +++ b/14626-h/images/1-tb.jpg diff --git a/14626-h/images/1.jpg b/14626-h/images/1.jpg Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..b0a5728 --- /dev/null +++ b/14626-h/images/1.jpg diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. 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Drake + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Boy Allies with the Victorious Fleets + The Fall of the German Navy + +Author: Robert L. Drake + +Release Date: January 7, 2005 [EBook #14626] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BOY ALLIES *** + + + + +Produced by Juliet Sutherland, Emmy and the PG Online Distributed +Proofreading Team + + + + + + +</pre> + + +<h1>The Boy Allies</h1> + +<h2>With the Victorious Fleets</h2> + +<p class="center">OR</p> + +<h2>The Fall of the German Navy</h2> + +<h2>By ENSIGN ROBERT L. DRAKE</h2> + +<p class="center">AUTHOR OF</p> + +<p class="center">"The Boy Allies With the Navy Series"</p> + +<p class="figcenter"><a href="./images/1.jpg"><img src="./images/1-tb.jpg" alt="A.L. BURT COMPANY NEW YORK" title="A.L. BURT COMPANY NEW YORK" /></a></p> + +<hr style='width: 45%;' /> +<h2>The Boy Allies</h2> + +<p class="center">(Registered in the United States Patent Office)</p> + +<h2>With the Navy Series</h2> + +<hr style='width: 45%;' /> + +<h3>By Ensign ROBERT L. DRAKE</h3> + +<p> +<span style="margin-left: 2em;">The Boy Allies on the North Sea Patrol</span><br /> +<span style="margin-left: 3em;">or, Striking the First Blow at the German Fleet</span><br /> +<br /> +<span style="margin-left: 2em;">The Boy Allies Under Two Flags</span><br /> +<span style="margin-left: 3em;">or, Sweeping the Enemy from the Sea.</span><br /> +<br /> +<span style="margin-left: 2em;">The Boy Allies with the Flying Squadron</span><br /> +<span style="margin-left: 3em;">or, The Naval Raiders of the Great War.</span><br /> +<br /> +<span style="margin-left: 2em;">The Boy Allies with the Terror of the Seas</span><br /> +<span style="margin-left: 3em;">or, The Last Shot of the Submarine D-16.</span><br /> +<br /> +<span style="margin-left: 2em;">The Boy Allies in the Baltic</span><br /> +<span style="margin-left: 3em;">or, Through Fields of Ice to Aid the Czar.</span><br /> +<br /> +<span style="margin-left: 2em;">The Boy Allies at Jutland</span><br /> +<span style="margin-left: 3em;">or, The Greatest Naval Battle in History.</span><br /> +<br /> +<span style="margin-left: 2em;">The Boys Allies Under the Sea</span><br /> +<span style="margin-left: 3em;">or, The Vanishing Submarine.</span><br /> +<br /> +<span style="margin-left: 2em;">The Boy Allies with Uncle Sam's Cruisers</span><br /> +<span style="margin-left: 3em;">or, Convoying the American Army Across the Atlantic.</span><br /> +<br /> +<span style="margin-left: 2em;">The Boy Allies with the Submarine D-32</span><br /> +<span style="margin-left: 3em;">or, The Fall of the Russian Empire.</span><br /> +<br /> +<span style="margin-left: 2em;">The Boy Allies with the Victorious Fleet</span><br /> +<span style="margin-left: 3em;">or, The Fall of the German Navy.</span><br /> +</p> + +<hr style='width: 45%;' /> +<p class="center">Copyright, 1919<br /> +By A.L. BURT COMPANY</p> + +<hr style='width: 25%;' /> + +<p class="center">THE BOY ALLIES WITH THE VICTORIOUS FLEET</p> + +<hr style='width: 45%;' /> + +<p> + <a href="#CHAPTER_I"><b>CHAPTER I ABOARD U.S.S. PLYMOUTH</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_II"><b>CHAPTER II THE BOY CAPTAIN AND HIS LIEUTENANT</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_III"><b>CHAPTER III OFF FOR AMERICA</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_IV"><b>CHAPTER IV THE START</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_V"><b>CHAPTER V A RESCUE</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_VI"><b>CHAPTER VI CHANGED ORDERS</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_VII"><b>CHAPTER VII A BIT OF EXPLANATION</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_VIII"><b>CHAPTER VIII THE ATTACK BEGINS</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_IX"><b>CHAPTER IX THE BATTLE CONTINUES</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_X"><b>CHAPTER X THE RAID SUCCESSFUL</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XI"><b>CHAPTER XI THE WARNING GIVEN</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XII"><b>CHAPTER XII THE U-BOATS APPEAR</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XIII"><b>CHAPTER XIII THE SUBMARINES GROW BOLDER</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XIV"><b>CHAPTER XIV THE U-87</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XV"><b>CHAPTER XV JACK GIVES CHASE</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XVI"><b>CHAPTER XVI THE FIGHT ON THE U-87</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XVII"><b>CHAPTER XVII CAPTURE OF THE SUBMARINE</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XVIII"><b>CHAPTER XVIII ASHORE</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XIX"><b>CHAPTER XIX IN THE NIGHT</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XX"><b>CHAPTER XX THE BATTLE</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XXI"><b>CHAPTER XXI THE END OF THE SUBMARINE</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XXII"><b>CHAPTER XXII WASHINGTON AGAIN</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XXIII"><b>CHAPTER XXIII BACK IN ENGLAND</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XXIV"><b>CHAPTER XXIV THE ENGAGEMENT</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XXV"><b>CHAPTER XXV THE LAST SEA BATTLE</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XXVI"><b>CHAPTER XXVI THE END APPROACHES</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XXVII"><b>CHAPTER XXVII PREPARING FOR THE SURRENDER</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XXVIII"><b>CHAPTER XXVIII THE SURRENDER</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XXIX"><b>CHAPTER XXIX THE SURRENDER COMPLETE</b></a><br /> + <a href="#CHAPTER_XXX"><b>CHAPTER XXX HOME AT LAST</b></a><br /> + </p> +<!-- End Autogenerated TOC. --> + +<hr style='width: 45%;' /> + +<h1>THE BOY ALLIES WITH THE VICTORIOUS FLEET</h1> + +<hr style='width: 45%;' /> + + + + +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_I" id="CHAPTER_I" />CHAPTER I</h2> + +<h3>ABOARD U.S.S. PLYMOUTH</h3> + + +<p>"Sail at 4 a.m.," said Captain Jack Templeton of the U.S.S. Plymouth, +laying down the long manila envelope marked "Secret." "Acknowledge by +signal," he directed the ship's messenger, and then looked inquiringly +about the wardroom table.</p> + +<p>"Aye, aye, sir," said the first officer, Lieutenant Frank Chadwick.</p> + +<p>"Ready at four, sir," said the engineer officer, Thomas; and left his +dinner for a short trip to the engine room to push some belated repairs.</p> + +<p>"Send a patrol ashore to round up the liberty party," continued Captain +Templeton, this time addressing the junior watch officer. "Tell them to +be aboard at midnight instead of eight in the morning."</p> + +<p>"Aye, aye, sir," said the junior watch officer, and departed in haste.</p> + +<p>There was none of the bustle and confusion aboard the U.S.S. Plymouth, at +that moment lying idle in a British port, that the landsman would commonly +associate with sailing orders to a great destroyer. Blowers began to hum +in the fire rooms. The torpedo gunner's mates slipped detonators in the +warheads and looked to the rack load of depth charges. The steward made a +last trip across to the depot ship. Otherwise, things ran on very much as +before.</p> + +<p>At midnight the junior watch officer called the captain, who had turned in +several hours earlier, and reported:</p> + +<p>"Liberty party all on board, sir."</p> + +<p>Then he turned in for a few hours' rest himself.</p> + +<p>The junior watch was astir again at three o'clock. He routed out a sleepy +crew to hoist boats and secure for sea. Seven bells struck on the +Plymouth.</p> + +<p>Captain Templeton appeared on the bridge. Lieutenant Chadwick was at his +side, as were Lieutenants Shinnick and Craib, second and third officers +respectively. Captain Templeton gave a command. The cable was slipped from +the mooring buoy. Ports were darkened and the Plymouth slipped out. A bit +inside the protection of the submarine nets, but just outside the +channel, she lay to, breasting the flood tide. There she lay for almost an +hour.</p> + +<p>"Coffee for the men," said Captain Templeton.</p> + +<p>The morning coffee was served on deck in the darkness.</p> + +<p>Lights appeared in the distance, and presently another destroyer joined +the Plymouth. Running lights of two more appeared as the clock struck 4 +a.m.</p> + +<p>Captain Templeton signalled the engine room for two-thirds speed ahead. +Running lights were blanketed on the four destroyers, and the ships fell +into column.</p> + +<p>Lieutenant Chadwick felt a drop on his face. He held out a hand.</p> + +<p>"Rain," he said briefly.</p> + +<p>Jack—Captain Templeton—nodded.</p> + +<p>"So much the better, Frank," he replied.</p> + +<p>The four destroyers cleared the channel light and spread out like a fan +into line formation.</p> + +<p>"Full speed ahead!" came Jack's next command.</p> + +<p>The Plymouth leaped ahead, as did her sister ships on either side.</p> + +<p>"We're off," said Frank.</p> + +<p>Away they sped in the darkness, a division of four Yankee destroyers, +tearing through the Irish sea on a rainy morning; Frank knew there were +four ships in line, but all he could see was his guide, a black smudge in +the darkness, a few ship lengths away on his port bow. Directly she was +blotted from sight by a rain squall.</p> + +<p>"Running lights!" shouted Frank.</p> + +<p>The lights flashed. Frank kept an eye forward. Directly he got a return +flash from the ship ahead, and then picked up her shape again.</p> + +<p>Morning dawned and still the fleet sped on. Toward noon the weather +cleared. Officer and men kept their watches by regular turn during the +day. At sundown the four destroyers slowed down and circled around in a +slow column. The eyes of every officer watched the clock. They were +watching for something. Directly it came—a line of other ships, +transports filled with wounded soldiers returning to America. These must +be safely convoyed to a certain point beyond the submarine zone by the +Plymouth and her sister ships.</p> + +<p>On came the transports camouflaged like zebras. The Plymouth and the other +destroyers fell into line on either side of the transports.</p> + +<p>"Full speed ahead," was Captain Templeton's signal to the engine room.</p> + +<p>"Take a look below, Frank," said Jack to his first officer.</p> + +<p>"Aye, aye, sir."</p> + +<p>Frank descended a manhole in the deck. He closed the cover and secured it +behind him. At the foot of the ladder was a locked door. As it opened, +came a pressure on Frank's ear drums like the air-lock of a caisson. +Frank threaded his way amid pumps and feed water heaters and descended +still further to the furnace level.</p> + +<p>Twenty-five knots—twenty-eight land miles an hour—was the speed of the +Plymouth at that moment. It was good going.</p> + +<p>Below, instead of dust, heat, the clatter of shovels, grimy, sweating +fireman, such as the thought of the furnace room of a ship of war calls to +the mind of the landsman, a watertender stood calmly watching the glow of +oil jets feeding the furnace fire. Now and then he cast an eye to the +gauge glasses. The vibration of the hull and the hum of the blower were +the only sounds below.</p> + +<p>For the motive power of the Plymouth was not furnished by coal. Rather, it +was oil—crude petroleum—that drove the vessel along. And though oil has +its advantage over coal, it has its disadvantages as well. It was Frank's +first experience aboard an oil-burner, and he had not become used to it +yet. He smelled oil in the smoke from the funnels, he breathed it from the +oil range in the galley. His clothes gathered it from stanchions and +rails.</p> + +<p>The water tanks were flavored with the seepage from neighboring +compartments. Frank drank petroleum in the water and tasted it in the +soup. The butter, he thought, tasted like some queer vaseline. But Frank +knew that eventually he would get used to it.</p> + +<p>"How's she heading?" Frank asked of the chief engineer.</p> + +<p>"All right, sir," was the reply. "Everything perfectly trim. I can get +more speed if necessary."</p> + +<p>Frank smiled.</p> + +<p>"Let's hope it won't be necessary, chief," he replied.</p> + +<p>He inspected the room closely for some moments, then returned to the +bridge and reported to Captain Templeton.</p> + +<p>The sea was rough, but nevertheless the speed of the flotilla was not +slackened. It was the desire of Captain Petlow, in charge of the destroyer +fleet, to convoy the transports beyond the danger point at the earliest +possible moment.</p> + +<p>The Plymouth lurched up on top of a crest, then dived head-first into the +trough. On the bridge the heave and pitch of the vessel was felt +subconsciously, but the eyes and minds of the officers were busied with +other things. At every touch of the helm the vessel vibrated heavily.</p> + +<p>Eight bells struck.</p> + +<p>"Twelve o'clock," said Frank. "Time to eat."</p> + +<p>The bridge was turned over to the second officer, and Frank and Jack went +below.</p> + +<p>"Eat is right, Frank," said Jack as they sat down. "We can't dine in this +weather."</p> + +<p>It was true. The rolling boards, well enough for easy weather, proved a +mockery in a sea like the one that raged now. Butter balls, meat and +vegetables shot from plates and went sailing about. It was necessary to +drink soup from teacups and such solid foods as Jack and Frank put into +their stomachs was only what they succeeded in grabbing as they leaped +about on the table.</p> + +<p>The two returned on deck.</p> + +<p>The day passed quietly. No submarines were sighted, and at last the +flotilla reached the point where the destroyers were to leave the homeward +bound transports to pursue their voyage alone. The transports soon grew +indistinguishable, almost, in the semi-darkness. The senior naval officer +aboard the Plymouth hoisted signal flags.</p> + +<p>"Bon Voyage," they read.</p> + +<p>Through a glass Jack read the reply.</p> + +<p>"Thank you for your good work. Best of luck."</p> + +<p>From the S.N.O. (senior naval officer) came another message. Frank picked +it up.</p> + +<p>"Set course 188 degrees. Keep lookout for inbound transports to be +convoyed. Ten ships."</p> + +<p>Again the destroyer swung into line. It was almost seven o'clock—after +dark—when the lookout aboard the Plymouth reported:</p> + +<p>"Smoke ahead!"</p> + +<p>Instantly all was activity aboard the destroyers. Directly, through his +glass, Jack sighted nine rusty, English tramp steamers, of perhaps eight +thousand tons, and a big liner auxiliary flying the Royal Navy ensign.</p> + +<p>Under the protection of the destroyers, the ships made for an English +port. The night passed quietly. With the coming of morning, the flotilla +was divided. The Plymouth stood by to protect the big liner, while the +other three destroyers and the tramp steamers moved away toward the east.</p> + +<p>"This destroyer game is no better than driving a taxi," Frank protested to +Jack on the bridge that afternoon. You never see anything. I'd like to get +ashore for a change. I've steamed sixty thousand miles since last May and +what have I seen? Three ports, besides six days' leave in London."</p> + +<p>"You had plenty of time ashore before that," replied Jack.</p> + +<p>"Maybe I did. But I'd like to have some more. Besides, this isn't very +exciting business."</p> + +<p>Night fell again, and still nothing had happened to break the quiet +monotony of the trip. Lights of trawlers flashed up ahead. Interest on the +bridge picked up.</p> + +<p>"Object off the port bow," called the lookout.</p> + +<p>"Looks like a periscope," reported the quartermaster.</p> + +<p>Frank snapped his binoculars on a bobbing black spar.</p> + +<p>"Buoy and fishnet," he decided after a quick scrutiny.</p> + +<p>Frank kept the late watch that night. At 4 a.m. he turned in. At five he +climbed hastily from his bunk at the jingle of general alarm, and reached +the bridge on the run in time to see the exchange of recognition signals +with a British man-o'-war, which vessel had run into a submarine while the +latter was on the surface in a fog. The warship had just rammed the +U-boat.</p> + +<p>"Can we help you?" Frank called across the water.</p> + +<p>"Thanks. Drop a few depth charges," was the reply.</p> + +<p>This was done, but nothing came of it Frank returned to his bunk.</p> + +<p>"Pretty slow life, this, if you ask me," he told himself.</p> + +<p>He went back to sleep.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_II" id="CHAPTER_II" />CHAPTER II</h2> + +<h3>THE BOY CAPTAIN AND HIS LIEUTENANT</h3> + + +<p>The U.S.S. Plymouth was Jack Templeton's first command. He had been +elevated to the rank of captain only a few weeks before. Naturally he was +not a little proud of his vessel. When Jack was given his ship, it was +only natural, too, that Frank Chadwick, who had been his associate and +chum through all the days of the great war, should become Jack's first +officer.</p> + +<p>In spite of the fact that Jack's rating as captain was in the British +navy, he was at this moment in command of an American vessel. This came +about through a queer combination of circumstances.</p> + +<p>The American commander of the Plymouth had been taken suddenly ill. At +almost the same time the Plymouth had been ordered to proceed from Dover +to Liverpool to join other American vessels. Almost on the eve of +departure, the first officer also was taken ill. It was to him the command +naturally would have fallen in the captain's absence. The second officer +was on leave of absence. Thus, without a skipper, the Plymouth could not +have sailed.</p> + +<p>Jack and Frank had recently returned with a British convoy from America. +They were in Dover at the time. From his sick bed in a hospital, the +captain of the Plymouth had appealed to the British naval authorities. In +spite of the fact that he was in no condition to leave when he received +his orders, he did not wish to deny his crew the privilege of seeing +active service, which the call to Liverpool, he knew, meant.</p> + +<p>The captain's appeal had been turned over to Lord Hastings, now connected +prominently with the British admiralty. Lord Hastings, in the early days +of the war, had been the commander under whom Jack and Frank had served. +In fact, the lads were visiting the temporary quarters of Lord Hastings in +Dover when the appeal was received from the commander of the Plymouth.</p> + +<p>"How would you like to tackle this job, Jack?" Lord Hastings asked.</p> + +<p>"I'd like it," the lad replied, "if you think I can do it, sir."</p> + +<p>"Of course you can do it," was Lord Hastings' prompt reply. "I haven't +sailed with you almost four years for nothing."</p> + +<p>"You mean, sir," replied Jack with a smile, "that I haven't sailed with +you that long for nothing."</p> + +<p>"That's more like it, Jack," put in Frank laughingly. "I've learned a few +things from Lord Hastings myself."</p> + +<p>"It is hardly probable," continued Lord Hastings, "that your promotion has +been unearned, Jack. No, I believe you can fill the bill."</p> + +<p>"In that case, I shall be glad to take command of the Plymouth +temporarily, sir."</p> + +<p>"And how about me?" Frank wanted to know. "Where do I come in, sir?"</p> + +<p>"Why," said Lord Hastings, "I have no doubt it can be arranged so you can +go along as first officer. I understand the first officer of the Plymouth +is also under the weather."</p> + +<p>"But isn't all this a bit irregular, sir?" Jack asked.</p> + +<p>"Very much so," was Lord Hastings' reply. "At the same time, many +precedents are being broken every day, and I can see no reason why two +British officers cannot lend their services to an ally if they are asked +to do so."</p> + +<p>"It is a little different with me, sir," said Frank. I'm an American."</p> + +<p>"All the same," said Lord Hastings, "you're a British naval officer, no +matter what your nativity."</p> + +<p>"That's true, too, sir," Frank agreed. "I haven't thought of it in just +that way."</p> + +<p>"Well," said Lord Hastings, "I shall report then that Captain Templeton +and First Lieutenant Chadwick will go aboard the Plymouth this evening."</p> + +<p>"Very well, sir," said Jack.</p> + +<p>This is the reason then that Jack and Frank found themselves aboard an +American destroyer in the Irish sea.</p> + +<p>Frank Chadwick, as we have seen, was an American. He had been in Italy +with his father when the great war began. He had been shanghaied in Naples +soon after Germany's declaration of war on France. When he came to his +senses he found that his captors were a band of mutinous sailors. Aboard +the vessel he found a second prisoner, who turned out to be a member of +the British secret service.</p> + +<p>Frank met Jack Templeton, a British youth, aboard the schooner. Jack came +aboard in a peculiar way.</p> + +<p>The schooner, in control of the mutineers, had put into a north African +port for provisions. Now it chanced that the store where the mutineers +sought to buy provisions was conducted by Jack. The lad was absent when +the supplies were purchased and returned a few moments later to find that +the mutineers had departed without making payment.</p> + +<p>Jack's anger bubbled over. He put off for the schooner in a small boat. +Aboard, the chief of the mutineers refused the demand for payment. A fight +ensued. Jack, facing heavy odds, sought refuge in the hold of the vessel, +where he was made a prisoner.</p> + +<p>During the night Jack was able to force his way from the hold into the +cabin where Frank and the British secret service agent were held captives. +He released them, and joining forces, the three were able to overcome the +mutineers and make themselves masters of the ship.</p> + +<p>Now Jack Templeton was an experienced seaman and knew more than the +rudiments of navigation. Under his direction the schooner returned to the +little African port that he called home. There the three erstwhile +prisoners left the ship to the mutineers.</p> + +<p>Later, through the good offices of the British secret service, Frank and +Jack made the acquaintance of Lord Hastings, also in the diplomatic +service. They were able to render some service to the latter and later +accompanied him to his home in London. There, at their request, Lord +Hastings, who in the meantime had been given command of a ship of war, had +them attached to his ship with the rank of midshipmen.</p> + +<p>Both Jack and Frank had risen swiftly in the British service. They had +seen active service in all quarters of the globe and had fought under many +flags.</p> + +<p>Under Lord Hastings' command they had been with the British fleet in the +North Sea when it struck the first decisive blow against the Germans just +off Helgoland. Later they were found under the Tricolor of France and with +the Italians in the Adriatic. With the British fleet again when it sallied +forth to clear the seven seas of enemy vessels, they had traversed the +Atlantic, the Pacific and the Indian oceans. It had been their fortune, +too, to see considerable land fighting. They had been with the +Anglo-Japanese forces in the east and had conducted raiding parties in +some of the German colonial possessions.</p> + +<p>Several times they had successfully run the blockade in the Kiel canal, +passing through the narrow straits in submarines just out of reach of the +foe. In Russia, they had, early in the war, lent invaluable assistance to +the Czar; and more lately, they had been in the eastern monarchy when Czar +Nicholas had been forced to renounce his throne.</p> + +<p>Once since the war began they had been to America. This was shortly after +the United States entered the war. They were ordered to the North Atlantic +in order to help the American authorities snare a German commerce raider +which, in some unaccountable manner, had run the British blockade in the +North sea, and was wreaking havoc with allied shipping. Later they went to +New York, and then returned to Europe with a combined British-American +convoy for the first expeditionary force to cross the seas.</p> + +<p>In temperament and disposition Jack and Frank were as unlike as one could +conceive. Jack, big for his age, broad-shouldered and strong, was always +cool and collected. Frank, on the other hand, was of a more fiery nature, +easily angered and often rash and reckless. Jack's steadying influence had +often kept the two out of trouble, or brought them through safely when +they were in difficulties.</p> + +<p>Both lads spoke French and German fluently and each had a smattering of +Italian. Also, as the result of several trips to Russia, they had a few +words of the Russian tongue at their command.</p> + +<p>In physical strength, Jack excelled Frank by far, although the latter was +by no means a weakling. On the other hand again, Frank was a crack shot +with either rifle or revolver; in fact, he was such an excellent marksman +as to cause his chum no little degree of envy. Then, too, both lads were +proficient in the art of self defense and both had learned to hold their +own with the sword.</p> + +<p>Up to the time this story opens the combined allied fleets had succeeded +in keeping the Germans bottled up in the strong fortress of Helgoland. +True, the enemy several times had sallied forth in few numbers, apparently +seeking to run the blockade in an effort to prey upon allied merchant +ships. But every time they had offered battle they had received the worst +of it. They had been staggered with a terrible defeat at Jutland almost a +year before this story opens, and since that time had not ventured forth.</p> + +<p>But even now, in the security of their hiding places, the Germans were +meditating a bold stroke. Submarines were being coaled and victualed in +preparation for a dash across the Atlantic. Already, one enemy +submarine—a merchantman—had passed the allied ships blocking the English +channel and had crossed to America and returned. Some months later, a +U-Boat of the war type had followed suit. A cordon of ally ships had been +thrown around American ports to snare this venturesome submarine on its +return, but it had eluded them and returned safely to its home port.</p> + +<p>But soon—very soon, indeed—German undersea craft were to strike a more +severe blow at allied shipping, carrying, for the moment, the war in all +its horrors to the very door of America. While the United States was +arming and equipping its millions to send across the sea to destroy the +kaiser and German militarism, these enemy undersea craft were crossing the +Atlantic determined to reap a rich harvest upon American, allied and +neutral shipping off the American coast.</p> + +<p>And the blow was to be delivered without warning—almost.</p> + +<p>When the U.S.S. Plymouth, under Jack's command, returned to Liverpool, the +captain of the vessel, having somewhat recovered, came aboard and relieved +Jack of command.</p> + +<p>"I'm obliged for your services, Captain," he said, "but I'll take charge +of the old scow again myself, with your leave."</p> + +<p>Jack and Frank went ashore, where, at their hotel, they received a brief +telegram from Lord Hastings. It read as follows:</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p>"Return to Dover at once. Important."</p></div> + +<p>"Now I wonder what is up," said Frank after reading the message.</p> + +<p>"The simplest way to find out," replied Jack, "is to go and see."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_III" id="CHAPTER_III" />CHAPTER III</h2> + +<h3>OFF FOR AMERICA</h3> + + +<p>"Then everything went first rate your first trip, Captain?" questioned +Lord Hastings.</p> + +<p>"First rate, sir," Jack replied.</p> + +<p>The lads were back in Dover where, the first thing after their arrival, +they sought an audience with their former commander.</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir," Frank agreed, "Jack makes an A-1 captain."</p> + +<p>"I'm glad to hear it," was Lord Hastings' comment. "I've other work in +hand and I wouldn't want to trust it to a man who is nervous under fire."</p> + +<p>"But we were not under fire this time, sir," said Jack.</p> + +<p>"You mustn't always take me literally, Jack," smiled Lord Hastings. "It +was your first venture in your present rank and you acquitted yourself +creditably. That is what I meant."</p> + +<p>"And what is the other venture, sir?" Frank asked eagerly.</p> + +<p>"There you go again, Frank," said Lord Hastings. "How many times have I +told you that you must restrain your impatience."</p> + +<p>Frank was abashed.</p> + +<p>"Your warnings don't seem to do much good, I'll admit, sir. Nevertheless, +I'll try to do better."</p> + +<p>"See that you do," returned Lord Hastings gravely. "Nothing was ever +gained by too great impatience. Remember that."</p> + +<p>"I'll try, sir."</p> + +<p>"Very well. Then I shall acquaint you with the nature of the work in +hand."</p> + +<p>The boys listened intently to Lord Hastings' next words.</p> + +<p>"As you know," His Lordship began, "the seas have virtually been cleared +of all enemy ships. All German merchant vessels have been captured or +sunk. What few raiders that preyed on our commerce for a time have been +put out of business."</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir," said Jack. "Our merchant vessels no longer have anything to +fear from the foe."</p> + +<p>"They shouldn't, that's true enough," replied Lord Hastings.</p> + +<p>"You mean they have, sir?" asked Jack, incredulously.</p> + +<p>Lord Hastings nodded.</p> + +<p>"I do," he admitted gravely. "Particularly shipping on the other side of +the Atlantic."</p> + +<p>"America, sir?"</p> + +<p>"Exactly."</p> + +<p>"But surely," Frank put in, "surely our blockade is tight enough to +prevent the enemy from breaking through."</p> + +<p>"We have not yet found means," replied Lord Hastings, "of effectually +blockading the submarine."</p> + +<p>"Oh, I see," said Frank. "You mean that the Germans plan to open a +submarine campaign upon allied shipping in American waters."</p> + +<p>"Such is my information," declared Lord Hastings.</p> + +<p>"And," said Jack, "you wish us to cross the Atlantic and take a hand in +the game of taming the U-Boats, sir."</p> + +<p>"Such is my idea," Lord Hastings admitted. "Let me explain. My information +is not authentic, but nevertheless, knowing the Germans as I do, I am +tempted to credit it."</p> + +<p>"Then why not warn the United States, sir?" asked Frank. "There are enough +American ships of war off the coast to deal effectually with all the +submarines the Germans can get across."</p> + +<p>"So I would," was Lord Hastings' reply, "but for the fact that some +officials of the admiralty are opposed to it."</p> + +<p>"Opposed?" exclaimed Jack. "And why, sir?"</p> + +<p>"Because they labor under the delusion that such a warning would throw the +people of the United States into a panic and would prevent the sending of +additional troops to France."</p> + +<p>"What a fool idea! By George!" exclaimed Frank, "what do they think the +American people are made of?"</p> + +<p>"You'll have to ask them," was Lord Hastings' answer to this question. +"For my own part, I feel that it is hardly fair to keep this information +from the American authorities."</p> + +<p>"I should say it isn't fair," declared Frank.</p> + +<p>"I agree with you," said Jack. "But just where do Frank and I come in, +sir?"</p> + +<p>"I'll make that plain to you very quickly," replied Lord Hastings.</p> + +<p>He drew a paper from his pocket and passed it to Jack.</p> + +<p>"Here," he said, "is your commission as captain of H.M.S. Brigadier." He +passed a second paper to Frank. "This," he continued, "is your commission +as first officer of the same vessel. Now, through channels known only to +myself, I have induced the admiralty to send you to America with certain +papers for Secretary Daniels of the navy department. At the same time, I +have other personal papers which I shall have you deliver to the secretary +of the navy for me. These will acquaint him with the facts I have just +laid before you."</p> + +<p>"I see, sir," said Jack. "But, if you will pardon my asking, what will +happen to you sir should it be found out you have acted contrary to the +wishes of the admiralty majority?"</p> + +<p>Lord Hastings shrugged his shoulders disdainfully.</p> + +<p>"What's the difference?" he wanted to know. "Our allies must be warned."</p> + +<p>"I agree with you, sir," declared Jack.</p> + +<p>"And I, sir," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"It is possible," said Lord Hastings, "that should I take the matter up +with the King or with the war ministry I might get action; but that would +take time, and I want this message delivered at the earliest possible +moment. Should I entrust it to the cables, under the circumstances, there +is nothing certain of its arrival."</p> + +<p>"I see, sir," said Jack. "Then you may be sure that I shall deliver the +message personally to Secretary Daniels."</p> + +<p>"It is well," said Lord Hastings. "I knew I could depend upon you boys."</p> + +<p>"Always, sir," replied Jack simply.</p> + +<p>"Then be off with you," said Lord Hastings, rising. "You can go aboard +your ship to-night. Here is the message I wish delivered to the American +secretary of the navy," and he passed a second paper to Jack. "The +admiralty message you are to take will probably reach you some time in the +morning, together with your sailing orders."</p> + +<p>Lord Hastings extended his hand.</p> + +<p>"Good-bye and good luck," he said.</p> + +<p>Jack and Frank shook hands with him and took their departure.</p> + +<p>"I'll be glad to get back to America if only for a short time," said +Frank, as they walked toward the water front.</p> + +<p>"I won't mind another look at the United States myself," Jack declared. +"It looks like a pretty good country to me, from what I saw of it last +trip. Almost as good as England, I guess."</p> + +<p>"Almost?" repeated Frank. "Say, let me tell you something. The United +States is the greatest country under the sun and don't you forget it. You +Johnny Bulls seem to think that England is the only spot on the map."</p> + +<p>"Well," returned Jack with a smile, "it strikes me that you boast +considerably about your own land."</p> + +<p>Frank's face reddened a trifle.</p> + +<p>"Maybe I do," he admitted, "but it's worth it."</p> + +<p>"So is England," said Jack quietly.</p> + +<p>"By George! So it is, Jack," said Frank. "Maybe it is a fact that I talk +too much sometimes."</p> + +<p>"No 'maybes' about it," declared Jack. "It's just a plain fact."</p> + +<p>"Look here," said Frank, somewhat nettled, "you may be my boss aboard +ship, but right now, with no witnesses present to hear what I say, I'll +say what I like."</p> + +<p>"Come, come, now," said Jack with a smile, "don't get all out of humor +just because I joke you a little bit."</p> + +<p>Frank grinned.</p> + +<p>"Well, then don't always thinks I'm angry just because I make a hot +reply," he said.</p> + +<p>Jack let it go at that.</p> + +<p>"Well, here we are at the water front," he said a few moments later, "and +if I'm not mistaken that's the Brigadier about a hundred yards off shore +there."</p> + +<p>"That's the Brigadier, all right," said Frank, "I can see her name +forward even at this distance. By George! but the camouflage artists have +certainly done a good job on her."</p> + +<p>"So they have," Jack agreed. "But we may as well go aboard."</p> + +<p>They commandeered a small boat and rowed rapidly to the Brigadier. Jack +swung himself up on deck and Frank climbed up behind him.</p> + +<p>A young lieutenant greeted Jack respectfully after a quick glance at the +latter's bars.</p> + +<p>"What can I do for you, sir?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"You may go below and tell the engineer to get steam up immediately," +replied Jack. "We may not sail before morning, but I may desire to leave +before."</p> + +<p>"Very well, sir," replied the young officer, "but may I ask who you are, +sir?"</p> + +<p>"Certainly," replied Jack, "I'm the commander of this ship, Captain +Templeton. This is Mr. Chadwick, my first officer. What is your name, +sir?"</p> + +<p>"Hetherton, sir, second officer of the Brigadier."</p> + +<p>"Very good, Lieutenant. You shall stay on here as second officer until +further notice. Now below with you."</p> + +<p>Lieutenant Hetherton disappeared.</p> + +<p>"I guess he won't ask many more questions," said Frank grimly.</p> + +<p>"Perhaps not," said Jack. "Now, Mr. Chadwick, will you be so kind as to +take the deck while I go to my cabin."</p> + +<p>Frank seemed about to remark upon Jack's sudden change in manner. Then he +thought better of it and walked off, grumbling to himself.</p> + +<p>"Wonder what he's in such an all-fired rush about? He's not wasting any +time, that's sure."</p> + +<p>He took the deck. Ten minutes later Lieutenant Hetherton reported to him, +saluting at the same time.</p> + +<p>"Engineer says he'll have steam up in two hours, sir."</p> + +<p>"Very well," replied Frank, returning the salute. "Will you kindly take +the deck, Lieutenant Hetherton? I'm going below."</p> + +<p>Lieutenant Hetherton took the deck, and thus relieved, Frank went below +and sought out Jack's cabin.</p> + +<p>"Now," he said, "I'll find out what all this rush is about."</p> + +<p>Without the formality of a knock, he went in.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IV" id="CHAPTER_IV" />CHAPTER IV</h2> + +<h3>THE START</h3> + + +<p>Inside Jack's cabin, Frank found his commander and chum engaged in +conversation with the engineer officer, who had sought his new commander +immediately after giving instructions below. He saluted Frank as the lad +entered.</p> + +<p>"My first officer, Lieutenant Chadwick, Mr. Winslow," Jack introduced +them. "I am sure you will get along together."</p> + +<p>"So am I, sir," agreed the engineer. "And when shall we be moving, sir?"</p> + +<p>"I can't say, exactly," replied Jack. "Probably not before morning, but I +wish to be ready to leave on a moment's notice."</p> + +<p>"Very well, sir," said the engineer, "As I said before, I'll have steam up +in two hours."</p> + +<p>"Do so, sir."</p> + +<p>The engineer saluted and left Jack's cabin.</p> + +<p>Jack turned to Frank.</p> + +<p>"Now," he said, "what are you doing here? I thought I left you to take the +deck?"</p> + +<p>"I turned the deck over to Hetherton," replied Frank with a grin. "I +wanted to find out what all this rush is about?"</p> + +<p>"Don't you know it's bad form to ask questions of your commander?" Jack +said severely.</p> + +<p>"Maybe it is," Frank agreed, "but I just wanted to find out."</p> + +<p>"Well, I wouldn't do it in front of any of the other officers or the men," +said Jack. "It's bad for the ship's discipline. However, I'll tell you, I +just wanted to have things ready, that's all. Come, we'll go on deck."</p> + +<p>They ascended to the bridge. Jack addressed Lieutenant Hetherton.</p> + +<p>"Pipe all hands on deck for inspection, Lieutenant," he ordered.</p> + +<p>Lieutenant Hetherton passed the word. A moment later men came tumbling up +the companion way and fell into line aft. Jack and Frank walked forward to +look them over. Jack addressed a few words to the men.</p> + +<p>"I've just taken over command of the Brigadier," he said. "To-morrow +morning, or sooner, we shall sail, our destination temporarily to be known +only to myself. I believe that I may safely promise you some action before +many days have passed."</p> + +<p>A hearty British cheer swept the ship.</p> + +<p>"Hurrah!" cried the men.</p> + +<p>A few moments later Jack dismissed them. Then the officers returned to the +bridge, where Jack told off the watches.</p> + +<p>"Now," he said, "I'll have to look over the ship."</p> + +<p>Frank accompanied him on his tour of inspection. They found everything +absolutely clean and ship-shape. The muzzles of the big guns were shining +brightly beneath their coat of polish. After the inspection, Jack and +Frank went below for a look at the ship's papers.</p> + +<p>The Brigadier was a small destroyer, not more than 200 feet long. It had a +complement of 250 men, officers and crew; carried two batteries of 9-inch +guns in turrets forward and aft and was equipped with three 2-inch torpedo +tubes. It was not one of the latest of British destroyers, but still it +was modern in many respects.</p> + +<p>"A good ship," said Jack, after a careful examination of the papers. "As +to speed, we should get twenty-three knots on a pinch. Her fighting +equipment is excellent, everything is spick and span, and I was impressed +with the officers and crew. Yes, she is a good ship."</p> + +<p>"And you're the boss of the whole ranch, Jack," said Frank. "Think of it. +Less than four years ago you knew nothing at all of naval tactics, and now +you're in command of a British destroyer. By George! I wouldn't mind +having your job myself."</p> + +<p>Jack smiled.</p> + +<p>"Never mind," he said. "You'll get yours some day. I've just been more +fortunate, that's all. Besides, I knew something of navigation before you +did, and while you have mastered it now, I had a long start."</p> + +<p>"That's true enough," Frank admitted, "but at the same time you are +considerably more fit for the job than I am. Another thing. I don't know +that I would trade my berth here for a command of a ship."</p> + +<p>Jack looked his surprise.</p> + +<p>"Why?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"Because it would separate us," was Frank's reply. "We've been together +now since the war began, almost. I hope that we may see it through +together."</p> + +<p>"Here, too," declared the commander of the Brigadier, "but at the same +time you should not let a matter of friendship stand between you and what +may be your big opportunity."</p> + +<p>"Oh, I'd probably take the job if it were offered me," said Frank. "I'm +just hoping the offer will not be made; that's all."</p> + +<p>The lads conversed for some moments longer. Then Frank looked at his +watch.</p> + +<p>"My watch," he said quietly. "I'll be going on deck."</p> + +<p>"Right," said Jack. "Call me if anything happens."</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir," said Frank, saluting his commander gravely.</p> + +<p>Jack grinned.</p> + +<p>"By Jove! It seems funny to have you talk like that to me," he said. "At +the same time I suppose it must be done for the sake of discipline. +However, it is not necessary in private."</p> + +<p>"Nevertheless," said Frank, "I had better stick to it or I'm liable to +forget in public some time."</p> + +<p>"Well, maybe you're right," said Jack.</p> + +<p>Frank turned on his heel and went on deck, where he relieved Lieutenant +Hetherton, who had been on watch.</p> + +<p>"Nothing to report, sir," said Lieutenant Hetherton, saluting.</p> + +<p>"Very well, sir," was Frank's reply, as he, too, saluted.</p> + +<p>It was after midnight, and Frank's watch was nearing its end when the +lookout on the port side called:</p> + +<p>"Boat off the port bow, sir."</p> + +<p>Frank advanced to the rail. A moment later there was a hail from the +water.</p> + +<p>"What ship is that?'</p> + +<p>"His Majesty's Ship Brigadier," Frank called back.</p> + +<p>"I'm coming aboard you," said the voice from the darkness. "Lower a +ladder."</p> + +<p>Frank gave the necessary command. A few moments later a man attired in the +uniform of a British captain came over the side. He approached Frank, who +was barely visible in the darkness.</p> + +<p>"Captain Templeton?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"No, sir. I'm Lieutenant Chadwick. A moment, sir, and I'll call the +captain."</p> + +<p>"If you please," said the visitor.</p> + +<p>Frank passed the word for the quartermaster, who arrived within a few +moments.</p> + +<p>"Call Captain Templeton," Frank directed.</p> + +<p>Jack arrived on deck a few moments later and exchanged greetings with his +visitor. The latter produced a packet of papers.</p> + +<p>"From the admiralty," he said. "You will know what to do with them."</p> + +<p>Jack took the papers and stowed them in his pocket.</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir," he said.</p> + +<p>"That is all, then," said the visitor. "I shall be going."</p> + +<p>He stepped to the side of the vessel and disappeared.</p> + +<p>"This means," said Jack, after the other had gone, "that we can sail any +time now."</p> + +<p>"Then why not at once?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>"You anticipated me," replied Jack. "Will you kindly pipe all hands on +deck, Mr. Chadwick?"</p> + +<p>Frank passed the word.</p> + +<p>Sleepy men came tumbling from their bunks below. All became bustle and +hurry aboard the Brigadier. Jack himself took the bridge. Frank stood +beside him. Other officers took their places.</p> + +<p>"Man the guns!" came Jack's order.</p> + +<p>It was the lad's intention to overlook nothing that would protect the ship +should it encounter an enemy submarine en route, and, as the lad knew, it +was just as possible they would encounter one in the English Channel as +elsewhere.</p> + +<p>For, despite all precautions taken by British naval authorities, enemy +submarines more than once had crept through the channel, once penetrating +Dover harbor itself, where they had wreaked considerable damage before +being driven away by British destroyers and submarine chasers.</p> + +<p>A few moments later Jack signaled the engine room.</p> + +<p>"Half speed ahead."</p> + +<p>Slowly the Brigadier slipped from her anchorage and moved through the +still waters of the harbor. Directly she pushed her nose into the channel, +then headed east.</p> + +<p>"Full speed ahead!" Jack signaled the engine room.</p> + +<p>The Brigadier leaped forward.</p> + +<p>"Better turn in, Jack," said Frank. "It's Thompson's watch."</p> + +<p>"No, I'll stick until we reach the Atlantic," returned Jack.</p> + +<p>"Then I'll stick along," said Frank.</p> + +<p>This they did.</p> + +<p>It was hours later when the Brigadier ran clear of the channel and +breasted the heavy swell of the Atlantic. Jack spoke to Thompson, the +third officer.</p> + +<p>"I'm going to turn in," he said. "If anything happens, call me at once."</p> + +<p>"Very well, sir," was the third officer's reply.</p> + +<p>He saluted briefly. Jack and Frank went below.</p> + +<p>"Come in a moment before you turn in, if you wish," Jack said to Frank.</p> + +<p>"May as well," replied the latter. "I don't feel like turning in for an +hour yet."</p> + +<p>"Well, you can't keep me out of bed that long," declared Jack. "I've got +to be stirring before you go on watch again. But I thought we might talk a +few moments."</p> + +<p>Nevertheless, it was an hour later that Frank went to his own cabin. He +turned in at once and was soon fast asleep.</p> + +<p>On the other hand, sleep did not come to Jack so soon. For an hour or more +he lay in his bunk, reviewing the events of the past and his +responsibilities of the present.</p> + +<p>"It's a big job I have now," he told himself. "I hope I can carry it +through successfully."</p> + +<p>But he didn't have the slightest doubt that he could. Jack's one best +characteristic was absolute confidence in himself.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_V" id="CHAPTER_V" />CHAPTER V</h2> + +<h3>A RESCUE</h3> + + +<p>H.M.S. Brigadier was steaming steadily along at a speed of twenty knots. +Jack himself held the bridge. Frank and Lieutenant Hetherton, who stood +nearby, were discussing the sinking several days before of a large allied +transport by a German submarine in the Irish sea.</p> + +<p>"She was sunk without warning, the same as usual," said Hetherton.</p> + +<p>"The Germans never give warning any more," replied Frank, "Of course, the +reason is obvious enough. To give warning it would be necessary for the +submarine to come to the surface, in which case the merchant ship might be +able to place a shell aboard the U-Boat before she could submerge again. +So to take time to give warning would be a disadvantage to the submarine."</p> + +<p>"At the same time," said Hetherton, "it's an act of barbarism to sink a +big ship without giving passengers and crew a word of warning."</p> + +<p>"Oh, I'm not defending the German system," declared Frank. "I am just +giving you what I believe is the German viewpoint."</p> + +<p>"Nevertheless," said Hetherton, "it's about time such activities were +stopped."</p> + +<p>"It certainly is. But it seems that the U-Boats are growing bolder each +day."</p> + +<p>"It wouldn't surprise me," declared Lieutenant Hetherton, "to hear almost +any day that U-Boats had crossed the Atlantic to prey on shipping in +American waters."</p> + +<p>Frank looked at the second officer sharply. He was sure that Jack had not +divulged the real reason for their present voyage, and he had said nothing +about the matter himself.</p> + +<p>"Just a chance remark, I guess," Frank told himself. Aloud he said: "I +hardly think it will come to that."</p> + +<p>"I hope not," replied Hetherton, "but you never can tell, you know."</p> + +<p>"That's true enough, too," Frank agreed, "but at the same—"</p> + +<p>He broke off suddenly as he caught the sharp hail of the forward lookout.</p> + +<p>"Ship in distress off the port bow, sir," came the cry.</p> + +<p>Jack was at once called to the deck.</p> + +<p>Instantly Frank and Lieutenant Hetherton sprang to Jack's side. At almost +the same moment the radio operator emerged from below on the run.</p> + +<p>"Message, sir," he exclaimed, and thrust a piece of paper in Jack's hand. +Jack read it quickly. It ran like this:</p> + +<p>"Merchant steamer Hazelton, eight thousand tons, New York to Liverpool +with munitions and supplies, torpedoed by submarine. Sinking. Help."</p> + +<p>"Did you get her position?" demanded Jack of the wireless operator.</p> + +<p>"No, sir. The wireless failed before he could give it."</p> + +<p>"Don't you think it may be the vessel ahead, sir?" asked Lieutenant +Hetherton.</p> + +<p>"Can't tell," was Jack's reply. "It may be, in which case there are +probably more submarines about. Clear ship for action, Mr. Chadwick."</p> + +<p>No sooner said than done.</p> + +<p>Frank and others of the ship's officers darted hither and yon, making sure +that everything was in readiness. At the guns, the gunners grinned +cheerfully. Frank approached the battery in the forward turret.</p> + +<p>"All right?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"O.K., sir," replied the officer in command of the gun crew. "Show us a +submarine, that's all we ask."</p> + +<p>"There are probably a dozen or so about here some place," returned Frank. +"Keep your eyes peeled and don't wait an order to fire if you see anything +that looks like one."</p> + +<p>"Right, sir."</p> + +<p>The officer turned to his men with a sharp command.</p> + +<p>Frank continued his inspection of the ship as the Brigadier dashed toward +the vessel in distress, probably ten miles ahead.</p> + +<p>Every man aboard the Brigadier was on the alert as the destroyer plowed +swiftly through the water. It was possible, of course, that the submarines +had made off after attacking the vessel, but there was always the +possibility that some were still lurking in the neighborhood.</p> + +<p>"Can't be too careful," Jack told himself.</p> + +<p>Fifteen minutes later, the lookout was able to make out more clearly the +ship ahead of them.</p> + +<p>"Steamer Hazelton," he called to the quartermaster, who reported to Jack.</p> + +<p>"Same vessel that sent the wireless, Frank," was Jack's comment. "We will +have to look sharp. It's more than an even bet that some of those undersea +sharks are watching for a ship to come to the rescue so they can have a +shot at her also."</p> + +<p>"We're ready for 'em," said Frank significantly.</p> + +<p>"All right," said Jack. "In the meantime we'll stand by the Hazelton and +see if we can lend a hand."</p> + +<p>As the Brigadier drew closer those on deck could see signs of confusion +aboard the Hazelton. Then there arose a large cloud of smoke that for a +moment hid the Hazelton from view. This was followed by a loud explosion.</p> + +<p>When the smoke cleared away, the water nearby was filled with struggling +figures.</p> + +<p>"Lower the boats," shouted Jack.</p> + +<p>Instantly men sprang to obey the command, while others of the British tars +still stood quietly behind their guns, their eyes scanning the sea.</p> + +<p>Aboard the Hazelton, the crew, or what remained of the crew, were +attempting to lower lifeboats. Directly one was lowered safely, and loaded +to the guards with human freight. A second and a third were lowered +safely, and put off toward the Brigadier.</p> + +<p>In the meantime, lifeboats from the destroyer had darted in among the +struggling figures and willing hands were lifting the victims to safety. +Then these, in turn, started back to the destroyer.</p> + +<p>"I guess they're all off," said Frank to Jack.</p> + +<p>"I hope so," was Jack's reply. "If I am not mistaken, there are women +among the survivors."</p> + +<p>"By George! I thought I saw some myself," was Frank's answer.</p> + +<p>Suddenly there was a crash as the forward turret guns aboard the Brigadier +burst into action. Looking ahead, Jack gave a startled cry, and no wonder.</p> + +<p>For, from beneath the water, appeared a periscope and then the long low +outline of a German submarine came into view.</p> + +<p>Again the Brigadier's guns crashed, but the shells did not strike home.</p> + +<p>Before the destroyer could fire again, a gun appeared as if by magic on +the submarine's deck, and a hail of bullets was poured into the first of +the nearby lifeboats. At the same time the U-Boat launched a torpedo at +the Brigadier.</p> + +<p>Jack gave a cry of horror at the predicament of those in the small boats. +But he did not lose his head, and at the same time maneuvered his ship out +of the path of the torpedo.</p> + +<p>Came a hail from the lookout aft.</p> + +<p>"Submarine off the stern, sir!"</p> + +<p>At the same moment the battery in the Brigadier's turret aft burst into +action.</p> + +<p>"Forward with you, Mr. Chadwick," cried Jack, "and see if you can't get +better results there. The men seem to have lost their nerve."</p> + +<p>Frank sprang forward. Jack's words were true. It appeared that the crew in +the forward turret were so anxious to sink the first submarine that they +had not taken time to find the range.</p> + +<p>"Cease firing!" shouted Frank as he sprang into the turret.</p> + +<p>The order was obeyed, but there came a grumble from the men at what they +deemed such a strange command under the circumstances.</p> + +<p>"I thought you fellows were gunners," said Frank angrily. "Smith, get the +range."</p> + +<p>Smith did so, and announced it a moment later.</p> + +<p>"Now," said Frank, "get your aim, men."</p> + +<p>No longer was there confusion in the forward turret. The guns were trained +carefully.</p> + +<p>"Ready," cried Frank. "Fire!"</p> + +<p>"Crash!"</p> + +<p>A moment and there was a loud cheer from the crew. The German submarine +seemed to leap high from the water, and then fell back in a dozen pieces.</p> + +<p>Frank wasted no further time on the first submarine. Leaving the forward +turret, he dashed aft to where other guns were firing on the second +submarine. Meantime Jack, perfectly cool on the bridge, had maneuvered his +vessel out of the way of several torpedoes from the second U-Boat. But, +as he very well knew, this combat must be brought to a quick end or one +of the torpedoes was likely to find its mark.</p> + +<p>From the deck of the second submarine, a hail of fire from a machine gun +was still being poured into the helpless lifeboats. What execution had +been done Jack had no means of telling at the moment, but he knew there +must have been some casualties.</p> + +<p>"The brutes!" he muttered.</p> + +<p>The duel between the submarine and the destroyer still raged. It appeared +that the commander of the submarine was a capable officer, for he had +succeeded in keeping his vessel from being struck by a shell from the +Brigadier.</p> + +<p>In the aft turret of the Brigadier the British tars were sweating and +muttering imprecations at their inability to put a shell aboard the enemy.</p> + +<p>"Here," said Frank, "let me get at that gun."</p> + +<p>The crew stepped aside and the lad sighted the weapon himself. Then he +fired.</p> + +<p>Again a cheer arose aboard the Brigadier. Frank's shot had been +successful. The shell struck the submersible squarely amidships, and +carried away the periscope.</p> + +<p>"Fire!" cried Frank, and the other guns broke into action.</p> + +<p>Again there was a wild cheer.</p> + +<p>The submarine began to settle a few moments later. Men emerged from below +and sprang into the sea.</p> + +<p>"Lower a boat!" cried Jack. "I want a few of those fellows."</p> + +<p>A boat was lowered instantly and strong hands pulled it toward the Germans +floundering in the water.</p> + +<p>By this time the lifeboats that had escaped the German fire came alongside +the Brigadier and the occupants climbed aboard the destroyer. These were +quickly fitted out with dry clothing. It developed that there had been +three women passengers aboard the Hazelton and all of these had been +saved. A dozen members of the crew, however, had been killed by the enemy +in the lifeboats.</p> + +<p>Jack assigned quarters to the victims as quickly as he was able, and then +calling his officers about him, awaited the return of the boat which had +gone after the Germans who had leaped into the sea.</p> + +<p>"If the act I have just seen is a sample of the German heart," Jack said, +"I never want another German within sight of me so long as I live."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VI" id="CHAPTER_VI" />CHAPTER VI</h2> + +<h3>CHANGED ORDERS</h3> + + +<p>As the Germans came aboard—ten of them—they were herded before Jack. +They stood there sullenly, their eyes on the deck. One of them wore a +heavily braided and imposing uniform. Jack addressed him.</p> + +<p>"You are the commander of that submarine?" he questioned.</p> + +<p>"I was," answered the German.</p> + +<p>"You were, what?" asked Jack sharply.</p> + +<p>"I was the commander."</p> + +<p>"You don't seem to catch my meaning," said Jack, taking a step forward. +"When you speak to me say 'sir.'"</p> + +<p>"Then you shall say 'sir' to me," said the German.</p> + +<p>"Oh, no I won't," Jack declared. "I never say sir to a murderer."</p> + +<p>The German's eyes lighted angrily.</p> + +<p>"It would be well to be more careful of your words," he said.</p> + +<p>"Nevertheless," said Jack, "I repeat them. You, are a murderer, and as +such should be hanged at once. I'm not sure it is in my province to string +you up, but I'm strongly tempted to do so and take the consequences."</p> + +<p>"But I guess you won't," sneered the German.</p> + +<p>"Then don't try me too far," said Jack quietly. "To my mind, men like you +and your cowardly followers should be put out of the way the same as a mad +dog; and certainly there is no law against killing a dog."</p> + +<p>"I warn you," said the German, taking a step nearer the lad, "to be more +choice in your words."</p> + +<p>"Silence!" Jack thundered, "and don't you dare step toward me unless I +tell you to do so." He turned to Frank. "Take those men below and put them +in irons," he ordered.</p> + +<p>Frank stepped forward to obey, and again the German commander protested.</p> + +<p>"You can't do that," he said. "My men are prisoners of war and as such are +entitled to all the usual courtesies."</p> + +<p>"They are, eh?" asked Jack. "Then I'll modify that order a bit, +temporarily, Mr. Chadwick, will you kindly bring irons for this man here," +and he indicated the German officer. "I want his men and all our +passengers to see how he looks in shackles, which he should have been made +to wear long ago."</p> + +<p>Frank hurried away. The German commander, after taking one step back at +Jack's words, stepped quickly forward again. His hand went to his side and +he produced a long knife. Then he sprang.</p> + +<p>Jack smiled slightly, stepped quickly to one side and with his left hand +caught the German's knife arm. He twisted sharply, and the knife dropped +to the deck.</p> + +<p>Jack released his hold and the German staggered back. Deliberately Jack +cuffed the man across the face with his right hand, then with his left. +Twice more he did this, following the German as he retreated across the +deck.</p> + +<p>"Let that teach you," he said, "that attempting to stab a British naval +officer is very bad business. But here comes something that will teach +you more," and he pointed to Frank, who reappeared at that moment followed +by two sailors bearing heavy chains. "These irons," Jack continued, "will +show you just what is in store for you when you are landed in England. +Hold out your hands."</p> + +<p>The German did so. Quickly handcuffs were snapped on.</p> + +<p>"Shackle his legs," said Jack.</p> + +<p>The sailors needed no urging. Quickly the German's legs were shackled with +the heavy iron. Jack took a couple of steps back and surveyed his +prisoner.</p> + +<p>"If you had been dressed up in those several years ago," he said, "I've no +doubt lots of innocent women and children now at the bottom of the sea +would be alive still."</p> + +<p>The German commander scowled, but he said nothing.</p> + +<p>"Now, Frank," said Jack, "you will take the other prisoners below and put +them in irons. I guess our friend here will no longer object."</p> + +<p>The German sailors were led below, where they were soon safely chained and +Frank returned to the bridge.</p> + +<p>"Kindly pass the word for all the passengers and the crew to come on deck, +Mr. Hetherton," ordered Jack.</p> + +<p>The second officer obeyed and soon the deck was crowded. The German +commander became the center of an angry group.</p> + +<p>"I've just called you all here," said Jack, "that you may cast your eyes +upon one of the kaiser's paid murderers. It is men like this who have made +an outcast of Germany. Not satisfied with killing in battle, they fire on +helpless lifeboats, sending women and children as well as unarmed +noncombatants to the bottom of the sea. In fact, it is men like this, or a +man like this, who so recently took a heavy toll in lives from the crew of +the Hazelton, after the vessel had been put out of commission."</p> + +<p>There was an angry murmur among the crowd on deck.</p> + +<p>"Hang him," said a voice.</p> + +<p>The German officer's face turned a chalky white.</p> + +<p>"I'd be pleased to do so," said Jack, "were it not for the fact that I +must retain him as a prisoner of war and turn him over to the proper +authorities. However, it wouldn't surprise me a bit if he were tried for +murder and hanged, and I'm not sure that even such a fate isn't too good +for him."</p> + +<p>"Hang him!" came a voice from the crowd again.</p> + +<p>"No," said Jack quietly, "it can't be done. Take him away."</p> + +<p>These last words were addressed to Lieutenant Hetherton, who stepped +forward and took the German commander by the arm.</p> + +<p>"Come on," he said somewhat roughly.</p> + +<p>The German commander was led below, where he was made secure.</p> + +<p>The passengers and crew rescued from the Hazelton dispersed and Jack held +a consultation with his officers.</p> + +<p>"If we were not so far from land," he said, "I would land those we have +rescued. As it stands, I am under rush orders, so I am afraid I shall have +to take them to America."</p> + +<p>"That cannot be helped, sir," said Lieutenant Hetherton. "I am sure they +will understand that, sir."</p> + +<p>"I think so, too," agreed Frank.</p> + +<p>"At all events," said Jack, "there seems nothing else to do under the +circumstances. Ring for full speed ahead, Mr. Chadwick."</p> + +<p>Frank did so.</p> + +<p>At that moment the radio operator again emerged from below and hurried to +Jack.</p> + +<p>"Admiralty orders, sir," he said, passing a slip of paper to the commander +of the Brigadier.</p> + +<p>Jack read the paper quickly, then turned to Frank with a sharp command.</p> + +<p>"Slow to half speed," he said. "Then come about and head for Dover."</p> + +<p>Frank asked no questions. He knew that Jack would explain the reason for +the change soon enough. Besides, the matter was none of his business. He +gave the necessary orders. Jack turned to the second officer.</p> + +<p>"Will you take the bridge, Mr. Hetherton? Mr. Chadwick, please come to my +cabin."</p> + +<p>The lads went below together.</p> + +<p>"Now," said Frank, after he had taken a seat, "what's it all about?"</p> + +<p>"Well," was Jack's reply, "the admiralty wants the Brigadier back in +Dover. That's all I know about it. I'm instructed to report to Lord +Hastings immediately on my return."</p> + +<p>"No other explanation?"</p> + +<p>"No."</p> + +<p>"Funny," commented Frank. "Must be something up, though."</p> + +<p>"So it would seem. However, I guess we'll learn soon enough. Hope they are +not going to deprive me of my command."</p> + +<p>"No fear, I guess," declared Frank.</p> + +<p>The return trip was made in record time and without incident. Jack saw the +victims of the Hazelton landed safely and then, turning the ship over to +Lieutenant Hetherton, went ashore with Frank to report to Lord Hastings.</p> + +<p>The latter greeted them with a wry smile.</p> + +<p>"It seems that my warning to America is not to be delivered after all," he +said.</p> + +<p>"And why, sir?" asked Jack. "Are you not still convinced that the warning +is necessary?"</p> + +<p>"I am," declared Lord Hastings, "but, as I told you, I was sending the +warning without knowledge of the Admiralty. Naturally, then, when it was +announced that the Brigadier was to be recalled to take part in other +operations, I could not announce that you carried secret dispatches from +me."</p> + +<p>"I see," said Jack. "And what is the nature of the other operation?"</p> + +<p>"It is a desperate undertaking," said Lord Hastings slowly, "and one that, +at first, I was tempted to advise against. And still, if successful it +will do much toward insuring an allied victory."</p> + +<p>"Since when have you become so cautious, sir?" asked Frank with a smile.</p> + +<p>"It's not a matter of caution, Frank," replied Lord Hastings. "It's simply +a matter of prudence. In a word, the Admiralty is determined to block the +harbors of Ostend and Zeebrugge."</p> + +<p>Frank was on his feet and clapping his hands.</p> + +<p>"Fine!" he exclaimed. "I don't see why it hasn't been done sooner. I +remember what Hobson did to the Spanish fleet at Santiago in the +Spanish-American war."</p> + +<p>"It's an exploit of the same nature," Lord Hastings admitted, "though it +will be attended with even greater danger. If successful, as I say, it +will do inestimable good. The admiralty has been training specially for +this move for months, but the matter has now come to a head."</p> + +<p>"And how does it happen that we shall be fortunate enough to lend a hand?" +asked Jack.</p> + +<p>"My fault, I suppose," returned Lord Hastings. "Admiral Keyes, the day +after your departure, was bemoaning the fact that one ship had been taken +away from him at the last moment. I said that if Captain Templeton and the +Brigadier were here, you could easily replace the other vessel. The +admiral was of the opinion that you had not had the necessary training. I +said you didn't need it. Apparently he was convinced, for the next I heard +you had been recalled to Dover. Thus, through talking too much, I balked +my own plans."</p> + +<p>"Perhaps," said Frank, "it won't be too late for the other when the +harbors of Ostend and Zeebrugge have been sealed."</p> + +<p>"But perhaps you won't come back," said Lord Hastings.</p> + +<p>"Oh, we'll be back, never fear," grinned Jack. "But what are we to do +now?"</p> + +<p>"You will report to Admiral Keyes aboard the Warwick at once. If you +return safely, report to me. Good-bye and good luck."</p> + +<p>The lads shook hands with Lord Hastings and left him.</p> + +<p>"Here," said Frank, "is what I call a piece of luck."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VII" id="CHAPTER_VII" />CHAPTER VII</h2> + +<h3>A BIT OF EXPLANATION</h3> + + +<p>It is probable that the sealing of the harbors of Ostend and Zeebrugge, +two of the most important German submarine bases, was one of the greatest +feats of the whole European war. The attempt was extremely hazardous and +could never have been successful except for the gallantry and heroism of +the British crews.</p> + +<p>Not the least of the bravest among them were Jack and Frank and the other +officers and crew of the destroyer Brigadier. It is true that the +operation has been planned primarily with the idea of having the destroyer +Daffodil in line, but it was the withdrawal of this vessel that permitted +Jack and Frank to have a hand in the operation.</p> + +<p>In order that all parts of the naval service might share in the +expedition, representative bodies of men had been drawn from the Grand +Fleet, the three home depots, the Royal marine artillery and light +infantry. The ships and torpedo craft were furnished by the Dover patrol, +which was reinforced by vessels from the Harwich force and the French and +American navies. The Royal Australian navy and the admiralty experimental +station at Stratford and Dover were also represented.</p> + +<p>A force thus composed and armed, obviously needed collective training and +special preparation to adapt both the men and their weapons to their +purpose. With these objects, the blocking ships and the storming forces +were assembled toward the end of February, and from the fourth of April on +in the West Swim Anchorage—where training especially adapted to the plan +of operation was given—and the organization of the expedition was carried +on.</p> + +<p>The material as it was prepared was used to make the training practical +and was itself tested thereby. Moreover, valuable practice was afforded by +endeavors to carry out the project on two previous occasions, on which the +conditions of wind and weather compelled its postponement, and much was +learned from these temporary failures.</p> + +<p>The Hindustan, at first at Chatham and later at the Swim, was the parent +ship and training depot. After the second attempt, when it became apparent +that there would be a long delay, the Dominion joined the Hindustan and +the pressure upon the available accommodation was relieved by the transfer +of about 350 seamen and marines to her.</p> + +<p>Two special craft, Liverpool ferry steamers, Iris and Gloucester, were +selected after a long search by Captain Herbert Grant. They were selected +because of their shallow draft, with a view in the first place to their +pushing the Vindictive, which was to bear the brunt of the work, alongside +Zeebrugge Mole; to the possibility, should the Vindictive be sunk, of +their bringing away all her crew and the landing parties; and to their +ability to maneuver in shallow water or clear of mine fields or torpedoes. +The blocking ships and the Vindictive were especially prepared for their +work long before the start.</p> + +<p>Vice-Admiral Sir Roger Keyes devoted personal attention and time to +working out the plan of operations and the preparation of the personnel +and material. Rear Admiral Cecil F. Dampier, second in command of the +Dover flotilla, and Commodore Algernon Boyle, chief of staff, gave +considerable assistance.</p> + +<p>When, as vice-admiral of the Dover patrol, Admiral Keyes first began to +prepare for the operation, it became apparent that without an effective +system of smoke screening such an attack could hardly hope to succeed. The +system of making smoke previously employed in the Dover patrol was +unsuitable for a night operation, as this production generated a fierce +flame, and no other means of making an effective smoke screen was +available. Nevertheless Wing Commander Brock, at last devised the way.</p> + +<p>The commander-in-chief of the Grand Fleet, Admiral Beatty, sent to Admiral +Keyes a picked body of officers and men. Support also was received from +the neighboring commands at Portsmouth and the Nore, the adjutant general, +Royal Marines, and the depot at Chatham. The rear-admiral commanding the +Harwich force sent a flotilla leader and six destroyers, besides +protecting the northern flank of the area in which operations were to be +conducted.</p> + +<p>To afford protection at a certain point in the route and to maintain the +aids to navigation during the approach and retirement of the expedition, a +force consisting of the flotilla leaders Scott and the destroyers +Ulleswater, Teazer and Stork, and the light cruiser Attentive, flying the +pennant of Commodore Boyle, was organized. This force, as it developed, +was instrumental in patroling and directing the movements of detached +craft in both directions, and relieved Admiral Keyes of all anxiety on +that score.</p> + +<p>At the moment of departing the forces were disposed as follows:</p> + +<p>In the Swim—For the attack on the Zeebrugge Mole: Vindictive, Iris, +Gloucester. To block the Bruges canal: Thetis, Interprid and Iphigenia. To +block the entrance to Ostend: Sirius and Brilliant.</p> + +<p>At Dover—Warwick, flagship of Vice-Admiral Keyes; Phoebe, North Star, +Brigadier, Trident, Mansfield, Whirlwind, Myngs, Velox, Morris, Moorsom, +Melpomene, Tempest and Tetrarch.</p> + +<p>To damage Zeebrugge—Submarines C-1 and C-3.</p> + +<p>A special picket boat to rescue crews of C-1 and C-3.</p> + +<p>Minesweeper Lingfield to take off surplus steaming parties of block +ships, which had 100 miles to steam.</p> + +<p>Eighteen coastal motorboats.</p> + +<p>Thirty-three motor launches.</p> + +<p>To bombard vicinity of Zeebrugge—Monitors Erebus and Terror.</p> + +<p>To attend monitors—Termagant, Truculent, and Manly.</p> + +<p>Outer patrol off Zeebrugge—Attentive, Scot, Ulleswater, Teazer and Stork.</p> + +<p>At Dunkirk—Monitors for bombarding Ostend: Marshal Soult, Lord Clive, +Prince Eugene, General Sraufurd, M-24 and M-26.</p> + +<p>For operating off Ostend—Swift, Faulknor, Matchless, Mastiff and Afridi.</p> + +<p>The British destroyers Mentor, Lightfoot, Zubian and French torpedo boats +Lestin, Capitaine Mehl, Francis Garnier, Roux and Boucier to accompany the +monitors.</p> + +<p>There were in addition to these, three American destroyers—the Taylor, +the Alert and the Cyprus.</p> + +<p>Eighteen British motor launches for smoke screening duty inshore and +rescue work, and six for attending big monitors.</p> + +<p>Four French motor launches attending M-24 and M-26 and five coastal motor +boats.</p> + +<p>Navigational aids having been established on the routes, the forces from +the Swim and Dover were directed to join Admiral Keyes off the Goodwin +Sands and to proceed in company to a rendezvous, and thereafter as +requisite to their respective stations.</p> + +<p>Those from Dunkirk were given their orders by the commodore.</p> + +<p>An operation time table was issued to govern the movements of all the +forces. Wireless signals were prohibited, visual signals of every sort +were reduced to a minimum and maneuvering prearranged as far as foresight +could provide.</p> + +<p>With few and slight delays the program for the passage was carried out as +laid down, the special aids to navigation being found of great assistance.</p> + +<p>The Harwich force, under Rear-Admiral Tyrwhitt, was posted to cover the +operations and prevent interference from the north.</p> + +<p>Jack and Frank, having reported to Admiral Keyes upon leaving Lord +Hastings, had received necessary instructions as to their part in the +raid. They had passed the word to the other officers of the Brigadier, who +in turn had informed members of the crew what was about to happen.</p> + +<p>There was wild cheering among the British tars on the Brigadier when they +learned they were to have a hand in one of the greatest and most dangerous +enterprises attempted in the whole war. Needless to say, Jack and Frank +also were immensely pleased.</p> + +<p>"Tell you what, Jack," said Frank, after they had returned aboard the +Brigadier, "it seems to me as though your work had come to the ears of the +Admiralty with a vengeance."</p> + +<p>"Oh, I guess that isn't it," Jack laughed. "They just happened to need +another ship and picked on me. That's all."</p> + +<p>"Perhaps," Frank admitted. "But just the same it seems that we are always +in the midst of things. I wouldn't call it all luck, if I were you."</p> + +<p>"Well, it's not good judgment, that much is certain," said Jack. "For good +judgment would tell me to keep in a safe place as long as possible."</p> + +<p>"If you want to know what I think about it," said Frank, "this raid is +going to be one of the greatest blows struck at the enemy."</p> + +<p>"It certainly will do the enemy a lot of harm if it's successful," Jack +confessed.</p> + +<p>"It'll be successful all right. I can feel that."</p> + +<p>"A hunch, eh?" laughed Jack.</p> + +<p>"Call it what you like. Nevertheless, I am absolutely certain Admiral +Keyes will not fail. And what are the Germans going to do for submarine +bases if Ostend and Zeebrugge are bottled up?"</p> + +<p>"Maybe we'll catch most of them in there," said Jack hopefully.</p> + +<p>"They won't be able to get out again if we do," declared Frank.</p> + +<p>"Right," Jack agreed, "and the ones that are outside won't be able to get +back in again."</p> + +<p>"So you see," Frank continued, "we have them coming and going, as we say +in America."</p> + +<p>"I see," said Jack.</p> + +<p>"And what time are we to start?" asked Frank. "You must remember you were +in private conference with Admiral Keyes. You're a captain now, and the +big fellows talk to you. I'm still only a lieutenant."</p> + +<p>"The passage will most likely be made by daylight," said Jack. "That has +been decided in order that we may do our work there under the cover of +darkness so far as possible. Of course, this may be changed, but that's +the way the plan lies now."</p> + +<p>"Strikes me we are taking a pretty big force along, from what you say."</p> + +<p>"Necessary, I guess," said Jack. "It seems that the admiral has overlooked +nothing that will go toward making the attack a success."</p> + +<p>"Well, we can't start any too soon to suit me," declared Frank. "When do +you expect to get orders to move?"</p> + +<p>"I'm not certain, but I wouldn't be surprised to receive them early in the +morning."</p> + +<p>As it developed Jack was a good prophet.</p> + +<p>Bright and early next morning, a small boat approached the Brigadier. A +few moments later an officer came aboard and presented Jack with a +document. Then he departed.</p> + +<p>Jack read the paper, then leaped to the bridge.</p> + +<p>"To your post, Mr. Chadwick," he called to Frank, who had been standing +near by. "Pipe all men to quarters and signal for half speed ahead."</p> + +<p>The passage was about to begin.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_VIII" id="CHAPTER_VIII" />CHAPTER VIII</h2> + +<h3>THE ATTACK BEGINS</h3> + + +<p>The main force was divided into three columns. The center column was led +by the Vindictive, with the Brigadier second and the Iris in tow, followed +by the five blocking ships and the paddle mine-sweeper Lingfield, +escorting five motor launches for taking off the surplus steaming parties +of the blocking ships. The starboard column was led by the Warwick, flying +the flag of Admiral Keyes, followed by the Phoebe and North Star, which +three ships were to cover the Vindictive from torpedo attack while the +storming operations were in progress.</p> + +<p>The submarines were towed by the Trident and Mansfield. The Tempest +escorted the two Ostend block ships.</p> + +<p>The port column was led by the Whirlwind, followed by Myngs and Moorsom, +which ships were to patrol to the northward of Zeebrugge; and the +Tetrarch, also to escort the Ostend block ships. Every craft was towing +one or more coastal motor boats, and between the columns were motor +launches.</p> + +<p>The greater part of the passage, as Jack had explained, had to be carried +out in broad daylight, with the consequent likelihood of discovery by +enemy aircraft or submarines. This risk was largely countered by the +escort of all the scouting escort under Admiral Keyes' command.</p> + +<p>On arrival at a certain position, it being then apparent that the +conditions were favorable and that there was every prospect of carrying +through the enterprise on schedule, a short prearranged wireless signal +was made to the detached forces that the program would be adhered to.</p> + +<p>On arrival at a position a mile and a half short of where Commodore +Boyle's force was stationed, the whole force stopped for fifteen minutes +to enable the surplus steaming parties of the block ships to be +disembarked and the coastal motor boats slipped. These and the motor +launches then proceeded in execution of previous orders. On resuming the +course, the Warwick and Whirlwind, followed by the destroyers, drew ahead +on either bow to clear the passage of enemy outpost vessels.</p> + +<p>When the Vindictive arrived at a position where it was necessary to alter +her course for the Mole, the Warwick, Phoebe and North Star swung to +starboard and cruised in the vicinity of the Mole until after the final +withdrawal of all the attacking forces. During the movement and through +the subsequent operations, the Warwick was maneuvered to place smoke +screens wherever they seemed to be most required, and when the wind +shifted from northeast to southwest, her services in this respect were +particularly valuable.</p> + +<p>The monitors Erebus and Terror, with the destroyers Termagant, Truculent +and Manly, were stationed at a position suitable for the long range +bombardment of Zeebrugge in co-operation with the attack.</p> + +<p>Similarly, the monitors Marshal Soult, General Sraufurd, Prince Eugene and +Lord Clive, and the small monitors M-21, M-24 and M-26 were stationed in +suitable positions to bombard specified batteries. These craft were +attended by the British destroyers Mentor, Lightfoot and Zubian, and the +French Capitaine Mehl, Francis Garnier, Roux and Bouclier. The bombardment +that ensued was undoubtedly useful in keeping down the fire of the shore +batteries.</p> + +<p>The attack on the Mole was primarily intended to distract the enemy's +attention from the ships engaged in blocking the Bruges canal. Its +immediate objectives were, first, the capture of the four 1-inch batteries +at the sea end of the Mole, which were a serious menace to the passage of +the block ships, and, second, the doing of as much damage to the material +on the Mole as time would permit, for it was not the intention of Admiral +Keyes to remain on the Mole after the primary object of the expedition +had been accomplished.</p> + +<p>The attack was to consist of two parts: The landing of storming and +demolition parties and the destruction of the iron viaduct between the +shore and the stone Mole.</p> + +<p>The units detailed for the attack were:</p> + +<p>H.M.S. Vindictive, Captain Alfred F.B. Carpenter; the Brigadier, Captain +Jack Templeton; special steamers Iris, Commander Valentine Gibbs; +Gloucester, Lieutenant H.G. Campbell, the latter detailed to push the +Vindictive alongside the Mole and keep her there as long as might be +necessary.</p> + +<p>Submarines C-3 and C-1, commanded by Lieutenants Richard Sanford and +Aubrey Newbold, respectively, attended by picket boat under Lieutenant +Commander Francis H. Sanford.</p> + +<p>Besides these, a flotilla of twenty-four motor launches and eight coastal +motorboats were told off for rescue work and to make smoke screens or lay +smoke floats, and nine more coastal motorboats to attack the Mole and +enemy vessels inside it.</p> + +<p>At 11.40 p.m. on April 22, 1918, the coastal motorboats detailed to lay +the first smoke screen ran in to very close range and proceeded to lay +smoke floats and by other methods make the necessary "fog." These craft +immediately were under fire, and only their small size and great speed +saved them from destruction.</p> + +<p>At this moment the Blankenberghe light buoy was abeam of the Vindictive +and the enemy had presumably seen or heard the approaching forces. Star +shells lighted the heavens. But still no enemy patrol craft were sighted. +At this time the wind had been from the northeast, and therefore favorable +to the success of the smoke screens. It now died away and began to blow +from a southerly direction.</p> + +<p>Many of the smoke floats laid just off the Mole extension were sunk by the +fire of the enemy, which now began to grow in volume. This, in conjunction +with the wind, lessened the effectiveness of the smoke screen.</p> + +<p>At 11.56 the Vindictive, the Brigadier close behind, having just passed +through a smoke screen, sighted the Mole in the semi-darkness about three +hundred yards off on the port bow. Speed was increased to full and the +course of both vessels altered so that, allowing for cross tide, the +Vindictive would make good a closing course of forty-five degrees to the +Mole. The Vindictive purposely withheld her fire to avoid being +discovered, but almost at the moment of her emerging from the smoke the +enemy opened fire.</p> + +<p>So promptly, under the orders of the commander, was this replied to by the +port 6-inch battery, the upper deck pompoms and the gun in the foretop +that the firing on both sides appeared to be almost simultaneous.</p> + +<p>The Brigadier, under Jack's command, opened fire at almost the same +moment. Heavy shells flew screaming into the enemy lines. German +projectiles began to kick up the water close to the Vindictive and the +Brigadier. But in the first few volleys, none of the enemy shells found +their marks. Jack was conning the ship from the port forward, the +flame-thrower hut. Frank, with directions as to handling of the ship +should Jack be disabled, was in the conning tower, from which the +Brigadier was being steered.</p> + +<p>At one minute after midnight on April 23, the program time for attack +being midnight, the Vindictive was put alongside the Mole and the +starboard anchor was let go.</p> + +<p>At this time the noise of cannonading was terrific. During the previous +few minutes, the ship had been hit by a large number of shells, which had +resulted in heavy casualties.</p> + +<p>As there was some doubt as to the starboard anchor having gone clear, the +port anchor was dropped close to the foot of the Mole and the cable +bowsed-to, with less than a shackle out. A three-knot tide was running +past the Mole, and the scene alongside, created by the slight swell, +caused the ship to roll. There was an interval of three or four minutes +before the Brigadier or the Gloucester could arrive and commence to push +the Vindictive bodily alongside.</p> + +<p>During the interval the Vindictive could not be got close enough for the +special Mole anchors to hook and it was a very trying period. Many of the +brows had been broken by shell fire and the heavy roll had broken the +foremost Mole anchor as it was being placed. The two foremost brows, +however, reached the wall and enabled storming parties, led by +Lieutenant-Commander Bryan F. Adams, to land and run out alongside them, +closely followed by the Royal marines.</p> + +<p>It was at this juncture that a slight change was made in the original +program. It developed, as the first storming party moved out, that +Commander Adams' men were not in sufficient strength for the work ahead. +Captain Carpenter of the Vindictive called for support from the Brigadier. +Jack acted promptly.</p> + +<p>"Lieutenant Chadwick!" he called.</p> + +<p>Frank stepped forward and saluted.</p> + +<p>"You will take one hundred men and join the storming party," said Jack.</p> + +<p>At this moment the Brigadier was rubbing close to the Vindictive. This was +fortunate at the moment, for there was then no other means by which a +party from the Brigadier could reach the Mole.</p> + +<p>Hurriedly Frank gathered the men, and then leaped from his own vessel to +the deck of the Vindictive. A moment later they joined Commander Adams and +his party.</p> + +<p>Owing to the rolling of the ship, a most disconcerting motion was +imparted to the brows, the outer ends of which were "sawing" considerably +on the Mole parapet. Officers and men were equipped with Lewis guns, +bombs, ammunition, etc., and were under heavy machine-gun fire at close +range; add to this a drop of thirty feet between the ship and the Mole, +and some idea of the conditions which had to be faced may be realized.</p> + +<p>Yet the storming of the Mole was carried out without the slightest delay +and without any apparent consideration of self preservation. Some of the +first men on the Mole dropped in their tracks under the German fire, but +the others pushed on, with the object of hauling one of the large Mole +anchors across the parapet.</p> + +<p>The Brigadier arrived alongside the Mole three minutes after Frank and his +men had leaped to the deck of the other ship, followed by the little Iris. +Both suffered less in their approach, the Vindictive occupying all the +enemy's attention. The Gloucester also came up now to push the Vindictive +bodily on to the Mole to enable her to be secured, after doing which the +Gloucester landed her parties over that ship. Her men disembarked from her +bows on to the Vindictive, as it was found essential to continue to push +the Vindictive on to the Mole throughout the entire action.</p> + +<p>This duty was magnificently carried out. Without the assistance of the +Gloucester very few of the storming parties from the Vindictive could +have landed, or could have re-embarked.</p> + +<p>The landing from the Iris was made under even more trying circumstances. +She rolled heavily in the sea, which rendered the use of the scaling +ladders very difficult. But at this time, according to calculations, +enough men had been landed to complete the work.</p> + +<p>The fighting on the Mole became hand-to-hand.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_IX" id="CHAPTER_IX" />CHAPTER IX</h2> + +<h3>THE BATTLE CONTINUES</h3> + + +<p>A shell suddenly exploded among the Vindictive's foremost 7.5-inch +howitzer's marine crew. Many were killed or wounded. A naval crew from a +6-inch gun took their places and were almost annihilated.</p> + +<p>At this time the Vindictive was being hit every few seconds, chiefly in +the upper works, from which the splinters caused many casualties. It was +difficult for the British to locate the guns which were doing the most +damage, but Jack, from the Brigadier, with men posted in the fortop of the +vessel, kept up a continuous fire with pompoms and Lewis machine-guns, +changing rapidly from one target to another in an attempt to destroy the +guns that were raking the Vindictive fore and aft.</p> + +<p>Two heavy shells struck the foretop of the Brigadier almost +simultaneously. Half a dozen men were killed. A score of others were +wounded.</p> + +<p>To return for a moment to Frank and his men.</p> + +<p>The attack on the Mole had been designed to be carried out by a storming +force to prepare the way for, and afterward to cover and protect, the +operations of a second force, which was to carry out the actual work of +destruction. The storming force, which had embarked in the Vindictive, was +now reinforced by a hundred British tars from the Brigadier, headed by +Frank, and additional sailors from the Iris and Gloucester.</p> + +<p>For the first time it was now ascertained that the Vindictive, in +anchoring off the Mole, had over-run her station and was berthed some four +hundred yards farther to the westward than had been intended.</p> + +<p>It had been realized beforehand that the Vindictive might not exactly +reach the exact position mapped out, but the fact that the landing was +carried out in an unexpected place, combined with the heavy losses already +sustained by the vessel, seriously disorganized the attacking force. The +intention had been to land the storming parties right on top of the 4 +1-inch guns in position on the seaward end of the Mole, the silencing of +which was of the first importance, as they menaced the approach of the +block ships.</p> + +<p>The leading block ship had been timed to pass the lighthouse twenty-five +minutes after the Vindictive came alongside. This period of time proved +insufficient to organize and carry through an attack against the enemy on +the seaward end of the Mole, the enemy, it developed, being able to bring +heavy machine-gun fire to bear on the attacking forces. As a result the +block ships, when they approached, came under an unexpected fire from the +light guns on the Mole extension, though the 4.1-inch batteries on the +Mole had remained silent.</p> + +<p>Commander Adams, followed by Frank and his men, were the first to land. At +that moment no enemy was seen on the Mole. They found themselves on a +pathway on the Mole parapet about eight feet wide, with a wall four feet +high on the seaward side, and an iron railing on the Mole side. From this +pathway, there was a drop of fifteen feet on the Mole proper.</p> + +<p>Followed by his men and Frank and the latter's command, Commander Adams +went alongside the parapet to the left, where he found a lookout station +or control, with a range finder behind and above it.</p> + +<p>"Blow it up!" he shouted to Frank, who was close to him at that moment.</p> + +<p>Frank gave a command to one of his men. A moment later there was an +explosion and the station disappeared as though by magic.</p> + +<p>Near the lookout station aft iron ladder led down to the Mole and three of +Frank's men descended it. Frank went with them. Below they encountered +half a dozen of the enemy.</p> + +<p>It was no time to hesitate and Frank knew it.</p> + +<p>"Bombs, men," he said simply.</p> + +<p>Three hands drew back, then were brought forward. Three hand grenades +dropped among the foes. There were three short blasts, and when the smoke +cleared away, there were no Germans to be seen at that point. Then Frank +and his men rejoined the others.</p> + +<p>The situation now was that Commander Adams, Frank, their few men and a few +Lewis guns, were beyond the lookout station protected from machine-gun +fire from the direction of the Mole head, but exposed to fire from their +own destroyers, alongside the Mole.</p> + +<p>Commander Adams called Frank to him.</p> + +<p>"We're in a ticklish position here, lieutenant," he said. "We're in danger +of being shot down by our own guns. At the same time, if we move from +behind this station, we are not in sufficient strength to drive the enemy +away."</p> + +<p>"Why not risk our own, fire, sir," said Frank, "and ask for +reinforcements."</p> + +<p>"That's a request that will have to be made in person," said Commander +Adams, "and it will be rather risky."</p> + +<p>"I'll be glad to try it sir," said Frank.</p> + +<p>Commander Adams shrugged.</p> + +<p>"It'd about as broad as it is long," he said. "If you're shot on the way I +guess it will be no worse than dying here. Go ahead, if you wish."</p> + +<p>Now to gain the needed reinforcements, Frank knew that it would be +necessary to return to the side of the Vindictive. To reach that vessel it +would be necessary to pass through places exposed to enemy machine-gun +fire. However, at the moment, the German guns covering those particular +spots were silent, so Frank decided to take the risk.</p> + +<p>He set out at a run. At first his appearance was apparently unnoticed, but +soon a rain of bullets poured after him. Two or three times the lad threw +himself to the ground just in time. He was on his feet again a moment +later, however, and at last reached his destination safely.</p> + +<p>As the lad reached the side of the Vindictive he saw a second storming +party coming over the side, equipped with Lewis machine-guns and rifles +and hand bombs. Frank approached the commander of the party, +Lieutenant-Commander Hastings, and outlined the plight of those he had +left behind.</p> + +<p>"Come with us," said Commander Hastings, "we'll soon clear those fellows +out back there."</p> + +<p>Machine-guns were wheeled into position and the British raked the German +line wherever heads appeared. In this method they relieved the +hard-pressed party under Commander Adams.</p> + +<p>The first objective of the storming party ashore was a fortified zone +situated about a hundred and fifty yards from the seaward end of the Mole +proper. Its capture was of the first importance, as an enemy holding it +could bring a heavy fire to bear on the parties still to land from the +Vindictive.</p> + +<p>Commander Adams ordered an advance.</p> + +<p>Frank was placed in command of the left wing of the little army, Commander +Hastings of the right wing. Commander Adams led the center himself. The +British spread out.</p> + +<p>"Charge!" cried Commander Adams.</p> + +<p>"Charge!" repeated Frank and Commander Hastings a moment later.</p> + +<p>The British seamen went forward on the double, bayonets fixed.</p> + +<p>From out of their fortified positions the Germans sprang forth to meet +them, machine-guns from behind covering their advance. At the same moment +Frank ordered his own machine-guns wheeled into position, and swept the +advancing enemy with a hail of bullets.</p> + +<p>But neither side paid much attention to this rain of lead, and directly +the fighting became too close for either side to utilize its machine-guns. +Steel clashed on steel. Revolvers in the hands of the officers cracked. +Men fell to the right and to the left.</p> + +<p>For a moment it appeared that the attacking force must be hurled back by +the very weight of the numbers against them. But they rallied after one +brief moment in which it seemed that they must yield, and hurled +themselves forward again. This time there was no stopping them.</p> + +<p>Directly the thin German line wavered. Then it broke, and the enemy dashed +for the protection of their fortified position at top speed. But the +British sailors kept close on their heels, and they reached the coveted +spot at almost the same time. There the fighting was resumed, but after a +short resistance the enemy again retreated, leaving the position in the +hands of the British.</p> + +<p>Immediately Commander Adams ordered the machine-guns which had been +abandoned by the foe in his flight turned on them and the Germans were +mowed down in great numbers.</p> + +<p>Having gained his objective, Commander Adams ordered his men to proceed +down the Mole and hold a position there so as to cover the operations of +the party of destruction, which was now hard at work. To expel these +British, German troops were now advancing from the landward end of the +Mole.</p> + +<p>The destruction of the viaduct by the submarine C-3 had been designed to +aid the efforts of the landing party by preventing reinforcements reaching +the Mole from the shore. Owing to the Vindictive coming alongside to +landward of this zone, Commander Adams' men were now faced with a double +duty of preventing an enemy attack from the shore and of themselves +attacking a second fortified zone ahead of them. The casualties already +sustained were so great that the Iris could not remain alongside the +Vindictive to land her company of Royal Marines. This left insufficient +men in the early stages of the landing to carry out both operations.</p> + +<p>The situation was a difficult one, for to attack the fortified zone first +might enable the enemy to advance up the Mole and seize positions abreast +of the Vindictive, with the most serious consequences to the whole landing +force, whereas, by not attacking the fortified positions, the guns at the +Mole head could not be prevented from firing at the block ships.</p> + +<p>Therefore, Commander Adams instructed Frank to secure the landward side, +at the same time instructing Commander Hastings to attack the fortified +zone. Commander Adams knew that he was taking a long chance by thus +dividing his forces, but in no other manner, it seemed to him, could the +success of the expedition be assured.</p> + +<p>Frank led his men forward promptly. Apparently the Germans had not +realized the full strength of the British attack on the Mole, for no +effort had been made to get reinforcements to the men there from shore. +Consequently, Frank's work was not so hard as that set for Commander +Hastings.</p> + +<p>The few Germans who were guarding the landward side of the Mole fired one +volley at Frank's party, then turned and took to their heels.</p> + +<p>"By George! Pretty soft!" said Frank.</p> + +<p>He led his men to the positions recently vacated by the enemy, and then +sat down to await further instructions from Commander Adams.</p> + +<p>Commander Hastings, on the other hand, had hard work in taking the +fortified positions from the foe. Nevertheless he succeeded, due to the +heroic efforts of his men. Commander Adams surveyed the field carefully.</p> + +<p>"Well," he told himself, "I guess we've done the best we can. We'll stick +here till we get the signal to withdraw."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_X" id="CHAPTER_X" />CHAPTER X</h2> + +<h3>THE RAID SUCCESSFUL</h3> + + +<p>The platoon which was commanded by Commander Adams was officially +designated as No. 1; that commanded by Frank as No. 2 and that commanded +by Commander Hastings as No. 3.</p> + +<p>Units were now landing rapidly and No. 7 platoon succeeded in placing +heavy scaling ladders in positions, and then formed up to support Nos. 9 +and 10 platoons. Numbers 11 and 12 platoons were dispatched along the +parapet, and reached the lookout station, where they were checked. +Commander Adams and his men, who had again united with the parties +commanded by Frank and Commander Hastings, were some forty to fifty yards +ahead of them, and both parties could make no headway along the exposed +parapet. Meanwhile No. 5 platoon, which had been recalled from its +advanced position, with Nos. 7 and 8 platoons were forming up on the Mole +for an assault on the fortified zone and the 4.1-inch battery at the Mole +head. This attack was launched, but before it could be developed the +general recall was sounded.</p> + +<p>There was a cheer from the men. They knew by the sounding of the recall at +this moment meant that the expedition had been a success. Otherwise the +fighting on the Mole would have continued.</p> + +<p>The units fell back in good order, taking their wounded with them. The +passing of the men from the Mole on to the parapet by means of the scaling +ladders was rendered hazardous by the enemy opening fire at that portion +of the Mole. Several ladders were destroyed.</p> + +<p>The men were sent across in small batches from the comparative shelter +afforded by long distance fire from the battleships. Such rushes were made +as far as possible in the intervals between the bursts of German fire.</p> + +<p>The landing parties re-embarked in the manner which they had left their +ships—climbing to the deck of the Vindictive and then proceeding to +their deck of the Vindictive and then proceeding to their +various ships by small boats.</p> + +<p>This undertaking was hazardous, too, for enemy shells were falling +all about. Nevertheless, the most of the men reached their ship in safety, +and from the flagship came the signal to retreat.</p> + +<p>Upon returning to the Brigadier, Frank surveyed his own men. There had +been few casualties among them. Less than a dozen men had been killed and +left behind. Of wounded Frank counted fifteen. Immediately he ascended to +the bridge to report to Jack.</p> + +<p>Jack greeted his chum with a smile. Although the Brigadier had been in the +midst of the battle, and many German shells had found their marks aboard +her, Jack was as cool and unruffled as before the battle started.</p> + +<p>"What luck, Frank?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"Good," Frank replied. "We held the Mole until ordered back. And you?"</p> + +<p>"The best of luck. I've stuck tight to the Vindictive through the heat of +the battle, and I believe our guns have done some damage."</p> + +<p>"And the block ships?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>"They have been sunk at the mouths of both harbors, I am informed. The +raid has been a complete success."</p> + +<p>At that moment came the recall signal from the flagship.</p> + +<p>"See," said Jack, "there's proof of it. If we had not been successful, the +recall would not have been sounded yet. There is still plenty of time if +we needed it, and our damage has not been great enough to leave the job +unfinished."</p> + +<p>Jack was right. The harbors of Ostend and Zeebrugge had been effectually +sealed. No longer would enemy U-Boats make nightly raids into the North +Sea, only to scurry back to their bases when it grew light. As a submarine +base, Zeebrugge was extinct. So, for that matter, was Ostend.</p> + +<p>That the success of the British expedition had been a severe blow to the +Germans goes without saying. No other single feat since the beginning of +the war had done so much to dishearten them; and there is little doubt +that the sealing of their submarine bases did much toward hastening the +end of the war.</p> + +<p>British losses in the raid had been severe. The Vindictive, which had led +the attack, had literally been shot to pieces and it was a miracle how she +remained afloat. The Brigadier, also, had suffered severely, but her +condition was not so bad that a few months in drydock would not be +sufficient to make her whole again.</p> + +<p>A dozen or more of the little motorboats and coastal patrol vessels had +been sunk, and the loss of life had been heavy. Several others of the +destroyers had been badly damaged, but there was not one of the larger +vessels sunk or crippled so badly that she could not return to her home +port.</p> + +<p>It still lacked an hour of daylight when the allied fleet drew off, its +work accomplished; and behind in the ports now sealed, the anger of the +Germans flared forth anew.</p> + +<p>The damaged British ships were immediately put into drydock in British +ports, and Jack and Frank at once returned to Dover to report to Lord +Hastings. The latter greeted the lads with outstretched hands.</p> + +<p>"It was a gallant exploit," he exclaimed, "and I am sure both you boys had +important roles to play."</p> + +<p>"I guess we did, sir," Frank admitted. "At the same time, I'm glad to be +safely back here again."</p> + +<p>"I suppose, sir," said Jack, "now that the enemy submarines caught outside +are without bases, there is little fear of their attempting the +trans-Atlantic trip?"</p> + +<p>"On the contrary," said Lord Hastings, "they are more likely than ever to +do so."</p> + +<p>"But they must have a base, sir," protested Frank.</p> + +<p>"Not necessarily," smiled Lord Hastings.</p> + +<p>"Then how will they replenish their supplies of food and fuel?"</p> + +<p>"Well," said Lord Hastings, "if they can snare a victim every three or +four days it should be enough. From a merchant ship they can get all the +food and fuel they need before sinking her."</p> + +<p>"That's so, by George!" Frank exclaimed.</p> + +<p>"It stands to reason," said Lord Hastings, "that those submarines which +were not bottled up in the harbors have been warned not to return. Now, +it wouldn't surprise me a bit if they headed directly for America."</p> + +<p>Jack grew thoughtful.</p> + +<p>"It's too bad," he said at last, "that the Brigadier was so crippled that +we cannot resume our interrupted voyage."</p> + +<p>Lord Hastings smiled.</p> + +<p>"I understand she is in pretty bad shape," he said. "So you don't think +you can go now, eh?"</p> + +<p>"I'm afraid not, sir. A fellow can't cross the ocean except in a ship."</p> + +<p>"True enough. But why are you in Dover now?"</p> + +<p>"Why, sir?" Jack exclaimed. "Because we were instructed to report to you."</p> + +<p>"Exactly," said Lord Hastings; "and in your pocket, I presume, you have +the same packet of papers the admiralty wishes turned over to Secretary +Daniels of the American navy department?"</p> + +<p>Jack clapped a hand to his coat pocket.</p> + +<p>"By George! I had forgotten all about them," he said.</p> + +<p>"So I imagined. But it is my guess that the navy department still wishes +those papers delivered."</p> + +<p>"You're right, sir. Here, I'll turn them over to you, sir."</p> + +<p>Lord Hastings waved the packet away.</p> + +<p>"Keep them," he said quietly.</p> + +<p>"But—" Jack began.</p> + +<p>"Great Scott," Frank put in at this juncture, "you must be getting denser +every day, Jack."</p> + +<p>Jack wheeled on his chum.</p> + +<p>"What do you mean?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"Why, can't you see that you are still expected to deliver the papers?"</p> + +<p>Jack sank suddenly into a chair.</p> + +<p>"Now why didn't I think of that?" he muttered.</p> + +<p>"And I suppose, sir," said Frank to Lord Hastings, "that another ship is +to be put at Jack's disposal?"</p> + +<p>Lord Hastings nodded.</p> + +<p>"Exactly," he replied.</p> + +<p>Jack was on his feet again immediately.</p> + +<p>"What ship, sir?" he asked eagerly.</p> + +<p>"The Essex, a sister ship of the Brigadier."</p> + +<p>"By George! That's fine, isn't it?" exclaimed Jack.</p> + +<p>"And do I go along, sir?" Frank wanted to know.</p> + +<p>Again Lord Hastings nodded.</p> + +<p>"You do," he replied, "together with the officers and crew of the +Brigadier who survived the recent engagement. Your compliment will be +filled from other vessels damaged in the raid."</p> + +<p>"And where is the Essex now, sir?" asked Jack.</p> + +<p>"Here," replied Lord Hastings, "in Dover. You are to go aboard this +evening."</p> + +<p>"I can't get there too quickly to suit me," declared Jack.</p> + +<p>"Same here," Frank agreed.</p> + +<p>"Now, remember," enjoined Lord Hastings, "that I still am desirous of your +delivering to Secretary Daniels the document I gave you."</p> + +<p>"Is the Admiralty still unconvinced of the likelihood of submarines +reaching American waters, sir?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>"It is, but you know my opinion has not changed."</p> + +<p>"I begin to agree with you, sir," said Jack. "At first I'll admit I was +skeptical, but the way you explain the matter it sounds reasonable."</p> + +<p>"Well," said Frank, "I hope we get there in time to spoil their plans."</p> + +<p>"Amen to that, my boy," said Lord Hastings. "But, I'll detain you no +longer. You both probably are anxious to get a look at your new vessel."</p> + +<p>"But we have no sailing orders, sir," said Jack.</p> + +<p>"You will have before morning," was Lord Hastings reply. "I don't like to +hurry you off, but the truth is I'm busy and will have to get down to +work."</p> + +<p>"Sorry we have detained you so long," said Jack. "Goodbye, sir."</p> + +<p>They shook hands all around, and the lads wended their way to the harbor, +where they soon were put on board their new ship.</p> + +<p>"And now," said Frank, "while we had a good time and all that, I hope +this voyage won't be interrupted."</p> + +<p>"My sentiments exactly," Jack agreed. "I want to have another look at +America."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XI" id="CHAPTER_XI" />CHAPTER XI</h2> + +<h3>THE WARNING GIVEN</h3> + + +<p>"Land Ho!"</p> + +<p>The cry came from the forward lookout, posted aloft.</p> + +<p>Jack clapped his binoculars to his eyes and gazed earnestly ahead.</p> + +<p>"Where do you make our position, sir?" asked Lieutenant Hetherton.</p> + +<p>"Off the Virginia Capes," was Jack's reply. "We should pick up Fort Monroe +before noon."</p> + +<p>Jack was a good prophet. It still lacked half an hour of midday when the +outlines of the historic fortress at Old Point became distinguishable in +the distance.</p> + +<p>The Essex slipped quietly through the smooth waters of Hampton Roads and +dropped anchor some distance off shore. At Jack's command the launch was +made ready, and leaving Lieutenant Hetherton in command, Jack motioned +Frank to follow him into the launch.</p> + +<p>A moment later they were gliding shoreward through the water.</p> + +<p>"We'll have to pay our respects to the commandant," said Jack. "It would +be a breach of etiquette if we didn't. Also, I want to ascertain the best +place to anchor for the next week or so."</p> + +<p>"Surely you're not figuring on staying here," protested Frank.</p> + +<p>"Not at all, but you know these papers I have been entrusted with must be +delivered, and I can't deliver them here. I'll have to go to Washington."</p> + +<p>"Right," Frank agreed. "I had forgotten. And are you going to take me +along?"</p> + +<p>Jack smiled.</p> + +<p>"Well, I might, if you are real good," he said.</p> + +<p>"I'll be good," Frank promised.</p> + +<p>"Hello," said Jack at this point, "if I'm not mistaken, here comes a guard +of honor to escort us to the commandant."</p> + +<p>Toward the point where the launch now moved, half a dozen American +officers approached. They extended helping hands as Jack and Frank +scrambled ashore. Jack addressed the senior officer, a major.</p> + +<p>"I am Captain Templeton of H.M.S. Essex," he said. "Will you please escort +me into the presence of the commandant?"</p> + +<p>"With pleasure, sir," replied the major. "Come with me."</p> + +<p>He led the way, Frank and the other American officers following. Jack was +received immediately by the commandant. Their conference was brief, and +soon Jack returned to the place where he had left Frank.</p> + +<p>"Well, what did he say?" demanded Frank, as they made their way back +toward the launch.</p> + +<p>"Said it would be well to continue to Newport News," said Jack. "Docking +facilities are better there right now. We can tie up alongside one of the +piers there, or anchor off shore, as we choose. Said he would send word of +our coming."</p> + +<p>"Good," said Frank. "Then I suppose we shall continue without delay?"</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>"But if memory serves," said Frank, "Newport News is on the James River, +and not Hampton Roads."</p> + +<p>"Correct," replied Jack.</p> + +<p>"Well, I didn't know the river was navigable by a vessel of our draught."</p> + +<p>"It is, nevertheless," replied Jack.</p> + +<p>They stepped into the launch, and were soon back aboard the Essex. Jack +immediately gave the necessary commands and the vessel moved forward.</p> + +<p>Two hours later the Essex anchored in the James River half a mile off +shore. Frank took in the scene about him, and expressed his wonder.</p> + +<p>Shipping of all the allied and many of the neutral nations was to be seen +on every hand. Almost over night, it seemed, Newport News had grown from +a port of little importance to one of the greatest shipping centers in the +United States. There, half a mile away, Frank saw one of the great German +merchantmen, which had been interned soon after the outbreak of the war, +but which was later to be converted into a United States auxiliary +cruiser.</p> + +<p>"Well," said Jack, "there is no use delaying here. The commandant at the +fort informed me that about the quickest way to get to Washington now is +to take a boat up the Potomac."</p> + +<p>"And where do we get the boat?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>"Norfolk. But what's the matter with you, Frank? Where's your geography? +Seems to me that if I were born and lived most of my life in the United +States I would know something about it."</p> + +<p>"I do know something about it," declared Frank; "but how do you expect me +to know all these details? This is the first time I've ever been in +Newport News, and I've never been to Norfolk. How do we get there from +here?"</p> + +<p>"Either in the Essex's launch, or by ferry."</p> + +<p>"Which way do you choose?"</p> + +<p>"Ferry, I guess. It will save trouble all around."</p> + +<p>"Any way suits me," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"You talk like you were dead certain of going along," remarked Jack with a +grin.</p> + +<p>"Of course I do. I know you could not be hard-hearted enough to leave me +behind."</p> + +<p>"Nevertheless," Jack declared, "I'm not sure I shouldn't leave you in +command here."</p> + +<p>"By George! That's no way to talk," declared Frank. "Hetherton can stick +on the job here."</p> + +<p>"Well, I guess it will be all right," said Jack. "We may as well pack what +belongings we shall need. We shouldn't be gone more than a day or two."</p> + +<p>"I hope so, and I feel sure we shall. There has been no sign yet of enemy +activities in this water."</p> + +<p>"And there won't be any sign in advance. When the Germans strike it will +be suddenly."</p> + +<p>The lads threw what belongings they believed they would need into their +handbags and were rowed ashore. They proceeded at once to the pier of the +Chesapeake and Ohio ferry and soon were moving along toward Norfolk.</p> + +<p>It was a short ride to Norfolk. Arrived in the city an hour later, they +inquired the way to the offices of the Washington and Norfolk Steamboat +company, where they were fortunate enough to be able to secure a stateroom +that night.</p> + +<p>It was still early, so the lads spent the afternoon looking about the +city, called by the natives the "New York of the South." They went aboard +the steamer Northland at 5.30 o'clock, and at 6 the boat left its pier. +Jack and Frank remained on deck until after the Northland had put in at +Old Point and taken on additional passengers. Then they went below to +dinner.</p> + +<p>"You know this isn't a bad boat," Frank declared after a walk around, +following their dinner.</p> + +<p>"Indeed it isn't," Jack agreed. "It has all the comforts of home. It's +rather small, but outside of that I can't see anything wrong with it."</p> + +<p>"I guess it's big enough for us to-night," grinned Frank.</p> + +<p>There were a score or more of American army and navy officers aboard and +with some of these the lads struck up an acquaintance. In fact, so +interested were some of the Americans in the lads' experiences that they +sat up late regaling their newly found friends with accounts of warfare in +European waters.</p> + +<p>Nevertheless, Jack and Frank were up early the following morning and had a +substantial breakfast before the boat docked at the foot of Seventh street +in the nation's capital. There they took a taxi and were driven to the +Raleigh hotel.</p> + +<p>"Now," said Jack, "the first thing to do is to get in touch with the +British ambassador and have him arrange an audience with the secretary of +the navy at the earliest possible moment."</p> + +<p>Jack got the embassy on the telephone, told who he was and announced that +he would be on hand to see the ambassador within the hour. Then the lads +were driven to the embassy. Here Jack presented his credentials and +expressed his desire to see the secretary of the navy at once.</p> + +<p>"You return to your hotel," said the ambassador. "I'll arrange the +audience and call for you in my automobile."</p> + +<p>The lads followed these instructions.</p> + +<p>At 2 o'clock in the afternoon the ambassador called for them. They were +driven at once to the War and Navy department building on Pennsylvania +avenue and were ushered almost immediately to the offices of Secretary +Daniels. After a wait of perhaps five minutes, Mr. Daniels' private +secretary announced.</p> + +<p>"Mr. Daniels will see you now."</p> + +<p>The three passed into the secretary's private office, where the British +ambassador introduced the lads. Secretary Daniels expressed his pleasure +at the meeting, then said:</p> + +<p>"And now what can I do for you, gentlemen?"</p> + +<p>For answer Jack passed over the papers entrusted him by the Admiralty. +Secretary Daniels scanned them briefly.</p> + +<p>"These matters shall be attended to, gentlemen," he said. "Now, is there +anything else?"</p> + +<p>"There is, sir," said Jack, "and a matter probably of much greater +importance."</p> + +<p>He drew from his pocket the documents given him by Lord Hastings, and +these he also passed to Secretary Daniels. The latter read them +carefully, his face drawn into a scowl.</p> + +<p>"Hm-m-m," he said at last. "Hm-m-m."</p> + +<p>He grew silent, apparently lost in thought. At last he spoke.</p> + +<p>"I have had some such fears myself," he said at last, "but it seems they +are not shared by other officials of the department. I dislike to take +matters altogether into my hands, and yet I suppose I can do it. First, +however, I shall make an effort to convince my associates through these +documents."</p> + +<p>"I am instructed to say, sir," said Jack, "that it would be well if you +gave the matter prompt attention."</p> + +<p>"Oh," said Secretary Daniels, "I anticipate no immediate trouble; and +still this is a matter that should not be overlooked. I thank you, +gentlemen, for bringing the matter to my attention."</p> + +<p>He rose from his chair, signifying that the interview was ended.</p> + +<p>Jack and Frank left the Navy department, and the ambassador dropped them +at their hotel.</p> + +<p>"I don't know what to think of the Secretary of the Navy," said Jack when +they were alone. "He didn't seem greatly interested."</p> + +<p>"He is the man, you know," said Frank, "who wanted to change the technical +terms of port and starboard to right and left."</p> + +<p>"That's so," said Jack, "but I'll venture to say he can rise to an +emergency."</p> + +<p>"There is no doubt about that," Frank agreed, and added quietly: +"Americans always have."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XII" id="CHAPTER_XII" />CHAPTER XII</h2> + +<h3>THE U-BOATS APPEAR</h3> + + +<p>Three weeks passed and Jack and Frank were still in Washington. +Immediately after delivering his messages to Secretary Daniels, Jack got +in touch with the British Admiralty wireless and asked for instructions. +When the reply came it was signed Lord Hastings and said merely:</p> + +<p>"Stay where you are pending further orders."</p> + +<p>And after three weeks no word had come.</p> + +<p>Several times during the three weeks Jack and Frank, or one of the lads at +a time, had returned to Newport News to look to the needs of the Essex, +which still lay quietly in the James river. Steam was kept up in the +destroyer every moment of the day, and she was ready to put to sea on an +instant's notice.</p> + +<p>"Chances are when we need her it will be in a hurry," said Jack.</p> + +<p>Therefore nothing was overlooked that would enable the destroyer to go +into action on a moment's notice. Provisions were added to the stores from +time to time, and the crew were put through their drills daily.</p> + +<p>Meanwhile, from what Jack and Frank learned from the British ambassador, +no steps had been taken to prepare for a possible German attack on +shipping in American waters. True, the coast defenses had been +strengthened, but that was merely a matter of routine for a country at +war.</p> + +<p>Off the coast, warships were on patrol. But there were comparatively few +of these, for the bulk of the American fleet had been sent abroad to +reinforce the British grand fleet patroling the North Sea.</p> + +<p>Jack and Frank discussed these matters frequently.</p> + +<p>"It would be a great time for the Germans to strike," said Jack one +evening, as the lads sat in their rooms at the hotel. "The American people +don't seem to realize the possibilities of the submarine."</p> + +<p>"That's true," said Frank, "but at the same time such an attack might +prove a boomerang to the Germans."</p> + +<p>"What do you mean?"</p> + +<p>"Why," said Frank, "you haven't forgotten, have you, that it took a number +of air raids on England to fully arouse the British people to the fact +that the Germans must be licked?"</p> + +<p>"That's true enough," agreed Jack. "The Germans, of course, figured that +they would frighten England and scare her out of the war."</p> + +<p>"Exactly, and the result was altogether different from what they had +anticipated. That's why I say submarine activities off the American coast +will prove a boomerang to the foe."</p> + +<p>"I see," commented Jack. "You mean it would arouse the American people to +the necessity of prompt action."</p> + +<p>"Exactly."</p> + +<p>"Well," said Jack, "it begins to look as though Lord Hastings were wrong. +We've been here three weeks now and nothing has transpired to indicate +that the Germans are meditating a submarine raid in American waters."</p> + +<p>"You don't expect them to tip the Washington government off in advance, do +you?" asked Frank with a laugh.</p> + +<p>"Hardly; but it would seem that if such a campaign had been planned it +would have been started before this."</p> + +<p>"It wouldn't surprise me," said Frank, "to get a flash any day that a ship +had been submarined off the American coast."</p> + +<p>Came a rap at the door.</p> + +<p>"Come in," Frank called.</p> + +<p>A bell boy entered. He held a tray in his hand and on the tray was a +cablegram.</p> + +<p>"From Lord Hastings, I suppose," said Frank, taking the message and +passing it to Jack.</p> + +<p>Jack broke the seal, spread out the paper. The message, in code, was this:</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p>"Authentic information flotilla submarines headed for America. + Warn Navy Department at once."</p></div> + +<p>Jack sprang to the telephone and got the British embassy on the wire.</p> + +<p>"The ambassador, quick!" he said to the voice that answered his call.</p> + +<p>There was a short pause, and then Jack recognized the ambassador's voice.</p> + +<p>"I've just had a wireless from Lord Hastings relative to the matter which +we discussed with Secretary Daniels several weeks ago," he explained. "Can +you arrange another interview immediately?"</p> + +<p>"I'll see," said the ambassador and rang off.</p> + +<p>The telephone in the lads' room jangled sharply ten minutes later. Jack +sprang to the wire.</p> + +<p>"Yes," he said in response to a query. "Ten o'clock? You'll call for us? +Very well."</p> + +<p>He replaced the receiver and turned to Frank.</p> + +<p>"We will see Secretary Daniels in his office at ten," he said. He looked +at his watch. "Hurry and dress. It's after nine now. The ambassador should +be here in fifteen minutes."</p> + +<p>The lads jumped into their clothes, then went downstairs, where they +awaited the arrival of the ambassador. The latter arrived ten minutes +before ten o'clock, and the three were driven to the War and Navy +building. Secretary Daniels received them at once.</p> + +<p>"I understand that you come on a very important matter," he said. "Pray, +what is it, gentlemen?"</p> + +<p>For answer Jack laid before the American naval secretary the decoded +message from Lord Hastings. The secretary read it, then looked up.</p> + +<p>"Well?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"Why, sir," said Jack, "Lord Hastings simply wishes you to take all +precautions to prevent sinking of vessels by submarines in American +waters."</p> + +<p>Secretary Daniels smiled.</p> + +<p>"I don't know what we can do that has not already been done," he replied. +"The off-coast waters are mined, and American warships are patroling the +regular channels of navigation."</p> + +<p>"All that may be true, sir," said Jack, "but these submarines are slippery +customers, as I have reason to know. It would be well to take even further +precautions."</p> + +<p>"And what would you suggest?" asked Secretary Daniels.</p> + +<p>"Why, sir," said Jack, "I'd suggest cancelling sailing orders of all +transports temporarily, at least until such time as I felt sure they could +go in safety. Then I'd flash a warning broadcast to all vessels within +reach of the wireless to be on the lookout for enemy submarines. I'd rush +every available submarine chaser in the Atlantic ports beyond the mine +fields and I would order a destroyer as protection for every vessel known +to be inward bound."</p> + +<p>Secretary Daniels smiled.</p> + +<p>"You wouldn't overlook anything, would you, Captain?"</p> + +<p>"I certainly would not," said Jack firmly.</p> + +<p>"Very well, then," said Secretary Daniels. "I'll set your mind at rest. +Your suggestions shall be followed out. I'll give the necessary directions +the first thing in the morning."</p> + +<p>"In the morning, sir?" repeated Jack. "The morning may be too late."</p> + +<p>"Oh, I guess not," Secretary Daniels smiled. "It has been three weeks or +more since your first warning and nothing has happened. I guess we can +safely depend upon being let alone a few hours after the second warning."</p> + +<p>Jack was about to protest, thought better of it and said simply:</p> + +<p>"Very well, sir."</p> + +<p>A moment later the lads took their departure with the ambassador. In the +seclusion of the latter's automobile, Jack said:</p> + +<p>"I can't see how the secretary dares let time slip by like that."</p> + +<p>"Never mind," said the ambassador, "you'll find in a day or two that +Secretary Daniels knows what he's doing. Don't make any mistake about him. +He's a capable man."</p> + +<p>"I have no doubt of that, sir," replied Jack. "But if he had seen three +years of war, as we have, he would never delay. Besides, he doesn't know +these German submarines as well as I do. Neither do any of the Americans."</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes they do," declared Frank.</p> + +<p>"They do, eh?" exclaimed Jack. "Well, I'd like to know the name of one of +them."</p> + +<p>"His name," said Frank, "is Lieutenant Chadwick, and I think he knows just +about as much about the U-Boats as you do; and he agrees with your ideas +perfectly."</p> + +<p>Jack smiled.</p> + +<p>"That's right," he said. "I had forgotten you were a native of this land. +Well, here's hoping nothing happens before Secretary Daniels takes all +necessary precautions."</p> + +<p>The British ambassador left the lads at their hotel, and they returned at +once to their rooms, where for several hours they discussed the situation.</p> + +<p>"There is no use talking about it," said Frank at last. "Let's go to bed."</p> + +<p>They undressed.</p> + +<p>Just before extinguishing the light, as was his custom, Frank raised the +window. As he looked out he saw below a crowd of excited men and women +moving about the street.</p> + +<p>"Hey, Jack!" he called. "Come here."</p> + +<p>Jack joined him at the window.</p> + +<p>"Now what's up, do you suppose?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>"Too deep for me," declared Jack, "but something surely. Let's go down and +find out."</p> + +<p>Hurriedly they slipped back into their clothes, and went down stairs. They +stepped out of the hotel and mingled with the people on the streets, quite +a crowd for Washington at that hour of the night.</p> + +<p>The stream of people led toward Eleventh and Pennsylvania avenue, where a +larger crowd was gathered in front of a bulletin board in the window of a +newspaper office.</p> + +<p>"Big news of some kind," said Jack as they hurried along.</p> + +<p>"And not good news, either," Frank declared. "There'd be some cheering if +it were."</p> + +<p>"You're right," said Jack.</p> + +<p>By main force they wormed their way through the crowd, until they were +close enough to read the bulletin board. Then Jack uttered an exclamation +of alarm.</p> + +<p>"I knew it!" he cried.</p> + +<p>For what he read was this:</p> + +<p>"Navy Department announces sinking of two freight vessels off New Jersey +coast by German submarines."</p> + +<p>"I knew it!" Jack said again.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIII" id="CHAPTER_XIII" />CHAPTER XIII</h2> + +<h3>THE SUBMARINES GROW BOLDER</h3> + + +<p>The boys returned to their rooms.</p> + +<p>"Now what?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>"I don't know," was Jack's reply. "I hate to sit here quietly when the +whole American navy, or what part of it is still here, is in chase of the +Germans, but what are we going to do about it?"</p> + +<p>"Search me," replied Frank.</p> + +<p>"Our instructions," Jack continued, "are to stay here pending further +orders."</p> + +<p>"Maybe we'll get them soon," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"Yes; and maybe we won't."</p> + +<p>"Then we'll just have to sit tight."</p> + +<p>"That's what worries me."</p> + +<p>There was a knock at the door.</p> + +<p>"Come in," Frank called.</p> + +<p>A bell boy entered with a second cablegram.</p> + +<p>Jack tore it open hastily.</p> + +<p>"Hurray!" he cried.</p> + +<p>"What's up?" demanded Frank.</p> + +<p>He arose and peered over his chum's shoulder. What he read was this:</p> + +<p>"Offer your services and the services of the Essex to the U.S. Navy +Department at once."</p> + +<p>"Fine!" cried Frank. "Let's get busy."</p> + +<p>It was the work of half an hour, however, to get Secretary Daniels on the +telephone. He had been aroused at the first news of the sinkings off the +coast and had been kept on the jump ever since. But he took time to talk +to Jack.</p> + +<p>"I am authorized by the British Admiralty, sir," said Jack over the +'phone, "to offer the services of my ship to the American government."</p> + +<p>"Accepted with thanks," snapped Secretary Daniels. "You will proceed +immediately to your vessel in Newport News, after which you will join the +American vessels on patrol duty off the coast of Virginia. I shall inform +Admiral Sellings that you will report to him for instructions."</p> + +<p>Without awaiting a reply, Secretary Daniels hung up.</p> + +<p>"By George!" said Jack. "He's a man of action when he gets to moving."</p> + +<p>"What did he say?" demanded Frank.</p> + +<p>"Hurry and pack your things," was Jack's reply. "I'll explain as we work."</p> + +<p>It was the work of only a few minutes for the lads to gather their +belongings and dump them in their handbags. Then they hurried downstairs, +where they paid their bill and learned that they could catch a train to +Richmond within the hour.</p> + +<p>"Going after the submarines?" asked the night clerk.</p> + +<p>"Yes," replied Jack shortly.</p> + +<p>"Good! I hope you get 'em. Here's your taxi."</p> + +<p>The lads jumped into the taxi and were driven to the station, where they +caught their train with time to spare.</p> + +<p>It lacked two hours of daylight when they arrived in Richmond. They took a +taxi across town to the Chesapeake and Ohio station, where they caught a +train for Newport News an hour later. At eight o'clock they were in +Newport News, and fifteen minutes later stepped aboard the Essex.</p> + +<p>"Glad to see you back, sir," said Lieutenant Hetherton, who held the deck. +"I suppose you've heard——"</p> + +<p>"Pipe all hands to quarters, Mr. Hetherton," Jack interrupted sharply, +"and clear ship for action. We sail within the hour."</p> + +<p>Lieutenant Hetherton hurried away.</p> + +<p>"Frank," said Jack, "go below and have a look at the engine room. Then +find the quartermaster and see about provisions and fuel."</p> + +<p>Frank also hurried away.</p> + +<p>Sailing preparations aboard the Essex were made hurriedly and within less +than an hour all was ready for departure. Meanwhile, crowds had collected +ashore, upon learning that the Essex was about to set out in pursuit of +the German undersea raiders.</p> + +<p>Loud cheers split the air. Men and women waved their handkerchiefs. From a +group of soldiers on the shore came expressions of good luck. In response +to Jack's request, a pilot had been hurried aboard and now took the wheel.</p> + +<p>"Half speed ahead," Jack ordered.</p> + +<p>The water churned up ahead of the Essex, and she moved majestically toward +the center of the stream.</p> + +<p>Gradually the cheering died away in the distance, and the city of Newport +News was lost to sight. In Hampton Roads again, the pilot was dropped in a +small boat and rowed shoreward.</p> + +<p>Frank took his place behind the helmsman and Jack rang for full speed +ahead. At last the Essex was off in pursuit of the German submarines.</p> + +<p>Meanwhile, an account of the activity of the enemy off the coats is in +order. Besides the sinking of the first two freight vessels, which had +been reported to the Navy Department by survivors who had reached shore in +small boats, other vessels had been sent to the bottom. Most of these were +freighters or small trading ships, including two sailing vessels. Some had +been sunk off the New Jersey coast, others off the coasts of Delaware and +Virginia.</p> + +<p>In some cases the vessels attacked had attempted to flee, but they were +quickly overhauled by the submarines, which, besides firing torpedoes into +their hulls, shelled them with rapid fire guns and later attacked the +small boats in which the crews sought to make the shore.</p> + +<p>Casualties had been heavy aboard the ships sunk by the raiders. One or two +of the enemy submarines had been fired on by armed ships, but to no avail; +and as a result of those efforts, the death lists aboard such vessels had +been increased, for the Germans, angered, had swept the survivors in small +boats with rapid fire guns.</p> + +<p>How many submarines were operating in American waters, the Navy department +did not know. From the fact that ships were attacked in at least three +places, within a short space of time, however, it was believed that there +were at least three or four of the raiders.</p> + +<p>From all ports along the coast, destroyers, submarine chasers, motor boats +armed with single guns, had put to sea in an effort to run down the +raiders. But off the New Jersey coast, almost in the midst of these +vessels, a sailing ship was sunk by a submarine. Before any of the +patroling vessels could reach the scene, however, the U-Boat had submerged +and fled.</p> + +<p>Depth bombs were dropped by ships of war wherever it was thought a +submarine might be lurking beneath the water. But these efforts met with +no success. Reports of sinkings in other parts of the water reached the +Navy department.</p> + +<p>The first sinking was reported on May 10. In the week that followed, +eighteen other vessels were sent to the bottom by German submarines off +the American coast. At the end of that time, however, the waters were +being so well patrolled that it would have been suicide for a submarine to +have showed itself.</p> + +<p>Reports of sinkings ceased. But, from time to time, word was received that +submarines had been sighted farther south, first off the coast of the +Carolinas and then off Florida. No attacks were made in these waters, +however, and the next that was heard of the submarines they were off the +coast of South America.</p> + +<p>During the activities of the enemy raiders, one submarine was sunk, and +one was captured, both through the efforts of Jack and the crew and +officers of the Essex.</p> + +<p>After leaving Hampton Roads, the Essex steamed out beyond the Virginia +Capes. Immediately Jack sought to get into communication with Admiral +Sellings by wireless. And at last he raised the admiral's flagship, the +Dakota.</p> + +<p>"What do you want?" came the query from the Dakota, after Jack's flash had +been picked up.</p> + +<p>"British destroyer Essex, Captain Templeton, reporting to Admiral Sellings +for orders at the request of Secretary Daniels," was the message Jack sent +back.</p> + +<p>"One moment," was the reply.</p> + +<p>Jack waited in the radio room aboard the Essex.</p> + +<p>"Essex! Essex!" came the call five minutes later.</p> + +<p>"Answer," Jack directed the operator.</p> + +<p>"Essex replying," the operator flashed.</p> + +<p>"Admiral Sellings orders Essex to proceed north and stand out to sea to +protect inbound vessels. Understand one submarine sighted five miles out +five hours ago. Repeat."</p> + +<p>The operator repeated the message to show that he had caught in correctly.</p> + +<p>Jack went on deck and gave instructions necessary to putting the Essex out +at sea. Then, "Full speed ahead!" he signalled.</p> + +<p>The British destroyer Essex stood out to sea magnificently. Aboard, her +crew stood to their posts, ready for action. Jack, surrounded by his +officers, held the bridge.</p> + +<p>"We've got to keep a sharp eye out," said Jack.</p> + +<p>"Right," Frank agreed. "We're likely to come upon one of the enemy any +moment, and we can't afford to let him see us first."</p> + +<p>"Very true, sir," Lieutenant Hetherton agreed. "Fortunately all our +lookouts have sharp eyes. I'll venture to say a submarine won't come to +the surface very close to us without being seen."</p> + +<p>"That's the way to talk, Mr. Hetherton," said Jack. "It shows the proper +spirit."</p> + +<p>"And the men are imbued with the same spirit," declared Frank, "and yet +see how cool they are."</p> + +<p>It was perfectly true. There was no confusion aboard the Essex in spite of +the fact that each member of the crew knew he was bent on a dangerous +mission. One shot from the submarine, they knew, if truly aimed and Jack +was unable to maneuver the vessel out of harm's way, would be the end. +However, like all British tars, they had absolute confidence in their +commander; for, according to their line of reasoning, if he were not a +capable officer and to be depended upon he would not be in command of the +ship.</p> + +<p>Suddenly the radio operator appeared on deck and hurried toward the +bridge. Jack stepped forward to meet him. The lad took the message the +operator passed him and read:</p> + +<div class="blockquot"><p>"S.O.S. Pursued by submarine eighteen miles off Cape May light. + Am running south by west, but foe is gaining. Capt. Griswold, + Ventura."</p></div> + +<p>"This," said Jack quietly, "means that there is still another U-Boat to be +reckoned with, but I had no idea they were operating so far out. We'll +have to get busy."</p> + +<p>Jack looked at his officers with a slight smile on his face, then ordered: +"Shape your course due east, Frank. Full speed ahead."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIV" id="CHAPTER_XIV" />CHAPTER XIV</h2> + +<h3>THE U-87</h3> + + +<p>As the Essex sped forward the radio operator from time to time picked up +other messages from the Ventura.</p> + +<p>"She's headed directly toward us," Jack explained to Frank. "We should +sight her within the hour."</p> + +<p>The Ventura was sighted in less, but under peculiar conditions.</p> + +<p>"Ship on the starboard bow, sir," sang the lookout forward.</p> + +<p>A moment later the officers on the bridge sighted the vessel through their +glasses.</p> + +<p>"By George! She seems to be standing still," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"So she does," Lieutenant Hetherton agreed, "Wonder what's the matter?"</p> + +<p>"We'll find out fast enough," returned Jack quietly.</p> + +<p>"Take the bridge, Mr. Chadwick," said Jack. "I'm going below to the radio +room."</p> + +<p>"See if you can raise the Ventura," he instructed the radio operator, a +few moments later.</p> + +<p>"Ventura! Ventura!" went the call through the air.</p> + +<p>There was no response.</p> + +<p>"Try it again," said Jack.</p> + +<p>The operator obeyed. Still there was no reply from the Ventura.</p> + +<p>"Something wrong," Jack muttered under his breath, "and still I saw no +sign of a submarine. Try 'em again, Wilkins."</p> + +<p>Again the radio operator sent the call flashing through the air:</p> + +<p>"Ventura! Ventura! Ventura!"</p> + +<p>The instrument at Wilkins' side began to click.</p> + +<p>"Ventura replying, sir," Wilkins reported.</p> + +<p>"I hear him," said Jack briefly. "Let me get at that key, Wilkins."</p> + +<p>The operator sprang up and Jack took his place and strapped the receiver +over his head.</p> + +<p>"What's the trouble, Ventura?" he clicked.</p> + +<p>"Held up by submarine," was the reply. "U-Boat due east of us. You can't +see her. We sighted you just after we were boarded."</p> + +<p>"Then how does it come you are at the key?" Jack clicked.</p> + +<p>"Broke away from captors on deck. They are pounding at the door now."</p> + +<p>"Have they sighted us?"</p> + +<p>"They hadn't. There goes the door, Good-bye."</p> + +<p>The flashes from the Ventura ceased. Jack sprang up and turned the +receiver over to the operator.</p> + +<p>"Keep calling," he said. "If you pick the Ventura up again, let me know. +I'll send a man so you can report to me through him."</p> + +<p>Jack hurried on deck.</p> + +<p>In the distance the Ventura was plainly visible now. Jack changed the +course of the ship slightly, and after the vessel had gone half a mile he +made out the form of a submarine lying close astern of the Ventura.</p> + +<p>"By George! They must see us," he muttered. "If the lookout on the U-Boat +hasn't espied us, surely some of the Germans on the deck of the Ventura +must have done so. Wonder why the submarine captain doesn't sink the +steamer and submerge. Surely he is not going to risk an encounter with +me."</p> + +<p>Nevertheless, it seemed that such must be the submarine commander's +intention, for the submarine showed no sign of submerging as the Essex +bore down on her.</p> + +<p>Through his binoculars Frank was now able to ascertain the fact that a +struggle was in progress on the deck of the Ventura. A dozen or more +figures, closely interlocked, were scuffling to and fro across the bridge. +Frank gave an exclamation.</p> + +<p>"I know what's wrong," he ejaculated.</p> + +<p>"Well, what?" demanded Jack, turning to him.</p> + +<p>"Why, the crew, or some of the crew, has jumped the commander of the +submarine and his escort. That's why the officer left on the U-Boat +doesn't dare sink the vessel. And the crew of the steamer is keeping the +German and his friends so busy aboard that they haven't had a chance to +jump overboard."</p> + +<p>"By George! I guess you're right," declared Jack. "Now if they can hold +them fifteen minutes longer we'll get in the game ourselves."</p> + +<p>Again Jack altered the course of the Essex and approached the submarine at +an angle from the Ventura.</p> + +<p>"Forward turret guns there!" he roared.</p> + +<p>It was the signal the men had been eagerly awaiting. Quickly the signal +"ready" was flashed in the forward turret. The men were already at their +posts.</p> + +<p>"Range finders!" ordered Jack.</p> + +<p>"Aye, aye, sir," came the reply of the officer in charge of this work, and +he calculated the range swiftly and passed the word to the captain of the +gun crew in the forward turret.</p> + +<p>"Fire!"</p> + +<p>A heavy shell flew screaming across the water.</p> + +<p>But the range had not been correct and the shell flew past the submarine. +Again the range was calculated, taking into consideration the first error. +Again the command to fire was given.</p> + +<p>This time the range had been gauged perfectly and the shell must have gone +home had it not been for one thing.</p> + +<p>A moment before the command to fire was given, a torpedo was launched by +the submarine. Jack saw the torpedo come dashing through the water, and he +was forced to order the helm over promptly to escape the deadly messenger. +This maneuver was made at the precise moment that the Essex fired for the +second time, and consequently the shell again went wide.</p> + +<p>Almost at the same instant Frank, who had kept his eyes glued to the deck +of the Ventura where the struggle on the bridge had continued fiercely, +uttered an exclamation of alarm.</p> + +<p>"They've broken away," he cried.</p> + +<p>It was true, The submarine commander and his followers had succeeded in +eluding the crew of the Ventura and dashed to the rail. There they poised +themselves a brief moment, and then flung themselves headlong into the +sea. Directly, dripping, they appeared on the deck of the submarine and +dashed for the conning tower.</p> + +<p>"Quick!" roared Jack. "Forward turret guns again there!"</p> + +<p>Once more the range was calculated and an explosion shook the Essex. But +as before the range had not been true. The shell barely skimmed the top of +the U-Boat and went screaming half a mile past, where it struck the water +with a hiss.</p> + +<p>Slowly the submarine began to submerge.</p> + +<p>"Again!" cried Jack.</p> + +<p>But the next shot had no better success.</p> + +<p>The submarine disappeared from sight.</p> + +<p>Jack stamped his foot.</p> + +<p>"What's the matter with those fellows forward?" he demanded. "Can't they +shoot? Didn't they ever see a gun before?"</p> + +<p>There was no reply from the other officers and gradually Jack cooled down.</p> + +<p>"Pretty tough," said Frank then. "We should have had that fellow."</p> + +<p>Jack nodded gloomily.</p> + +<p>"So we should," he cried, "but we didn't get him. Well, better luck next +time. All the same, I'm inclined to believe that Ensign Carruthers needs a +talking to. He didn't take the time to calculate the range correctly."</p> + +<p>"I'll speak to him," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"Do," said Jack. "In the meantime we'll run close to the Ventura and I'll +go aboard for a word with her captain."</p> + +<p>The Ventura's wireless was working again now, and Jack himself took the +key.</p> + +<p>"Lay to," he ordered. "I'm coming aboard you."</p> + +<p>"Very well," was the reply.</p> + +<p>The two vessels drew close together. Jack had the destroyer's launch +lowered, climbed in and crossed to the Ventura, where a ladder was lowered +for him. On deck he was greeted by a grizzled old sailor, who introduced +himself as Captain Griswold.</p> + +<p>"Come to my cabin, sir," he said to Jack. "We can talk there without being +interrupted."</p> + +<p>Jack followed the captain of the Ventura below, and took a seat the latter +motioned him to. The captain set out liquor and cigars, but Jack waved +them away.</p> + +<p>"I neither smoke nor drink, thanks," he said.</p> + +<p>Captain Griswold shrugged his shoulders and put a match to a cigar.</p> + +<p>"Well, what can I do for you, Captain?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"First," said Jack, "did you get the number of the submarine?"</p> + +<p>"I did. The U-87, Commander Frederich, the captain styled himself; and if +there ever was a murderer unhung, he's the man."</p> + +<p>"Why?" asked Jack curiously.</p> + +<p>"Because he proposed setting my passengers and crew adrift in small boats, +without water or provisions, before sinking my ship. And when I told him +that I had him figured correctly—that he intended to shell the +lifeboats—the cold-blooded scoundrel admitted it! That's why we had the +nerve to jump him on deck. I figured we might as well die on the Ventura +as in the lifeboats—and we had a chance of taking him to Davy Jones' +locker along with us."</p> + +<p>"I see," said Jack. "Not a bad idea."</p> + +<p>"It was offered by the wireless operator," continued Captain Griswold, +"although he offered it unconsciously."</p> + +<p>"Explain," Jack requested.</p> + +<p>"Well, Harrington thought he heard his instrument clicking. He figured it +was you, whom we had just sighted. He broke through the Germans on deck +and dashed below. He locked himself in his room and began talking to you. +Three of the enemy went after him and broke in the door, but I guess he +had told you enough by that time."</p> + +<p>"I'd like a word with this Harrington," said Jack. "He is a brave man. +Where is he?"</p> + +<p>"Dead," said Captain Griswold quietly.</p> + +<p>Jack jumped to his feet</p> + +<p>"Dead?" he repeated.</p> + +<p>"Yes. After the Germans broke in the door, they overpowered him, tied him +and then brought back on deck. Said the German commander: 'I'll show you +how we treat men who defy us.' He stepped back several paces, drew his +revolver and fired. Then three of the enemy threw the body into the sea. +That's when we jumped them, for it was more than we could stand."</p> + +<p>"Then who answered the wireless when I called a moment ago?"</p> + +<p>"I did."</p> + +<p>"I guess that is enough, Captain," said Jack. He returned to the Essex.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XV" id="CHAPTER_XV" />CHAPTER XV</h2> + +<h3>JACK GIVES CHASE</h3> + + +<p>"Any sight of the submarine, Frank?" asked Jack, when he stepped on deck +again.</p> + +<p>"None," was the reply. "In accordance with instructions you gave before +you went overside we dropped depth bombs in the spot where the U-Boat +disappeared, but without result."</p> + +<p>"I guess he's gone, then," said Jack. "But I'd like to get my hands on +that fellow," and he related to Frank the manner in which the German +commander had shot down the wireless operator aboard the Ventura.</p> + +<p>"By Jove! What a murderous scoundrel!" muttered Frank.</p> + +<p>Jack nodded.</p> + +<p>"No worse than the rest of them, I'll wager," he said. "But, hello! The +Ventura's moving again."</p> + +<p>As soon as Jack had left the deck of the steamer, Captain Griswold had +ordered the engines started and prepared for a quick dash to shore.</p> + +<p>"There are likely to be more of those pesky submarines about here," he +muttered, "and the sooner I reach port the better."</p> + +<p>Accordingly he ordered full speed ahead.</p> + +<p>"Do you know," said Frank, "I've a hunch that the U-87 is not through with +the Ventura. You know how the German is. He doesn't like to admit he's +been licked, so I figure the submarine commander is likely to have gone +ahead and will be awaiting the approach of the Ventura."</p> + +<p>"Now by George! I wouldn't be a bit surprised," Jack agreed. "Well, we'll +be ready for him."</p> + +<p>"What are you going to do, Jack?"</p> + +<p>"I'll show you. Come."</p> + +<p>Jack dashed to the radio room, Frank at his heels.</p> + +<p>"Get the Ventura for me," Jack instructed the operator.</p> + +<p>It was perhaps five minutes later that the Ventura answered the call. Jack +took the key.</p> + +<p>"Captain Griswold?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"Yes. Who are you?"</p> + +<p>"Captain Templeton, destroyer Essex."</p> + +<p>"Well, what do you want this time?"</p> + +<p>"Slow down. I'm coming aboard again."</p> + +<p>"What for?"</p> + +<p>"I'll explain when I get there."</p> + +<p>"All right, but I'll tell you I don't like this business."</p> + +<p>The instrument became silent.</p> + +<p>"Now tell me what you're going to do, Jack," said Frank, as he followed +his chum and commander on deck.</p> + +<p>"It's very simple," said Jack. "As you have said, I believe that the +submarine commander will intercept the Ventura again farther along toward +the shore. Now, I'm going to turn the Essex over to you temporarily and +go aboard the Ventura. You know the Germans as well as I do. This man will +no more think of sinking the Ventura without doing a bit of bragging to +the captain, who fooled him once, than he will of flying."</p> + +<p>"That's true enough," Frank admitted.</p> + +<p>"All right. Now I'll be aboard when he gets there. If he comes aboard, +I'll grab him there. If he doesn't I'll jump to the deck of the submarine +after him and tumble him overboard. I'll trust to you to keep the +submarine occupied and to get a boat to me."</p> + +<p>"It's a desperate venture, Jack," Frank protested.</p> + +<p>"So it is," was Jack's reply, "but I've a longing to capture this fellow. +If we just sink the submarine, I can't do it of course. Another thing, it +may be that I am not doing just right in leaving my ship, but it will only +be for a couple of hours and I know you can handle it as well as I can."</p> + +<p>"Oh, I won't sink her," grinned Frank. "But why not let me be the one to +go?"</p> + +<p>"Because I'm not sure you can handle the German commander."</p> + +<p>"But you're sure you can, eh?"</p> + +<p>"He'll have to be something new in the line of a German if I can't."</p> + +<p>"All right," said Frank. "Have it your own way. You're boss here, you +know."</p> + +<p>Meantime the Essex and the Ventura had been drawing closer together. +Directly a boat put off from the destroyer and ran alongside of the +steamer. Jack clambered over the side and the launch returned to the +destroyer.</p> + +<p>Captain Griswold was waiting for Jack.</p> + +<p>"Now what's up?" he wanted to know.</p> + +<p>"Come to your cabin and I'll explain," said Jack.</p> + +<p>In the seclusion of the cabin he outlined the situation. When he had +concluded a sketch of his plans, Captain Griswold demurred.</p> + +<p>"But I don't like to risk my passengers," he said.</p> + +<p>"You won't be risking them any more with me aboard than you will without +me," Jack explained. "Besides, you will have the additional protection of +the destroyer. In fact, it may be that the presence of the Essex will +scare the submarine off, but I doubt it. The German commander, as all of +his ilk, is angry at having been balked of his prey. He'll probably have +one more try, destroyer or no destroyer."</p> + +<p>"Well," said Captain Griswold, "you're a British naval officer and should +know something, whether you do or not. But I'll tell you right now I hope +the submarine doesn't show up again."</p> + +<p>Nevertheless, Captain Griswold was doomed to disappointment, for the U-87 +did reappear.</p> + +<p>It was almost 6 o'clock in the evening when all on board were startled by +a cry from the lookout.</p> + +<p>"Submarine on the port bow, sir."</p> + +<p>Instantly all became confusion on the big merchant ship. Passengers, of +whom there were perhaps fifty, became greatly excited. Every man on board +strapped on a life preserver, and waited for he knew not what.</p> + +<p>The fact that, directly astern, the Essex, British destroyer, was in plain +sight and trailing them, did not allay their fears. Came a shot from a gun +mounted forward on the submarine, a signal to heave to.</p> + +<p>"Obey it," said Jack, to Captain Griswold, on the bridge.</p> + +<p>Captain Griswold ordered his engines stopped.</p> + +<p>"I'll keep out of sight for a moment," said Jack. "The commander may come +on board."</p> + +<p>He stooped down in the shelter of the pilot house.</p> + +<p>The submarine drew close to the Ventura, and a voice hailed Captain +Griswold:</p> + +<p>"Thought you'd get away did you, you Yankee pig."</p> + +<p>It was the voice of the German commander.</p> + +<p>"Oh, we may get away yet," said Captain Griswold.</p> + +<p>"Don't depend on the destroyer this time," shouted the commander of the +submarine. "I see her approaching, but she won't be soon enough. I'll sink +you and submerge before she can fire a shot."</p> + +<p>"Well, you big cut throat," shouted Captain Griswold, losing his temper, +"why don't you do it?"</p> + +<p>"You dare to talk to a German officer like that?" thundered the submarine +commander. "You shall be sunk immediately. But first I wanted a word with +you. I just wanted to tell you what fate I hold in store for you."</p> + +<p>"It's my opinion," said Captain Griswold, "that you're a big bluff, like +all the rest of your stripe."</p> + +<p>Meantime, realizing that the German commander did not intend to board the +Ventura a second time, Jack crept from the shelter of the pilot house +unobserved and stole across the deck until he was beside the rail just +above the U-Boat, whose sides almost scraped the Ventura, so close were +the two vessels together.</p> + +<p>Jack removed his coat and his cap, which he dropped on deck. Then he stood +up in full view of the German submarine commander. The latter gazed at him +carelessly, for without his cap and coat Jack showed no sign of being a +British naval officer.</p> + +<p>Jack took in the scene about him with a careful eye. The German commander +stood close to the conning tower. There were perhaps half a dozen men +beside him, presumably his officers. The commander was directly below the +spot where Jack stood.</p> + +<p>One of the Germans, Jack noticed, kept a close eye on the approaching +Essex and from time to time spoke to the commander in a low tone.</p> + +<p>"Oh, these English can't shoot," Jack heard the commander say at last. +"However, I guess we have delayed long enough. Inside with you, +gentlemen."</p> + +<p>Two of the Germans descended through the conning tower. This left four on +the deck of the submarine besides the commander. These, too, moved toward +the conning tower.</p> + +<p>"Guess it's time to get busy," Jack muttered.</p> + +<p>With a single movement he leaped to the rail of the Ventura, and with a +second hurled himself to the deck of the submarine, landing in the midst +of the startled Germans.</p> + +<p>At the same moment, Captain Griswold, on the Ventura, signalled his engine +room for full speed ahead in accordance with Jack's instructions.</p> + +<p>The reason for this was obvious. First, it would take the steamer out of +the way of the torpedoes already trained on her, which would not be +launched without a command from one of the enemy officers, and, second, it +would draw the Ventura away so as to present the submarine as a clear +target for the guns of the approaching Essex.</p> + +<p>Jack, on the deck of the submarine, recovered himself before the German +officers could get over their surprise. He sprang to his feet and waded +into them, striking out right and left.</p> + +<p>Two men went staggering across the narrow deck and toppled into the sea. +The others reached for their revolvers. Before they could fire, however, +Jack sprang forward quickly and floored one of the enemy with a smashing +blow. This left the commander and one other officer on deck.</p> + +<p>The commander fired at Jack, but in his haste the bullet went wild. Jack +hurled himself forward, and the men gave ground. One, retreating, lost his +balance and went staggering across the deck and fell overboard.</p> + +<p>Only the commander of the submarine now faced Jack, and he covered the lad +with a revolver.</p> + +<p>"Hands up!" he said.</p> + +<p>For answer Jack smiled slightly, and took a quick step forward.</p> + +<p>"Crack!" the German's revolver spoke sharply, and Jack felt a hot pain in +his left arm. But the German had no time to fire again, for Jack was upon +him, pinning his revolver arm to his side.</p> + +<p>"Now," said the lad, "I've got you!"</p> + +<p>The two wrestled across the deck.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVI" id="CHAPTER_XVI" />CHAPTER XVI</h2> + +<h3>THE FIGHT ON THE U-87</h3> + + +<p>In the meantime, members of the crew hearing the commotion on deck, rushed +up to see what was going on. Seeing their commander struggling with an +enemy, they hurried across the deck.</p> + +<p>Jack saw them coming out of the tail of his eye. It was not time to +hesitate and the lad knew it.</p> + +<p>With his arms still wrapped about the German commander, Jack struggled to +the rail and leaped into the sea. Down and down he went, never for a +moment relaxing his hold on the German. Then they came to the surface.</p> + +<p>With a sudden jerk the German freed himself and aimed a heavy blow at +Jack. This Jack dodged and sought to regain his hold on his foe. But the +German wriggled away and struck out for the submarine.</p> + +<p>In the meantime, Captain Griswold of the Ventura had been watching the +struggle as his vessel sped away from the scene. There was a strange light +in his eyes and he muttered to himself. At last he muttered an +imprecation.</p> + +<p>"He's a brave boy," he said. "I can't run away and leave him like that."</p> + +<p>He brought the head of the vessel around in spite of the protests of some +of the passengers, and headed back for the submarine.</p> + +<p>"Man the forward gun there!" he cried.</p> + +<p>For the Ventura, like other allied ships plying in the seas in those days, +carried small guns for defensive purposes. The gun crew sprang to obey +this order and the gun was trained on the submarine.</p> + +<p>"Fire!" shouted Captain Griswold.</p> + +<p>"Crash!"</p> + +<p>The gun spoke and a geyser of water was kicked up just beyond the +submarine.</p> + +<p>At this point the officer left in command of the submarine seemed to +realize his own danger. He sprang to the conning tower, unmindful of the +fact that his commander was struggling in the water.</p> + +<p>"Down, men!" he cried.</p> + +<p>But it appeared that the German sailors were made of sterner stuff than +was the officer. They refused to go below until their commander had been +brought safely aboard. In vain the officer pointed out their danger.</p> + +<p>Jack struck out after the German commander as the latter swam for the +submarine. The lad was a powerful swimmer and he felt confident he could +overtake the man before help could reach him.</p> + +<p>The destroyer Essex had now drawn close. Frank had been afraid to order a +shot at the submarine for fear the shell might hit Jack in the water.</p> + +<p>"Take the bridge, Mr. Hetherton!" he cried. "Lower a boat, men!"</p> + +<p>The boat was lowered in a trice and Frank and a score of sailors sprang +in. The launch darted toward Jack at full speed, Frank standing erect and +with the quartermaster at the rudder.</p> + +<p>They were close enough to see the struggle between Jack and the German +commander in the water. Frank saw the man break loose from Jack and strike +out for the submarine. He saw Jack make after him, and he saw something +more.</p> + +<p>Half a dozen German sailors leaped into the water and made for Jack, who +apparently did not realize his own danger, so interested was he in the +pursuit of the German commander.</p> + +<p>"Faster!" cried Frank, and drew his revolver.</p> + +<p>Now, for the first time, Jack realized his danger. But it was too late to +draw back, and it is doubtful if he would have done so anyway.</p> + +<p>"I'm going to get that fellow," he gritted between his teeth, referring to +the German commander.</p> + +<p>One of the German sailors struck at the lad with a knife. Jack caught the +man's arm with his left hand and twisted sharply. There was a snap, and +the knife dropped into the water. The sailor uttered a cry of pain and +turning, struck out for the submarine with his good arm.</p> + +<p>Two sailors now beset Jack on either side, and the German commander turned +to renew the struggle.</p> + +<p>"Kill him!" he cried angrily.</p> + +<p>One of the sailors raised himself high in the water, and a knife flashed +above him.</p> + +<p>"Crack!"</p> + +<p>A revolver spoke sharply and the knife dropped from limp fingers.</p> + +<p>Frank, standing erect in the Essex's launch, had fired. Now, as has been +said, Frank was a crack shot, and in spite of the pitching of the small +boat, his aim had been true. The bullet had struck the German sailor's arm +just below the elbow, shattering the nerve.</p> + +<p>Perceiving the approach of reinforcements, at an order from their +commander, the Germans turned and swam rapidly toward the submarine. The +sailors reached the vessel and climbed aboard. Their commander did +likewise.</p> + +<p>Unmindful of the cries of his friends behind him, Jack also laid hold of +the edge of the submarine and drew himself, dripping, aboard the vessel. A +sailor near the conning tower raised his revolver in deliberate aim.</p> + +<p>"Crack! Crack!"</p> + +<p>Two revolvers spoke almost as one, the first Frank's, the second that of +the sailor who aimed at Jack. But Frank's bullet went home, thus +deflecting the aim of the man who covered Jack, and the German's bullet +went wild.</p> + +<p>The commander of the submarine, at this juncture, losing his temper at +being pursued to the very door of safety, turned and sprang for Jack with +a wild cry. He was a big and powerful man, and as he wrapped his arms +about Jack, the lad staggered back.</p> + +<p>But he recovered his balance in a moment and struck out with his right +fist. Struck in the stomach, the German grunted and stepped back.</p> + +<p>Now the remainder of the German crew came pouring on deck. At the same +time Frank's launch grated alongside and his men poured a volley of rifle +bullets into the enemy. The latter turned and scampered for safety below +decks.</p> + +<p>Jack, still struggling with the German commander, paused and looked around +long enough to cry:</p> + +<p>"After them, Frank! Don't let them shut you out."</p> + +<p>Frank understood and led his men toward the conning tower at a run. Most +of the enemy were already inside and descending, but Frank arrived in time +to prevent the closing of the conning tower, which would have permitted +the submarine to submerge, leaving the struggling figures in the water. +With the conning tower open, it was, of course, impossible for the U-Boat +to submerge, for she would have been flooded immediately.</p> + +<p>Frank's men made prisoners of the half a dozen Germans who had not time to +get below, and then the lad ran over to help Jack.</p> + +<p>"Keep away, Frank," said Jack. "I've got this fellow, and I hope he +doesn't give up too easily. We've heavy accounts to settle with him."</p> + +<p>The big German showed no symptoms of giving up. He lashed out with both +arms and Jack was kept busy warding off the blows. But the German +commander was a novice at this sort of fighting, while Jack, only a year +or so before, had won the heavyweight boxing championship of the British +navy. So there was no doubt in Frank's mind as to the outcome. He and his +men formed a circle around the struggling figures, at the same time +guarding the conning tower to prevent the enemy from closing it.</p> + +<p>"Shoot the first head you see down there," Frank enjoined the men he left +on guard, and he knew they would be only too glad to obey this order.</p> + +<p>Jack, with a smile still on his face, permitted the German commander to +waste his energy in ineffective blows. Then Jack stepped forward and +delivered a heavy blow to the man's mouth. The German staggered back. Jack +doubled him up with a left-handed punch to the pit of the stomach, then +straightened him with a second hard right to the point of the chin.</p> + +<p>The German commander reeled backward. Jack followed up his advantage, and +for the space of a minute played a tattoo on the man's face with both +fists. Then he stepped back, and as the German came toward him, the lad +muttered:</p> + +<p>"I guess this has gone far enough. Now for the finish."</p> + +<p>He started a blow almost from the deck, and putting his full force behind +it, struck.</p> + +<p>"Crack!"</p> + +<p>The blow could be heard even aboard the Ventura, which had approached +close by this time.</p> + +<p>The German commander seemed to stagger back all of ten paces, the British +sailors scurrying back to keep out of his way. Then the man fell, his head +striking the deck with a sickening thud.</p> + +<p>"There," said Jack, "I guess that will settle you. Tie him up, men."</p> + +<p>A wild cheer had burst from the sailors as Jack delivered the finishing +touch. None of these men had ever seen Jack in action before, and it was +only natural that they should be greatly impressed at this exhibition of +their commander's prowess.</p> + +<p>"By glory! What a blow!" one of them exclaimed. "Did you see it, Tom?"</p> + +<p>"Did I?" exclaimed the man addressed as Tom; "did I? I'll say I did, and I +thought I was pretty handy with my fists. But not against Captain Jack, +not for me."</p> + +<p>As bidden by Jack, the sailors rolled the German commander over and bound +him. Then they carried him to the Essex's launch and threw him in, none +too gently, either, for there was no man there who had not a disgust for +Germans, German tactics and everything German.</p> + +<p>"Now," said Frank to Jack, "I guess we may as well stand clear and let the +Essex pour a few shells into the vessel, eh?"</p> + +<p>Jack shook his head.</p> + +<p>"No," he said, "we shall take possession of the vessel. Call down below +and see if the Germans will surrender."</p> + +<p>Frank approached the conning tower and called down.</p> + +<p>"Hello!" he shouted.</p> + +<p>There was no response.</p> + +<p>"Hello below!" he shouted again in German.</p> + +<p>"What do you want?" came a sullen voice from below.</p> + +<p>"We're in possession of this vessel now," said Frank. "Come up here and +surrender."</p> + +<p>"We'll stay where we are," came the reply after a brief pause.</p> + +<p>"But you can't man," exclaimed Frank. "Don't you know when you have been +captured."</p> + +<p>"We'll stay here awhile," said the spokesman of the sailors.</p> + +<p>"But you can't stay there forever, and you can't submerge," said Frank. +"Come up and surrender."</p> + +<p>To this the lad received no response. Frank reported to Jack.</p> + +<p>"So they won't surrender, eh?" said Jack. "Then we'll go down and get +them."</p> + +<p>"Rather risky, Jack," Frank warned.</p> + +<p>"So it is," Jack agreed. "So's the whole war. But wait. We'll see."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVII" id="CHAPTER_XVII" />CHAPTER XVII</h2> + +<h3>CAPTURE OF THE SUBMARINE</h3> + + +<p>Captain Griwsold aboard the Ventura had watched the struggle on the +submarine with eager eyes. His fingers clenched and unclenched.</p> + +<p>"I'd like to get into that," he muttered. "I guess I'm not too old."</p> + +<p>Abruptly he turned to the first officer.</p> + +<p>"Lower a boat," he said. "I'm going aboard the submarine."</p> + +<p>The first officer protested.</p> + +<p>"But the passengers—" he began.</p> + +<p>"The passengers be hanged," said the captain of the Ventura. "Besides, +we're safer here under the nose of this destroyer than we would be +prowling off by ourselves."</p> + +<p>The first officer protested no longer. A boat was lowered and Captain +Griswold and half a dozen sailors climbed in and put off for the +submarine, where they arrived just in time to overhear Jack say that if +the Germans in the submarine didn't surrender they would go after them. +Captain Griswold laid a hand on Jack's shoulder.</p> + +<p>"You're some scrapper, youngster," he said.</p> + +<p>Jack was thus made aware for the first time that the Ventura had not +rushed for her home port.</p> + +<p>"I thought you'd gone, Captain," he said.</p> + +<p>"I was on my way," said the captain of the Ventura, "until I saw you +fighting these murderers single-handed. I came back to see if I could +help."</p> + +<p>"Thanks," Jack laughed, "but I guess there are enough of us to attend to +them without you, Captain."</p> + +<p>"I'm not sure about that," declared Captain Griswold. "I just heard you +say you were going below after those fellows?"</p> + +<p>"Well?" questioned Jack.</p> + +<p>"Pretty risky," responded Captain Griswold, shaking his head. "How do you +figure to get 'em?"</p> + +<p>"Rush 'em," said Jack briefly.</p> + +<p>Again the captain of the Ventura shook his head doubtfully.</p> + +<p>"Too risky altogether," he declared. "The first one of you that shows his +head down there will be potted, sure as fate."</p> + +<p>"But we've got to do it, Captain," said Jack. "How else is it to be done?"</p> + +<p>"Well," said Captain Griswold, removing his cap and scratching his head, +"I guess I can suggest a way."</p> + +<p>"I'm open to conviction, Captain," said Jack.</p> + +<p>"Aboard my ship," went on Captain Griswold, "I have a supply of a certain +sort of gas which, if used properly, will do in minutes what it may take +you hours to accomplish."</p> + +<p>"By George!" said Frank. "Kill 'em all at once, eh?"</p> + +<p>"Well, no, it won't do that," replied Captain Griswold, "but it'll put 'em +to sleep long enough for you fellows to go down and tie 'em up."</p> + +<p>"Bring on the gas, Captain," said Jack quietly.</p> + +<p>Captain Griswold hustled back to his boat with the agility of a small +school boy.</p> + +<p>"Back to the ship," he roared to the sailors who rowed him.</p> + +<p>He mounted the ladder swiftly and summoned his first officer.</p> + +<p>"Helgoson," he said, "those Britishers have gone and almost captured that +submarine. It's up to us to help 'em complete the job."</p> + +<p>"How, sir?" asked the first officer.</p> + +<p>"Do you know where that gas tank is below?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir."</p> + +<p>"Fetch it here. It's small enough so you can carry it. Also get the hose +and the pump."</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir."</p> + +<p>The first officer hurried away. He was back in a few moments with the +necessary articles, which Captain Griswold took charge of himself.</p> + +<p>"Helgoson," said Captain Griswold, "if you were a younger man I would +invite you to take a hand in this party yourself. As it is, you'll have to +stick behind with the passengers."</p> + +<p>"But I'm younger than you by almost twenty years, sir," protested the +first officer.</p> + +<p>"Oh, no you're not," laughed the commander of the Ventura, "you just think +you are. I've grown twenty years younger this day."</p> + +<p>He summoned a pair of sailors, whom he loaded down with the gas, hose and +pump with instructions to place them carefully in the small boat.</p> + +<p>"And now for the submarine," he confided to his first officer.</p> + +<p>On deck, half a dozen passengers approached the captain with inquiries as +to what was going on.</p> + +<p>"Why," he said with a grin, "we're just going to capture a submarine, +that's all. Stick close to the side of the ship and you'll see how it's +done. A lesson like this may come in handy some day."</p> + +<p>The passengers protested.</p> + +<p>"But the danger—" one began.</p> + +<p>"Danger be hanged," said the captain. "There is no danger. While there was +danger we were scuttling for the safety of land and now we come back when +it's all over. You should all be glad of this opportunity to render your +country a service. What sort of citizens are you, anyhow?"</p> + +<p>Without further words he climbed down to the launch and was hustled back +to the submarine, where Jack and the others were awaiting him eagerly.</p> + +<p>"Well," said Captain Griswold, motioning to the articles that the sailors +laid on the deck, "here's the stuff. Get busy."</p> + +<p>"How do you work it, Captain?" asked Jack.</p> + +<p>"Don't you know?" demanded Captain Griswold. "Well, I'll tell you what. +You just put me in command here for fifteen minutes and I'll do the job +for you."</p> + +<p>"All right, sir," said Jack. "Your commands shall be obeyed."</p> + +<p>Captain Griswold turned to the nearest sailor.</p> + +<p>"Take that hose and attach it to the nozzle on the tank," he directed. +The sailor did so.</p> + +<p>"Now the pump," said the captain, "you will find a place for it on the +other side of the tank."</p> + +<p>This was adjusted to the captain's satisfaction.</p> + +<p>"Now," said the captain, "all you have to do is to stick this nozzle down +the conning tower, turn it so as to give the gas full play and pump. Of +course the gas would carry without the pump, but you save time this way."</p> + +<p>"One moment, Captain," said Jack. "How about ourselves? Won't the gas +affect us as well as the Germans?"</p> + +<p>Captain Griswold clapped a hand to his side.</p> + +<p>"Now what do you think of that?" he demanded. "I must be getting old +before my time. Here, Lands," he called one of his own men, who +approached. "Go and tell Helgoson I want two dozen of those gas masks in +the store room; and hustle."</p> + +<p>The sailor hurried away. He was back within fifteen minutes, and Captain +Griswold distributed the gas masks. Then he took the nozzle of the hose, +poked it down the conning tower and looked around.</p> + +<p>"Everybody ready?" he asked.</p> + +<p>Jack also glanced around. Every man on the deck of the submarine wore a +gas mask.</p> + +<p>"All right, sir," said Jack.</p> + +<p>"Then you turn that screw there when I give the word. All right? Then +shoot!"</p> + +<p>There was a hissing sound as Jack turned on the gas.</p> + +<p>For perhaps ten minutes Captain Griswold moved the hose to and fro. Then +he pulled it forth and motioned Jack to turn the screw again. This the lad +did. Captain Griswold then motioned the others to follow him, and led the +way below.</p> + +<p>At the foot of the conning tower they stumbled across several figures, +overcome by the fumes. These were quickly bound and passed up on deck to +the men who remained behind.</p> + +<p>The search of the submarine took perhaps half an hour. Every nook and +cranny was explored. The gas had done its work well. Apparently it had +poured in so rapidly that the crew had had no time to open the portholes, +for they were all closed. Captain Griswold opened them now.</p> + +<p>Then he led the way on deck, and closing the conning tower, removed his +gas mask. The others followed his example.</p> + +<p>"Simple, wasn't it?" said the captain of the Ventura to Jack, grinning +like a boy. "Lucky I happened to come back."</p> + +<p>"It is indeed," said Jack. "But won't this gas affect us, Captain?"</p> + +<p>"Not out here," was the reply. "It's not strong enough. You can barely +smell it now. Now what are you going to do with the submarine?"</p> + +<p>Jack considered a moment.</p> + +<p>"I'll tell you Captain," he said, "it strikes me that this submarine is +really the prize of the Ventura. At all events, I cannot be bothered with +it, for there is still patrol work to do in these waters. Can't you tow +her into port?"</p> + +<p>"Can't I?" shouted Captain Griswold. "You bet I can. You give the word and +I'll tie her on behind right now."</p> + +<p>"All right, Captain," said Jack. "She's yours."</p> + +<p>Captain Griswold almost danced a jig there on the deck of the German +submarine.</p> + +<p>"Won't New York sit up and take notice when old Captain Griswold comes +into port towing a submarine?" he chortled. "Well, I guess. Here, Lands, +go back to the ship and throw me a line. Then come back and help make it +fast."</p> + +<p>This was accomplished with astonishing rapidity and amid the cheering of +the crew and passengers of the Ventura and the wild hurrahs of the British +tars of the Essex.</p> + +<p>"Well, she's all fixed," said Captain Griswold, "and to tell you the truth +I'm rather sorry. Of course I'm old and all that, but just the same I'd +like to go with you fellows."</p> + +<p>"You're doing your share, Captain," said Jack seriously. "All of us can't +do the fighting, you know. But there's work just as important, and you are +doing your part. But we must be moving now. We've wasted time enough."</p> + +<p>"So we have," declared Captain Griswold. "Shall you leave us here, sir?"</p> + +<p>"No," said Jack, "we'll follow and see you safely in harbor."</p> + +<p>"Very well. Then I shall return to the Ventura."</p> + +<p>"And I to the Essex, Captain. Good-bye and good luck to you."</p> + +<p>Captain Griswold shook hands heartily with Jack, and then insisted on +shaking hands as well with Frank, and every officer and member of the +British crew aboard the submarine. Then he put off for his ship.</p> + +<p>Jack and the others returned to the Essex. When the lad reached the +bridge, the Ventura was already moving, the submarine trailing behind.</p> + +<p>"A fine man, Captain Griswold," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"Right," Jack agreed. "And the U-87 is his so far as I'm concerned. He +might hang it on his parlor wall for a souvenir."</p> + +<p>"Or wear it as a watch charm," added Frank with a grin.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XVIII" id="CHAPTER_XVIII" />CHAPTER XVIII</h2> + +<h3>ASHORE</h3> + + +<p>For two days the Essex had been cruising up and down the coast on patrol +duty, looking for submarines. Several times the destroyer had been +ordered farther out to sea to form an escort for an incoming steamer, but +after her encounter with the U-87 she had sighted no more of the enemy.</p> + +<p>Following the report of two vessels sunk off the coast on May 10, the day +on which the presence of German raiders off the coast was first reported, +the number of sinkings increased the following day, and the next. After +that they fell off, however, and upon the fifth day only one ship—a small +schooner—was sent to the bottom off the coast of Delaware.</p> + +<p>The prisoners taken from the U-87 were stowed safely away below-decks on +the Essex, after which Jack got in touch with Admiral Sellings, on the +Dakota, by wireless. He reported the capture of the submarine and the fact +that it was being towed into port by the Ventura. Admiral Sellings ordered +Jack to continue his patrol of the coast until further notice.</p> + +<p>Nevertheless, the Essex escorted the Ventura almost to port, before +putting about and resuming her patrol duty.</p> + +<p>All the remainder of that day and the two days that followed Jack kept his +ship moving up and down the coast, but he caught no sight of an enemy +vessel, nor were any of the sinkings reported in that time close enough to +be considered within his territory.</p> + +<p>On the fourth day came a message from Admiral Sellings.</p> + +<p>"German submarine reported twenty miles north of Cape Charles," read the +message. "Investigate."</p> + +<p>Jack acknowledged receipt of the order and addressed Frank, who stood +beside him on the bridge.</p> + +<p>"Something definite to act on at last," he said, and read the admiral's +message aloud, adding: "Shape your course accordingly, Mr. Chadwick."</p> + +<p>Frank gave the necessary directions. The big ship came about and headed +south again.</p> + +<p>It was well along in the afternoon when the Essex reached the approximate +point designated by Admiral Sellings. Jack ran the destroyer as close +in-shore as he dared, and for several hours cruised about in the +neighborhood. But he saw nothing to indicate the presence of a submarine.</p> + +<p>"If there's a U-Boat here, it's keeping pretty well under cover," said +Frank.</p> + +<p>"So it is," replied Jack. "I don't know where the admiral got his +information, but I've got my doubts of its authenticity."</p> + +<p>Frank's eyes were caught at that moment by the sight of a small row boat +putting off from the shore. He watched it idly for a moment, and then +noted that it was headed directly for the Essex.</p> + +<p>"Hello," he said, "here comes some one to visit us."</p> + +<p>Directly the little boat scraped alongside the now stationary destroyer +and the figure in the boat indicated that he wanted to come aboard.</p> + +<p>"Don't know what he wants," muttered Jack, "but it'll be just as well to +have him up and find out."</p> + +<p>A few moments later the occupant stood before Jack and his officers on the +bridge.</p> + +<p>"My name," he said, "is Charles Cutlip, and I live back there." He waved a +hand shoreward. "I suppose you are hunting for submarines, Captain?"</p> + +<p>Jack nodded.</p> + +<p>"That's what we're here for," he affirmed.</p> + +<p>"I thought so," said young Cutlip—he was a little more than a boy. "Well, +Captain, maybe I can help you."</p> + +<p>Jack gave an exclamation of astonishment.</p> + +<p>"What do you mean?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"I don't know exactly," replied the boy. "Yesterday afternoon, while I was +in the house alone, three strange men appeared at the door. They wore the +costume of an ordinary seafaring man, but when they asked me for food they +had a strange manner of speech. They weren't Americans, I'm sure of that."</p> + +<p>"And you think they were from a submarine, eh?" asked Jack.</p> + +<p>"I'm sure of it, Captain. There were no other ships near, and they could +not have come overland, for it is a long ways to the nearest village and +they had neither horses nor automobile."</p> + +<p>"And what did you say to them?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>"I gave them what food there was in the house, but they said it wasn't +enough. About this time my father came in unexpectedly. The strangers drew +revolvers and covered him. They told him they would be back to-night and +that they required him to have a certain amount of food on hand. They +threatened to kill him if he gave the alarm—and they threatened to kill +me too."</p> + +<p>"By George!" exclaimed Frank. "It looks as though we had come to the right +spot, Jack."</p> + +<p>"It certainly does," agreed Jack. "Now tell us the rest of your tale, +son."</p> + +<p>"That's about all," said the boy. "They devoured what food I gave them and +then disappeared."</p> + +<p>"And your father sent you for help, I suppose," added Frank.</p> + +<p>"No," said the boy. "I came of my own accord. My father is badly +frightened. He has gone to find the food for the strangers. I slipped away +and ran toward the sea. Then I saw your ship, sir, and I hurried to tell +you."</p> + +<p>"You have done well," said Jack, laying a hand on the lad's shoulder. "And +now you will be willing to help us further, will you not?"</p> + +<p>"Of course I shall, sir."</p> + +<p>"Very good. Now you look around the ship to your heart's content, while I +hold a conference with my officers."</p> + +<p>"Very well, sir."</p> + +<p>The boy walked away. Jack held a consultation with his officers on the +bridge.</p> + +<p>"If the boy is telling the truth," he said, "and I have no doubt of it, we +are in luck. It may be that we can capture this German crew ashore and +then take possession of the submarine."</p> + +<p>"But, sir," protested Lieutenant Hetherton, "if the submarine were to come +to the surface now and catch sight of the Essex it would never come back +again."</p> + +<p>"I had thought of that," replied Jack, "and I have a plan that will offset +it. You see that projecting reef there?" and Jack pointed to the north. +The others signified that they did. "Well," Jack continued, "back of that +is as cosy a little harbor as you would care to see. I noticed it as we +came by. We'll take the Essex there, and she will be hidden well enough."</p> + +<p>"Unless the submarine should chance to come to the surface there," was +Frank's objection.</p> + +<p>"We'll have to leave something to chance," declared Jack.</p> + +<p>"In which event your plan is as good as any I can conceive," said Frank. +"But after we get the Essex there, then what?"</p> + +<p>"Why," said Jack, "I'll take a party of half a hundred men or so and +surround the house of this Cutlip boy. When the Germans arrive we'll nab +'em. After that we can find the submarine."</p> + +<p>"Hasn't it struck you, sir," Frank asked of Jack, "that maybe the men who +accosted this boy and his father were merely bluffing? That they may not +return to-night?"</p> + +<p>"It has," Jack replied, "but at the same time there is a chance that they +will. Therefore, in lieu of any other clue as to the whereabouts of the +submarine, I deem it well to act on what information, we have."</p> + +<p>"It won't hurt anything, that's sure, sir," was Lieutenant Hetherton's +comment.</p> + +<p>In this the other officers agreed.</p> + +<p>"Very well then," said Jack. "It shall be as I suggested. Mr. Chadwick, +will you shape your course for the point I have mentioned."</p> + +<p>"But the boy, sir?" said Frank. "Shall we not put him over the side +first?"</p> + +<p>"No; we'll take him with us," Jack decided.</p> + +<p>As the destroyer began to forge ahead, the Cutlip boy grew alarmed and +hurried to Jack's side.</p> + +<p>"You are not taking me away, are you, sir?" he asked fearfully.</p> + +<p>"No," replied Jack, and outlined the situation as fully as he deemed wise.</p> + +<p>Young Cutlip was plainly eager to help in the capture of the German +submarine crew.</p> + +<p>"And you feel sure they will come back to-night?" Jack questioned.</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir. They must be very hungry. If you could have seen those three +men devour what little food I gave them! They seemed to be half starved."</p> + +<p>"Strange, too," Jack muttered, "considering the number of ships they have +sunk in these waters recently. They should have replenished their stores."</p> + +<p>"It may be that this was one of the less fortunate submarines," said +Frank. "The sinkings may have been done by other U-Boats."</p> + +<p>"That's true, too," said Jack. "I hadn't thought of that. I guess that +must be the answer."</p> + +<p>Less than an hour later, the Essex passed behind the shelter of the reef +Jack had mentioned. There Jack ordered her stopped, and anchor dropped.</p> + +<p>"We should be out of sight here," he said, "unless, as you suggested, +Frank, the enemy should come to the surface at this point. And we'll have +to trust to luck that they don't."</p> + +<p>"And now what, sir?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>"I'll let you select a hundred men of the crew for shore duty," said Jack.</p> + +<p>This task did not take long, and Frank had picked and armed his men within +half an hour.</p> + +<p>"Now," said Jack, "I'm going to put you in command of the party, Frank. +Lieutenant Hetherton shall go along as your immediate subordinate. Two +officers are enough. The rest of us will wait here. But if you have not +returned soon after daylight, we'll start a search for you."</p> + +<p>"I can see no reason why we should be longer," said Frank. "We'll do the +best we can."</p> + +<p>"Then I would suggest that you go ashore at once," said Jack. "You must +reach the Cutlip home while it is yet daylight in order to lay your +plans."</p> + +<p>"Right, sir," said Frank, saluting. "We shall go ashore at once."</p> + +<p>They put off over the side in small boats and rowed toward the shore, +where they landed less than an hour after the Essex dropped anchor. Jack +waved a hand to his chum from the bridge.</p> + +<p>"Good luck!" he called.</p> + +<p>Frank waved back at him, then addressed his men.</p> + +<p>"By fours! Forward march!" he commanded.</p> + +<p>The party, with young Cutlip in their midst, moved inland.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XIX" id="CHAPTER_XIX" />CHAPTER XIX</h2> + +<h3>IN THE NIGHT</h3> + + +<p>It was not a long march to the Cutlip home, and the Essex party reached +there some time before nightfall. Young Cutlip now whispered a word of +caution to Frank.</p> + +<p>"My father will not like this," he said. "He is naturally a cautious man. +If he thinks I have given the alarm—am responsible for your being +here—it will go hard with me."</p> + +<p>"Then he must not know it," said Frank decidedly. "Do you think he will be +home now?"</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir; most likely."</p> + +<p>Frank considered.</p> + +<p>"Then I'll call a halt here," he said. "You can return home and we will +come later. In that way he will not know that you gave the alarm. But by +the way, when he sees us is he not likely to try and warn the enemy?"</p> + +<p>"He might, sir. He is terribly afraid of submarines and men who control +them. He appears to think they are something supernatural. He believes the +crews of the submarines can whip anyone, sir. That is why he is likely to +tarry and give an alarm."</p> + +<p>"In that case," said Frank, "we'll have to tie him up until the game is +over."</p> + +<p>"He's my father, sir, and I don't want you to hurt him," said young +Cutlip, "but that would be the best way, sir."</p> + +<p>"Very well," said Frank. "You run ahead, now; we'll wait here for an +hour."</p> + +<p>He called a halt. Young Cutlip ran on ahead. Frank explained the reason +for the halt to Lieutenant Hetherton, who agreed that the lad had acted +wisely.</p> + +<p>"No use getting the boy in trouble if we can help, it, sir," he said.</p> + +<p>An hour later Frank ordered the march resumed. Young Cutlip had given +necessary directions and the party from the Essex reached the Cutlip home +without trouble. As they drew near, a man came to the door of the little +cabin that nestled in among a group of trees. Beside him, Frank made out +the figure of the boy who had given notice of the visit of some of the +submarine crew.</p> + +<p>Frank motioned his men to halt some distance away, called Lieutenant +Hetherton to follow him, and approached the cabin.</p> + +<p>"How do you do, sir?" he asked civilly of the big man in the doorway.</p> + +<p>"What do you want here?" was the growling response.</p> + +<p>"We're from a British destroyer out there," said Frank, waving a hand in +the general direction of the Atlantic, "and we are hunting for submarines +that have sunk a dozen or more ships off the coast."</p> + +<p>"You don't expect to find them here on land, do you?" demanded Cutlip.</p> + +<p>"Not exactly," said Frank. "But I have reason to believe that the crew of +one of the vessels has come ashore. Have you seen anything of them, sir?"</p> + +<p>"I have not," replied Cutlip firmly.</p> + +<p>"No one resembling a German, even?" persisted Frank.</p> + +<p>"No."</p> + +<p>"You are quite sure?"</p> + +<p>"Quite sure."</p> + +<p>"Think again, my man," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"Look here," said Cutlip, "do you mean to insinuate that I'm lying?"</p> + +<p>"I don't insinuate anything. I know you are lying. Hold up there!"</p> + +<p>For Cutlip had taken a threatening step forward.</p> + +<p>"A party of three German sailors from a submarine nearby were seen to come +this way," Frank went on. "You must have seen them. Now, if you are not +trying to shield them, tell me where they are."</p> + +<p>"I don't know. I haven't seen them."</p> + +<p>"Call a couple of men, Lieutenant," said Frank to Hetherton.</p> + +<p>Hetherton raised a hand, and two sailors came forward.</p> + +<p>"Once more," said Frank to Cutlip, "will you tell me what you know of +those men?"</p> + +<p>"I tell you I don't know anything," answered Cutlip doggedly.</p> + +<p>"Tie him up, men," said Frank briefly.</p> + +<p>The sailors sprang forward and laid rough hands on Cutlip. The latter +protested vigorously with his mouth, but he offered only feeble +resistance.</p> + +<p>"Now," said Frank to Hetherton, "we can't leave him around here for if the +Germans saw him they might take alarm. We'll have to have him sent back to +the ship. I guess those two men are big enough to get him there."</p> + +<p>"Plenty big enough, sir," said one of them with a grin.</p> + +<p>"Good. Take him back, then, and come back when you have turned him over +to Captain Templeton. Tell the captain to hold him until we return."</p> + +<p>The man touched his cap.</p> + +<p>"Aye, aye, sir," he said. Then to Cutlip in a rough voice: "March, now."</p> + +<p>The three disappeared, Cutlip grumbling to himself and the sailors +grinning.</p> + +<p>Frank turned to young Cutlip, who had watched these proceedings with some +disfavor.</p> + +<p>"Now, my boy," he said, "we can get ready for business."</p> + +<p>"They won't hurt him, will they?" asked the boy, pointing after his +father.</p> + +<p>"They will not," said Frank. "Only keep him safe until the trouble is +over."</p> + +<p>"All right. Then, I'll help you the best I can, sir."</p> + +<p>"That's the way to talk, my boy. Now let me look around a bit."</p> + +<p>Lieutenant Hetherton and young Cutlip accompanied Frank on his tour of +inspection. The lad found that the cabin was cuddled securely in a +miniature forest, or rather at one end of it. On both sides and in the +rear were a profusion of dense trees. Only the approach from the front was +in the clear.</p> + +<p>"It's all right," Frank said. I'll throw my men around the house from +three sides, and when the Germans have gone in we can surround it +completely. If they come after dark, there is little doubt they will +approach from the front."</p> + +<p>"And what shall I do, sir?" asked young Cutlip.</p> + +<p>Frank turned the matter over in his mind.</p> + +<p>"I am afraid I shall have to ask you to play rather a dangerous part," he +said at last. "You must be inside to receive them. If there were no one +there they might take alarm and run. Now, we'll go inside and see if your +father has complied with the enemy's demand."</p> + +<p>The three entered the cabin. Inside, Frank made out several big sacks +scattered about the floor. "Potatoes," he said, and looked further. There +he also found an extraordinary amount of salt meats and a bountiful supply +of vegetables.</p> + +<p>"Looks like your good father had been very busy," he said to young Cutlip +with a smile. "That's what the Germans will have the whole world doing for +them if we don't lick 'em."</p> + +<p>"You're right there, sir," agreed Lieutenant Hetherton.</p> + +<p>"Well," said Frank, "we'll leave these things as they are. It will help +divert suspicion from young Cutlip here when the Germans find his father +is not on hand. But I guess there is nothing more we can do now. Come, +we'll go outside."</p> + +<p>Frank now saw to the disposition of his men. These, as he had decided, he +stationed on three sides of the cabin. He himself took command of the men +on the left, Lieutenant Hetherton commanding the right wing and a sailor +named Hennessy the left. A short time later the sailors who had conducted +Cutlip the elder to the Essex returned and took their places.</p> + +<p>"Did he go along peaceably?" asked Frank of one of the newcomers.</p> + +<p>"Well, he kicked once or twice," replied the man, "but he went along all +the same, sir."</p> + +<p>Frank grinned.</p> + +<p>"Just so long as you got him there," he said.</p> + +<p>"Oh, he's there, all right," grinned the sailor, "but when I left he was +threatening to have the whole American navy down on us and hoping that +these German submarines shoot us to little pieces."</p> + +<p>"I think we'll do most of the shooting, if there is any to be done," said +Frank dryly.</p> + +<p>There was silence in the ranks after this, for it was now growing dark and +it was possible that the Germans might appear at any moment. Every man +strained his eyes as he peered through the trees.</p> + +<p>Inside the cabin a faint light glowed. Young Cutlip was in there, playing +a braver part than could his father, doing his best for his country as +enemies threatened her existence. Frank smiled to himself.</p> + +<p>"A nervy kid," he muttered; "yet, I wish I didn't have to use him. I shall +take especial care that no harm comes to him."</p> + +<p>He grew silent.</p> + +<p>In the distance came the sound of tramping feet—many of them. Gradually +they drew nearer and directly Frank could hear voices. Heavy, guttural +voices they were and the tongue they spoke was German.</p> + +<p>Up to that moment Frank had not been at all sure in his own mind that the +Germans would return to the cabin, as they had told the Cutlips. +Nevertheless, here they were, and the lad's heart leaped high.</p> + +<p>"They must be pretty close to starvation to take such chances," the lad +muttered to himself. "Wonder why they don't try a raid on one of the +nearby towns? Guess they don't want to stir up any more trouble than +possible, though. Well, we'll get 'em."</p> + +<p>Frank peered from his hiding place. The Germans were in sight now, and +approaching the house four abreast.</p> + +<p>"Four, eight, twelve, sixteen, twenty-four," Frank counted.</p> + +<p>"That's not so many. We can grab them easy enough."</p> + +<p>But a moment later additional footsteps were heard. Again Frank counted +moving figures to himself.</p> + +<p>"Twenty more," he muttered. "Where on earth did they all come from? By +George! They certainly are taking a long chance marching around like this. +Well, the more we can get the better."</p> + +<p>At the door of the cabin the Germans halted. Three of their number stepped +forward and went inside. This was not at all in line with Frank's plans, +and he realized now that the situation of young Cutlip, inside, was +dangerous in the extreme. Something must be done to protect him.</p> + +<p>As the Germans went inside the house, the others, meanwhile, standing +guard, Frank gave the signal agreed upon, a soft whistle, like the call of +a bird of the night. The British began to move from their hiding places +and to draw closer to the Germans, standing there in the open.</p> + +<p>"Well," Frank muttered to himself at last, "I guess the sooner we get busy +the better."</p> + +<p>He sprang to his feet and leaped forward.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XX" id="CHAPTER_XX" />CHAPTER XX</h2> + +<h3>THE BATTLE</h3> + + +<p>Meanwhile, inside the cabin young Cutlip was facing the Germans cooly +enough. He rose to his feet as the door opened and the first German stuck +his head inside. The latter surveyed the interior rapidly, and seeing a +single figure there, advanced quickly, gun in hand.</p> + +<p>"Oho! It's the boy," he said in clumsy English. "And where is your +father?"</p> + +<p>"I don't know," answered the boy. "He went away."</p> + +<p>"But did he get the food?"</p> + +<p>Cutlip motioned to the sacks of provisions on the floor.</p> + +<p>"Good!" said the German, rubbing his hands.</p> + +<p>He returned his revolver to his belt and motioned his two companions to +enter. They closed the door behind them.</p> + +<p>"You have told no one of our presence here?" asked the first German, as he +stooped over to examine the sacks.</p> + +<p>"No."</p> + +<p>"How about your father?"</p> + +<p>"He has told no one, either."</p> + +<p>"It is well. For if you had, we would kill you now."</p> + +<p>Young Cutlip said nothing, but he knew by the hard look in the man's eyes +that he told the truth. In spite of the fact that the boy knew he was in +grave peril, he was perfectly cool.</p> + +<p>He sat down again as the Germans passed from sack to sack, examining the +contents. At last the first man stood up and faced the boy.</p> + +<p>"Your father, by chance, didn't say anything about pay for this food, did +he?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"No," returned Cutlip.</p> + +<p>The German grinned.</p> + +<p>"Guess he knew it wouldn't do much good," he said. "Well, men, let's roll +this stuff outside."</p> + +<p>Again the men bent over the sacks.</p> + +<p>At that moment there came a shot from without, followed by a volley. On +the instant young Cutlip leaped to his feet, rushed to the door, threw it +open and dashed outside.</p> + +<p>There he was right in the midst of the Germans. But the latter were too +busy and too surprised to pay any attention to him at that moment. They +had wheeled at the first volley from the woods, and had turned their own +weapons against the trees on three sides of the cabin.</p> + +<p>Two or three of their number had gone down at the first fire, and they +were almost demoralized, so sudden and unexpected was the attack. +Consequently, young Cutlip had time almost to get clear of the enemy. In +fact, by quick dodging, he did get beyond them.</p> + +<p>Out the door now rushed the three Germans in the cabin, apparently in +command of the men without. One issued harsh orders, and the Germans +dropped to the ground, thus making much smaller targets.</p> + +<p>Frank, as he sprang forward from among the trees, saw young Cutlip throw +open the door and dash out. Frank ran toward him despite the fact that he +was charging the enemy almost single-handed. But he knew that the boy was +in danger through no fault of the lad's own, and that he must be +protected.</p> + +<p>"Here, Cutlip!" he called.</p> + +<p>The boy ran toward him.</p> + +<p>Frank, a revolver in each hand, stopped and awaited the lad's approach.</p> + +<p>Two Germans raised their rifles to shoot Cutlip down. Frank's eye caught +the glint of the steel in the darkness. His revolvers spoke sharply twice, +and Cutlip came on unharmed.</p> + +<p>A bullet sang past Frank's right ear, another grazed his left. More +bullets began to sing by him. Cutlip stumbled forward, and sheathing one +revolver, Frank caught him by the hand.</p> + +<p>"Run!" he cried.</p> + +<p>Cutlip needed no further urging. Together he and Frank sped for the +shelter of the woods, which they reached safely and threw themselves on +the ground as a rain of bullets passed overhead.</p> + +<p>"Close shave, son," said Frank.</p> + +<p>Young Cutlip was trembling, but he was not afraid.</p> + +<p>"Give me a gun," he cried. "I can pick off a few of 'em."</p> + +<p>But Frank shook his head.</p> + +<p>"You've done your part," he said. "Now you get away from here until we +clean these fellows up."</p> + +<p>Frank circled among the trees until he came into the midst of his own men +again. These were still peppering away at the enemy from among the trees +and the Germans, lying on the ground, were returning the fire.</p> + +<p>"We're wasting too much time here," Frank told himself.</p> + +<p>He looked across to where Lieutenant Hetherton and his men were also +blazing away at the foe.</p> + +<p>"Forward men!" cried Frank suddenly. "Charge!"</p> + +<p>The British tars under Frank's command went forward with a wild yell. +Seeing their companions dashing across the open, the forces commanded by +Lieutenant Hetherton and the sailor Hennessy also broke from the trees and +charged.</p> + +<p>The Germans poured several sharp volleys into the attackers, then threw +down their arms.</p> + +<p>"Kamerad! Kamerad!" came the cry.</p> + +<p>"Cease firing!" Frank shouted.</p> + +<p>Silence reigned after the noise of the battle.</p> + +<p>"Take charge of those men, Mr. Hetherton," said Frank quietly, "but be +careful how you approach. I don't trust 'em. I'll keep 'em covered."</p> + +<p>Lieutenant Hetherton ordered his men to make prisoners of the Germans.</p> + +<p>There came a sudden interruption.</p> + +<p>The three Germans who had been in the cabin, as though by a prearranged +plan, suddenly dashed back into the little building and flung to the door +before they could be stopped.</p> + +<p>"Never mind," said Frank, "remove the others, Mr. Hetherton. We'll attend +to the men inside later."</p> + +<p>From the window of the cabin there came a sharp crack. A bullet zipped by +Frank's ear, but the lad did not flinch. He moved his position and saw the +German prisoners marched to the rear.</p> + +<p>"Now," he said, "we'll have to get those fellows inside. First, however, +we'll give them a chance."</p> + +<p>He raised his voice in a shout.</p> + +<p>"What do you want?" came the response from the cabin.</p> + +<p>"You are outnumbered ten to one," said Frank. "Come out and surrender. We +don't want to kill you."</p> + +<p>"Come and take us," was the sneering response.</p> + +<p>"Don't be fools," called Frank. "We're sure to get you."</p> + +<p>"Well, I'll get you first," came a sharp cry.</p> + +<p>Frank stepped back and none too quickly, for a bullet passed through the +space where his head had been a moment before.</p> + +<p>"If you must have it, all right," the lad muttered. He turned to his men. +"I want ten volunteers to go with me," he said quietly.</p> + +<p>Every man stepped forward.</p> + +<p>Frank smiled.</p> + +<p>"Sorry I can't use you all, men," he said. "But ten will be enough. +Gregory, step forward."</p> + +<p>A sailor a short distance away did so.</p> + +<p>"Now, Gregory," said Frank, "you pick nine more men and bring them here."</p> + +<p>This was the work of only a moment, and the men surrounded Frank. For a +moment the lad surveyed the cabin. They were now out of the line of fire +from the window on that side and consequently safe. It would be possible, +Frank knew, to tire the Germans out, but he had no mind for such slow +methods. He addressed his men.</p> + +<p>"Two of you," he said, "break in the door with your rifle butts. We'll +cover you from either side."</p> + +<p>Two men stepped forward and the others stationed themselves on either side +of the stout door. Frank called to Lieutenant Hetherton.</p> + +<p>"Guard all the windows," he shouted. "Don't let them get away."</p> + +<p>The door began to tremble under the blows of the two sailors. Directly +there was a crash as it fell inward.</p> + +<p>Now, although this had been no part of Frank's plans, the minute the door +crashed in, the two sailors reversed their rifles and sprang over the +threshold.</p> + +<p>"Crack! Crack! Crack! Crack! Crack!"</p> + +<p>The rifles of the three Germans within and the two British sailors spoke +almost as one. One of the tars crumpled up in the doorway, while one of +the Germans also threw up his hands and slid to the floor.</p> + +<p>With wild shouts of anger, the other sailors surged forward and poured +through the door in spite of German bullets, which now flew so fast that +accurate aim was impossible.</p> + +<p>Frank dashed forward with the others. Down went the second German, leaving +but one alive. Frank found himself face to face with the latter.</p> + +<p>"Stand back, men," he called.</p> + +<p>The sailors obeyed.</p> + +<p>In one hand the German gripped a revolver, but Frank held this arm with +his left hand and straightened it high above the German's head. Thus the +German was unable to bring his revolver to bear on the lad.</p> + +<p>Nevertheless, his left arm was still free, and he struck Frank a heavy +blow in the stomach with his fist. The pain was severe and Frank loosened +his hold on the man's revolver arm. With a cry of triumph, the German +deliberately lowered his revolver.</p> + +<p>Frank, having dropped one of his revolvers, was in a bad way. True, a +second was in his belt, but it did not appear that he had time to draw and +fire before the German's finger pressed the trigger.</p> + +<p>But now came an action on the lad's part that proved his right to be +called an expert with the revolver—an action that often had bewildered +Jack and aroused his envy.</p> + +<p>So quickly that the eye could not follow the movement, Frank dropped his +hand to his belt, whipped out his revolver, and without taking aim, fired.</p> + +<p>A fraction of a second later there was a second report, as the German, +with Frank's bullet already in his shoulder, pressed the trigger, almost +involuntarily. But ere he fired, Frank had dropped to the floor and the +bullet passed harmlessly overhead.</p> + +<p>Frank rose quietly.</p> + +<p>"Bind him men," he said simply. "He's not badly hurt. He'll probably live +to face the gallows. Where is young Cutlip? Has anyone seen the boy?"</p> + +<p>"Here he is, sir," answered the boy himself, and came forward. "And will +you release my father now, sir?"</p> + +<p>"As soon as we return to the ship," replied Frank. "Come, men."</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXI" id="CHAPTER_XXI" />CHAPTER XXI</h2> + +<h3>THE END OF THE SUBMARINE</h3> + + +<p>Frank now took account of his casualties. Five men had been killed and +twenty more or less seriously wounded. As many more nursed slight +injuries.</p> + +<p>The enemy's casualties, proportionately, had been more severe. Half of the +original number were stretched on the ground. Hardly a man of the others +but had been wounded.</p> + +<p>Frank had his dead made ready for transportation back to the Essex, and +litters were improvised for the wounded who were unable to walk. The +grounded Germans also were carried—that is, those of them who were so +severely hurt they could not walk. Those who could walk were surrounded by +the British and marched on ahead.</p> + +<p>The return trip was made without incident. The wounded were hurried aboard +the ship where their injuries could be attended to. The unwounded +prisoners were promptly locked up below with the other captives. Then +Frank and Jack, accompanied by young Cutlip, went to Jack's cabin. The +third officer held the bridge.</p> + +<p>Frank gave an account of the events of the night as briefly as possible. +When he had concluded, Cutlip again asked:</p> + +<p>"Will you release my father now, sir?"</p> + +<p>"Certainly," said Jack. "You have borne yourself right bravely, and we +have much to thank you for, as has your country. It is too bad that your +father is not of a different stripe."</p> + +<p>The boy's face flushed.</p> + +<p>"He's a good father in many ways, sir," he said, "but he seems to be +scared to death of the Germans, especially of their submarine boats."</p> + +<p>"We'll have him up here before we let him go," said Jack. "Mr. Hetherton, +pass the word to have; Cutlip brought to my cabin."</p> + +<p>Lieutenant Hetherton left the cabin. He returned a few moments later +accompanied by two sailors, who walked on either side of the older Cutlip. +The man was still bound.</p> + +<p>"Remove his bonds," Jack instructed.</p> + +<p>Cutlip's hands were released, and he rubbed them together as he eyed the +group in the cabin. His eyes rested on his son.</p> + +<p>"So!" he exclaimed, "I had an idea you were at the bottom of this."</p> + +<p>"But, father—" began the boy.</p> + +<p>"I'll attend to you later," said the father, "not that I'll have need to, +probably, for the Germans will attend to both of us. What ails you, +anyhow? Don't you know that the Germans eventually will be masters of the +world? If we stand in with them, it may help."</p> + +<p>"The Germans will never be masters of the world," said Jack. "You are +laboring under a delusion, Cutlip. Your son is a brave boy. Not only did +he warn us of the presence of a German submarine off the coast, but he +rendered such other assistance that the entire crew has been either killed +or captured."</p> + +<p>Cutlip showed his surprise.</p> + +<p>"You can't mean it!" he exclaimed. "Why, how could you overcome them. They +are supermen. Ever since the war started I have been reading about them. +They are wonderful fighters—marvelous."</p> + +<p>"Your trouble, Cutlip," said Frank, "is that you have read too much about +them. I know that the country has been flooded with German propaganda, but +I'd no idea it had affected anyone like that."</p> + +<p>"But—" Cutlip began.</p> + +<p>Jack silenced him with a gesture.</p> + +<p>"You'll have to change all your ideas now, Cutlip," he said. "You see that +the German is not a superman. We have beaten them. Besides, your country +is at war with Germany. Only a traitor, or a coward, would refuse to help +his country."</p> + +<p>Cutlip seemed a bit startled.</p> + +<p>"I guess that's true," he said at last. "Yes, I guess you're right."</p> + +<p>"You and your son had better remain aboard until morning," Jack continued. +"We'll put you both ashore then."</p> + +<p>"Jack," said Frank at this point, "don't you think we should make an +effort to destroy the submarine before we go?"</p> + +<p>"By George! We certainly should," declared Jack. "That had slipped my mind +for the moment. We'll have one of the captured officers up and see if he +will reveal its hiding place."</p> + +<p>One of the Germans—a petty officer—entered the cabin a moment later in +response to Jack's summons. Jack explained briefly what he wanted.</p> + +<p>"Tell you? Of course I won't tell you," said the young officer. "Why +should I? Do you think I am a traitor to my country, or a coward?"</p> + +<p>Jack shrugged.</p> + +<p>"I was just offering the opportunity," he said.</p> + +<p>The officer was removed and one of the men brought in. Jack quizzed him +with no better results. One after another the unwounded men were +questioned, but none would reveal the location of the submarine.</p> + +<p>"Looks like we would have to find it ourselves," said Jack at length. +"There is no use questioning any of the others. They won't tell."</p> + +<p>Assistance came from an unexpected source.</p> + +<p>"Maybe I can help out a bit," said the elder Cutlip quietly.</p> + +<p>Jack, Frank and Lieutenant Hetherton looked at him in surprise.</p> + +<p>"You mean that you know and will tell?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>"I do. You have made my duty plain to me. No longer am I afraid of the +Germans."</p> + +<p>"How do you come to know this hiding place?" asked Jack.</p> + +<p>"I discovered it to-day by accident. I was standing some distance back on +shore when I saw the vessel lying on the water."</p> + +<p>"How far from here?"</p> + +<p>"Just the other side of the reef."</p> + +<p>Jack whistled.</p> + +<p>"By Jove! We came awfully close," he said.</p> + +<p>"You did indeed," said Cutlip. "But for the reef you must have been +discovered. Fortunately, it is very high."</p> + +<p>"I suppose the U-Boat is on the surface at this moment," Frank +interjected.</p> + +<p>"Most likely," Hetherton agreed. "A small crew has probably been left on +board, and they more than likely are awaiting the return of their +comrades."</p> + +<p>"Strange they didn't hear the firing," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"Not at all," said Jack. "I heard none of it here."</p> + +<p>"The wind was blowing the wrong way," Hetherton explained.</p> + +<p>"That must be the answer," Frank admitted. "Well, Jack, what do you say? +Shall we make an effort to get the boat to-night?" Jack hesitated.</p> + +<p>"We may as well," he said at last. "Of course it will have to be taken +from the land, for we can't work the destroyer around the reef in the +darkness. Even if we got around safely, we should be discovered."</p> + +<p>"Right," said Frank. "Then let's be moving. I take it, however, we will +need boats to reach the submarine."</p> + +<p>"Our prisoners probably have left all the boats we need," Jack returned.</p> + +<p>"That's so," said Frank. "Funny I didn't think of that. Will you be our +guide, Cutlip?"</p> + +<p>"Glad to be," was the reply. "I want to redeem myself in some way."</p> + +<p>"Let's be moving, then," said Frank, starting for the door.</p> + +<p>"Hold on," said Jack "We've got to take a force with us, you know. Mr. +Hetherton, I'm going to leave you in command of the ship this time. I +shall command the shore party."</p> + +<p>Lieutenant Hetherton's face fell, but all he said was:</p> + +<p>"Very well, sir."</p> + +<p>"In the meantime," said Jack, "pick fifty men and set them ashore. We'll +be there directly."</p> + +<p>Lieutenant Hetherton saluted and left the cabin.</p> + +<p>Half an hour later Jack led his men around the reef. There, a scant +hundred yards from shore, lay the submarine. The little party moved +silently to the edge of the water, and as silently embarked in the half a +dozen small boats they found there.</p> + +<p>"Push off!" Jack commanded in a whisper.</p> + +<p>Now young Cutlip had been left behind, but the father had elected to go +with the men in the boats. So earnest was his plea that Jack did not have +the heart to refuse him.</p> + +<p>A dim light showed on the bow of the submarine as the little flotilla +approached; and then so suddenly that the night appeared to be lighted up +by magic, a flare of white made the boats approaching the submarine as +plain as day.</p> + +<p>The submarine's searchlight had been turned on them.</p> + +<p>"Down men," cried Jack.</p> + +<p>The men, or those of them who were not needed at the oars, dropped to the +bottom of the boats. But the distance was so close that those on board +were able to make out the fact that the boats approaching were not filled +with their own men.</p> + +<p>"Americans!" was the cry that carried across the water. "Man the forward +gun there!"</p> + +<p>"Fire, men!" cried Jack in a loud voice. "Sweep the deck with your rifles. +Don't let 'em bring that gun to bear."</p> + +<p>There was a crash of rifles as Jack's command was obeyed. Nevertheless the +Germans succeeded in training their rapid-firer, and it crashed out a +moment later. A veritable hail of bullets flew over Jack's men.</p> + +<p>At a quick command from the lads, the boats drew farther apart, thus +making the task of the enemy more difficult. Then they closed in on the +submarine from both sides.</p> + +<p>Harsh German cries and imprecations were wafted to the ears of the British +as the boats drew closer.</p> + +<p>"Submerge!" shouted a voice.</p> + +<p>"Quick, or we shall be too late," Jack roared.</p> + +<p>The men at the oars exerted themselves to further efforts. Then Jack +caught another cry from the submarine.</p> + +<p>"We can't submerge. The tanks are still broken."</p> + +<p>"Good!" said Jack to himself. "Now I see what the trouble is. Faster," he +cried to his men.</p> + +<p>"Quick," came a voice from the submarine, "we cannot let the ship fall +into the hands of the accursed Yankees. The fuse, man."</p> + +<p>Jack understood this well enough. He raised his voice in a shout:</p> + +<p>"Cease rowing!"</p> + +<p>Frank's voice repeated the command and the little flotilla advanced no +more.</p> + +<p>"Put about and make for shore," shouted Jack. "Quick."</p> + +<p>The order was obeyed without question, and it was well that it was. Hardly +had the boats reached the shore when there was a terrific explosion, and +the water kicked up an angry geyser.</p> + +<p>"And that," said Jack calmly, "is the end of the submarine. They've blown +her up—and themselves with her!"</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXII" id="CHAPTER_XXII" />CHAPTER XXII</h2> + +<h3>WASHINGTON AGAIN</h3> + + +<p>Early the following morning the Essex slipped from her little harbor and +put to sea. Cutlip and his son, who had been put ashore shortly before the +departure, stood at the edge of the water and waved farewell. Following +the father's conversion, he and his son seemed to be closer than before, +and they went away happily together.</p> + +<p>Jack descended to the radio room.</p> + +<p>"Get the Dakota for me," he instructed the operator.</p> + +<p>"Dakota! Dakota!" flashed the wireless.</p> + +<p>Ten minutes later the answer came.</p> + +<p>"Destroyer Essex," flashed the operator again, following Jack's direction. +"Submarine reported to me yesterday destroyed. Crew either killed or +captured."</p> + +<p>"Fine work, Templeton," was the reply flashed back a few moments later.</p> + +<p>"I'm awaiting instructions," Jack flashed.</p> + +<p>"Proceed to Newport News," came the answer, "and report in person to +Secretary of the Navy."</p> + +<p>"O.K." flashed the operator.</p> + +<p>Jack went to the bridge, where Frank was on watch.</p> + +<p>"Well, old fellow," said Jack, "I guess our present cruise is ended."</p> + +<p>"How's that?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>"We're ordered back to Newport News, and I must report to Secretary +Daniels."</p> + +<p>"And after that, England again, I suppose?"</p> + +<p>"I suppose so."</p> + +<p>"Too bad," said Frank, "I would like to have had time to go to New York +and Boston to see my father. He could have met me at either place."</p> + +<p>"You'll see him when the war's over, I guess," said Jack, "and to my mind +that will be before long now."</p> + +<p>"Think so?" asked Frank. "Why?"</p> + +<p>"Well, take for example the submarine raid off the American coast. It +looks to me like the dying gasp of a conquered foe. They must be nearing +the end of their rope to tackle such a problem."</p> + +<p>"And still they have had some success," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"True. But not much after all. What is the total tonnage destroyed in +comparison with the tonnage still sailing the seas unharmed?"</p> + +<p>"There's something in that," Frank agreed. "But I can't say that I'm of +your opinion."</p> + +<p>"Personally," declared Jack, "I believe that the war will be over before +Christmas."</p> + +<p>"I hope so. But I can't be as optimistic as you are."</p> + +<p>The run to Newport News was made without incident and the Essex dropped +anchor close to the spot where she had been stationed before.</p> + +<p>She was greeted with wild cheers, for news of her success had preceded her +to the little Virginia city. Jack and his officers and men were hailed +with acclaim when they went ashore.</p> + +<p>"Want to go to Washington with me, Frank?" asked Jack.</p> + +<p>"That's a foolish question," was Frank's reply. "Of course I want to go."</p> + +<p>"All right. Then we'll catch the ten o'clock train this morning. That will +put us in the capital some time before five."</p> + +<p>"Suits me," declared Frank.</p> + +<p>This program was carried out. Arrived again in the capital of the nation, +the lads went straight to the Raleigh hotel, where they got in touch with +the British ambassador.</p> + +<p>"I've been hearing good reports about you, Captain," said the ambassador's +voice over the telephone.</p> + +<p>"We were a bit lucky, sir, that is all," replied Jack deprecatingly.</p> + +<p>"Nevertheless," said the ambassador, "Secretary Daniels wishes to thank +you in person, as does the President. I shall call for you within the +hour."</p> + +<p>"Very well, sir."</p> + +<p>Jack hung up the 'phone.</p> + +<p>The ambassador was as good as his word. He arrived less than an hour later +and the lads accompanied him to the Navy Department, where they were +ushered into the presence of the Secretary of the Navy at once.</p> + +<p>Secretary Daniels shook hands with both of the lads.</p> + +<p>"You deserve the thanks of the whole nation for your gallant work," he +said. "I am instructed to take you to the President."</p> + +<p>Jack and Frank flushed with pleasure, but there was nothing either could +say. From the Navy Department, the lads were escorted to the White House +immediately across the street, where President Wilson was found in his +office. The President was reached with little ceremony, and Secretary +Daniels himself made the introduction.</p> + +<p>"So," said the President, "these are the young officers who commanded the +British destroyer Essex, which accounted for two of the enemy's +submarines? They look rather young for such important posts." He gazed +closely at Frank. "Surely," he said finally, "surely you are an American."</p> + +<p>"Yes, sir," said Frank. "Born in Massachusetts, sir."</p> + +<p>"Chadwick," mused the President. "Not, by any chance, related to Dr. +Chadwick, of Woburn."</p> + +<p>"He is my father, sir."</p> + +<p>The President seemed surprised.</p> + +<p>"But I didn't know my old friend Chadwick had a son of your age," he said.</p> + +<p>"Well, he has, sir," replied Frank with a smile.</p> + +<p>"But how do you happen to be in the British service?"</p> + +<p>Frank explained briefly.</p> + +<p>"You have certainly seen excitement," said the President. "I am glad to +have seen you. Give my regards to your father when you see him. I am glad +to have met you, too, Captain," and the President shook hands with Jack. +"I hope to have the pleasure of meeting you both again some day."</p> + +<p>The lads understood by this that the interview was ended. They followed +Secretary Daniels and the British ambassador back to the former's office, +where the latter handed Jack a paper.</p> + +<p>"Cable from the British Admiral, I judge," he said.</p> + +<p>Jack read the message.</p> + +<p>"You are right, sir," he said. "We are ordered to home waters whenever you +are through with us, sir."</p> + +<p>"I judged as much," said the Secretary, "which is the reason I had Admiral +Sellings order you to report to me. You are at liberty to return whenever +you please, sir. But first let me thank you for your services in the name +of the American people."</p> + +<p>"Thank you, sir," said Jack, and saluted stiffly.</p> + +<p>The lads now took their leave. The ambassador insisted on their going home +with him to dinner.</p> + +<p>"But we should get back to our ship at once, sir," Jack demurred.</p> + +<p>"Never mind," said the ambassador, "I'll take the responsibility of +holding you over an extra day."</p> + +<p>So Jack and Frank dined with the ambassador, and took a late train to +Richmond, where they changed early in the morning for Newport News. When +they boarded the Essex later in the day they found in Jack's cabin the +commandant of Fortress Monroe, who, having learned that the Essex would +soon depart for home, had come to pay his respects while he yet had time.</p> + +<p>"I want to tell you," he said to Jack, "that the Essex has made quite a +name for herself among my men."</p> + +<p>"I'm glad to hear that, sir," declared Jack.</p> + +<p>"The men are only sorry, and naturally," continued the commandant, "that +she was not manned by an American crew."</p> + +<p>"Naturally, as you say, sir," Jack agreed. "Yet my first officer is an +American."</p> + +<p>The Commandant glanced at Frank.</p> + +<p>"Can that be true?" he asked.</p> + +<p>Frank smiled.</p> + +<p>"It's true enough, sir," he said. "Yes, I'm a native of the Bay state and +am in the British service merely as the result of an accident."</p> + +<p>He explained.</p> + +<p>"Well," said the Commandant, 'I'm glad of it. I'll have something to tell +my officers and men that will make them proud. I hope that the next time +either of you find yourselves in these parts you will look me up."</p> + +<p>"Thank you, sir. We certainly shall," said Jack.</p> + +<p>The Commandant took his departure.</p> + +<p>"And now," said Jack, "for England."</p> + +<p>First, Jack made a personal tour of inspection of the destroyer. Finding +everything ship-shape, the crew was piped to quarters and Jack rang for +half speed ahead.</p> + +<p>A crowd had gathered at the water's edge and the Essex was speeded on her +way by cheering and waving thousands. It was a touching scene, and Jack +was very proud.</p> + +<p>"A great country," he confided to Frank, as the vessel moved slowly out +into the Roads. "A great country. I am glad to have seen it again, and I +hope to come back some day."</p> + +<p>"Oh, you'll come back," said Frank. "You'll come back when the war's over, +to visit me."</p> + +<p>"I certainly will," Jack declared.</p> + +<p>The fortifications of Fortress Monroe now loomed ahead.</p> + +<p>"I suppose the Commandant is somewhere about to wish us God-speed," Frank +remarked.</p> + +<p>The lad was right. And he did it in imposing manner.</p> + +<p>The boom of a great gun was heard. This was followed by the roar of many +more; and the rumble continued as the Essex drew near, was louder as she +breasted the fort and continued as the ship passed on. Jack ordered a +reply to the salute from the forward guns, and for the space of several +minutes, the very sea seemed to tremble.</p> + +<p>Then the Essex gathered speed and plowed ahead.</p> + +<p>"Quite an ovation," said Frank, as he and Jack descended to the latter's +cabin, leaving Lieutenant Hetherton on the bridge.</p> + +<p>"It was, indeed. Yes, as I said before, it's a great country. You should +be proud to be a native of it."</p> + +<p>"I am," said Frank simply.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIII" id="CHAPTER_XXIII" />CHAPTER XXIII</h2> + +<h3>BACK IN ENGLAND</h3> + + +<p>Following the return of the Essex to English waters, Jack reported at once +to Lord Hastings in Dover.</p> + +<p>"I hear great things of you boys," said Lord Hastings. "Great things +indeed."</p> + +<p>"We were a bit fortunate, sir," Jack admitted.</p> + +<p>"It was more than good fortune," declared Lord Hastings. "But it's nothing +more than I expected of you both."</p> + +<p>They conversed about various matters for some minutes. Then Jack asked:</p> + +<p>"And what is in store for us now, sir?"</p> + +<p>"You will report to Admiral Beatty," said Lord Hastings. "The Essex will +be assigned to duty with the Grand Fleet in the North Sea. Patrol work, +mostly. There is little likelihood that the Germans will make another +effort, but the sea must be patrolled, nevertheless."</p> + +<p>"When do we report, sir?"</p> + +<p>"At once. You will weigh anchor in the morning. Admiral Beatty's flagship +is somewhere off the coast of Belgium."</p> + +<p>"Very well, sir," said Jack, and departed.</p> + +<p>The next day the Essex left Dover. Fifty miles out, Jack picked up the +flagship by wireless and received his instructions.</p> + +<p>Days lengthened into weeks now and weeks into months and the Essex was +still patrolling the North Sea with others of the Grand Fleet—composed +besides British vessels of an American squadron in command of Vice-Admiral +Sims. August passed and September came and still the Germans failed to +venture from their fortress of Helgoland and offer battle to the allies.</p> + +<p>The work became monotonous. Occasionally, the Essex put back to port for +several days to replenish her bunkers and to take on provisions. At such +times Jack and Frank usually went ashore for short periods, and the crew, +portions at a time, were granted shore leave.</p> + +<p>It was upon the last day of September that great news reached the +fleet—news that indicated that the war was nearing its end and that now, +if ever, the German fleet might venture from its hiding place and risk an +engagement.</p> + +<p>Bulgaria had broken with Germany and sued for a separate peace.</p> + +<p>Several days later came the news that an armistice had been signed and +that Bulgaria had ordered all German and Austrian troops to leave her +boundaries. King Ferdinand abdicated in favor of his eldest son, Boris, +who immediately ordered the demobilization of the Bulgarian armies.</p> + +<p>"Turkey will come next, mark my words," declared Frank as he and Jack +stood on the bridge, looking off across the broad expanse of the North +Sea.</p> + +<p>"Most likely," Jack agreed; "and after Turkey, Austria. That will leave +Germany to fight the world by herself."</p> + +<p>"She'll never attempt that," Frank declared. "The minute she sees her last +chance gone, she'll squeal for help, the same as a hog. It's not in a +German to take a licking, you know. He begins to show, yellow when the +game goes against him."</p> + +<p>"Perfectly true," said Jack, with a nod. "Now, it strikes me that Germany, +facing the problem of fighting it out alone—for she must see that +Bulgaria's action will soon be followed by her other allies—may send out +her fleet for a grand blow."</p> + +<p>Frank shook his head.</p> + +<p>"Not a chance," he said.</p> + +<p>"But," said Jack, "it has been the opinion of war critics and experts +right along that Germany was saving her fleet for the final effort when +all other means had failed."</p> + +<p>"I don't care what the experts think," declared Frank, "I don't think the +Germans will dare risk an engagement. In the first place, it would be +suicidal—she would have everything to lose and nothing to gain. Don't +fret. The German naval authorities know just as well as we do what would +happen to the German fleet should it issue from Helgoland."</p> + +<p>"Maybe you're right," said Jack, "but in the enemy's place, I wouldn't +give up without a final effort."</p> + +<p>"That's just it," Frank explained. "You wouldn't, and neither would I. +Neither, for that matter, would any British or American officer, nor +French. But the German is of different caliber. He doesn't fight half as +well when he knows the odds are against him. No, I believe that the German +fleet will be virtually intact when the war ends."</p> + +<p>"Then we'll take it away from them," declared Jack.</p> + +<p>"I'm sure I hope so. It would be dangerous to the future peace of the +world to allow the Germans to keep their vessels."</p> + +<p>"Well," said Jack, "you can talk all you please, but you can't convince me +our work is over—not until peace has been declared—or an armistice +signed, or something."</p> + +<p>"I agree with you there. There will be plenty of work for us right up to +the last minute."</p> + +<p>As it developed the lads were right.</p> + +<p>"It was shortly after midnight when Jack was aroused by the third officer.</p> + +<p>"Message from Admiral Beatty, sir," said the third officer, and passed +Jack a slip of paper.</p> + +<p>Jack read the message, which had been hastily scribbled off by the radio +operator.</p> + +<p>"German squadron of six vessels reported to have left Helgoland and to be +headed for the coast of Scotland," the message read. "Proceed to intercept +them at full speed. Other vessels being notified."</p> + +<p>Jack sprang into his clothes, meanwhile having Frank summoned from his +cabin. Frank dashed into Jack's cabin, clothes in hand.</p> + +<p>"What's up?" he demanded.</p> + +<p>"Germans headed for the Scottish coast," replied Jack briefly, and dashed +out of the door.</p> + +<p>Frank followed him a few moments later. Jack was standing on the bridge +giving orders hastily.</p> + +<p>"Have a look at the engine room, Frank," said Jack, "and tell the engineer +to crowd on all possible steam. We'll have need of speed this trip, or I +miss my guess."</p> + +<p>Frank obeyed.</p> + +<p>The Essex, which had been proceeding east by south at a leisurely pace, +had come about now and was dashing due north at top speed. Jack himself +shaped the course and gave the necessary instructions to the helmsman.</p> + +<p>Below in the radio room, the wireless began to clatter. The operator, from +time to time, was getting into touch with other vessels of the Grand Fleet +ordered north to intercept the German raiders.</p> + +<p>First he received a flash from the Lion; then the Brewster replied, and +after her, the Tiger, Southampton, Falcon, White Hawk and Peerless. +Counting the Essex this made eight ships speeding northward to intercept +the enemy.</p> + +<p>"I take it," said Jack, "that this is about the last blow the enemy will +attempt to deliver. The Germans, knowing they are beaten, are intent now +only upon doing what damage they can while there is yet time. This raid, I +suppose, they figure will throw a scare into the coast cities, as similar +raids did earlier in the war. However, they'll have a surprise this time, +for all the coast ports are fortified now. There will be guns there to +stand them off until we get there."</p> + +<p>"Let's hope we get there in time," muttered Frank. "I'd like one more +crack at the enemy. I'm afraid they are going to get off too easily when +peace comes."</p> + +<p>"We've got to get there in time," declared Jack.</p> + +<p>From time to time the radio operator sent reports to Jack giving the +positions of other vessels rushing to the defense of the coast ports.</p> + +<p>"We'll get there first, at this rate," said Jack. "We're closer than the +others."</p> + +<p>"But we're no match for the enemy single-handed," declared Frank. "Chances +are that the German squadron is composed mostly of battleships."</p> + +<p>"True enough," Jack admitted, "but we'll do what damage we can. The +Tiger, Lion, White Hawk, Falcon and Peerless are warships, you know. +They'll be more than enough for the foe."</p> + +<p>"Yes; but we may be at the bottom of the sea by that time."</p> + +<p>"Don't worry. We'll hold our own until assistance arrives."</p> + +<p>Jack made a rapid calculation.</p> + +<p>"If we had any idea of the approximate position of the enemy at this time, +we would know better how to go about our work," he said.</p> + +<p>"You might call the enemy and find out?" said Frank with a grin.</p> + +<p>"Don't be funny, Frank," said Jack severely. "This is no time for levity."</p> + +<p>Came a cry from the lookout.</p> + +<p>"Battle squadron off the port bow, sir!"</p> + +<p>Jack clapped his glass to his eye.</p> + +<p>The ships were too far distant and the night was too dark, however, to +permit him to ascertain the identity of the approaching vessels.</p> + +<p>"May be the enemy, Jack," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"Right," Jack agreed.</p> + +<p>A shrill whistle rang out on the Essex.</p> + +<p>This was the answer to Jack's order to pipe the crew to quarters.</p> + +<p>"Clear ship for action!" was Jack's next command.</p> + +<p>"If it is the enemy," he confided to Frank, "we'll try and keep him +engaged until reinforcements arrive."</p> + +<p>"It may not be so hard, after all," Frank said "They may turn and beat a +retreat when they find they are discovered."</p> + +<p>"Not if there is only one of us," said Jack. "Pass the word to the forward +lookout to sing out as soon as he can identify the enemy. I'll flash my +light on them. He may be able to make them out."</p> + +<p>The huge searchlight of the Essex flashed forth across the water, and +played upon the approaching ships.</p> + +<p>"Germans!" came the cry from the lookout.</p> + +<p>"I thought so," said Jack. "Frank, go to the radio room and find out how +close our nearest support is."</p> + +<p>Frank was back in a few minutes.</p> + +<p>"Lion says to engage," he reported. "Says she'll be with us in less than +an hour. Tiger says she will arrive not more than fifteen minutes later. +Falcon and Hawk report they are less than an hour and a half away."</p> + +<p>"Right," said Jack. "Trouble is those fellows are likely to out-range us, +in which event we'll have to retire slowly, trying to draw them after us. +In that way reinforcements may arrive sooner. Hello! There she goes!"</p> + +<p>The roar of a great gun came across the water.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIV" id="CHAPTER_XXIV" />CHAPTER XXIV</h2> + +<h3>THE ENGAGEMENT</h3> + + +<p>"If we retire," said Jack, "we will leave the way open to the coast. At +this minute we are in their way."</p> + +<p>"But if we try to stick it out here we'll be sunk," said Frank. "And if we +retire toward the coast, we'll be moving away from our supports."</p> + +<p>"True enough," Jack agreed. "There's only one thing to do. That is to +retire as slowly as possible and try to entice all six ships after us. But +I'd much rather wade right in."</p> + +<p>"Same here. But discretion is the better part of valor, you know."</p> + +<p>"Boom!"</p> + +<p>Again a gun spoke aboard one of the enemy.</p> + +<p>"We're still out of range," said Jack. "Let 'em come a little closer."</p> + +<p>As Jack could now see, all six ships had altered their course slightly and +were heading directly for the Essex.</p> + +<p>"You may come about, Mr. Chadwick," said Jack.</p> + +<p>Slowly the Essex swung about.</p> + +<p>"Train your left guns on the enemy," Jack ordered.</p> + +<p>This was done.</p> + +<p>"Range finders!"</p> + +<p>"Still out of range, sir," was the report.</p> + +<p>"All right But let me know the minute we can strike."</p> + +<p>"Aye, aye, sir."</p> + +<p>"Half speed ahead, Mr. Chadwick."</p> + +<p>"Aye, aye, sir."</p> + +<p>Frank signalled the engine room.</p> + +<p>"Boom! Boom! Boom!"</p> + +<p>Guns spoke simultaneously aboard three of the enemy ships.</p> + +<p>"Still beyond range."</p> + +<p>It was Lieutenant Hetherton who spoke.</p> + +<p>"Trouble is," said Frank, "that they will be within range before we are."</p> + +<p>"We'll risk it," said Jack. "It's up to us to keep them busy until the +warships arrive."</p> + +<p>The next fire from the enemy resulted in a screaming shell to port.</p> + +<p>"They've got the range, sir," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"Make it two-thirds speed ahead."</p> + +<p>The speed of the Essex increased.</p> + +<p>But the German vessels were bearing down on her swiftly, and eventually +Jack was forced to call for full speed ahead.</p> + +<p>But still the German warships gained.</p> + +<p>"They've the heels of us, too," muttered Jack. "Well, we'll slow down a +bit and trust to luck. We can't do any damage unless we get within +range."</p> + +<p>The Essex slowed suddenly to half speed.</p> + +<p>The German fleet dashed ahead, now in single formation. This was fortunate +for the Essex, for it meant that the guns of only one ship could be +brought to bear on the British destroyer at one time.</p> + +<p>"Range, sir!" cried the range finder at this point.</p> + +<p>"Then fire!" shouted Jack to the aft turret battery captain.</p> + +<p>The battery spoke sharply, and the men gave a cheer of delight.</p> + +<p>The first shell went home. It cleared the bow of the first German vessel +apparently by the fraction of an inch and smashed squarely into the +bridge. The crash of the shell striking home was followed almost instantly +by an explosion. Timber and steel, intermingled with human bodies, flew +high in the air. This much those aboard the Essex could see by the flare +of the searchlight.</p> + +<p>"A good shot, men!" cried Jack. "An excellent shot!"</p> + +<p>An excellent shot it was indeed.</p> + +<p>Something appeared to have gone wrong with the steering apparatus of the +first German ship. She veered slightly to port.</p> + +<p>The target thus presented was an excellent one.</p> + +<p>"Fire!" cried Jack again.</p> + +<p>The aft battery crashed out and once more the British cheered.</p> + +<p>Two shells plowed into the crippled German just on the water line.</p> + +<p>"A death wound," muttered Frank.</p> + +<p>The lad was right.</p> + +<p>The German vessel staggered under the force of the impact and seemed to +reel backward. Men leaped to the rails and hurled themselves into the sea.</p> + +<p>Suddenly there was a loud explosion and the ship seemed to split in two, a +blaze of red fire stretching high into the heavens from the middle of the +vessel as it did so. Then blackness enveloped it again and the two parts +of the ship fell back into the water with a hiss like that of a thousand +serpents. The first German ship was gone.</p> + +<p>It was first blood to the Essex and the crew cheered again.</p> + +<p>But the other five German vessels came on apace. The gun on the forward +ship spoke, but the shell went wild.</p> + +<p>"If they'll keep that formation, we might get away with the whole bunch of +them," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"Yes, but they won't," replied Jack.</p> + +<p>He was a good prophet.</p> + +<p>Even now, the German vessels began to spread out, and within ten minutes +had formed a semi-circle. It was possible now for the forward guns on each +ship to rake the Essex without interfering with each other's fire.</p> + +<p>"Train your guns on the ship farthest to port," Jack instructed.</p> + +<p>The order was obeyed. Again came the order for range finders, and the +report that the range was O.K.</p> + +<p>"Fire!" cried Jack.</p> + +<p>Once more fortune was with the crew of the Essex. The range had been +absolutely accurate, and the heavy shell from the Essex carried away the +superstructure of the German. At the same moment came a cry from the +lookout aft:</p> + +<p>"Warship coming up astern, sir!"</p> + +<p>Quickly Jack looked around.</p> + +<p>"The first of our reinforcements," he said quietly.</p> + +<p>He gave his attention again to the enemy, who was drawing uncomfortably +close.</p> + +<p>"Crash!"</p> + +<p>Jack whirled sharply.</p> + +<p>A shell had struck the Essex just above the water line on the port side.</p> + +<p>"Go below and report, Mr. Chadwick!" Jack ordered.</p> + +<p>Frank hurried away in response to this command. He sought the engine room.</p> + +<p>"What's the damage, chief?" he asked.</p> + +<p>"Slight," was the reply. "Shell passed clear through us, but cleared the +boilers. Better round up the carpenter, though, sir."</p> + +<p>Frank hurried back to the bridge and reported the extent of the damage. +Then he sent a midshipman for the ship's carpenter.</p> + +<p>"Crash! Bang!"</p> + +<p>Another shell had struck the Essex, this time in the aft gun turret.</p> + +<p>"Report, Mr. Chadwick," said Jack briefly.</p> + +<p>Frank hurried to the turret.</p> + +<p>"What's the damage, Captain?" he asked of the chief of the gun crew.</p> + +<p>"One gun smashed, sir," was the reply. "Three of the crew killed and five +injured."</p> + +<p>"Other guns still working?"</p> + +<p>"Can't you hear 'em, sir?"</p> + +<p>Frank smiled in spite of himself and cast a quick glance around.</p> + +<p>In spite of the death that had overtaken their comrades, the surviving gun +crews in the turret were working like Trojans. The big guns continued to +spit defiance at the enemy.</p> + +<p>Now and then a cheer rose on the Essex as a shot went home.</p> + +<p>Frank again returned to the bridge to report.</p> + +<p>"Boom!"</p> + +<p>It was a deeper voice that spoke this time.</p> + +<p>The radio operator himself rushed to the bridge.</p> + +<p>"Lion firing, sir," he said. "Says she has sighted us and for us to +retire. No need of sacrificing ourselves Captain Jacobs says. The enemy +can't get away."</p> + +<p>At the same moment the lookout aft sang out again.</p> + +<p>"Warship coming up astern, sir!"</p> + +<p>"The second of our reinforcements," said Jack quietly. "I'll bet these +fellows wish they had stayed home."</p> + +<p>"I'm betting the same way," declared Frank.</p> + +<p>"Well, it's getting too hot here," said Jack. "We'll get back and let the +big fellows get in the game."</p> + +<p>"Good idea, sir," said Lieutenant Hetherton.</p> + +<p>"Full speed ahead!" Jack ordered.</p> + +<p>At the sound of the great gun on the British warship Lion, the German +admiral in command of the flotilla ordered his ships to slow down. Until +that moment he had not been appraised of the fact that the German raid was +known to the British fleet. He supposed, upon seeing the Essex, that he +had encountered a single vessel which just happened to be in that part of +the sea, but when the Lion came into the fight he began to have his +doubts.</p> + +<p>As yet, however, there was no other vessel in sight, and as the Germans +heavily outnumbered the British, the admiral decided to continue the +engagement.</p> + +<p>"I suppose this fellow happened to hear the firing and came to +investigate," muttered the German admiral. "Our raid can hardly have been +discovered yet."</p> + +<p>Accordingly he gave the word to advance again.</p> + +<p>And a moment later he was sorry that he had done so.</p> + +<p>Far astern of the Lion, and yet not so far that the German admiral could +not have seen her but for the darkness, came two other long gray shapes; +and from farther east, and closer, appeared a third.</p> + +<p>The German admiral gritted his teeth.</p> + +<p>"Confound these English!" he exclaimed. "Can nobody beat them?"</p> + +<p>For a moment he debated with himself. He had half a mind to continue the +struggle, for the odds were still, with the Germans. Then he changed his +mind.</p> + +<p>The wireless aboard the German flagship flashed a signal to retire.</p> + +<p>But the German admiral had delayed too long for a successful retreat. +Other British ships hove into view—seven of them. There was nothing for +the German fleet to do but fight it out. The admiral gave the order:</p> + +<p>"Advance!"</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXV" id="CHAPTER_XXV" />CHAPTER XXV</h2> + +<h3>THE LAST SEA BATTLE</h3> + + +<p>The cannonading became terrific.</p> + +<p>Now that assistance arrived, Jack ordered the Essex, which still was the +nearest British vessel to the enemy, back into the fray.</p> + +<p>"The big fellows will look out for us," he confided to Frank.</p> + +<p>The revolving turrets of the Essex were kept on the move and guns crashed +as fast as they could be brought to bear. Shells struck on all sides of +the destroyer and occasionally one came aboard. But thanks to Jack's +maneuvering of the vessel, so far she had not been struck in a vital part.</p> + +<p>The main British fleet bore down on the enemy from two sides, and to +protect themselves against these new foes, the Germans were forced to turn +their attention elsewhere than the Essex. Already big shells from the +British warships were striking aboard the enemy. The range had been found +almost with the first fire from the approaching war vessels and the +Germans were replying as fast as they were able.</p> + +<p>The fighting was at such close range now that Jack was able to distinguish +the names of the German battleships. In the center, flying the flag of +Admiral Krauss, was the Bismarck. On the right of the flagship were the +Hamburg and the Potsdam, while on the left the flagship was flanked by the +Baden and the Wilhelm II.</p> + +<p>The fire of all five German vessels, at order of the admiral, was now +directed upon the Lion, which bore down swiftly and was perhaps a quarter +of a mile closer to the enemy than any other British craft except the +destroyer Essex, commanded by Jack.</p> + +<p>The forward guns of the Lion roared angrily and spat fire in the darkness +as she bore down on the Germans at full speed. As yet no enemy shell had +struck the Lion, but she had put several shells aboard the nearest German +battleship—the Baden.</p> + +<p>Now that the German fire had been momentarily lifted from the Essex, Jack +ordered his ship in closer; and a veritable hail of shells were dropped on +the Potsdam. For a moment or so the Germans paid no attention to the +destroyer, but the fire from Jack's men became so accurate that the +captain of the German ship found it necessary to disregard the admiral's +orders and turn his attention to the Essex in self-defense.</p> + +<p>The first shell from the Potsdam flew screaming over the bridge of the +destroyer, but did no damage. The second was aimed better. It struck the +bow of the destroyer on the port side and plowed through. The destroyer +quivered through her entire length.</p> + +<p>"Go below and report, Mr. Chadwick," Jack commanded.</p> + +<p>Upon investigation, Frank learned that the shell had plowed through the +forward bulkheads and that the outside compartments were awash. But the +inner compartments had not been penetrated. He rounded up the ship's +carpenter, who announced that the damage could be repaired in half an +hour. There had been no casualties.</p> + +<p>Jack accepted Frank's report with a brief nod; then gave his attention +again to fighting his ship.</p> + +<p>Forward and to the right of the Essex there sounded a terrific explosion, +followed by a blinding glare. The Baden, one of the largest of the German +warships, sprang into a mighty sheet of flame. A shell from the Lion had +penetrated the engine room and exploded her boilers. Came wild cries from +aboard the vessel and escaping steam and boiling water poured on the crew +and scalded them.</p> + +<p>With the searchlights of the British ships playing on her, the Baden +reared high out of the water, and as men jumped into the sea for safety, +she settled by the head, and sank.</p> + +<p>This left only four of the enemy to continue the struggle and opposed to +these the British offered eight unwounded vessels. Admiral Krauss gazed in +every direction, seeking a possible avenue of escape. And at last he +believed he saw it.</p> + +<p>To the east—back in the direction from which he had come—the space +between the British battleships Peerless and Falcon seemed to offer a +chance. The German admiral calculated rapidly. To the eye it appeared that +the German ships could pass through that opening before the British could +close in.</p> + +<p>The wireless aboard the German flagship sputtered excitedly. Instantly the +four remaining German ships turned and dashed after the flagship, which +was showing the way.</p> + +<p>Instantly the commander of every British ship realized the purpose of the +enemy. Even the distant Falcon and Peerless seemed to know what was +expected of them. Their speed increased and they dashed forward in an +effort to intercept the enemy.</p> + +<p>It was nip and tuck. The Lion was the first to dash in pursuit, followed +by the Tiger and the White Hawk. The Brewster and Southampton, closely +followed by the more or less crippled Essex, brought up the rear, each +doing its utmost to pass the other in order to get another chance at the +enemy.</p> + +<p>Slowly the Lion, the Tiger and the White Hawk gained on the enemy; and it +became apparent now that the Germans would be unable to get through the +space between the Peerless and Falcon without a fight.</p> + +<p>Aboard the Bismarck, the German admiral gritted his teeth.</p> + +<p>"It will have to be fight now," he muttered, "and the odds are all against +me."</p> + +<p>The Falcon and the Peerless, from either side and forward of the Germans, +now opened with their big guns almost simultaneously. Every available gun +aboard the German vessels replied. From astern, the guns of the Lion were +pounding the sterns of the fleeing enemy battleships. The Brewster and the +Southampton, together with the Tiger and the White Hawk, also were hurling +shells after the Germans, although with little effect, for they were +trailing too far behind.</p> + +<p>Jack urged the Essex forward in the wake of the others. He was far behind +and was rapidly being outdistanced by the larger ships, but he determined +to see the thing through if possible.</p> + +<p>The last German ship in line, struck by a shell from the pursuing Lion, +staggered and fell to one side. The Lion darted on, pouring a broadside +into the crippled enemy as she passed, then dashed after the vessels +ahead.</p> + +<p>The Tiger, White Hawk, Brewster and Southampton, also poured broadsides +into the Wilhelm II as they passed, but they did not even slacken their +pace.</p> + +<p>But the Wilhelm II apparently had not received her death blow. Her crew +continued to fight the ship heroically, and as the Essex approached she +was greeted with a heavy fire from the German.</p> + +<p>"The big fellows don't seem to have made a very good job of this," said +Jack to Frank. "We'll finish it for them."</p> + +<p>The Essex slowed down and turned sharply toward the Wilhelm II. Her guns +still in condition to fight burst forth anew. The British showed +excellent marksmanship. Shell after shell was poured into the crippled +foe. Jack ordered "cease firing."</p> + +<p>Taking a megaphone that lay nearby, he put it to his mouth and called:</p> + +<p>"Surrender!"</p> + +<p>His answer was a shell that came crashing aboard aft from one of the +Wilhelm II's big guns. Jack turned quietly to Frank.</p> + +<p>"Sink her!" he said.</p> + +<p>Frank dashed across the deck to where the crew of the forward gun turret +was anxiously awaiting some command. He addressed the captain of the crew.</p> + +<p>"See if you can put a shell into her engine room," he said. "Take your +time."</p> + +<p>The latter did so; and it was several seconds before the big gun spoke, +but when it did Frank uttered an exclamation of satisfaction.</p> + +<p>The shell had gone true. Watching eyes aboard the Essex saw it plow its +way through the side of the Wilhelm II. Then came the explosion and the +Wilhelm II seemed to part in the middle. She sank in less than five +minutes.</p> + +<p>Meanwhile, the Peerless and Falcon had headed off the other three German +ships, which, forced to fight, now stood at bay, with every gun pounding. +The Lion, Tiger and the other vessels bore down on them rapidly from +astern.</p> + +<p>For the space of half an hour the view of those aboard the Essex was +obscured by the smoke from the big guns, which could not be penetrated +even by the bright lights of the searchlights. They could hear the boom of +the big guns, the crash of the shells as they struck home and occasional +sharp explosions that told of irrepairable damage aboard the enemy +vessels, but they could see nothing.</p> + +<p>"This will be the last of the enemy," was Frank's comment.</p> + +<p>Jack nodded.</p> + +<p>"I should think so," he agreed. "If they let one of those fellows get away +now they should be court-martialed."</p> + +<p>"Don't fret," said Frank, "they won't get away."</p> + +<p>They didn't get away.</p> + +<p>Firing ceased just as the first streak of light appeared in the eastern +sky, and when the smoke of battle cleared away, Jack and Frank saw that +the British victory had been complete.</p> + +<p>Only two German ships were still above water. These were the Bismarck, +flagship of Admiral Krauss, and the Hamburg. The others had all been sunk.</p> + +<p>The Hamburg, the lads could see, was slowly sinking by the head. She was +being abandoned by her crew, who, in small boats, some even swimming, were +hurrying to the side of the Bismarck, where they were lifted aboard.</p> + +<p>"Why didn't they sink her, too?" demanded Frank pointing to the German +flagship.</p> + +<p>"Why?" repeated Jack. "Why should they? Can't you see that white flag +flying at the masthead?"</p> + +<p>"By George! I hadn't noticed that."</p> + +<p>"And there," said Jack, pointing, "goes a prize crew from the Lion to take +over the vessel."</p> + +<p>A launch loaded with British tars had put off from the Lion and was making +toward the German flagship.</p> + +<p>Admiral Krauss and his officers and men were soon transferred to the Lion +and a British crew was in possession of the Bismarck.</p> + +<p>Thus ended the last sea battle of the great war. In all the times that +Germany had tested the naval power of Great Britain and her allies, she +had found it great—too much for German naval tactics to overcome. And now +that the great war was drawing to an end, she did not test it again.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVI" id="CHAPTER_XXVI" />CHAPTER XXVI</h2> + +<h3>THE END APPROACHES</h3> + + +<p>With the coming of November, it became apparent to every officer and man +in the Grand Fleet—as well as the rest of the world—that the beginning +of the end was at hand—that the German war machine was disintegrating and +was about to break.</p> + +<p>This was strengthened by the announcement on November 2 that the preceding +day England, France and Italy had concluded an armistice with Turkey, thus +depriving Germany of her second ally. This left only Germany and Austria +to continue the struggle, and upon the same day that the armistice with +Turkey was announced came word that Austria also had made overtures for +peace.</p> + +<p>"You can take it from me," said Jack, as the destroyer Essex continued her +patrol of the North Sea, "that this war is about to end. I'm willing to +bet that Germany will sue for peace within a couple of weeks."</p> + +<p>Frank expressed his doubts.</p> + +<p>"She's likely to continue the struggle for some time yet," he said.</p> + +<p>"But that would be foolish," declared Jack. "She can hope to gain nothing +thereby."</p> + +<p>"Perhaps not. But if Germany sues for peace now there is likely to be such +an internal upheaval in the Empire that the French revolution will look +like a house party."</p> + +<p>"Maybe you're right, but I stick to my opinion nevertheless."</p> + +<p>Events proved that Jack was right.</p> + +<p>On the morning of November 5, word reached the Grand Fleet that an +armistice had been concluded with Austria the day before.</p> + +<p>"As I expected," said Jack. "What did I tell you, Frank?"</p> + +<p>"Well, I anticipated that myself," said Frank. "But Germany hasn't asked +for peace yet, you know."</p> + +<p>"True, but I can tell you something you don't know. I just got word this +morning."</p> + +<p>"What's that?"</p> + +<p>"Why Germany, through Chancellor Ebert, already is in negotiations with +President Wilson."</p> + +<p>"What?"</p> + +<p>"Exactly. President Wilson has replied that he will stick to his original +principles of peace, announced some time ago. Germany is requested to +announce whether she will accept such terms."</p> + +<p>"But it seems to me," said Frank, "that if Germany wants peace she should +be made to ask it on the field of battle."</p> + +<p>And that is exactly what happened, for when the armistice negotiations +were finally begun it was at a conference between Marshal Foch, +commander-in-chief of all the allied forces, and a commission of German +officers.</p> + +<p>It was on November 8, that news of the armistice conference was flashed to +the Grand Fleet.</p> + +<p>"Armistice commission will meet November 10 at Hirson, France," read the +message, flashed to every vessel in the fleet.</p> + +<p>All that day and the next, every man in the fleet waited anxiously for +further word of the approaching armistice conference. None came. Neither +had any word been received on the evening of November 10.</p> + +<p>"Must have been a hitch some place," said Frank, as they sat in the +latter's cabin that night.</p> + +<p>"Not necessarily," replied Jack, "You know these things take time. A +matter like this can't be fixed up in an hour, or a day."</p> + +<p>"Well," said Frank, "I'd like to know what terms Marshal Foch will impose +on the foe."</p> + +<p>"They'll be stringent enough, don't you worry," said Jack. "He'll impose +terms harsh enough to make sure that Germany doesn't renew the struggle +while final peace negotiations are in progress."</p> + +<p>"I hope so. But I'll tell you one thing I hope he does."</p> + +<p>"What's that?" Jack wanted to know.</p> + +<p>"I hope he insists on the surrender of the whole German fleet."</p> + +<p>"Whew!" exclaimed Jack. "You don't want much, do you?"</p> + +<p>"Well, he should insist on it," declared Frank.</p> + +<p>"But he probably won't," returned Jack. "I figure, however that he will +insist that a large share of the ships be turned over to the allies, +including their most powerful submarines and battleships and cruisers. But +you can't expect them to give up the whole business, particularly when the +entire High Seas Fleet is practically intact."</p> + +<p>"Maybe not; but I'm for taking all we can get."</p> + +<p>"So am I," Jack agreed, "all that we can get without danger of causing a +hitch in the armistice proceedings."</p> + +<p>"Seems to me," said Frank, "that by this time we should have had some word +of the proceedings at Hirson to-day."</p> + +<p>"It would seem so, that's a fact. However, I guess we will get the +information all in good time."</p> + +<p>"That's all right. But I'm anxious to know what's going on."</p> + +<p>"Well, we won't know to-night; so I am in favor of turning in."</p> + +<p>"Guess we may as well."</p> + +<p>But early the next morning, an account of the first day's proceedings of +the armistice delegates was flashed to the fleet. This, however, did not +bring much jubilation, for the announcement simply said that the German +delegates had refused the terms offered by Marshal Foch and had returned +to their own lines for further instructions.</p> + +<p>"Told you so!" exclaimed Frank. "This war is not over yet."</p> + +<p>"Don't you believe it," declared Jack. "These Germans may do a little +bluffing—I'd probably try the same thing under similar conditions—but +you mark my words, they'll accept the terms, all right."</p> + +<p>"The conference is to be resumed some time this afternoon," said Frank. +"That means that we will hear nothing before morning."</p> + +<p>"It depends," said Jack. "If the armistice is signed to-day, we'll +probably get the word immediately; but if it stretches out for a day or +two, we probably won't"</p> + +<p>"I guess that's about the size of it," Frank admitted.</p> + +<p>All during the day excitement aboard the Essex, and all other vessels +patrolling the North Sea, for that matter, was at fever heat. While every +man knew that there was little likelihood of receiving news until long +after dark, each one nevertheless lived in hopes.</p> + +<p>Nevertheless, patrol work was still being done carefully. It had become an +axiom of a British sailor that a German was not to be trusted—that when +he appeared the least dangerous, it was time to watch him more carefully. +Consequently, in spite of the impending armistice, the vigilance of the +British fleet was not relaxed.</p> + +<p>Six o'clock came, and seven; and still there had been no word from the +scene of the armistice conference. At eight o'clock Frank said:</p> + +<p>"I don't know what we are sitting up for. Something must have gone wrong +again. If the armistice had been signed we would know something of it by +this time."</p> + +<p>"Hold your horses," said Jack. "I'm just as anxious as you are, but there +is no use getting excited about it."</p> + +<p>"Well," said Frank, "if we haven't heard something by nine o'clock, I'm +going to turn in."</p> + +<p>But at nine o'clock no word had been received.</p> + +<p>"I know we shall hear nothing to-night," said Frank, rising, "so I'm going +to tumble into my bunk."</p> + +<p>"Help yourself," said Jack, looking up from a book he was reading. "I'll +wait a little longer."</p> + +<p>Frank retired to his own cabin and was soon asleep. At ten o'clock, no +word having been received, Jack put down his book and rose.</p> + +<p>"Frank may be right," he told himself. "At all events, I may as well turn +in. My remaining up won't alter the facts, whatever they are."</p> + +<p>He undressed, extinguished the light in his cabin and climbed into bed.</p> + +<p>Aboard practically every ship in the fleet, almost the same scenes were +enacted that night. Officers and men alike remained up for hours, awaiting +possible word that the armistice had been signed. But at midnight no word +had been received, and while the big ships moved about their patrol work, +the men slept—those of them who had no duties to perform at that hour. +Only the officers and members of the crew watch, and the night radio +operators, remained awake.</p> + +<p>To Jack it seemed that he had just closed his eyes when he was aroused by +the sound of the Essex's signal whistle. It screeched and screeched. Jack +leaped from his bunk and scrambled into his clothes.</p> + +<p>"Something wrong," he muttered. "Wonder why they didn't call me?"</p> + +<p>He hurried on deck.</p> + +<p>Frank, in his cabin, also had been aroused by the noise. He, too, sprang +into his clothes and hurried on deck.</p> + +<p>There the first thing that his eyes encountered was a circle of figures, +with hands joined, dancing about the bridge and yelling at the top of +their voices. Among them was Jack, who, for the moment, seemed to have +forgotten the dignity that went with his command. Also, the shrill signal +whistle continued to give long, sharp blasts. Frank looked at Jack in pure +amazement.</p> + +<p>"Must have gone crazy," he muttered.</p> + +<p>He hurried to the bridge and standing behind the dancing figures, caught +Jack by the coat as he whirled by.</p> + +<p>"I say," he demanded. "What's the meaning of this? Have you gone mad?"</p> + +<p>Jack stopped and broke away from the circle which danced on without him.</p> + +<p>"Almost," said Jack, in answer to Frank's question, "and with good +reason."</p> + +<p>"What—" began Frank.</p> + +<p>"By George! Can't you think?" demanded Jack.</p> + +<p>Gradually comprehension dawned on Frank.</p> + +<p>"You mean—" he began again.</p> + +<p>"Of course, I mean it," shouted Jack. "Why else do you think I'd be +dancing around here like a whirling dervish? Come on and join the crowd. +The armistice has been signed!"</p> + +<p>"Hurrah!" shouted Frank.</p> + +<p>A moment later he was circling madly about the bridge with the others.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVII" id="CHAPTER_XXVII" />CHAPTER XXVII</h2> + +<h3>PREPARING FOR THE SURRENDER</h3> + +<p>ALTHOUGH the armistice had now been officially signed and fighting had +ceased, under orders from Admiral Beatty, commander of the Grand Fleet, +every ship was still stripped for action. While it appeared that +everything was open and above-board, the British admiral intended to take +no chances. He recalled other German treachery and he was not at all sure +in his own mind that the enemy might not attempt some other trick.</p> + +<p>Two days after the signing of the armistice, upon instructions from the +admiralty, Admiral Beatty got in touch by wireless with the German fleet +commander in Helgoland, Admiral Baron von Wimpfen. With the latter Admiral +Beatty was to arrange for the surrender for such portions of the German +High Seas Fleet as had been decided upon by Marshal Foch and the German +armistice commission.</p> + +<p>All day the wireless sputtered incessantly aboard the flagship, while +other ship commanders within radio distance listened to what was going on. +Jack was among these. He relieved his radio operator for the day and took +the instrument himself.</p> + +<p>"The German fleet," ticked Admiral Beatty's flagship wireless, "will steam +forth from Helgoland on November 19 and move due west toward the English +coast, where the British fleet will be stationed to await its coming."</p> + +<p>"Shall we dismantle our guns?" asked Admiral von Wimpfen.</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>"And what of the size of our crews?"</p> + +<p>"They shall be large enough to handle the vessel. That is all. The crew of +each ship shall be reduced to the minimum."</p> + +<p>"And how about our submarines?"</p> + +<p>"They must be surrendered first."</p> + +<p>"But the surrender cannot be completed in one day."</p> + +<p>"I am aware of it," replied Admiral Beatty. "As I have instructed you, the +first of the German fleet will leave Helgoland on the night of November +19. By that I mean the submarines. They must steam on the surface. The +first flotilla to be composed of twenty-seven vessels."</p> + +<p>"I understand," returned the German admiral.</p> + +<p>"Very well. My ships will be stretched out in a fifty-mile line on either +side of your ships as they approach and will fire at the first sign of +treachery."</p> + +<p>"There shall be no treachery, sir. You have the word of a German admiral."</p> + +<p>"Very well I shall acquaint you with other details from time to time."</p> + +<p>This was the conversation that Jack heard that day.</p> + +<p>At noon on November 18, Jack, together with other commanders, received +word from Admiral Beatty to steam toward Harwich, on the English coast, +and to take his place in the long line of ships that would be gathered +there to receive the surrender of the enemy fleet.</p> + +<p>Excitement thrilled the crew of the Essex. They were about to witness one +of the greatest events of world history and there wasn't a man aboard who +didn't know it. Nevertheless, there was no confusion, and the Essex +steamed rapidly westward.</p> + +<p>"Hope we get up near the front of the line," said Frank to his chum. "Also +that we are close to Admiral Beatty's flagship."</p> + +<p>"Here too," said Jack. "It will be a sight worth seeing."</p> + +<p>"Rather."</p> + +<p>"Well, we can't kick no matter where they place us, you know. I suppose I +shall receive the necessary instructions in plenty of time."</p> + +<p>Jack did. The instructions came the following morning, while the Essex was +still possibly a hundred miles off the English coast.</p> + +<p>"You will report to Admiral Tyrwhitt," Jack's message read, "who will +assign you to your station."</p> + +<p>Jack immediately got in touch with Admiral Tyrwhitt by wireless. The +latter gave his position and informed the lad that his place in line would +be next to the Admiral's flagship.</p> + +<p>"I thought Admiral Beatty would be up toward the front," said Jack.</p> + +<p>"He probably will," was Frank's reply. "I have it figured out like this, +from what you have told me of the fact that the submarines will be +surrendered first: Admiral Tyrwhitt probably will receive the surrender of +the U-Boats, while Admiral Beatty will receive the formal surrender of +Admiral von Wimpfen himself."</p> + +<p>"Maybe that's it," Jack agreed.</p> + +<p>It was well after noon when the Essex sighted the flagship of Admiral +Tyrwhitt, the Invincible, and reported for duty. Jack received +instructions to lay to just west of the flagship. He obeyed.</p> + +<p>From time to time now other vessels appeared and reported to Admiral +Tyrwhitt and were assigned places in the long line.</p> + +<p>Suddenly there was a cheer from the crews of the many ships. Jack glanced +across the water, as did Frank. And then the latter went wild with +excitement.</p> + +<p>Steaming majestically toward them came five great battleships flying the +Stars and Stripes.</p> + +<p>"So the Americans will be in at the finish," said Jack.</p> + +<p>"You bet they will," declared Frank. "We're always in at the finish."</p> + +<p>"Well, you deserve to be this time, I guess," said Jack with a smile.</p> + +<p>"We always deserve to be," declared Frank.</p> + +<p>"So?" replied Jack. "I'm not going to argue with you about it."</p> + +<p>"It wouldn't do any good," declared Frank. "Let me tell you something. If +it hadn't been for the United States this war wouldn't be over yet."</p> + +<p>"Is that so?" demanded Jack. "Why wouldn't it?"</p> + +<p>"Because all the British and French together don't seem to have been able +to lick the Germans."</p> + +<p>"Rats," exclaimed Jack. "We would have done it in time."</p> + +<p>"Maybe so, but there is nothing sure about it It was the Americans who +turned the tide at Chateau-Thierry."</p> + +<p>"They did some wonderful work, I'm not gain-saying that," Jack admitted. +"But I can't see that it was any more remarkable than what the Canadians +did at Vimy Ridge."</p> + +<p>"Well," said Frank smiling, "while the Canadians are really British +subjects, nevertheless they come from the same part of the world as the +Yankees. They're made out of the same pattern."</p> + +<p>Jack smiled.</p> + +<p>"I seem to have spoiled my own argument there, don't I?" he said.</p> + +<p>Frank grinned too.</p> + +<p>"You've got to admit," he said, "that when the Americans start a thing +they go through with it. They never turn back."</p> + +<p>"True enough," Jack admitted, "but to my mind it takes them a deuced long +time to get started."</p> + +<p>"They just want to be sure they're right first," Frank explained.</p> + +<p>"Have it your own way. But those five American ships approaching now look +mighty good, I'll admit that."</p> + +<p>"I never saw a more beautiful sight," declared Frank, and he meant it.</p> + +<p>Majestically the American warships steamed along, the leading vessel +flying the flag of Admiral Sims. They approached almost to the flagship of +Admiral Tyrwhitt and the guns of the two flagships boomed out an exchange +of salutes. Then the American flotilla slowed down and swung to leeward, +and took its places in the long line.</p> + +<p>"Going to be quite an event this surrender, if you ask me," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"It certainly is," Jack replied. "I understand King George and Queen Mary, +together with many other distinguished British, French, Americans and +Italians, will be present to witness the surrender."</p> + +<p>"Including ourselves," grinned Frank.</p> + +<p>"Well, we're probably not such big fry," Jack commented, "but we've done +as much—and a whole lot more—than a good many of them, if you ask me."</p> + +<p>"My sentiments exactly," declared Frank. "And for that reason we're just +as much entitled to be in at the finish as any of the rest."</p> + +<p>"More so," said Jack quietly.</p> + +<p>"Well, we'll be there. So we have no kick coming."</p> + +<p>All day great vessels of war continued to arrive and take their places in +the line. As far as the eye could see long gray shapes lay in the +water—two lines of them—with perhaps half a mile between. Through this +space the German warships would pass when they came out to surrender.</p> + +<p>When the eye could no longer see ships, the presence of other vessels was +noted by smudges of smoke on the horizon. The line of ships, or rather the +two lines, Jack and Frank knew, stretched almost to the distant shore.</p> + +<p>"Yes," said Jack, "it's going to be quite an event."</p> + +<p>Suddenly the guns of every ship burst out with a roar. The flagship of +Admiral Beatty was approaching down the line from shore. Aboard it, every +man of the great fleet knew, besides the admiral, were King George and +Queen Mary of England; and it was the royal salute that was being fired. +Even the American ships joined in the greeting.</p> + +<p>The guns of Admiral Beatty's flagship were kept busy acknowledging the +salutes. On every deck handkerchiefs and caps waved frantically as the +flagship passed.</p> + +<p>As the vessel drew abreast of the Essex, Jack and Frank, standing together +on the bridge, made out the forms of the King and Queen of England on the +bridge.</p> + +<p>Both lads doffed their caps, and Jack ordered the royal salute fired by +the big guns of the destroyer.</p> + +<p>The vessel trembled under the detonation and the crew seemed to go wild as +they cheered at the top of their voices.</p> + +<p>The flagship passed on.</p> + +<p>A mile or so to the east, the flagship slowed down and turned into line.</p> + +<p>"And that's where I suppose she will remain until after the surrender," +said Jack.</p> + +<p>The lad was right.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXVIII" id="CHAPTER_XXVIII" />CHAPTER XXVIII</h2> + +<h3>THE SURRENDER</h3> + + +<p>Germany's sea surrender began at dawn on November 20, nine days after the +signing of the armistice.</p> + +<p>Out in this misty expanse of the North Sea the allied battleships had +taken up their positions in a fifty-mile line of greyhounds. Aboard the +allied battleships every eye was strained to the east; every man was on +the alert. The British and allied war vessels presented a noble sight, +stretched out as far as the eye could see, and beyond.</p> + +<p>Every ship was stripped for action. Crews were at their posts. Not until +the surrender was an accomplished fact would the vigilance of the British +naval authorities be relaxed. Not until the German vessels were safe in +the hands of the allies would British officers and crews be certain that +the enemy was not meditating trickery up to the last moment.</p> + +<p>The destroyer Essex, commanded by Jack, as has already been said, was at +the extreme east of the long line of battleships. Beyond it were the +flagship of Admiral Beatty, flanked still farther east by three big war +vessels, and Admiral Tyrwhitt's flagship.</p> + +<p>Jack and Frank were on the bridge of the destroyer. Other officers were at +their posts. The crews stood to their guns. Below, the engine room was the +scene of activity. A full head of steam was kept up, for there was no +telling at what moment it might be needed.</p> + +<p>Came a shrill whistle from the farthest advanced British vessel, followed +by a cry from the lookout aboard the destroyer:</p> + +<p>"Here they come!"</p> + +<p>As the red sun rose above the horizon the first submarine appeared in +sight. Soon after seven o'clock, twenty-seven German submarines were seen +in line, accompanied by two destroyers. These latter were the Tibania and +the Serra Venta, which accompanied the flotilla to take the submarine +crews back to Germany.</p> + +<p>All submarines were on the surface, with their hatches open and their +crews standing on deck. They were flying no flags whatever, and their guns +were trained fore and aft in accordance with previous instructions from +Admiral Beatty.</p> + +<p>Until the moment that they had sighted the first ship of the British +fleet, the German flag had flown from the mastheads of the various +undersea craft, but they had been hauled down at once when the allied war +vessels came into view.</p> + +<p>The leading destroyer, in response to a signal from Admiral Beatty on his +flagship, altered her course slightly and headed toward the coast of +England.</p> + +<p>The wireless instrument aboard the destroyer Essex clattered and a few +moments later the radio operator rushed to the bridge with a message for +Jack. The latter read it quickly, then said:</p> + +<p>"Send an O.K. to the admiral?'</p> + +<p>"What's up, Jack?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>"Lower half a dozen small boats, Mr. Hetherton," instructed Jack before +replying to Frank's question, "and have them manned by a score of men +each, fully armed."</p> + +<p>"Aye, aye, sir."</p> + +<p>Lieutenant Hetherton hurried away.</p> + +<p>"What's up, Jack?" asked Frank again.</p> + +<p>"I have been ordered to inspect each submarine as it comes abreast of us," +Jack replied. "Apparently the admiral still fears treachery. I'll remain +aboard here, and leave the work to you and the other officers."</p> + +<p>This was done. As each submarine drew up with the Essex she was boarded by +a score of the Essex's men. Some stood guard at the hatches with weapons +held ready, while an officer and the others of the crew went below for a +hurried trip of inspection, searching them diligently for "booby traps," +and other signs of treachery.</p> + +<p>This necessitated a slowing down in the speed of the German craft, but at +length the work was accomplished and Frank and his men, and all others +belonging aboard the Essex, returned to their ship.</p> + +<p>"All serene, Jack," Frank reported.</p> + +<p>"Very well, I shall so inform the admiral."</p> + +<p>He scribbled off a brief message, which he sent to the radio room.</p> + +<p>Now, with the submarines well along the line, the British fleet began to +move—escorting the U-Boats toward Harwich. The fleet would return the +next day to receive the surrender of the larger enemy war vessels, but +to-day it meant to make sure that the submarines were taken safely to +port.</p> + +<p>There was one brief halt while the German admiral in command of the +flotilla went aboard Admiral Tyrwhitt's flagship to make formal surrender +of the submarines. He was accompanied by two members of his staff.</p> + +<p>Admiral Tyrwhitt received him on the bridge. There were tears in the eyes +of the German admiral as he said:</p> + +<p>"Sir, I surrender to you this submarine fleet of the Imperial German +navy."</p> + +<p>He extended his sword.</p> + +<p>Admiral Tyrwhitt waved back the sword and accepted the surrender in a few +brief words. The German admiral turned on his heel and walked to the rail. +There one of his officers held out his hand to a British lieutenant who +was nearby.</p> + +<p>The latter refused it, and the German turned away muttering to himself in +his native tongue. The German admiral and his officers returned to the +destroyer, and the march of the fleets continued.</p> + +<p>It was a procession of broken German hopes—in the van, a destroyer of the +unbeaten navy; behind, the cruel pirate craft that were to subjugate the +sea. Each of the allied warships turned, and keeping a careful lookout, +steamed toward Harwich.</p> + +<p>As the Essex passed one of the largest submarines, which carried two 5.9 +guns, Frank counted forty-three officers and men on her deck. The craft +was at least three hundred feet long.</p> + +<p>"By George! Isn't she a whopper?" exclaimed the lad.</p> + +<p>Jack nodded.</p> + +<p>"She is indeed. The largest submarine I ever saw."</p> + +<p>Near the Shipwash lightship, three large British seaplanes appeared +overhead. They were followed by a single airship. The sight of the Harwich +forces, which soon appeared in the distance, together with the seaplanes +and the airship, was a most impressive one.</p> + +<p>Suddenly two carrier pigeons were released aboard one of the captured +submarines.</p> + +<p>A shock ran through the officers and crew of every allied vessel in sight. +Apparently something was wrong. Sharp orders rang out. But the matter +passed over. It was explained that the pigeons had been released merely to +carry back to Germany the news that the surrender had been made.</p> + +<p>Nevertheless, the act called forth a vigorous protest from the flagship of +the British commander-in-chief.</p> + +<p>"Another act like that and I shall sink you," was Admiral Beatty's +message.</p> + +<p>Still ten miles off shore, the procession came to a halt. Feverish +activity was manifest aboard the British vessels. Small boats were lowered +and put off toward the submarines. These carried British crews that were +to take over the vessels and conduct them to port. As fast as a British +crew took possession, the German crews were transferred to the German +destroyers there for the purpose of taking them back to Germany.</p> + +<p>Then the procession moved toward Harwich again.</p> + +<p>As the boats went through the gates into Harwich harbor, a white ensign +was run up on each of them, with the German flag flying underneath.</p> + +<p>Before being removed to the destroyers, which were to carry them back, +each submarine commander, who were the only Germans left aboard the +vessels as they passed into the harbor, was required to sign a declaration +that his submarine was in perfect running order, that his periscope was +intact, the torpedoes unloaded and the torpedo head safe.</p> + +<p>Despite orders issued to the Harwich forces in advance, to the effect that +no demonstration must be permitted in the city after the surrender of the +German fleet, wild cheering broke out on the water front as the +submarines, escorted by the great British warships, steamed into the +harbor.</p> + +<p>Military police cleared the water front of the dense throng that had +gathered, but the best efforts they put forth were unable to still the +bedlam that had broken loose.</p> + +<p>Commanders of the British ships had difficulty in restraining cheers by +their crews and later by the Harwich forces themselves when the fleet of +captured submarines was turned over to Captain Addison, the commandant at +that port.</p> + +<p>Harbor space for the surrendered U-Boats had been provided in advance, +and the vessels were now piloted to these places, where they were placed +under heavy guard.</p> + +<p>This work took time, and it was almost dark before the last submarine had +been escorted to its resting place.</p> + +<p>All day crowds thronged the streets of Harwich, cheering and yelling +madly. In vain the military authorities tried to stop the celebration. As +well have tried to shut out the sound of thunder in the heavens. At last +the authorities gave it up as a bad job, and joy and happiness ran rampant +and unrestrained.</p> + +<p>It was a glorious day for England, and thousands of persons from London +and the largest cities of the island had hurried to Harwich to witness the +formal surrender of the fleet and its internment. All night the thousands +paraded the streets of the little village, the celebration seeming to grow +rather than to diminish as the early morning hours approached.</p> + +<p>So passed the bulk of Germany's undersea fighting strength into the hands +of Great Britain and her allies. No longer would they terrorize with their +ruthless warfare. They were safe at last. The fangs of the undersea +serpents had been drawn.</p> + +<p>And on the night of November 20, 1918, thus made harmless, they lay +quietly in the harbor of Harwich, England, above them flying the Union +Jack.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXIX" id="CHAPTER_XXIX" />CHAPTER XXIX</h2> + +<h3>THE SURRENDER COMPLETE</h3> + + +<p>November 21! This was to be a day, perhaps, more historic than the one +that preceded it, for on this day was to be surrendered to the allied +fleet the bulk of the great war vessels that comprised the Imperial German +navy.</p> + +<p>Heading the great British flotilla that moved out to sea again was the +super-dreadnaught the Queen Elizabeth, Admiral Beatty's flagship, aboard +which were King George and Queen Mary, as they had been the day before.</p> + +<p>Following the first twenty-five British ships steamed the American +squadron, Admiral Rodman, aboard the dreadnaught New York, showing the +way. Following the New York were the Florida, Wyoming, Texas and Arkansas. +Behind the Americans trailed a pair of French cruisers, followed in turn +by a few Italian vessels, after which came the remainder of the great +British fleet.</p> + +<p>So the flotilla moved out again and took up the positions they had held +the day before. Again every eye was strained to catch sight of the first +German warship. And at last came the cry, sounding much as it had on the +preceding day:</p> + +<p>"Here they come!"</p> + +<p>The German fleet that approached now came much more swiftly than had the +flotilla of undersea craft. This time the halt was made while the German +flagship was abreast of the Queen Elizabeth. Admiral Baron von Wimpfen put +off for Admiral Beatty's vessel in a launch.</p> + +<p>Admiral Beatty received the German admiral on the bridge of the Queen +Elizabeth, with him were King George and Queen Mary. Admiral von Wimpfen +made the formal declaration of surrender and it was accepted by the +British admiral without ostentation.</p> + +<p>The German fleet thus turned over to Admiral Beatty consisted of +approximately one hundred and fifty vessels of all classes, including +dreadnaughts, battleships, cruisers and destroyers. Slowly these giant +vessels fell into line now and steamed toward Harwich, the British ships, +still cleared for action, accompanying them and watching carefully for the +signs of treachery.</p> + +<p>But no such signs showed themselves. No longer were the Germans thinking +of fight. They had been decisively beaten, and they knew it. Apparently +they considered themselves lucky to get off so easily.</p> + +<p>Still some distance off-shore, the crews of the German ships were +transferred to the half-dozen small vessels that were to carry them back +to the Fatherland, and British crews were put aboard the vessels. Then, +their eyes sad and watching what had once been the pride of Germany, the +German officers and sailors began their cheerless journey home.</p> + +<p>Again it was a night of festivity in Harwich, and in all England, and all +allied countries, for that matter. The surrender of the great German fleet +was now a thing of the past. Germany's hands were tied. She could continue +the struggle no longer even should she elect to do so. While a formal +declaration of peace had not been signed, and probably would not be signed +for months to come, the war was over, so far as actual fighting was +concerned.</p> + +<p>No wonder England, France, America, Italy and the smaller nations with +them went wild with joy. After four years of war, peace had again cast its +shadow over the earth, and everyone was glad.</p> + +<p>"So it's all over."</p> + +<p>It was Frank who spoke. He and Jack were in the latter's cabin on the +Essex. The ship was lying at anchor just outside Harwich harbor, riding +gently on the swell of the waves.</p> + +<p>"Yes, it's all over," said Jack, "and I'm glad."</p> + +<p>"So am I," Frank declared; "and yet we have had a good time."</p> + +<p>"So we have, of a kind. And still you can't rightly call it a good time +when all we have been doing is to seek, kill and destroy."</p> + +<p>"But it had to be done," Frank protested.</p> + +<p>"Oh, I know that as well as you do. But war is a terrible thing, and the +more you see of it the more certain you become that it is all +foolishness."</p> + +<p>"And yet, you can't permit a big bully to run amuck and smash up things +all over the world."</p> + +<p>"That's true, of course, and it's exactly what the kaiser and his war +machine tried to do. Now, the machine had to be smashed, of course, and it +has been smashed. But how long will it take the world to recover? How long +will it take to rebuild what has been destroyed in these four years of +war?"</p> + +<p>Frank shrugged his shoulders.</p> + +<p>"I'm not good at conundrums," he replied.</p> + +<p>"Nor I; and yet I'll venture to say that the reconstruction days will be +as hard as many we have experienced in the war."</p> + +<p>"The thing that I want to know," said Frank, changing the subject +abruptly, "is just what will be done with Germany in the final peace +conference."</p> + +<p>"You know as much about it as I do," replied Jack, "but my own idea is +that the German empire will be dismembered—divided into the states of +Prussia, Saxony, and so forth, as they were years before they united under +one head."</p> + +<p>"I'm sure I hope so. Certainly the allies will never permit Germany to +attain such power that may make all our fighting futile—they'll never let +her grow strong enough to start another world struggle."</p> + +<p>The lads conversed far into the night before retiring. Nevertheless they +were astir at an early hour, awaiting orders that they knew must come that +day; and they came shortly after noon in the shape of a wireless from Lord +Hastings.</p> + +<p>"Return to Dover at once," the message read.</p> + +<p>Again the Essex put to sea.</p> + +<p>But it was upon a peaceful voyage that the destroyer was bound now. No +longer did her decks bristle with shining guns, crew at quarters and ready +for action. True, the Essex still showed plainly that she was a ship of +war, but her threatening attitude was gone. The war was over and all was +quiet aboard.</p> + +<p>That night the destroyer put into Dover harbor and the lads went ashore to +report to Lord Hastings. It was after ten o'clock, but their former +commander received them at once in spite of the lateness of the hour.</p> + +<p>"Sorry to disturb you at this hour, sir," said Jack, "but I thought +perhaps you would wish us to report to you immediately."</p> + +<p>"And I am glad you did," returned Lord Hastings. "Come, tell me something +about yourselves. So you were in at the finish, eh?"</p> + +<p>"You bet!" exclaimed Frank enthusiastically. "You should have been there, +sir."</p> + +<p>"I was," replied Lord Hastings.</p> + +<p>"You were, sir?"</p> + +<p>"Yes."</p> + +<p>"But we didn't see you, sir," said Jack.</p> + +<p>"I know you didn't. But I saw you. And I saw Frank when he inspected the +submarines on the first day of the surrender."</p> + +<p>"Where were you, sir?" demanded Frank.</p> + +<p>"Aboard the Queen Elizabeth. I viewed the surrender as the guest of +Admiral Beatty, and their majesties."</p> + +<p>For some time the conversation dealt only with the surrender of the fleet. +Then Lord Hastings said:</p> + +<p>"Well, boys, the war is over. What do you intend to do now?"</p> + +<p>"I know what I shall do, sir," said Frank.</p> + +<p>"Well, let's hear it."</p> + +<p>"I shall return to America as soon as I am able to procure my discharge."</p> + +<p>"As I thought," said Lord Hastings. "And you, Jack?"</p> + +<p>"I hardly know, sir. I have no relatives, few friends. There is no one +dependent on me, and I am dependent on no one. It strikes me, sir, that +the navy might be a good place to stick."</p> + +<p>"And I had expected that, too," said Lord Hastings quietly. "But I don't +agree with you, Jack."</p> + +<p>"Why not, sir?" asked Jack, in some surprise.</p> + +<p>"In the first place," said Lord Hastings, "the life would begin to pall on +you when it settled down to dull routine. Now in active service, of +course, it's different. I know, because I've tried both. No, my advice to +you Jack, is to get out of the navy."</p> + +<p>"But what shall I do, sir?"</p> + +<p>"There are many things," said Lord Hastings quietly. "There is the +consular service, the diplomatic service. Who knows how far you may rise? +Already you have made a name for yourself and have won distinction. You +may go far, if you apply yourself."</p> + +<p>"That's true, too, sir," said Jack. "I have thought of that, at odd +moments. But I guess you are right about the navy, sir."</p> + +<p>"I know I am. And the sooner you get out of it the better."</p> + +<p>"Then I'll take your advice, sir. But I'm afraid it won't be possible to +get a discharge for some time yet."</p> + +<p>"It will be much simpler that you think, for both of you," said Lord +Hastings with a smile. "I still have some influence, you know, and I shall +see you receive your discharges within a fortnight, if you wish."</p> + +<p>"Hurray!" shouted Frank. "That suits me. There is no use sticking in the +navy now. There is nothing to do."</p> + +<p>"And," continued Lord Hastings to Jack. "In the meantime I'll look around +and see what I can turn up for you, Jack."</p> + +<p>"Thank you, sir," said Jack.</p> + +<p>"And in the meantime, Jack," added Frank, "you are going home with me for +a visit. That is, as soon as we get our discharges."</p> + +<p>Jack hesitated.</p> + +<p>"But I don't know that I should," he said. "Lord Hastings——"</p> + +<p>"Go by all means," said Lord Hastings. "You have earned a rest and should +take it. Now I'll see about the discharges at once, and as soon as you +receive them, both of you take my advice and go to the United States. That +will give me additional time to look around, Jack. And when you get there, +stay until I send for you."</p> + +<p>"All right, sir," said Jack with a smile. "You're still my superior +officer, sir. I must obey your commands."</p> + +<p>The three shook hands and Jack and Frank returned to the Essex.</p> + + + +<hr style="width: 65%;" /> +<h2><a name="CHAPTER_XXX" id="CHAPTER_XXX" />CHAPTER XXX</h2> + +<h3>HOME AT LAST</h3> + + +<p>"Recognize that, Jack?" asked Frank, pointing across the water.</p> + +<p>The lads were standing on the forward deck of a great trans-Atlantic liner +that was edging its way into New York harbor.</p> + +<p>Jack looked in the direction Frank indicated.</p> + +<p>"Rather," he said, "although I only saw it once before. That's the Statue +of Liberty."</p> + +<p>"Right," said Frank, "the emblem of that for which America went to war."</p> + +<p>"And the spirit for which we all fought," Jack added.</p> + +<p>"Exactly. Well, it's been a long time since I saw her. I'm glad to see her +again."</p> + +<p>It was morning of the last day of the year 1918.</p> + +<p>True to his word, Lord Hastings had been able to secure discharges for the +lads within two weeks after the surrender of the German fleet. They +accompanied Lord Hastings to London, where they remained some time at his +home. Frank, meanwhile, communicated with his father and announced that he +would be home soon. He did not give the exact date, for he wished his +return to be a surprise. And a surprise he knew it would be, as he now +stood on the deck of the incoming liner.</p> + +<p>The ship docked a short time later and Jack and Frank went ashore at once. +They took a taxi to the Grand Central station, where they caught a fast +train for Boston. It was night when they arrived there, but Frank +determined to go out to his home in Woburn, ten miles from Boston, at +once.</p> + +<p>Accordingly they took an elevated train at the South Station. This put +them in the North Station ten minutes later, and Frank found that there +was a train for Woburn in half an hour.</p> + +<p>It was after dark when the lads alighted from the train in the little town +of Woburn. Jack had been there with Frank before, when the lads had +crossed the Atlantic to New York soon after the United States entered the +war. Accordingly, he knew the way from the station to Frank's home almost +as well as the latter did himself.</p> + +<p>"Know where you are?" asked Frank.</p> + +<p>Jack grinned.</p> + +<p>"I've been here once," he said. "That should answer that question. You +know my memory is pretty good."</p> + +<p>"Then you can show me which house I live in," said Frank.</p> + +<p>Jack pointed to a house a block away where a dim light showed from beneath +a drawn curtain.</p> + +<p>"There's the house," he said, "and there appears to be some one home."</p> + +<p>"That's father, of course," said Frank. "He seldom goes out in the +evening."</p> + +<p>The lads quickened their steps and soon were before the house. Quietly +they mounted the steps and as quietly tip-toed across the porch. Frank +tried the door. It was unlocked.</p> + +<p>"Careless of father," he whispered. "I'll have to speak to him about +that."</p> + +<p>He opened the door gently and the two lads passed within. Frank closed the +door noiselessly behind him. The lads dropped their grips silently in the +hall and then tip-toed toward a room at the far end, where a light showed.</p> + +<p>Keeping out of sight, Frank peered in the door. There, with his back to +his son, sat Dr. Chadwick, reading. Frank stepped softly across the room +leaving Jack standing, grinning, at the door.</p> + +<p>Frank reached out and put both hands across his father's eyes.</p> + +<p>Dr. Chadwick's book dropped to the floor and for a moment Frank was afraid +he had frightened him by this unceremonious greeting. But Dr. Chadwick's +hands reached up and clasped the hands that for the moment blinded him.</p> + +<p>"Frank!" he cried, and sprang to his feet.</p> + +<p>The next moment father and son were in each other's arms.</p> + +<p>Dr. Chadwick held his son off at arm's length, and looked at him.</p> + +<p>"You're a sight for sore eyes," he declared. "You look better than you did +the last time I saw you, and you were looking fine then."</p> + +<p>"Here, Father," said Frank, "is a friend of mine come to see you."</p> + +<p>Dr. Chadwick turned and saw Jack in the doorway. He stepped forward and +gripped Jack's hand heartily.</p> + +<p>"Jack Templeton, eh?" he exclaimed. "I'm glad to see you. And you are +Captain Templeton now, I perceive."</p> + +<p>Jack blushed.</p> + +<p>"They insisted on making me one, sir, and I couldn't refuse," he said.</p> + +<p>"Now," said Dr. Chadwick, "you two boys sit right down here and tell me +all about yourselves. But first, are you hungry?"</p> + +<p>"No, sir," said Frank. "We had dinner on the train just before we reached +Boston."</p> + +<p>"Then let's hear what you have been doing. I understand you were present +at the surrender of the German fleet. Give me some of the details."</p> + +<p>Until long after midnight the three sat there, Dr. Chadwick listening +eagerly to the tales of his son and the latter's chum. But at last he +looked at his watch.</p> + +<p>"Why, it's after midnight," he exclaimed. "Time for bed."</p> + +<p>Frank led the way to the room he had occupied since babyhood. This Jack +was to share with him during his stay.</p> + +<p>"I'll tell you," said Frank, as he climbed into bed, "it feels pretty good +to a fellow to get back into his own bed after all these years."</p> + +<p>"I should think it would," agreed Jack. "But mine is a long ways from +here. However, I guess I shall see it again some day."</p> + +<p>"Of course you will, old fellow, and I'll go along with you."</p> + +<p>They fell asleep.</p> + +<p>Both lads were awakened by the sound of a commotion without. They jumped +out of bed. It was broad daylight of the first day of January, 1919.</p> + +<p>"Still celebrating the new year, I guess," said Frank. "Remember we heard +'em shooting before we went to bed?"</p> + +<p>Jack nodded.</p> + +<p>Frank went to the window and stuck his head out. Instantly there was a +wild yell outside. Frank drew his head hurriedly back again.</p> + +<p>"What's the matter?" asked Jack.</p> + +<p>"I don't know," said Frank. "There is a whole gang of fellows out there +and they all seem to be crazy about something."</p> + +<p>Jack had a faint suspicion. He crossed to the window and looked out.</p> + +<p>Again a yell went up, followed by a cry from many throats:</p> + +<p>"We want Frank!"</p> + +<p>Even Frank heard this. His face turned red and he began to act flustered.</p> + +<p>"Some of the fellows know I'm home, I guess," he said.</p> + +<p>"That's what's the matter, all right," Jack agreed. "Better show yourself +again."</p> + +<p>"Wait till I get some clothes on and I'll go down and see 'em," said +Frank.</p> + +<p>"They'll probably want you to make a speech," Jack suggested.</p> + +<p>Frank was alarmed.</p> + +<p>"Speech?" he repeated. "I can't make a speech."</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes you can. You don't mean to tell me that a fellow who has done +what you have—who has talked with kings and czars—is afraid to talk to +some of his old friends and companions?"</p> + +<p>"That's different," declared Frank.</p> + +<p>Jack smiled.</p> + +<p>"I catch your point, and maybe you're right," he admitted. "However, +you'll have to do it."</p> + +<p>"I suppose I shall," said Frank with a sigh, "so the sooner I get it over +with the better."</p> + +<p>He led the way downstairs and on to the front porch. Jack stepped forward +close beside him. Again there was a wild cheer from many throats.</p> + +<p>Both lads still wore their British uniforms, and they both presented a +manly and handsome appearance as they stood there on the front porch of +Frank's home.</p> + +<p>"Hello, Frank!" "Glad to see you back!" "Are you going to stay here?" +"Tell us about yourself."</p> + +<p>These were some of the cries hurled at the lad.</p> + +<p>Frank's face turned red and he would have turned away had not Jack's +stalwart frame stayed him.</p> + +<p>"Speech! Speech!" came the cry.</p> + +<p>The hubbub increased.</p> + +<p>"I can't do it, Jack!" Frank exclaimed.</p> + +<p>"Oh, yes you can," replied his chum. "I'll help you."</p> + +<p>He raised his right hand for silence, still keeping his left tightly on +Frank's shoulder, for the latter showed signs of bolting at the first +opportunity. Instantly the shouting died away and the crowd of young +fellows waited expectantly.</p> + +<p>"I just want to introduce my friend," said Jack smiling. "Lieutenant +Chadwick, gentlemen, of His British Majesty's service, though an American +citizen, and a good one at that. Lieutenant Chadwick will be glad to say a +few words to you."</p> + +<p>The cheering burst forth again, but died away as Jack pushed Frank +forward.</p> + +<p>Frank made a brave effort and finally managed to say a few words. He grew +more at ease as he went along and his audience listened intently. He +spoke for perhaps five minutes, then concluded:</p> + +<p>"And now, fellows, I want you all to step up and shake hands with my +friend—also my commander—Captain Jack Templeton. He's an Englishman, but +a pretty good fellow at that—and he's no older than any of us."</p> + +<p>There was another cheer and the boys gathered around to shake Jack's hand +and get acquainted with him. And after they had talked and talked and +feasted their eyes on the British uniforms to their hearts' content they +went away. Then Jack and Frank went in to breakfast, where Dr. Chadwick +was awaiting them at the table.</p> + +<p>A few words more and the history of The Boy Allies on the Sea is complete.</p> + +<p>Jack remained with Frank for several weeks, then returned to England upon +receipt of a message from Lord Hastings announcing that he had found a +place for the lad in the diplomatic service. The story of Jack's struggles +in his chosen profession would make interesting reading, perhaps, but it +is in no wise connected with the great war. Suffice it to say that he is +rapidly rising to fame and fortune and that in years to come, in all +probability, he will hold one of the most important posts in the British +government.</p> + +<p>Frank, for his part, remained in his home town, where he took up the +study of law. He proved an apt student and soon showed signs of talent +that undoubtedly will make him famous.</p> + +<p>So here we shall take our leave of Jack Templeton and Frank Chadwick, +knowing that, in years to come, they will meet again, both famous then, +and that through all the years their friendship shall survive, and grow +stronger than it was in the days when they fought side by side for the +freedom of the world.</p> + +<p>THE END</p> + + + + + + + + +<pre> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Boy Allies with the Victorious +Fleets, by Robert L. 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Drake + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Boy Allies with the Victorious Fleets + The Fall of the German Navy + +Author: Robert L. Drake + +Release Date: January 7, 2005 [EBook #14626] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE BOY ALLIES *** + + + + +Produced by Juliet Sutherland, Emmy and the PG Online Distributed +Proofreading Team + + + + + + +The Boy Allies +With the Victorious Fleets + +OR +The Fall of the German Navy + +By ENSIGN ROBERT L. DRAKE + +AUTHOR OF + +"The Boy Allies With the Navy Series" + +[Illustration: A.L. BURT COMPANY NEW YORK] + +The Boy Allies + +(Registered in the United States Patent Office) + +With the Navy Series + + * * * * * + +By Ensign ROBERT L. DRAKE + + * * * * * + + The Boy Allies on the North Sea Patrol + or, Striking the First Blow at the German Fleet + + The Boy Allies Under Two Flags + or, Sweeping the Enemy from the Sea. + + The Boy Allies with the Flying Squadron + or, The Naval Raiders of the Great War. + + The Boy Allies with the Terror of the Seas + or, The Last Shot of the Submarine D-16. + + The Boy Allies in the Baltic + or, Through Fields of Ice to Aid the Czar. + + The Boy Allies at Jutland + or, The Greatest Naval Battle in History. + + The Boys Allies Under the Sea + or, The Vanishing Submarine. + + The Boy Allies with Uncle Sam's Cruisers + or, Convoying the American Army Across the Atlantic. + + The Boy Allies with the Submarine D-32 + or, The Fall of the Russian Empire. + + The Boy Allies with the Victorious Fleet + or, The Fall of the German Navy. + +Copyright, 1919 + +By A.L. BURT COMPANY + + * * * * * + + + + + +THE BOY ALLIES WITH THE VICTORIOUS FLEET + + + + + +CHAPTER I + +ABOARD U.S.S. PLYMOUTH + + +"Sail at 4 a.m.," said Captain Jack Templeton of the U.S.S. Plymouth, +laying down the long manila envelope marked "Secret." "Acknowledge by +signal," he directed the ship's messenger, and then looked inquiringly +about the wardroom table. + +"Aye, aye, sir," said the first officer, Lieutenant Frank Chadwick. + +"Ready at four, sir," said the engineer officer, Thomas; and left his +dinner for a short trip to the engine room to push some belated repairs. + +"Send a patrol ashore to round up the liberty party," continued Captain +Templeton, this time addressing the junior watch officer. "Tell them to +be aboard at midnight instead of eight in the morning." + +"Aye, aye, sir," said the junior watch officer, and departed in haste. + +There was none of the bustle and confusion aboard the U.S.S. Plymouth, at +that moment lying idle in a British port, that the landsman would commonly +associate with sailing orders to a great destroyer. Blowers began to hum +in the fire rooms. The torpedo gunner's mates slipped detonators in the +warheads and looked to the rack load of depth charges. The steward made a +last trip across to the depot ship. Otherwise, things ran on very much as +before. + +At midnight the junior watch officer called the captain, who had turned in +several hours earlier, and reported: + +"Liberty party all on board, sir." + +Then he turned in for a few hours' rest himself. + +The junior watch was astir again at three o'clock. He routed out a sleepy +crew to hoist boats and secure for sea. Seven bells struck on the +Plymouth. + +Captain Templeton appeared on the bridge. Lieutenant Chadwick was at his +side, as were Lieutenants Shinnick and Craib, second and third officers +respectively. Captain Templeton gave a command. The cable was slipped from +the mooring buoy. Ports were darkened and the Plymouth slipped out. A bit +inside the protection of the submarine nets, but just outside the +channel, she lay to, breasting the flood tide. There she lay for almost an +hour. + +"Coffee for the men," said Captain Templeton. + +The morning coffee was served on deck in the darkness. + +Lights appeared in the distance, and presently another destroyer joined +the Plymouth. Running lights of two more appeared as the clock struck 4 +a.m. + +Captain Templeton signalled the engine room for two-thirds speed ahead. +Running lights were blanketed on the four destroyers, and the ships fell +into column. + +Lieutenant Chadwick felt a drop on his face. He held out a hand. + +"Rain," he said briefly. + +Jack--Captain Templeton--nodded. + +"So much the better, Frank," he replied. + +The four destroyers cleared the channel light and spread out like a fan +into line formation. + +"Full speed ahead!" came Jack's next command. + +The Plymouth leaped ahead, as did her sister ships on either side. + +"We're off," said Frank. + +Away they sped in the darkness, a division of four Yankee destroyers, +tearing through the Irish sea on a rainy morning; Frank knew there were +four ships in line, but all he could see was his guide, a black smudge in +the darkness, a few ship lengths away on his port bow. Directly she was +blotted from sight by a rain squall. + +"Running lights!" shouted Frank. + +The lights flashed. Frank kept an eye forward. Directly he got a return +flash from the ship ahead, and then picked up her shape again. + +Morning dawned and still the fleet sped on. Toward noon the weather +cleared. Officer and men kept their watches by regular turn during the +day. At sundown the four destroyers slowed down and circled around in a +slow column. The eyes of every officer watched the clock. They were +watching for something. Directly it came--a line of other ships, +transports filled with wounded soldiers returning to America. These must +be safely convoyed to a certain point beyond the submarine zone by the +Plymouth and her sister ships. + +On came the transports camouflaged like zebras. The Plymouth and the other +destroyers fell into line on either side of the transports. + +"Full speed ahead," was Captain Templeton's signal to the engine room. + +"Take a look below, Frank," said Jack to his first officer. + +"Aye, aye, sir." + +Frank descended a manhole in the deck. He closed the cover and secured it +behind him. At the foot of the ladder was a locked door. As it opened, +came a pressure on Frank's ear drums like the air-lock of a caisson. +Frank threaded his way amid pumps and feed water heaters and descended +still further to the furnace level. + +Twenty-five knots--twenty-eight land miles an hour--was the speed of the +Plymouth at that moment. It was good going. + +Below, instead of dust, heat, the clatter of shovels, grimy, sweating +fireman, such as the thought of the furnace room of a ship of war calls to +the mind of the landsman, a watertender stood calmly watching the glow of +oil jets feeding the furnace fire. Now and then he cast an eye to the +gauge glasses. The vibration of the hull and the hum of the blower were +the only sounds below. + +For the motive power of the Plymouth was not furnished by coal. Rather, it +was oil--crude petroleum--that drove the vessel along. And though oil has +its advantage over coal, it has its disadvantages as well. It was Frank's +first experience aboard an oil-burner, and he had not become used to it +yet. He smelled oil in the smoke from the funnels, he breathed it from the +oil range in the galley. His clothes gathered it from stanchions and +rails. + +The water tanks were flavored with the seepage from neighboring +compartments. Frank drank petroleum in the water and tasted it in the +soup. The butter, he thought, tasted like some queer vaseline. But Frank +knew that eventually he would get used to it. + +"How's she heading?" Frank asked of the chief engineer. + +"All right, sir," was the reply. "Everything perfectly trim. I can get +more speed if necessary." + +Frank smiled. + +"Let's hope it won't be necessary, chief," he replied. + +He inspected the room closely for some moments, then returned to the +bridge and reported to Captain Templeton. + +The sea was rough, but nevertheless the speed of the flotilla was not +slackened. It was the desire of Captain Petlow, in charge of the destroyer +fleet, to convoy the transports beyond the danger point at the earliest +possible moment. + +The Plymouth lurched up on top of a crest, then dived head-first into the +trough. On the bridge the heave and pitch of the vessel was felt +subconsciously, but the eyes and minds of the officers were busied with +other things. At every touch of the helm the vessel vibrated heavily. + +Eight bells struck. + +"Twelve o'clock," said Frank. "Time to eat." + +The bridge was turned over to the second officer, and Frank and Jack went +below. + +"Eat is right, Frank," said Jack as they sat down. "We can't dine in this +weather." + +It was true. The rolling boards, well enough for easy weather, proved a +mockery in a sea like the one that raged now. Butter balls, meat and +vegetables shot from plates and went sailing about. It was necessary to +drink soup from teacups and such solid foods as Jack and Frank put into +their stomachs was only what they succeeded in grabbing as they leaped +about on the table. + +The two returned on deck. + +The day passed quietly. No submarines were sighted, and at last the +flotilla reached the point where the destroyers were to leave the homeward +bound transports to pursue their voyage alone. The transports soon grew +indistinguishable, almost, in the semi-darkness. The senior naval officer +aboard the Plymouth hoisted signal flags. + +"Bon Voyage," they read. + +Through a glass Jack read the reply. + +"Thank you for your good work. Best of luck." + +From the S.N.O. (senior naval officer) came another message. Frank picked +it up. + +"Set course 188 degrees. Keep lookout for inbound transports to be +convoyed. Ten ships." + +Again the destroyer swung into line. It was almost seven o'clock--after +dark--when the lookout aboard the Plymouth reported: + +"Smoke ahead!" + +Instantly all was activity aboard the destroyers. Directly, through his +glass, Jack sighted nine rusty, English tramp steamers, of perhaps eight +thousand tons, and a big liner auxiliary flying the Royal Navy ensign. + +Under the protection of the destroyers, the ships made for an English +port. The night passed quietly. With the coming of morning, the flotilla +was divided. The Plymouth stood by to protect the big liner, while the +other three destroyers and the tramp steamers moved away toward the east. + +"This destroyer game is no better than driving a taxi," Frank protested to +Jack on the bridge that afternoon. You never see anything. I'd like to get +ashore for a change. I've steamed sixty thousand miles since last May and +what have I seen? Three ports, besides six days' leave in London." + +"You had plenty of time ashore before that," replied Jack. + +"Maybe I did. But I'd like to have some more. Besides, this isn't very +exciting business." + +Night fell again, and still nothing had happened to break the quiet +monotony of the trip. Lights of trawlers flashed up ahead. Interest on the +bridge picked up. + +"Object off the port bow," called the lookout. + +"Looks like a periscope," reported the quartermaster. + +Frank snapped his binoculars on a bobbing black spar. + +"Buoy and fishnet," he decided after a quick scrutiny. + +Frank kept the late watch that night. At 4 a.m. he turned in. At five he +climbed hastily from his bunk at the jingle of general alarm, and reached +the bridge on the run in time to see the exchange of recognition signals +with a British man-o'-war, which vessel had run into a submarine while the +latter was on the surface in a fog. The warship had just rammed the +U-boat. + +"Can we help you?" Frank called across the water. + +"Thanks. Drop a few depth charges," was the reply. + +This was done, but nothing came of it Frank returned to his bunk. + +"Pretty slow life, this, if you ask me," he told himself. + +He went back to sleep. + + + + +CHAPTER II + +THE BOY CAPTAIN AND HIS LIEUTENANT + + +The U.S.S. Plymouth was Jack Templeton's first command. He had been +elevated to the rank of captain only a few weeks before. Naturally he was +not a little proud of his vessel. When Jack was given his ship, it was +only natural, too, that Frank Chadwick, who had been his associate and +chum through all the days of the great war, should become Jack's first +officer. + +In spite of the fact that Jack's rating as captain was in the British +navy, he was at this moment in command of an American vessel. This came +about through a queer combination of circumstances. + +The American commander of the Plymouth had been taken suddenly ill. At +almost the same time the Plymouth had been ordered to proceed from Dover +to Liverpool to join other American vessels. Almost on the eve of +departure, the first officer also was taken ill. It was to him the command +naturally would have fallen in the captain's absence. The second officer +was on leave of absence. Thus, without a skipper, the Plymouth could not +have sailed. + +Jack and Frank had recently returned with a British convoy from America. +They were in Dover at the time. From his sick bed in a hospital, the +captain of the Plymouth had appealed to the British naval authorities. In +spite of the fact that he was in no condition to leave when he received +his orders, he did not wish to deny his crew the privilege of seeing +active service, which the call to Liverpool, he knew, meant. + +The captain's appeal had been turned over to Lord Hastings, now connected +prominently with the British admiralty. Lord Hastings, in the early days +of the war, had been the commander under whom Jack and Frank had served. +In fact, the lads were visiting the temporary quarters of Lord Hastings in +Dover when the appeal was received from the commander of the Plymouth. + +"How would you like to tackle this job, Jack?" Lord Hastings asked. + +"I'd like it," the lad replied, "if you think I can do it, sir." + +"Of course you can do it," was Lord Hastings' prompt reply. "I haven't +sailed with you almost four years for nothing." + +"You mean, sir," replied Jack with a smile, "that I haven't sailed with +you that long for nothing." + +"That's more like it, Jack," put in Frank laughingly. "I've learned a few +things from Lord Hastings myself." + +"It is hardly probable," continued Lord Hastings, "that your promotion has +been unearned, Jack. No, I believe you can fill the bill." + +"In that case, I shall be glad to take command of the Plymouth +temporarily, sir." + +"And how about me?" Frank wanted to know. "Where do I come in, sir?" + +"Why," said Lord Hastings, "I have no doubt it can be arranged so you can +go along as first officer. I understand the first officer of the Plymouth +is also under the weather." + +"But isn't all this a bit irregular, sir?" Jack asked. + +"Very much so," was Lord Hastings' reply. "At the same time, many +precedents are being broken every day, and I can see no reason why two +British officers cannot lend their services to an ally if they are asked +to do so." + +"It is a little different with me, sir," said Frank. I'm an American." + +"All the same," said Lord Hastings, "you're a British naval officer, no +matter what your nativity." + +"That's true, too, sir," Frank agreed. "I haven't thought of it in just +that way." + +"Well," said Lord Hastings, "I shall report then that Captain Templeton +and First Lieutenant Chadwick will go aboard the Plymouth this evening." + +"Very well, sir," said Jack. + +This is the reason then that Jack and Frank found themselves aboard an +American destroyer in the Irish sea. + +Frank Chadwick, as we have seen, was an American. He had been in Italy +with his father when the great war began. He had been shanghaied in Naples +soon after Germany's declaration of war on France. When he came to his +senses he found that his captors were a band of mutinous sailors. Aboard +the vessel he found a second prisoner, who turned out to be a member of +the British secret service. + +Frank met Jack Templeton, a British youth, aboard the schooner. Jack came +aboard in a peculiar way. + +The schooner, in control of the mutineers, had put into a north African +port for provisions. Now it chanced that the store where the mutineers +sought to buy provisions was conducted by Jack. The lad was absent when +the supplies were purchased and returned a few moments later to find that +the mutineers had departed without making payment. + +Jack's anger bubbled over. He put off for the schooner in a small boat. +Aboard, the chief of the mutineers refused the demand for payment. A fight +ensued. Jack, facing heavy odds, sought refuge in the hold of the vessel, +where he was made a prisoner. + +During the night Jack was able to force his way from the hold into the +cabin where Frank and the British secret service agent were held captives. +He released them, and joining forces, the three were able to overcome the +mutineers and make themselves masters of the ship. + +Now Jack Templeton was an experienced seaman and knew more than the +rudiments of navigation. Under his direction the schooner returned to the +little African port that he called home. There the three erstwhile +prisoners left the ship to the mutineers. + +Later, through the good offices of the British secret service, Frank and +Jack made the acquaintance of Lord Hastings, also in the diplomatic +service. They were able to render some service to the latter and later +accompanied him to his home in London. There, at their request, Lord +Hastings, who in the meantime had been given command of a ship of war, had +them attached to his ship with the rank of midshipmen. + +Both Jack and Frank had risen swiftly in the British service. They had +seen active service in all quarters of the globe and had fought under many +flags. + +Under Lord Hastings' command they had been with the British fleet in the +North Sea when it struck the first decisive blow against the Germans just +off Helgoland. Later they were found under the Tricolor of France and with +the Italians in the Adriatic. With the British fleet again when it sallied +forth to clear the seven seas of enemy vessels, they had traversed the +Atlantic, the Pacific and the Indian oceans. It had been their fortune, +too, to see considerable land fighting. They had been with the +Anglo-Japanese forces in the east and had conducted raiding parties in +some of the German colonial possessions. + +Several times they had successfully run the blockade in the Kiel canal, +passing through the narrow straits in submarines just out of reach of the +foe. In Russia, they had, early in the war, lent invaluable assistance to +the Czar; and more lately, they had been in the eastern monarchy when Czar +Nicholas had been forced to renounce his throne. + +Once since the war began they had been to America. This was shortly after +the United States entered the war. They were ordered to the North Atlantic +in order to help the American authorities snare a German commerce raider +which, in some unaccountable manner, had run the British blockade in the +North sea, and was wreaking havoc with allied shipping. Later they went to +New York, and then returned to Europe with a combined British-American +convoy for the first expeditionary force to cross the seas. + +In temperament and disposition Jack and Frank were as unlike as one could +conceive. Jack, big for his age, broad-shouldered and strong, was always +cool and collected. Frank, on the other hand, was of a more fiery nature, +easily angered and often rash and reckless. Jack's steadying influence had +often kept the two out of trouble, or brought them through safely when +they were in difficulties. + +Both lads spoke French and German fluently and each had a smattering of +Italian. Also, as the result of several trips to Russia, they had a few +words of the Russian tongue at their command. + +In physical strength, Jack excelled Frank by far, although the latter was +by no means a weakling. On the other hand again, Frank was a crack shot +with either rifle or revolver; in fact, he was such an excellent marksman +as to cause his chum no little degree of envy. Then, too, both lads were +proficient in the art of self defense and both had learned to hold their +own with the sword. + +Up to the time this story opens the combined allied fleets had succeeded +in keeping the Germans bottled up in the strong fortress of Helgoland. +True, the enemy several times had sallied forth in few numbers, apparently +seeking to run the blockade in an effort to prey upon allied merchant +ships. But every time they had offered battle they had received the worst +of it. They had been staggered with a terrible defeat at Jutland almost a +year before this story opens, and since that time had not ventured forth. + +But even now, in the security of their hiding places, the Germans were +meditating a bold stroke. Submarines were being coaled and victualed in +preparation for a dash across the Atlantic. Already, one enemy +submarine--a merchantman--had passed the allied ships blocking the English +channel and had crossed to America and returned. Some months later, a +U-Boat of the war type had followed suit. A cordon of ally ships had been +thrown around American ports to snare this venturesome submarine on its +return, but it had eluded them and returned safely to its home port. + +But soon--very soon, indeed--German undersea craft were to strike a more +severe blow at allied shipping, carrying, for the moment, the war in all +its horrors to the very door of America. While the United States was +arming and equipping its millions to send across the sea to destroy the +kaiser and German militarism, these enemy undersea craft were crossing the +Atlantic determined to reap a rich harvest upon American, allied and +neutral shipping off the American coast. + +And the blow was to be delivered without warning--almost. + +When the U.S.S. Plymouth, under Jack's command, returned to Liverpool, the +captain of the vessel, having somewhat recovered, came aboard and relieved +Jack of command. + +"I'm obliged for your services, Captain," he said, "but I'll take charge +of the old scow again myself, with your leave." + +Jack and Frank went ashore, where, at their hotel, they received a brief +telegram from Lord Hastings. It read as follows: + + "Return to Dover at once. Important." + +"Now I wonder what is up," said Frank after reading the message. + +"The simplest way to find out," replied Jack, "is to go and see." + + + + +CHAPTER III + +OFF FOR AMERICA + + +"Then everything went first rate your first trip, Captain?" questioned +Lord Hastings. + +"First rate, sir," Jack replied. + +The lads were back in Dover where, the first thing after their arrival, +they sought an audience with their former commander. + +"Yes, sir," Frank agreed, "Jack makes an A-1 captain." + +"I'm glad to hear it," was Lord Hastings' comment. "I've other work in +hand and I wouldn't want to trust it to a man who is nervous under fire." + +"But we were not under fire this time, sir," said Jack. + +"You mustn't always take me literally, Jack," smiled Lord Hastings. "It +was your first venture in your present rank and you acquitted yourself +creditably. That is what I meant." + +"And what is the other venture, sir?" Frank asked eagerly. + +"There you go again, Frank," said Lord Hastings. "How many times have I +told you that you must restrain your impatience." + +Frank was abashed. + +"Your warnings don't seem to do much good, I'll admit, sir. Nevertheless, +I'll try to do better." + +"See that you do," returned Lord Hastings gravely. "Nothing was ever +gained by too great impatience. Remember that." + +"I'll try, sir." + +"Very well. Then I shall acquaint you with the nature of the work in +hand." + +The boys listened intently to Lord Hastings' next words. + +"As you know," His Lordship began, "the seas have virtually been cleared +of all enemy ships. All German merchant vessels have been captured or +sunk. What few raiders that preyed on our commerce for a time have been +put out of business." + +"Yes, sir," said Jack. "Our merchant vessels no longer have anything to +fear from the foe." + +"They shouldn't, that's true enough," replied Lord Hastings. + +"You mean they have, sir?" asked Jack, incredulously. + +Lord Hastings nodded. + +"I do," he admitted gravely. "Particularly shipping on the other side of +the Atlantic." + +"America, sir?" + +"Exactly." + +"But surely," Frank put in, "surely our blockade is tight enough to +prevent the enemy from breaking through." + +"We have not yet found means," replied Lord Hastings, "of effectually +blockading the submarine." + +"Oh, I see," said Frank. "You mean that the Germans plan to open a +submarine campaign upon allied shipping in American waters." + +"Such is my information," declared Lord Hastings. + +"And," said Jack, "you wish us to cross the Atlantic and take a hand in +the game of taming the U-Boats, sir." + +"Such is my idea," Lord Hastings admitted. "Let me explain. My information +is not authentic, but nevertheless, knowing the Germans as I do, I am +tempted to credit it." + +"Then why not warn the United States, sir?" asked Frank. "There are enough +American ships of war off the coast to deal effectually with all the +submarines the Germans can get across." + +"So I would," was Lord Hastings' reply, "but for the fact that some +officials of the admiralty are opposed to it." + +"Opposed?" exclaimed Jack. "And why, sir?" + +"Because they labor under the delusion that such a warning would throw the +people of the United States into a panic and would prevent the sending of +additional troops to France." + +"What a fool idea! By George!" exclaimed Frank, "what do they think the +American people are made of?" + +"You'll have to ask them," was Lord Hastings' answer to this question. +"For my own part, I feel that it is hardly fair to keep this information +from the American authorities." + +"I should say it isn't fair," declared Frank. + +"I agree with you," said Jack. "But just where do Frank and I come in, +sir?" + +"I'll make that plain to you very quickly," replied Lord Hastings. + +He drew a paper from his pocket and passed it to Jack. + +"Here," he said, "is your commission as captain of H.M.S. Brigadier." He +passed a second paper to Frank. "This," he continued, "is your commission +as first officer of the same vessel. Now, through channels known only to +myself, I have induced the admiralty to send you to America with certain +papers for Secretary Daniels of the navy department. At the same time, I +have other personal papers which I shall have you deliver to the secretary +of the navy for me. These will acquaint him with the facts I have just +laid before you." + +"I see, sir," said Jack. "But, if you will pardon my asking, what will +happen to you sir should it be found out you have acted contrary to the +wishes of the admiralty majority?" + +Lord Hastings shrugged his shoulders disdainfully. + +"What's the difference?" he wanted to know. "Our allies must be warned." + +"I agree with you, sir," declared Jack. + +"And I, sir," said Frank. + +"It is possible," said Lord Hastings, "that should I take the matter up +with the King or with the war ministry I might get action; but that would +take time, and I want this message delivered at the earliest possible +moment. Should I entrust it to the cables, under the circumstances, there +is nothing certain of its arrival." + +"I see, sir," said Jack. "Then you may be sure that I shall deliver the +message personally to Secretary Daniels." + +"It is well," said Lord Hastings. "I knew I could depend upon you boys." + +"Always, sir," replied Jack simply. + +"Then be off with you," said Lord Hastings, rising. "You can go aboard +your ship to-night. Here is the message I wish delivered to the American +secretary of the navy," and he passed a second paper to Jack. "The +admiralty message you are to take will probably reach you some time in the +morning, together with your sailing orders." + +Lord Hastings extended his hand. + +"Good-bye and good luck," he said. + +Jack and Frank shook hands with him and took their departure. + +"I'll be glad to get back to America if only for a short time," said +Frank, as they walked toward the water front. + +"I won't mind another look at the United States myself," Jack declared. +"It looks like a pretty good country to me, from what I saw of it last +trip. Almost as good as England, I guess." + +"Almost?" repeated Frank. "Say, let me tell you something. The United +States is the greatest country under the sun and don't you forget it. You +Johnny Bulls seem to think that England is the only spot on the map." + +"Well," returned Jack with a smile, "it strikes me that you boast +considerably about your own land." + +Frank's face reddened a trifle. + +"Maybe I do," he admitted, "but it's worth it." + +"So is England," said Jack quietly. + +"By George! So it is, Jack," said Frank. "Maybe it is a fact that I talk +too much sometimes." + +"No 'maybes' about it," declared Jack. "It's just a plain fact." + +"Look here," said Frank, somewhat nettled, "you may be my boss aboard +ship, but right now, with no witnesses present to hear what I say, I'll +say what I like." + +"Come, come, now," said Jack with a smile, "don't get all out of humor +just because I joke you a little bit." + +Frank grinned. + +"Well, then don't always thinks I'm angry just because I make a hot +reply," he said. + +Jack let it go at that. + +"Well, here we are at the water front," he said a few moments later, "and +if I'm not mistaken that's the Brigadier about a hundred yards off shore +there." + +"That's the Brigadier, all right," said Frank, "I can see her name +forward even at this distance. By George! but the camouflage artists have +certainly done a good job on her." + +"So they have," Jack agreed. "But we may as well go aboard." + +They commandeered a small boat and rowed rapidly to the Brigadier. Jack +swung himself up on deck and Frank climbed up behind him. + +A young lieutenant greeted Jack respectfully after a quick glance at the +latter's bars. + +"What can I do for you, sir?" he asked. + +"You may go below and tell the engineer to get steam up immediately," +replied Jack. "We may not sail before morning, but I may desire to leave +before." + +"Very well, sir," replied the young officer, "but may I ask who you are, +sir?" + +"Certainly," replied Jack, "I'm the commander of this ship, Captain +Templeton. This is Mr. Chadwick, my first officer. What is your name, +sir?" + +"Hetherton, sir, second officer of the Brigadier." + +"Very good, Lieutenant. You shall stay on here as second officer until +further notice. Now below with you." + +Lieutenant Hetherton disappeared. + +"I guess he won't ask many more questions," said Frank grimly. + +"Perhaps not," said Jack. "Now, Mr. Chadwick, will you be so kind as to +take the deck while I go to my cabin." + +Frank seemed about to remark upon Jack's sudden change in manner. Then he +thought better of it and walked off, grumbling to himself. + +"Wonder what he's in such an all-fired rush about? He's not wasting any +time, that's sure." + +He took the deck. Ten minutes later Lieutenant Hetherton reported to him, +saluting at the same time. + +"Engineer says he'll have steam up in two hours, sir." + +"Very well," replied Frank, returning the salute. "Will you kindly take +the deck, Lieutenant Hetherton? I'm going below." + +Lieutenant Hetherton took the deck, and thus relieved, Frank went below +and sought out Jack's cabin. + +"Now," he said, "I'll find out what all this rush is about." + +Without the formality of a knock, he went in. + + + + +CHAPTER IV + +THE START + + +Inside Jack's cabin, Frank found his commander and chum engaged in +conversation with the engineer officer, who had sought his new commander +immediately after giving instructions below. He saluted Frank as the lad +entered. + +"My first officer, Lieutenant Chadwick, Mr. Winslow," Jack introduced +them. "I am sure you will get along together." + +"So am I, sir," agreed the engineer. "And when shall we be moving, sir?" + +"I can't say, exactly," replied Jack. "Probably not before morning, but I +wish to be ready to leave on a moment's notice." + +"Very well, sir," said the engineer, "As I said before, I'll have steam up +in two hours." + +"Do so, sir." + +The engineer saluted and left Jack's cabin. + +Jack turned to Frank. + +"Now," he said, "what are you doing here? I thought I left you to take the +deck?" + +"I turned the deck over to Hetherton," replied Frank with a grin. "I +wanted to find out what all this rush is about?" + +"Don't you know it's bad form to ask questions of your commander?" Jack +said severely. + +"Maybe it is," Frank agreed, "but I just wanted to find out." + +"Well, I wouldn't do it in front of any of the other officers or the men," +said Jack. "It's bad for the ship's discipline. However, I'll tell you, I +just wanted to have things ready, that's all. Come, we'll go on deck." + +They ascended to the bridge. Jack addressed Lieutenant Hetherton. + +"Pipe all hands on deck for inspection, Lieutenant," he ordered. + +Lieutenant Hetherton passed the word. A moment later men came tumbling up +the companion way and fell into line aft. Jack and Frank walked forward to +look them over. Jack addressed a few words to the men. + +"I've just taken over command of the Brigadier," he said. "To-morrow +morning, or sooner, we shall sail, our destination temporarily to be known +only to myself. I believe that I may safely promise you some action before +many days have passed." + +A hearty British cheer swept the ship. + +"Hurrah!" cried the men. + +A few moments later Jack dismissed them. Then the officers returned to the +bridge, where Jack told off the watches. + +"Now," he said, "I'll have to look over the ship." + +Frank accompanied him on his tour of inspection. They found everything +absolutely clean and ship-shape. The muzzles of the big guns were shining +brightly beneath their coat of polish. After the inspection, Jack and +Frank went below for a look at the ship's papers. + +The Brigadier was a small destroyer, not more than 200 feet long. It had a +complement of 250 men, officers and crew; carried two batteries of 9-inch +guns in turrets forward and aft and was equipped with three 2-inch torpedo +tubes. It was not one of the latest of British destroyers, but still it +was modern in many respects. + +"A good ship," said Jack, after a careful examination of the papers. "As +to speed, we should get twenty-three knots on a pinch. Her fighting +equipment is excellent, everything is spick and span, and I was impressed +with the officers and crew. Yes, she is a good ship." + +"And you're the boss of the whole ranch, Jack," said Frank. "Think of it. +Less than four years ago you knew nothing at all of naval tactics, and now +you're in command of a British destroyer. By George! I wouldn't mind +having your job myself." + +Jack smiled. + +"Never mind," he said. "You'll get yours some day. I've just been more +fortunate, that's all. Besides, I knew something of navigation before you +did, and while you have mastered it now, I had a long start." + +"That's true enough," Frank admitted, "but at the same time you are +considerably more fit for the job than I am. Another thing. I don't know +that I would trade my berth here for a command of a ship." + +Jack looked his surprise. + +"Why?" he asked. + +"Because it would separate us," was Frank's reply. "We've been together +now since the war began, almost. I hope that we may see it through +together." + +"Here, too," declared the commander of the Brigadier, "but at the same +time you should not let a matter of friendship stand between you and what +may be your big opportunity." + +"Oh, I'd probably take the job if it were offered me," said Frank. "I'm +just hoping the offer will not be made; that's all." + +The lads conversed for some moments longer. Then Frank looked at his +watch. + +"My watch," he said quietly. "I'll be going on deck." + +"Right," said Jack. "Call me if anything happens." + +"Yes, sir," said Frank, saluting his commander gravely. + +Jack grinned. + +"By Jove! It seems funny to have you talk like that to me," he said. "At +the same time I suppose it must be done for the sake of discipline. +However, it is not necessary in private." + +"Nevertheless," said Frank, "I had better stick to it or I'm liable to +forget in public some time." + +"Well, maybe you're right," said Jack. + +Frank turned on his heel and went on deck, where he relieved Lieutenant +Hetherton, who had been on watch. + +"Nothing to report, sir," said Lieutenant Hetherton, saluting. + +"Very well, sir," was Frank's reply, as he, too, saluted. + +It was after midnight, and Frank's watch was nearing its end when the +lookout on the port side called: + +"Boat off the port bow, sir." + +Frank advanced to the rail. A moment later there was a hail from the +water. + +"What ship is that?' + +"His Majesty's Ship Brigadier," Frank called back. + +"I'm coming aboard you," said the voice from the darkness. "Lower a +ladder." + +Frank gave the necessary command. A few moments later a man attired in the +uniform of a British captain came over the side. He approached Frank, who +was barely visible in the darkness. + +"Captain Templeton?" he asked. + +"No, sir. I'm Lieutenant Chadwick. A moment, sir, and I'll call the +captain." + +"If you please," said the visitor. + +Frank passed the word for the quartermaster, who arrived within a few +moments. + +"Call Captain Templeton," Frank directed. + +Jack arrived on deck a few moments later and exchanged greetings with his +visitor. The latter produced a packet of papers. + +"From the admiralty," he said. "You will know what to do with them." + +Jack took the papers and stowed them in his pocket. + +"Yes, sir," he said. + +"That is all, then," said the visitor. "I shall be going." + +He stepped to the side of the vessel and disappeared. + +"This means," said Jack, after the other had gone, "that we can sail any +time now." + +"Then why not at once?" asked Frank. + +"You anticipated me," replied Jack. "Will you kindly pipe all hands on +deck, Mr. Chadwick?" + +Frank passed the word. + +Sleepy men came tumbling from their bunks below. All became bustle and +hurry aboard the Brigadier. Jack himself took the bridge. Frank stood +beside him. Other officers took their places. + +"Man the guns!" came Jack's order. + +It was the lad's intention to overlook nothing that would protect the ship +should it encounter an enemy submarine en route, and, as the lad knew, it +was just as possible they would encounter one in the English Channel as +elsewhere. + +For, despite all precautions taken by British naval authorities, enemy +submarines more than once had crept through the channel, once penetrating +Dover harbor itself, where they had wreaked considerable damage before +being driven away by British destroyers and submarine chasers. + +A few moments later Jack signaled the engine room. + +"Half speed ahead." + +Slowly the Brigadier slipped from her anchorage and moved through the +still waters of the harbor. Directly she pushed her nose into the channel, +then headed east. + +"Full speed ahead!" Jack signaled the engine room. + +The Brigadier leaped forward. + +"Better turn in, Jack," said Frank. "It's Thompson's watch." + +"No, I'll stick until we reach the Atlantic," returned Jack. + +"Then I'll stick along," said Frank. + +This they did. + +It was hours later when the Brigadier ran clear of the channel and +breasted the heavy swell of the Atlantic. Jack spoke to Thompson, the +third officer. + +"I'm going to turn in," he said. "If anything happens, call me at once." + +"Very well, sir," was the third officer's reply. + +He saluted briefly. Jack and Frank went below. + +"Come in a moment before you turn in, if you wish," Jack said to Frank. + +"May as well," replied the latter. "I don't feel like turning in for an +hour yet." + +"Well, you can't keep me out of bed that long," declared Jack. "I've got +to be stirring before you go on watch again. But I thought we might talk a +few moments." + +Nevertheless, it was an hour later that Frank went to his own cabin. He +turned in at once and was soon fast asleep. + +On the other hand, sleep did not come to Jack so soon. For an hour or more +he lay in his bunk, reviewing the events of the past and his +responsibilities of the present. + +"It's a big job I have now," he told himself. "I hope I can carry it +through successfully." + +But he didn't have the slightest doubt that he could. Jack's one best +characteristic was absolute confidence in himself. + + + + +CHAPTER V + +A RESCUE + + +H.M.S. Brigadier was steaming steadily along at a speed of twenty knots. +Jack himself held the bridge. Frank and Lieutenant Hetherton, who stood +nearby, were discussing the sinking several days before of a large allied +transport by a German submarine in the Irish sea. + +"She was sunk without warning, the same as usual," said Hetherton. + +"The Germans never give warning any more," replied Frank, "Of course, the +reason is obvious enough. To give warning it would be necessary for the +submarine to come to the surface, in which case the merchant ship might be +able to place a shell aboard the U-Boat before she could submerge again. +So to take time to give warning would be a disadvantage to the submarine." + +"At the same time," said Hetherton, "it's an act of barbarism to sink a +big ship without giving passengers and crew a word of warning." + +"Oh, I'm not defending the German system," declared Frank. "I am just +giving you what I believe is the German viewpoint." + +"Nevertheless," said Hetherton, "it's about time such activities were +stopped." + +"It certainly is. But it seems that the U-Boats are growing bolder each +day." + +"It wouldn't surprise me," declared Lieutenant Hetherton, "to hear almost +any day that U-Boats had crossed the Atlantic to prey on shipping in +American waters." + +Frank looked at the second officer sharply. He was sure that Jack had not +divulged the real reason for their present voyage, and he had said nothing +about the matter himself. + +"Just a chance remark, I guess," Frank told himself. Aloud he said: "I +hardly think it will come to that." + +"I hope not," replied Hetherton, "but you never can tell, you know." + +"That's true enough, too," Frank agreed, "but at the same--" + +He broke off suddenly as he caught the sharp hail of the forward lookout. + +"Ship in distress off the port bow, sir," came the cry. + +Jack was at once called to the deck. + +Instantly Frank and Lieutenant Hetherton sprang to Jack's side. At almost +the same moment the radio operator emerged from below on the run. + +"Message, sir," he exclaimed, and thrust a piece of paper in Jack's hand. +Jack read it quickly. It ran like this: + +"Merchant steamer Hazelton, eight thousand tons, New York to Liverpool +with munitions and supplies, torpedoed by submarine. Sinking. Help." + +"Did you get her position?" demanded Jack of the wireless operator. + +"No, sir. The wireless failed before he could give it." + +"Don't you think it may be the vessel ahead, sir?" asked Lieutenant +Hetherton. + +"Can't tell," was Jack's reply. "It may be, in which case there are +probably more submarines about. Clear ship for action, Mr. Chadwick." + +No sooner said than done. + +Frank and others of the ship's officers darted hither and yon, making sure +that everything was in readiness. At the guns, the gunners grinned +cheerfully. Frank approached the battery in the forward turret. + +"All right?" he asked. + +"O.K., sir," replied the officer in command of the gun crew. "Show us a +submarine, that's all we ask." + +"There are probably a dozen or so about here some place," returned Frank. +"Keep your eyes peeled and don't wait an order to fire if you see anything +that looks like one." + +"Right, sir." + +The officer turned to his men with a sharp command. + +Frank continued his inspection of the ship as the Brigadier dashed toward +the vessel in distress, probably ten miles ahead. + +Every man aboard the Brigadier was on the alert as the destroyer plowed +swiftly through the water. It was possible, of course, that the submarines +had made off after attacking the vessel, but there was always the +possibility that some were still lurking in the neighborhood. + +"Can't be too careful," Jack told himself. + +Fifteen minutes later, the lookout was able to make out more clearly the +ship ahead of them. + +"Steamer Hazelton," he called to the quartermaster, who reported to Jack. + +"Same vessel that sent the wireless, Frank," was Jack's comment. "We will +have to look sharp. It's more than an even bet that some of those undersea +sharks are watching for a ship to come to the rescue so they can have a +shot at her also." + +"We're ready for 'em," said Frank significantly. + +"All right," said Jack. "In the meantime we'll stand by the Hazelton and +see if we can lend a hand." + +As the Brigadier drew closer those on deck could see signs of confusion +aboard the Hazelton. Then there arose a large cloud of smoke that for a +moment hid the Hazelton from view. This was followed by a loud explosion. + +When the smoke cleared away, the water nearby was filled with struggling +figures. + +"Lower the boats," shouted Jack. + +Instantly men sprang to obey the command, while others of the British tars +still stood quietly behind their guns, their eyes scanning the sea. + +Aboard the Hazelton, the crew, or what remained of the crew, were +attempting to lower lifeboats. Directly one was lowered safely, and loaded +to the guards with human freight. A second and a third were lowered +safely, and put off toward the Brigadier. + +In the meantime, lifeboats from the destroyer had darted in among the +struggling figures and willing hands were lifting the victims to safety. +Then these, in turn, started back to the destroyer. + +"I guess they're all off," said Frank to Jack. + +"I hope so," was Jack's reply. "If I am not mistaken, there are women +among the survivors." + +"By George! I thought I saw some myself," was Frank's answer. + +Suddenly there was a crash as the forward turret guns aboard the Brigadier +burst into action. Looking ahead, Jack gave a startled cry, and no wonder. + +For, from beneath the water, appeared a periscope and then the long low +outline of a German submarine came into view. + +Again the Brigadier's guns crashed, but the shells did not strike home. + +Before the destroyer could fire again, a gun appeared as if by magic on +the submarine's deck, and a hail of bullets was poured into the first of +the nearby lifeboats. At the same time the U-Boat launched a torpedo at +the Brigadier. + +Jack gave a cry of horror at the predicament of those in the small boats. +But he did not lose his head, and at the same time maneuvered his ship out +of the path of the torpedo. + +Came a hail from the lookout aft. + +"Submarine off the stern, sir!" + +At the same moment the battery in the Brigadier's turret aft burst into +action. + +"Forward with you, Mr. Chadwick," cried Jack, "and see if you can't get +better results there. The men seem to have lost their nerve." + +Frank sprang forward. Jack's words were true. It appeared that the crew in +the forward turret were so anxious to sink the first submarine that they +had not taken time to find the range. + +"Cease firing!" shouted Frank as he sprang into the turret. + +The order was obeyed, but there came a grumble from the men at what they +deemed such a strange command under the circumstances. + +"I thought you fellows were gunners," said Frank angrily. "Smith, get the +range." + +Smith did so, and announced it a moment later. + +"Now," said Frank, "get your aim, men." + +No longer was there confusion in the forward turret. The guns were trained +carefully. + +"Ready," cried Frank. "Fire!" + +"Crash!" + +A moment and there was a loud cheer from the crew. The German submarine +seemed to leap high from the water, and then fell back in a dozen pieces. + +Frank wasted no further time on the first submarine. Leaving the forward +turret, he dashed aft to where other guns were firing on the second +submarine. Meantime Jack, perfectly cool on the bridge, had maneuvered his +vessel out of the way of several torpedoes from the second U-Boat. But, +as he very well knew, this combat must be brought to a quick end or one +of the torpedoes was likely to find its mark. + +From the deck of the second submarine, a hail of fire from a machine gun +was still being poured into the helpless lifeboats. What execution had +been done Jack had no means of telling at the moment, but he knew there +must have been some casualties. + +"The brutes!" he muttered. + +The duel between the submarine and the destroyer still raged. It appeared +that the commander of the submarine was a capable officer, for he had +succeeded in keeping his vessel from being struck by a shell from the +Brigadier. + +In the aft turret of the Brigadier the British tars were sweating and +muttering imprecations at their inability to put a shell aboard the enemy. + +"Here," said Frank, "let me get at that gun." + +The crew stepped aside and the lad sighted the weapon himself. Then he +fired. + +Again a cheer arose aboard the Brigadier. Frank's shot had been +successful. The shell struck the submersible squarely amidships, and +carried away the periscope. + +"Fire!" cried Frank, and the other guns broke into action. + +Again there was a wild cheer. + +The submarine began to settle a few moments later. Men emerged from below +and sprang into the sea. + +"Lower a boat!" cried Jack. "I want a few of those fellows." + +A boat was lowered instantly and strong hands pulled it toward the Germans +floundering in the water. + +By this time the lifeboats that had escaped the German fire came alongside +the Brigadier and the occupants climbed aboard the destroyer. These were +quickly fitted out with dry clothing. It developed that there had been +three women passengers aboard the Hazelton and all of these had been +saved. A dozen members of the crew, however, had been killed by the enemy +in the lifeboats. + +Jack assigned quarters to the victims as quickly as he was able, and then +calling his officers about him, awaited the return of the boat which had +gone after the Germans who had leaped into the sea. + +"If the act I have just seen is a sample of the German heart," Jack said, +"I never want another German within sight of me so long as I live." + + + + +CHAPTER VI + +CHANGED ORDERS + + +As the Germans came aboard--ten of them--they were herded before Jack. +They stood there sullenly, their eyes on the deck. One of them wore a +heavily braided and imposing uniform. Jack addressed him. + +"You are the commander of that submarine?" he questioned. + +"I was," answered the German. + +"You were, what?" asked Jack sharply. + +"I was the commander." + +"You don't seem to catch my meaning," said Jack, taking a step forward. +"When you speak to me say 'sir.'" + +"Then you shall say 'sir' to me," said the German. + +"Oh, no I won't," Jack declared. "I never say sir to a murderer." + +The German's eyes lighted angrily. + +"It would be well to be more careful of your words," he said. + +"Nevertheless," said Jack, "I repeat them. You, are a murderer, and as +such should be hanged at once. I'm not sure it is in my province to string +you up, but I'm strongly tempted to do so and take the consequences." + +"But I guess you won't," sneered the German. + +"Then don't try me too far," said Jack quietly. "To my mind, men like you +and your cowardly followers should be put out of the way the same as a mad +dog; and certainly there is no law against killing a dog." + +"I warn you," said the German, taking a step nearer the lad, "to be more +choice in your words." + +"Silence!" Jack thundered, "and don't you dare step toward me unless I +tell you to do so." He turned to Frank. "Take those men below and put them +in irons," he ordered. + +Frank stepped forward to obey, and again the German commander protested. + +"You can't do that," he said. "My men are prisoners of war and as such are +entitled to all the usual courtesies." + +"They are, eh?" asked Jack. "Then I'll modify that order a bit, +temporarily, Mr. Chadwick, will you kindly bring irons for this man here," +and he indicated the German officer. "I want his men and all our +passengers to see how he looks in shackles, which he should have been made +to wear long ago." + +Frank hurried away. The German commander, after taking one step back at +Jack's words, stepped quickly forward again. His hand went to his side and +he produced a long knife. Then he sprang. + +Jack smiled slightly, stepped quickly to one side and with his left hand +caught the German's knife arm. He twisted sharply, and the knife dropped +to the deck. + +Jack released his hold and the German staggered back. Deliberately Jack +cuffed the man across the face with his right hand, then with his left. +Twice more he did this, following the German as he retreated across the +deck. + +"Let that teach you," he said, "that attempting to stab a British naval +officer is very bad business. But here comes something that will teach +you more," and he pointed to Frank, who reappeared at that moment followed +by two sailors bearing heavy chains. "These irons," Jack continued, "will +show you just what is in store for you when you are landed in England. +Hold out your hands." + +The German did so. Quickly handcuffs were snapped on. + +"Shackle his legs," said Jack. + +The sailors needed no urging. Quickly the German's legs were shackled with +the heavy iron. Jack took a couple of steps back and surveyed his +prisoner. + +"If you had been dressed up in those several years ago," he said, "I've no +doubt lots of innocent women and children now at the bottom of the sea +would be alive still." + +The German commander scowled, but he said nothing. + +"Now, Frank," said Jack, "you will take the other prisoners below and put +them in irons. I guess our friend here will no longer object." + +The German sailors were led below, where they were soon safely chained and +Frank returned to the bridge. + +"Kindly pass the word for all the passengers and the crew to come on deck, +Mr. Hetherton," ordered Jack. + +The second officer obeyed and soon the deck was crowded. The German +commander became the center of an angry group. + +"I've just called you all here," said Jack, "that you may cast your eyes +upon one of the kaiser's paid murderers. It is men like this who have made +an outcast of Germany. Not satisfied with killing in battle, they fire on +helpless lifeboats, sending women and children as well as unarmed +noncombatants to the bottom of the sea. In fact, it is men like this, or a +man like this, who so recently took a heavy toll in lives from the crew of +the Hazelton, after the vessel had been put out of commission." + +There was an angry murmur among the crowd on deck. + +"Hang him," said a voice. + +The German officer's face turned a chalky white. + +"I'd be pleased to do so," said Jack, "were it not for the fact that I +must retain him as a prisoner of war and turn him over to the proper +authorities. However, it wouldn't surprise me a bit if he were tried for +murder and hanged, and I'm not sure that even such a fate isn't too good +for him." + +"Hang him!" came a voice from the crowd again. + +"No," said Jack quietly, "it can't be done. Take him away." + +These last words were addressed to Lieutenant Hetherton, who stepped +forward and took the German commander by the arm. + +"Come on," he said somewhat roughly. + +The German commander was led below, where he was made secure. + +The passengers and crew rescued from the Hazelton dispersed and Jack held +a consultation with his officers. + +"If we were not so far from land," he said, "I would land those we have +rescued. As it stands, I am under rush orders, so I am afraid I shall have +to take them to America." + +"That cannot be helped, sir," said Lieutenant Hetherton. "I am sure they +will understand that, sir." + +"I think so, too," agreed Frank. + +"At all events," said Jack, "there seems nothing else to do under the +circumstances. Ring for full speed ahead, Mr. Chadwick." + +Frank did so. + +At that moment the radio operator again emerged from below and hurried to +Jack. + +"Admiralty orders, sir," he said, passing a slip of paper to the commander +of the Brigadier. + +Jack read the paper quickly, then turned to Frank with a sharp command. + +"Slow to half speed," he said. "Then come about and head for Dover." + +Frank asked no questions. He knew that Jack would explain the reason for +the change soon enough. Besides, the matter was none of his business. He +gave the necessary orders. Jack turned to the second officer. + +"Will you take the bridge, Mr. Hetherton? Mr. Chadwick, please come to my +cabin." + +The lads went below together. + +"Now," said Frank, after he had taken a seat, "what's it all about?" + +"Well," was Jack's reply, "the admiralty wants the Brigadier back in +Dover. That's all I know about it. I'm instructed to report to Lord +Hastings immediately on my return." + +"No other explanation?" + +"No." + +"Funny," commented Frank. "Must be something up, though." + +"So it would seem. However, I guess we'll learn soon enough. Hope they are +not going to deprive me of my command." + +"No fear, I guess," declared Frank. + +The return trip was made in record time and without incident. Jack saw the +victims of the Hazelton landed safely and then, turning the ship over to +Lieutenant Hetherton, went ashore with Frank to report to Lord Hastings. + +The latter greeted them with a wry smile. + +"It seems that my warning to America is not to be delivered after all," he +said. + +"And why, sir?" asked Jack. "Are you not still convinced that the warning +is necessary?" + +"I am," declared Lord Hastings, "but, as I told you, I was sending the +warning without knowledge of the Admiralty. Naturally, then, when it was +announced that the Brigadier was to be recalled to take part in other +operations, I could not announce that you carried secret dispatches from +me." + +"I see," said Jack. "And what is the nature of the other operation?" + +"It is a desperate undertaking," said Lord Hastings slowly, "and one that, +at first, I was tempted to advise against. And still, if successful it +will do much toward insuring an allied victory." + +"Since when have you become so cautious, sir?" asked Frank with a smile. + +"It's not a matter of caution, Frank," replied Lord Hastings. "It's simply +a matter of prudence. In a word, the Admiralty is determined to block the +harbors of Ostend and Zeebrugge." + +Frank was on his feet and clapping his hands. + +"Fine!" he exclaimed. "I don't see why it hasn't been done sooner. I +remember what Hobson did to the Spanish fleet at Santiago in the +Spanish-American war." + +"It's an exploit of the same nature," Lord Hastings admitted, "though it +will be attended with even greater danger. If successful, as I say, it +will do inestimable good. The admiralty has been training specially for +this move for months, but the matter has now come to a head." + +"And how does it happen that we shall be fortunate enough to lend a hand?" +asked Jack. + +"My fault, I suppose," returned Lord Hastings. "Admiral Keyes, the day +after your departure, was bemoaning the fact that one ship had been taken +away from him at the last moment. I said that if Captain Templeton and the +Brigadier were here, you could easily replace the other vessel. The +admiral was of the opinion that you had not had the necessary training. I +said you didn't need it. Apparently he was convinced, for the next I heard +you had been recalled to Dover. Thus, through talking too much, I balked +my own plans." + +"Perhaps," said Frank, "it won't be too late for the other when the +harbors of Ostend and Zeebrugge have been sealed." + +"But perhaps you won't come back," said Lord Hastings. + +"Oh, we'll be back, never fear," grinned Jack. "But what are we to do +now?" + +"You will report to Admiral Keyes aboard the Warwick at once. If you +return safely, report to me. Good-bye and good luck." + +The lads shook hands with Lord Hastings and left him. + +"Here," said Frank, "is what I call a piece of luck." + + + + +CHAPTER VII + +A BIT OF EXPLANATION + + +It is probable that the sealing of the harbors of Ostend and Zeebrugge, +two of the most important German submarine bases, was one of the greatest +feats of the whole European war. The attempt was extremely hazardous and +could never have been successful except for the gallantry and heroism of +the British crews. + +Not the least of the bravest among them were Jack and Frank and the other +officers and crew of the destroyer Brigadier. It is true that the +operation has been planned primarily with the idea of having the destroyer +Daffodil in line, but it was the withdrawal of this vessel that permitted +Jack and Frank to have a hand in the operation. + +In order that all parts of the naval service might share in the +expedition, representative bodies of men had been drawn from the Grand +Fleet, the three home depots, the Royal marine artillery and light +infantry. The ships and torpedo craft were furnished by the Dover patrol, +which was reinforced by vessels from the Harwich force and the French and +American navies. The Royal Australian navy and the admiralty experimental +station at Stratford and Dover were also represented. + +A force thus composed and armed, obviously needed collective training and +special preparation to adapt both the men and their weapons to their +purpose. With these objects, the blocking ships and the storming forces +were assembled toward the end of February, and from the fourth of April on +in the West Swim Anchorage--where training especially adapted to the plan +of operation was given--and the organization of the expedition was carried +on. + +The material as it was prepared was used to make the training practical +and was itself tested thereby. Moreover, valuable practice was afforded by +endeavors to carry out the project on two previous occasions, on which the +conditions of wind and weather compelled its postponement, and much was +learned from these temporary failures. + +The Hindustan, at first at Chatham and later at the Swim, was the parent +ship and training depot. After the second attempt, when it became apparent +that there would be a long delay, the Dominion joined the Hindustan and +the pressure upon the available accommodation was relieved by the transfer +of about 350 seamen and marines to her. + +Two special craft, Liverpool ferry steamers, Iris and Gloucester, were +selected after a long search by Captain Herbert Grant. They were selected +because of their shallow draft, with a view in the first place to their +pushing the Vindictive, which was to bear the brunt of the work, alongside +Zeebrugge Mole; to the possibility, should the Vindictive be sunk, of +their bringing away all her crew and the landing parties; and to their +ability to maneuver in shallow water or clear of mine fields or torpedoes. +The blocking ships and the Vindictive were especially prepared for their +work long before the start. + +Vice-Admiral Sir Roger Keyes devoted personal attention and time to +working out the plan of operations and the preparation of the personnel +and material. Rear Admiral Cecil F. Dampier, second in command of the +Dover flotilla, and Commodore Algernon Boyle, chief of staff, gave +considerable assistance. + +When, as vice-admiral of the Dover patrol, Admiral Keyes first began to +prepare for the operation, it became apparent that without an effective +system of smoke screening such an attack could hardly hope to succeed. The +system of making smoke previously employed in the Dover patrol was +unsuitable for a night operation, as this production generated a fierce +flame, and no other means of making an effective smoke screen was +available. Nevertheless Wing Commander Brock, at last devised the way. + +The commander-in-chief of the Grand Fleet, Admiral Beatty, sent to Admiral +Keyes a picked body of officers and men. Support also was received from +the neighboring commands at Portsmouth and the Nore, the adjutant general, +Royal Marines, and the depot at Chatham. The rear-admiral commanding the +Harwich force sent a flotilla leader and six destroyers, besides +protecting the northern flank of the area in which operations were to be +conducted. + +To afford protection at a certain point in the route and to maintain the +aids to navigation during the approach and retirement of the expedition, a +force consisting of the flotilla leaders Scott and the destroyers +Ulleswater, Teazer and Stork, and the light cruiser Attentive, flying the +pennant of Commodore Boyle, was organized. This force, as it developed, +was instrumental in patroling and directing the movements of detached +craft in both directions, and relieved Admiral Keyes of all anxiety on +that score. + +At the moment of departing the forces were disposed as follows: + +In the Swim--For the attack on the Zeebrugge Mole: Vindictive, Iris, +Gloucester. To block the Bruges canal: Thetis, Interprid and Iphigenia. To +block the entrance to Ostend: Sirius and Brilliant. + +At Dover--Warwick, flagship of Vice-Admiral Keyes; Phoebe, North Star, +Brigadier, Trident, Mansfield, Whirlwind, Myngs, Velox, Morris, Moorsom, +Melpomene, Tempest and Tetrarch. + +To damage Zeebrugge--Submarines C-1 and C-3. + +A special picket boat to rescue crews of C-1 and C-3. + +Minesweeper Lingfield to take off surplus steaming parties of block +ships, which had 100 miles to steam. + +Eighteen coastal motorboats. + +Thirty-three motor launches. + +To bombard vicinity of Zeebrugge--Monitors Erebus and Terror. + +To attend monitors--Termagant, Truculent, and Manly. + +Outer patrol off Zeebrugge--Attentive, Scot, Ulleswater, Teazer and Stork. + +At Dunkirk--Monitors for bombarding Ostend: Marshal Soult, Lord Clive, +Prince Eugene, General Sraufurd, M-24 and M-26. + +For operating off Ostend--Swift, Faulknor, Matchless, Mastiff and Afridi. + +The British destroyers Mentor, Lightfoot, Zubian and French torpedo boats +Lestin, Capitaine Mehl, Francis Garnier, Roux and Boucier to accompany the +monitors. + +There were in addition to these, three American destroyers--the Taylor, +the Alert and the Cyprus. + +Eighteen British motor launches for smoke screening duty inshore and +rescue work, and six for attending big monitors. + +Four French motor launches attending M-24 and M-26 and five coastal motor +boats. + +Navigational aids having been established on the routes, the forces from +the Swim and Dover were directed to join Admiral Keyes off the Goodwin +Sands and to proceed in company to a rendezvous, and thereafter as +requisite to their respective stations. + +Those from Dunkirk were given their orders by the commodore. + +An operation time table was issued to govern the movements of all the +forces. Wireless signals were prohibited, visual signals of every sort +were reduced to a minimum and maneuvering prearranged as far as foresight +could provide. + +With few and slight delays the program for the passage was carried out as +laid down, the special aids to navigation being found of great assistance. + +The Harwich force, under Rear-Admiral Tyrwhitt, was posted to cover the +operations and prevent interference from the north. + +Jack and Frank, having reported to Admiral Keyes upon leaving Lord +Hastings, had received necessary instructions as to their part in the +raid. They had passed the word to the other officers of the Brigadier, who +in turn had informed members of the crew what was about to happen. + +There was wild cheering among the British tars on the Brigadier when they +learned they were to have a hand in one of the greatest and most dangerous +enterprises attempted in the whole war. Needless to say, Jack and Frank +also were immensely pleased. + +"Tell you what, Jack," said Frank, after they had returned aboard the +Brigadier, "it seems to me as though your work had come to the ears of the +Admiralty with a vengeance." + +"Oh, I guess that isn't it," Jack laughed. "They just happened to need +another ship and picked on me. That's all." + +"Perhaps," Frank admitted. "But just the same it seems that we are always +in the midst of things. I wouldn't call it all luck, if I were you." + +"Well, it's not good judgment, that much is certain," said Jack. "For good +judgment would tell me to keep in a safe place as long as possible." + +"If you want to know what I think about it," said Frank, "this raid is +going to be one of the greatest blows struck at the enemy." + +"It certainly will do the enemy a lot of harm if it's successful," Jack +confessed. + +"It'll be successful all right. I can feel that." + +"A hunch, eh?" laughed Jack. + +"Call it what you like. Nevertheless, I am absolutely certain Admiral +Keyes will not fail. And what are the Germans going to do for submarine +bases if Ostend and Zeebrugge are bottled up?" + +"Maybe we'll catch most of them in there," said Jack hopefully. + +"They won't be able to get out again if we do," declared Frank. + +"Right," Jack agreed, "and the ones that are outside won't be able to get +back in again." + +"So you see," Frank continued, "we have them coming and going, as we say +in America." + +"I see," said Jack. + +"And what time are we to start?" asked Frank. "You must remember you were +in private conference with Admiral Keyes. You're a captain now, and the +big fellows talk to you. I'm still only a lieutenant." + +"The passage will most likely be made by daylight," said Jack. "That has +been decided in order that we may do our work there under the cover of +darkness so far as possible. Of course, this may be changed, but that's +the way the plan lies now." + +"Strikes me we are taking a pretty big force along, from what you say." + +"Necessary, I guess," said Jack. "It seems that the admiral has overlooked +nothing that will go toward making the attack a success." + +"Well, we can't start any too soon to suit me," declared Frank. "When do +you expect to get orders to move?" + +"I'm not certain, but I wouldn't be surprised to receive them early in the +morning." + +As it developed Jack was a good prophet. + +Bright and early next morning, a small boat approached the Brigadier. A +few moments later an officer came aboard and presented Jack with a +document. Then he departed. + +Jack read the paper, then leaped to the bridge. + +"To your post, Mr. Chadwick," he called to Frank, who had been standing +near by. "Pipe all men to quarters and signal for half speed ahead." + +The passage was about to begin. + + + + +CHAPTER VIII + +THE ATTACK BEGINS + + +The main force was divided into three columns. The center column was led +by the Vindictive, with the Brigadier second and the Iris in tow, followed +by the five blocking ships and the paddle mine-sweeper Lingfield, +escorting five motor launches for taking off the surplus steaming parties +of the blocking ships. The starboard column was led by the Warwick, flying +the flag of Admiral Keyes, followed by the Phoebe and North Star, which +three ships were to cover the Vindictive from torpedo attack while the +storming operations were in progress. + +The submarines were towed by the Trident and Mansfield. The Tempest +escorted the two Ostend block ships. + +The port column was led by the Whirlwind, followed by Myngs and Moorsom, +which ships were to patrol to the northward of Zeebrugge; and the +Tetrarch, also to escort the Ostend block ships. Every craft was towing +one or more coastal motor boats, and between the columns were motor +launches. + +The greater part of the passage, as Jack had explained, had to be carried +out in broad daylight, with the consequent likelihood of discovery by +enemy aircraft or submarines. This risk was largely countered by the +escort of all the scouting escort under Admiral Keyes' command. + +On arrival at a certain position, it being then apparent that the +conditions were favorable and that there was every prospect of carrying +through the enterprise on schedule, a short prearranged wireless signal +was made to the detached forces that the program would be adhered to. + +On arrival at a position a mile and a half short of where Commodore +Boyle's force was stationed, the whole force stopped for fifteen minutes +to enable the surplus steaming parties of the block ships to be +disembarked and the coastal motor boats slipped. These and the motor +launches then proceeded in execution of previous orders. On resuming the +course, the Warwick and Whirlwind, followed by the destroyers, drew ahead +on either bow to clear the passage of enemy outpost vessels. + +When the Vindictive arrived at a position where it was necessary to alter +her course for the Mole, the Warwick, Phoebe and North Star swung to +starboard and cruised in the vicinity of the Mole until after the final +withdrawal of all the attacking forces. During the movement and through +the subsequent operations, the Warwick was maneuvered to place smoke +screens wherever they seemed to be most required, and when the wind +shifted from northeast to southwest, her services in this respect were +particularly valuable. + +The monitors Erebus and Terror, with the destroyers Termagant, Truculent +and Manly, were stationed at a position suitable for the long range +bombardment of Zeebrugge in co-operation with the attack. + +Similarly, the monitors Marshal Soult, General Sraufurd, Prince Eugene and +Lord Clive, and the small monitors M-21, M-24 and M-26 were stationed in +suitable positions to bombard specified batteries. These craft were +attended by the British destroyers Mentor, Lightfoot and Zubian, and the +French Capitaine Mehl, Francis Garnier, Roux and Bouclier. The bombardment +that ensued was undoubtedly useful in keeping down the fire of the shore +batteries. + +The attack on the Mole was primarily intended to distract the enemy's +attention from the ships engaged in blocking the Bruges canal. Its +immediate objectives were, first, the capture of the four 1-inch batteries +at the sea end of the Mole, which were a serious menace to the passage of +the block ships, and, second, the doing of as much damage to the material +on the Mole as time would permit, for it was not the intention of Admiral +Keyes to remain on the Mole after the primary object of the expedition +had been accomplished. + +The attack was to consist of two parts: The landing of storming and +demolition parties and the destruction of the iron viaduct between the +shore and the stone Mole. + +The units detailed for the attack were: + +H.M.S. Vindictive, Captain Alfred F.B. Carpenter; the Brigadier, Captain +Jack Templeton; special steamers Iris, Commander Valentine Gibbs; +Gloucester, Lieutenant H.G. Campbell, the latter detailed to push the +Vindictive alongside the Mole and keep her there as long as might be +necessary. + +Submarines C-3 and C-1, commanded by Lieutenants Richard Sanford and +Aubrey Newbold, respectively, attended by picket boat under Lieutenant +Commander Francis H. Sanford. + +Besides these, a flotilla of twenty-four motor launches and eight coastal +motorboats were told off for rescue work and to make smoke screens or lay +smoke floats, and nine more coastal motorboats to attack the Mole and +enemy vessels inside it. + +At 11.40 p.m. on April 22, 1918, the coastal motorboats detailed to lay +the first smoke screen ran in to very close range and proceeded to lay +smoke floats and by other methods make the necessary "fog." These craft +immediately were under fire, and only their small size and great speed +saved them from destruction. + +At this moment the Blankenberghe light buoy was abeam of the Vindictive +and the enemy had presumably seen or heard the approaching forces. Star +shells lighted the heavens. But still no enemy patrol craft were sighted. +At this time the wind had been from the northeast, and therefore favorable +to the success of the smoke screens. It now died away and began to blow +from a southerly direction. + +Many of the smoke floats laid just off the Mole extension were sunk by the +fire of the enemy, which now began to grow in volume. This, in conjunction +with the wind, lessened the effectiveness of the smoke screen. + +At 11.56 the Vindictive, the Brigadier close behind, having just passed +through a smoke screen, sighted the Mole in the semi-darkness about three +hundred yards off on the port bow. Speed was increased to full and the +course of both vessels altered so that, allowing for cross tide, the +Vindictive would make good a closing course of forty-five degrees to the +Mole. The Vindictive purposely withheld her fire to avoid being +discovered, but almost at the moment of her emerging from the smoke the +enemy opened fire. + +So promptly, under the orders of the commander, was this replied to by the +port 6-inch battery, the upper deck pompoms and the gun in the foretop +that the firing on both sides appeared to be almost simultaneous. + +The Brigadier, under Jack's command, opened fire at almost the same +moment. Heavy shells flew screaming into the enemy lines. German +projectiles began to kick up the water close to the Vindictive and the +Brigadier. But in the first few volleys, none of the enemy shells found +their marks. Jack was conning the ship from the port forward, the +flame-thrower hut. Frank, with directions as to handling of the ship +should Jack be disabled, was in the conning tower, from which the +Brigadier was being steered. + +At one minute after midnight on April 23, the program time for attack +being midnight, the Vindictive was put alongside the Mole and the +starboard anchor was let go. + +At this time the noise of cannonading was terrific. During the previous +few minutes, the ship had been hit by a large number of shells, which had +resulted in heavy casualties. + +As there was some doubt as to the starboard anchor having gone clear, the +port anchor was dropped close to the foot of the Mole and the cable +bowsed-to, with less than a shackle out. A three-knot tide was running +past the Mole, and the scene alongside, created by the slight swell, +caused the ship to roll. There was an interval of three or four minutes +before the Brigadier or the Gloucester could arrive and commence to push +the Vindictive bodily alongside. + +During the interval the Vindictive could not be got close enough for the +special Mole anchors to hook and it was a very trying period. Many of the +brows had been broken by shell fire and the heavy roll had broken the +foremost Mole anchor as it was being placed. The two foremost brows, +however, reached the wall and enabled storming parties, led by +Lieutenant-Commander Bryan F. Adams, to land and run out alongside them, +closely followed by the Royal marines. + +It was at this juncture that a slight change was made in the original +program. It developed, as the first storming party moved out, that +Commander Adams' men were not in sufficient strength for the work ahead. +Captain Carpenter of the Vindictive called for support from the Brigadier. +Jack acted promptly. + +"Lieutenant Chadwick!" he called. + +Frank stepped forward and saluted. + +"You will take one hundred men and join the storming party," said Jack. + +At this moment the Brigadier was rubbing close to the Vindictive. This was +fortunate at the moment, for there was then no other means by which a +party from the Brigadier could reach the Mole. + +Hurriedly Frank gathered the men, and then leaped from his own vessel to +the deck of the Vindictive. A moment later they joined Commander Adams and +his party. + +Owing to the rolling of the ship, a most disconcerting motion was +imparted to the brows, the outer ends of which were "sawing" considerably +on the Mole parapet. Officers and men were equipped with Lewis guns, +bombs, ammunition, etc., and were under heavy machine-gun fire at close +range; add to this a drop of thirty feet between the ship and the Mole, +and some idea of the conditions which had to be faced may be realized. + +Yet the storming of the Mole was carried out without the slightest delay +and without any apparent consideration of self preservation. Some of the +first men on the Mole dropped in their tracks under the German fire, but +the others pushed on, with the object of hauling one of the large Mole +anchors across the parapet. + +The Brigadier arrived alongside the Mole three minutes after Frank and his +men had leaped to the deck of the other ship, followed by the little Iris. +Both suffered less in their approach, the Vindictive occupying all the +enemy's attention. The Gloucester also came up now to push the Vindictive +bodily on to the Mole to enable her to be secured, after doing which the +Gloucester landed her parties over that ship. Her men disembarked from her +bows on to the Vindictive, as it was found essential to continue to push +the Vindictive on to the Mole throughout the entire action. + +This duty was magnificently carried out. Without the assistance of the +Gloucester very few of the storming parties from the Vindictive could +have landed, or could have re-embarked. + +The landing from the Iris was made under even more trying circumstances. +She rolled heavily in the sea, which rendered the use of the scaling +ladders very difficult. But at this time, according to calculations, +enough men had been landed to complete the work. + +The fighting on the Mole became hand-to-hand. + + + + +CHAPTER IX + +THE BATTLE CONTINUES + + +A shell suddenly exploded among the Vindictive's foremost 7.5-inch +howitzer's marine crew. Many were killed or wounded. A naval crew from a +6-inch gun took their places and were almost annihilated. + +At this time the Vindictive was being hit every few seconds, chiefly in +the upper works, from which the splinters caused many casualties. It was +difficult for the British to locate the guns which were doing the most +damage, but Jack, from the Brigadier, with men posted in the fortop of the +vessel, kept up a continuous fire with pompoms and Lewis machine-guns, +changing rapidly from one target to another in an attempt to destroy the +guns that were raking the Vindictive fore and aft. + +Two heavy shells struck the foretop of the Brigadier almost +simultaneously. Half a dozen men were killed. A score of others were +wounded. + +To return for a moment to Frank and his men. + +The attack on the Mole had been designed to be carried out by a storming +force to prepare the way for, and afterward to cover and protect, the +operations of a second force, which was to carry out the actual work of +destruction. The storming force, which had embarked in the Vindictive, was +now reinforced by a hundred British tars from the Brigadier, headed by +Frank, and additional sailors from the Iris and Gloucester. + +For the first time it was now ascertained that the Vindictive, in +anchoring off the Mole, had over-run her station and was berthed some four +hundred yards farther to the westward than had been intended. + +It had been realized beforehand that the Vindictive might not exactly +reach the exact position mapped out, but the fact that the landing was +carried out in an unexpected place, combined with the heavy losses already +sustained by the vessel, seriously disorganized the attacking force. The +intention had been to land the storming parties right on top of the 4 +1-inch guns in position on the seaward end of the Mole, the silencing of +which was of the first importance, as they menaced the approach of the +block ships. + +The leading block ship had been timed to pass the lighthouse twenty-five +minutes after the Vindictive came alongside. This period of time proved +insufficient to organize and carry through an attack against the enemy on +the seaward end of the Mole, the enemy, it developed, being able to bring +heavy machine-gun fire to bear on the attacking forces. As a result the +block ships, when they approached, came under an unexpected fire from the +light guns on the Mole extension, though the 4.1-inch batteries on the +Mole had remained silent. + +Commander Adams, followed by Frank and his men, were the first to land. At +that moment no enemy was seen on the Mole. They found themselves on a +pathway on the Mole parapet about eight feet wide, with a wall four feet +high on the seaward side, and an iron railing on the Mole side. From this +pathway, there was a drop of fifteen feet on the Mole proper. + +Followed by his men and Frank and the latter's command, Commander Adams +went alongside the parapet to the left, where he found a lookout station +or control, with a range finder behind and above it. + +"Blow it up!" he shouted to Frank, who was close to him at that moment. + +Frank gave a command to one of his men. A moment later there was an +explosion and the station disappeared as though by magic. + +Near the lookout station aft iron ladder led down to the Mole and three of +Frank's men descended it. Frank went with them. Below they encountered +half a dozen of the enemy. + +It was no time to hesitate and Frank knew it. + +"Bombs, men," he said simply. + +Three hands drew back, then were brought forward. Three hand grenades +dropped among the foes. There were three short blasts, and when the smoke +cleared away, there were no Germans to be seen at that point. Then Frank +and his men rejoined the others. + +The situation now was that Commander Adams, Frank, their few men and a few +Lewis guns, were beyond the lookout station protected from machine-gun +fire from the direction of the Mole head, but exposed to fire from their +own destroyers, alongside the Mole. + +Commander Adams called Frank to him. + +"We're in a ticklish position here, lieutenant," he said. "We're in danger +of being shot down by our own guns. At the same time, if we move from +behind this station, we are not in sufficient strength to drive the enemy +away." + +"Why not risk our own, fire, sir," said Frank, "and ask for +reinforcements." + +"That's a request that will have to be made in person," said Commander +Adams, "and it will be rather risky." + +"I'll be glad to try it sir," said Frank. + +Commander Adams shrugged. + +"It'd about as broad as it is long," he said. "If you're shot on the way I +guess it will be no worse than dying here. Go ahead, if you wish." + +Now to gain the needed reinforcements, Frank knew that it would be +necessary to return to the side of the Vindictive. To reach that vessel it +would be necessary to pass through places exposed to enemy machine-gun +fire. However, at the moment, the German guns covering those particular +spots were silent, so Frank decided to take the risk. + +He set out at a run. At first his appearance was apparently unnoticed, but +soon a rain of bullets poured after him. Two or three times the lad threw +himself to the ground just in time. He was on his feet again a moment +later, however, and at last reached his destination safely. + +As the lad reached the side of the Vindictive he saw a second storming +party coming over the side, equipped with Lewis machine-guns and rifles +and hand bombs. Frank approached the commander of the party, +Lieutenant-Commander Hastings, and outlined the plight of those he had +left behind. + +"Come with us," said Commander Hastings, "we'll soon clear those fellows +out back there." + +Machine-guns were wheeled into position and the British raked the German +line wherever heads appeared. In this method they relieved the +hard-pressed party under Commander Adams. + +The first objective of the storming party ashore was a fortified zone +situated about a hundred and fifty yards from the seaward end of the Mole +proper. Its capture was of the first importance, as an enemy holding it +could bring a heavy fire to bear on the parties still to land from the +Vindictive. + +Commander Adams ordered an advance. + +Frank was placed in command of the left wing of the little army, Commander +Hastings of the right wing. Commander Adams led the center himself. The +British spread out. + +"Charge!" cried Commander Adams. + +"Charge!" repeated Frank and Commander Hastings a moment later. + +The British seamen went forward on the double, bayonets fixed. + +From out of their fortified positions the Germans sprang forth to meet +them, machine-guns from behind covering their advance. At the same moment +Frank ordered his own machine-guns wheeled into position, and swept the +advancing enemy with a hail of bullets. + +But neither side paid much attention to this rain of lead, and directly +the fighting became too close for either side to utilize its machine-guns. +Steel clashed on steel. Revolvers in the hands of the officers cracked. +Men fell to the right and to the left. + +For a moment it appeared that the attacking force must be hurled back by +the very weight of the numbers against them. But they rallied after one +brief moment in which it seemed that they must yield, and hurled +themselves forward again. This time there was no stopping them. + +Directly the thin German line wavered. Then it broke, and the enemy dashed +for the protection of their fortified position at top speed. But the +British sailors kept close on their heels, and they reached the coveted +spot at almost the same time. There the fighting was resumed, but after a +short resistance the enemy again retreated, leaving the position in the +hands of the British. + +Immediately Commander Adams ordered the machine-guns which had been +abandoned by the foe in his flight turned on them and the Germans were +mowed down in great numbers. + +Having gained his objective, Commander Adams ordered his men to proceed +down the Mole and hold a position there so as to cover the operations of +the party of destruction, which was now hard at work. To expel these +British, German troops were now advancing from the landward end of the +Mole. + +The destruction of the viaduct by the submarine C-3 had been designed to +aid the efforts of the landing party by preventing reinforcements reaching +the Mole from the shore. Owing to the Vindictive coming alongside to +landward of this zone, Commander Adams' men were now faced with a double +duty of preventing an enemy attack from the shore and of themselves +attacking a second fortified zone ahead of them. The casualties already +sustained were so great that the Iris could not remain alongside the +Vindictive to land her company of Royal Marines. This left insufficient +men in the early stages of the landing to carry out both operations. + +The situation was a difficult one, for to attack the fortified zone first +might enable the enemy to advance up the Mole and seize positions abreast +of the Vindictive, with the most serious consequences to the whole landing +force, whereas, by not attacking the fortified positions, the guns at the +Mole head could not be prevented from firing at the block ships. + +Therefore, Commander Adams instructed Frank to secure the landward side, +at the same time instructing Commander Hastings to attack the fortified +zone. Commander Adams knew that he was taking a long chance by thus +dividing his forces, but in no other manner, it seemed to him, could the +success of the expedition be assured. + +Frank led his men forward promptly. Apparently the Germans had not +realized the full strength of the British attack on the Mole, for no +effort had been made to get reinforcements to the men there from shore. +Consequently, Frank's work was not so hard as that set for Commander +Hastings. + +The few Germans who were guarding the landward side of the Mole fired one +volley at Frank's party, then turned and took to their heels. + +"By George! Pretty soft!" said Frank. + +He led his men to the positions recently vacated by the enemy, and then +sat down to await further instructions from Commander Adams. + +Commander Hastings, on the other hand, had hard work in taking the +fortified positions from the foe. Nevertheless he succeeded, due to the +heroic efforts of his men. Commander Adams surveyed the field carefully. + +"Well," he told himself, "I guess we've done the best we can. We'll stick +here till we get the signal to withdraw." + + + + +CHAPTER X + +THE RAID SUCCESSFUL + + +The platoon which was commanded by Commander Adams was officially +designated as No. 1; that commanded by Frank as No. 2 and that commanded +by Commander Hastings as No. 3. + +Units were now landing rapidly and No. 7 platoon succeeded in placing +heavy scaling ladders in positions, and then formed up to support Nos. 9 +and 10 platoons. Numbers 11 and 12 platoons were dispatched along the +parapet, and reached the lookout station, where they were checked. +Commander Adams and his men, who had again united with the parties +commanded by Frank and Commander Hastings, were some forty to fifty yards +ahead of them, and both parties could make no headway along the exposed +parapet. Meanwhile No. 5 platoon, which had been recalled from its +advanced position, with Nos. 7 and 8 platoons were forming up on the Mole +for an assault on the fortified zone and the 4.1-inch battery at the Mole +head. This attack was launched, but before it could be developed the +general recall was sounded. + +There was a cheer from the men. They knew by the sounding of the recall at +this moment meant that the expedition had been a success. Otherwise the +fighting on the Mole would have continued. + +The units fell back in good order, taking their wounded with them. The +passing of the men from the Mole on to the parapet by means of the scaling +ladders was rendered hazardous by the enemy opening fire at that portion +of the Mole. Several ladders were destroyed. + +The men were sent across in small batches from the comparative shelter +afforded by long distance fire from the battleships. Such rushes were made +as far as possible in the intervals between the bursts of German fire. + +The landing parties re-embarked in the manner which they had left their +ships--climbing to the deck of the Vindictive and then proceeding to their +deck of the Vindictive and then proceeding to their various ships by small +boats. + +This undertaking was hazardous, too, for enemy shells were falling all +about. Nevertheless, the most of the men reached their ship in safety, and +from the flagship came the signal to retreat. + +Upon returning to the Brigadier, Frank surveyed his own men. There had +been few casualties among them. Less than a dozen men had been killed and +left behind. Of wounded Frank counted fifteen. Immediately he ascended to +the bridge to report to Jack. + +Jack greeted his chum with a smile. Although the Brigadier had been in the +midst of the battle, and many German shells had found their marks aboard +her, Jack was as cool and unruffled as before the battle started. + +"What luck, Frank?" he asked. + +"Good," Frank replied. "We held the Mole until ordered back. And you?" + +"The best of luck. I've stuck tight to the Vindictive through the heat of +the battle, and I believe our guns have done some damage." + +"And the block ships?" asked Frank. + +"They have been sunk at the mouths of both harbors, I am informed. The +raid has been a complete success." + +At that moment came the recall signal from the flagship. + +"See," said Jack, "there's proof of it. If we had not been successful, the +recall would not have been sounded yet. There is still plenty of time if +we needed it, and our damage has not been great enough to leave the job +unfinished." + +Jack was right. The harbors of Ostend and Zeebrugge had been effectually +sealed. No longer would enemy U-Boats make nightly raids into the North +Sea, only to scurry back to their bases when it grew light. As a submarine +base, Zeebrugge was extinct. So, for that matter, was Ostend. + +That the success of the British expedition had been a severe blow to the +Germans goes without saying. No other single feat since the beginning of +the war had done so much to dishearten them; and there is little doubt +that the sealing of their submarine bases did much toward hastening the +end of the war. + +British losses in the raid had been severe. The Vindictive, which had led +the attack, had literally been shot to pieces and it was a miracle how she +remained afloat. The Brigadier, also, had suffered severely, but her +condition was not so bad that a few months in drydock would not be +sufficient to make her whole again. + +A dozen or more of the little motorboats and coastal patrol vessels had +been sunk, and the loss of life had been heavy. Several others of the +destroyers had been badly damaged, but there was not one of the larger +vessels sunk or crippled so badly that she could not return to her home +port. + +It still lacked an hour of daylight when the allied fleet drew off, its +work accomplished; and behind in the ports now sealed, the anger of the +Germans flared forth anew. + +The damaged British ships were immediately put into drydock in British +ports, and Jack and Frank at once returned to Dover to report to Lord +Hastings. The latter greeted the lads with outstretched hands. + +"It was a gallant exploit," he exclaimed, "and I am sure both you boys had +important roles to play." + +"I guess we did, sir," Frank admitted. "At the same time, I'm glad to be +safely back here again." + +"I suppose, sir," said Jack, "now that the enemy submarines caught outside +are without bases, there is little fear of their attempting the +trans-Atlantic trip?" + +"On the contrary," said Lord Hastings, "they are more likely than ever to +do so." + +"But they must have a base, sir," protested Frank. + +"Not necessarily," smiled Lord Hastings. + +"Then how will they replenish their supplies of food and fuel?" + +"Well," said Lord Hastings, "if they can snare a victim every three or +four days it should be enough. From a merchant ship they can get all the +food and fuel they need before sinking her." + +"That's so, by George!" Frank exclaimed. + +"It stands to reason," said Lord Hastings, "that those submarines which +were not bottled up in the harbors have been warned not to return. Now, +it wouldn't surprise me a bit if they headed directly for America." + +Jack grew thoughtful. + +"It's too bad," he said at last, "that the Brigadier was so crippled that +we cannot resume our interrupted voyage." + +Lord Hastings smiled. + +"I understand she is in pretty bad shape," he said. "So you don't think +you can go now, eh?" + +"I'm afraid not, sir. A fellow can't cross the ocean except in a ship." + +"True enough. But why are you in Dover now?" + +"Why, sir?" Jack exclaimed. "Because we were instructed to report to you." + +"Exactly," said Lord Hastings; "and in your pocket, I presume, you have +the same packet of papers the admiralty wishes turned over to Secretary +Daniels of the American navy department?" + +Jack clapped a hand to his coat pocket. + +"By George! I had forgotten all about them," he said. + +"So I imagined. But it is my guess that the navy department still wishes +those papers delivered." + +"You're right, sir. Here, I'll turn them over to you, sir." + +Lord Hastings waved the packet away. + +"Keep them," he said quietly. + +"But--" Jack began. + +"Great Scott," Frank put in at this juncture, "you must be getting denser +every day, Jack." + +Jack wheeled on his chum. + +"What do you mean?" he asked. + +"Why, can't you see that you are still expected to deliver the papers?" + +Jack sank suddenly into a chair. + +"Now why didn't I think of that?" he muttered. + +"And I suppose, sir," said Frank to Lord Hastings, "that another ship is +to be put at Jack's disposal?" + +Lord Hastings nodded. + +"Exactly," he replied. + +Jack was on his feet again immediately. + +"What ship, sir?" he asked eagerly. + +"The Essex, a sister ship of the Brigadier." + +"By George! That's fine, isn't it?" exclaimed Jack. + +"And do I go along, sir?" Frank wanted to know. + +Again Lord Hastings nodded. + +"You do," he replied, "together with the officers and crew of the +Brigadier who survived the recent engagement. Your compliment will be +filled from other vessels damaged in the raid." + +"And where is the Essex now, sir?" asked Jack. + +"Here," replied Lord Hastings, "in Dover. You are to go aboard this +evening." + +"I can't get there too quickly to suit me," declared Jack. + +"Same here," Frank agreed. + +"Now, remember," enjoined Lord Hastings, "that I still am desirous of your +delivering to Secretary Daniels the document I gave you." + +"Is the Admiralty still unconvinced of the likelihood of submarines +reaching American waters, sir?" asked Frank. + +"It is, but you know my opinion has not changed." + +"I begin to agree with you, sir," said Jack. "At first I'll admit I was +skeptical, but the way you explain the matter it sounds reasonable." + +"Well," said Frank, "I hope we get there in time to spoil their plans." + +"Amen to that, my boy," said Lord Hastings. "But, I'll detain you no +longer. You both probably are anxious to get a look at your new vessel." + +"But we have no sailing orders, sir," said Jack. + +"You will have before morning," was Lord Hastings reply. "I don't like to +hurry you off, but the truth is I'm busy and will have to get down to +work." + +"Sorry we have detained you so long," said Jack. "Goodbye, sir." + +They shook hands all around, and the lads wended their way to the harbor, +where they soon were put on board their new ship. + +"And now," said Frank, "while we had a good time and all that, I hope +this voyage won't be interrupted." + +"My sentiments exactly," Jack agreed. "I want to have another look at +America." + + + + +CHAPTER XI + +THE WARNING GIVEN + + +"Land Ho!" + +The cry came from the forward lookout, posted aloft. + +Jack clapped his binoculars to his eyes and gazed earnestly ahead. + +"Where do you make our position, sir?" asked Lieutenant Hetherton. + +"Off the Virginia Capes," was Jack's reply. "We should pick up Fort Monroe +before noon." + +Jack was a good prophet. It still lacked half an hour of midday when the +outlines of the historic fortress at Old Point became distinguishable in +the distance. + +The Essex slipped quietly through the smooth waters of Hampton Roads and +dropped anchor some distance off shore. At Jack's command the launch was +made ready, and leaving Lieutenant Hetherton in command, Jack motioned +Frank to follow him into the launch. + +A moment later they were gliding shoreward through the water. + +"We'll have to pay our respects to the commandant," said Jack. "It would +be a breach of etiquette if we didn't. Also, I want to ascertain the best +place to anchor for the next week or so." + +"Surely you're not figuring on staying here," protested Frank. + +"Not at all, but you know these papers I have been entrusted with must be +delivered, and I can't deliver them here. I'll have to go to Washington." + +"Right," Frank agreed. "I had forgotten. And are you going to take me +along?" + +Jack smiled. + +"Well, I might, if you are real good," he said. + +"I'll be good," Frank promised. + +"Hello," said Jack at this point, "if I'm not mistaken, here comes a guard +of honor to escort us to the commandant." + +Toward the point where the launch now moved, half a dozen American +officers approached. They extended helping hands as Jack and Frank +scrambled ashore. Jack addressed the senior officer, a major. + +"I am Captain Templeton of H.M.S. Essex," he said. "Will you please escort +me into the presence of the commandant?" + +"With pleasure, sir," replied the major. "Come with me." + +He led the way, Frank and the other American officers following. Jack was +received immediately by the commandant. Their conference was brief, and +soon Jack returned to the place where he had left Frank. + +"Well, what did he say?" demanded Frank, as they made their way back +toward the launch. + +"Said it would be well to continue to Newport News," said Jack. "Docking +facilities are better there right now. We can tie up alongside one of the +piers there, or anchor off shore, as we choose. Said he would send word of +our coming." + +"Good," said Frank. "Then I suppose we shall continue without delay?" + +"Yes." + +"But if memory serves," said Frank, "Newport News is on the James River, +and not Hampton Roads." + +"Correct," replied Jack. + +"Well, I didn't know the river was navigable by a vessel of our draught." + +"It is, nevertheless," replied Jack. + +They stepped into the launch, and were soon back aboard the Essex. Jack +immediately gave the necessary commands and the vessel moved forward. + +Two hours later the Essex anchored in the James River half a mile off +shore. Frank took in the scene about him, and expressed his wonder. + +Shipping of all the allied and many of the neutral nations was to be seen +on every hand. Almost over night, it seemed, Newport News had grown from +a port of little importance to one of the greatest shipping centers in the +United States. There, half a mile away, Frank saw one of the great German +merchantmen, which had been interned soon after the outbreak of the war, +but which was later to be converted into a United States auxiliary +cruiser. + +"Well," said Jack, "there is no use delaying here. The commandant at the +fort informed me that about the quickest way to get to Washington now is +to take a boat up the Potomac." + +"And where do we get the boat?" asked Frank. + +"Norfolk. But what's the matter with you, Frank? Where's your geography? +Seems to me that if I were born and lived most of my life in the United +States I would know something about it." + +"I do know something about it," declared Frank; "but how do you expect me +to know all these details? This is the first time I've ever been in +Newport News, and I've never been to Norfolk. How do we get there from +here?" + +"Either in the Essex's launch, or by ferry." + +"Which way do you choose?" + +"Ferry, I guess. It will save trouble all around." + +"Any way suits me," said Frank. + +"You talk like you were dead certain of going along," remarked Jack with a +grin. + +"Of course I do. I know you could not be hard-hearted enough to leave me +behind." + +"Nevertheless," Jack declared, "I'm not sure I shouldn't leave you in +command here." + +"By George! That's no way to talk," declared Frank. "Hetherton can stick +on the job here." + +"Well, I guess it will be all right," said Jack. "We may as well pack what +belongings we shall need. We shouldn't be gone more than a day or two." + +"I hope so, and I feel sure we shall. There has been no sign yet of enemy +activities in this water." + +"And there won't be any sign in advance. When the Germans strike it will +be suddenly." + +The lads threw what belongings they believed they would need into their +handbags and were rowed ashore. They proceeded at once to the pier of the +Chesapeake and Ohio ferry and soon were moving along toward Norfolk. + +It was a short ride to Norfolk. Arrived in the city an hour later, they +inquired the way to the offices of the Washington and Norfolk Steamboat +company, where they were fortunate enough to be able to secure a stateroom +that night. + +It was still early, so the lads spent the afternoon looking about the +city, called by the natives the "New York of the South." They went aboard +the steamer Northland at 5.30 o'clock, and at 6 the boat left its pier. +Jack and Frank remained on deck until after the Northland had put in at +Old Point and taken on additional passengers. Then they went below to +dinner. + +"You know this isn't a bad boat," Frank declared after a walk around, +following their dinner. + +"Indeed it isn't," Jack agreed. "It has all the comforts of home. It's +rather small, but outside of that I can't see anything wrong with it." + +"I guess it's big enough for us to-night," grinned Frank. + +There were a score or more of American army and navy officers aboard and +with some of these the lads struck up an acquaintance. In fact, so +interested were some of the Americans in the lads' experiences that they +sat up late regaling their newly found friends with accounts of warfare in +European waters. + +Nevertheless, Jack and Frank were up early the following morning and had a +substantial breakfast before the boat docked at the foot of Seventh street +in the nation's capital. There they took a taxi and were driven to the +Raleigh hotel. + +"Now," said Jack, "the first thing to do is to get in touch with the +British ambassador and have him arrange an audience with the secretary of +the navy at the earliest possible moment." + +Jack got the embassy on the telephone, told who he was and announced that +he would be on hand to see the ambassador within the hour. Then the lads +were driven to the embassy. Here Jack presented his credentials and +expressed his desire to see the secretary of the navy at once. + +"You return to your hotel," said the ambassador. "I'll arrange the +audience and call for you in my automobile." + +The lads followed these instructions. + +At 2 o'clock in the afternoon the ambassador called for them. They were +driven at once to the War and Navy department building on Pennsylvania +avenue and were ushered almost immediately to the offices of Secretary +Daniels. After a wait of perhaps five minutes, Mr. Daniels' private +secretary announced. + +"Mr. Daniels will see you now." + +The three passed into the secretary's private office, where the British +ambassador introduced the lads. Secretary Daniels expressed his pleasure +at the meeting, then said: + +"And now what can I do for you, gentlemen?" + +For answer Jack passed over the papers entrusted him by the Admiralty. +Secretary Daniels scanned them briefly. + +"These matters shall be attended to, gentlemen," he said. "Now, is there +anything else?" + +"There is, sir," said Jack, "and a matter probably of much greater +importance." + +He drew from his pocket the documents given him by Lord Hastings, and +these he also passed to Secretary Daniels. The latter read them +carefully, his face drawn into a scowl. + +"Hm-m-m," he said at last. "Hm-m-m." + +He grew silent, apparently lost in thought. At last he spoke. + +"I have had some such fears myself," he said at last, "but it seems they +are not shared by other officials of the department. I dislike to take +matters altogether into my hands, and yet I suppose I can do it. First, +however, I shall make an effort to convince my associates through these +documents." + +"I am instructed to say, sir," said Jack, "that it would be well if you +gave the matter prompt attention." + +"Oh," said Secretary Daniels, "I anticipate no immediate trouble; and +still this is a matter that should not be overlooked. I thank you, +gentlemen, for bringing the matter to my attention." + +He rose from his chair, signifying that the interview was ended. + +Jack and Frank left the Navy department, and the ambassador dropped them +at their hotel. + +"I don't know what to think of the Secretary of the Navy," said Jack when +they were alone. "He didn't seem greatly interested." + +"He is the man, you know," said Frank, "who wanted to change the technical +terms of port and starboard to right and left." + +"That's so," said Jack, "but I'll venture to say he can rise to an +emergency." + +"There is no doubt about that," Frank agreed, and added quietly: +"Americans always have." + + + + +CHAPTER XII + +THE U-BOATS APPEAR + + +Three weeks passed and Jack and Frank were still in Washington. +Immediately after delivering his messages to Secretary Daniels, Jack got +in touch with the British Admiralty wireless and asked for instructions. +When the reply came it was signed Lord Hastings and said merely: + +"Stay where you are pending further orders." + +And after three weeks no word had come. + +Several times during the three weeks Jack and Frank, or one of the lads at +a time, had returned to Newport News to look to the needs of the Essex, +which still lay quietly in the James river. Steam was kept up in the +destroyer every moment of the day, and she was ready to put to sea on an +instant's notice. + +"Chances are when we need her it will be in a hurry," said Jack. + +Therefore nothing was overlooked that would enable the destroyer to go +into action on a moment's notice. Provisions were added to the stores from +time to time, and the crew were put through their drills daily. + +Meanwhile, from what Jack and Frank learned from the British ambassador, +no steps had been taken to prepare for a possible German attack on +shipping in American waters. True, the coast defenses had been +strengthened, but that was merely a matter of routine for a country at +war. + +Off the coast, warships were on patrol. But there were comparatively few +of these, for the bulk of the American fleet had been sent abroad to +reinforce the British grand fleet patroling the North Sea. + +Jack and Frank discussed these matters frequently. + +"It would be a great time for the Germans to strike," said Jack one +evening, as the lads sat in their rooms at the hotel. "The American people +don't seem to realize the possibilities of the submarine." + +"That's true," said Frank, "but at the same time such an attack might +prove a boomerang to the Germans." + +"What do you mean?" + +"Why," said Frank, "you haven't forgotten, have you, that it took a number +of air raids on England to fully arouse the British people to the fact +that the Germans must be licked?" + +"That's true enough," agreed Jack. "The Germans, of course, figured that +they would frighten England and scare her out of the war." + +"Exactly, and the result was altogether different from what they had +anticipated. That's why I say submarine activities off the American coast +will prove a boomerang to the foe." + +"I see," commented Jack. "You mean it would arouse the American people to +the necessity of prompt action." + +"Exactly." + +"Well," said Jack, "it begins to look as though Lord Hastings were wrong. +We've been here three weeks now and nothing has transpired to indicate +that the Germans are meditating a submarine raid in American waters." + +"You don't expect them to tip the Washington government off in advance, do +you?" asked Frank with a laugh. + +"Hardly; but it would seem that if such a campaign had been planned it +would have been started before this." + +"It wouldn't surprise me," said Frank, "to get a flash any day that a ship +had been submarined off the American coast." + +Came a rap at the door. + +"Come in," Frank called. + +A bell boy entered. He held a tray in his hand and on the tray was a +cablegram. + +"From Lord Hastings, I suppose," said Frank, taking the message and +passing it to Jack. + +Jack broke the seal, spread out the paper. The message, in code, was this: + + "Authentic information flotilla submarines headed for America. + Warn Navy Department at once." + +Jack sprang to the telephone and got the British embassy on the wire. + +"The ambassador, quick!" he said to the voice that answered his call. + +There was a short pause, and then Jack recognized the ambassador's voice. + +"I've just had a wireless from Lord Hastings relative to the matter which +we discussed with Secretary Daniels several weeks ago," he explained. "Can +you arrange another interview immediately?" + +"I'll see," said the ambassador and rang off. + +The telephone in the lads' room jangled sharply ten minutes later. Jack +sprang to the wire. + +"Yes," he said in response to a query. "Ten o'clock? You'll call for us? +Very well." + +He replaced the receiver and turned to Frank. + +"We will see Secretary Daniels in his office at ten," he said. He looked +at his watch. "Hurry and dress. It's after nine now. The ambassador should +be here in fifteen minutes." + +The lads jumped into their clothes, then went downstairs, where they +awaited the arrival of the ambassador. The latter arrived ten minutes +before ten o'clock, and the three were driven to the War and Navy +building. Secretary Daniels received them at once. + +"I understand that you come on a very important matter," he said. "Pray, +what is it, gentlemen?" + +For answer Jack laid before the American naval secretary the decoded +message from Lord Hastings. The secretary read it, then looked up. + +"Well?" he asked. + +"Why, sir," said Jack, "Lord Hastings simply wishes you to take all +precautions to prevent sinking of vessels by submarines in American +waters." + +Secretary Daniels smiled. + +"I don't know what we can do that has not already been done," he replied. +"The off-coast waters are mined, and American warships are patroling the +regular channels of navigation." + +"All that may be true, sir," said Jack, "but these submarines are slippery +customers, as I have reason to know. It would be well to take even further +precautions." + +"And what would you suggest?" asked Secretary Daniels. + +"Why, sir," said Jack, "I'd suggest cancelling sailing orders of all +transports temporarily, at least until such time as I felt sure they could +go in safety. Then I'd flash a warning broadcast to all vessels within +reach of the wireless to be on the lookout for enemy submarines. I'd rush +every available submarine chaser in the Atlantic ports beyond the mine +fields and I would order a destroyer as protection for every vessel known +to be inward bound." + +Secretary Daniels smiled. + +"You wouldn't overlook anything, would you, Captain?" + +"I certainly would not," said Jack firmly. + +"Very well, then," said Secretary Daniels. "I'll set your mind at rest. +Your suggestions shall be followed out. I'll give the necessary directions +the first thing in the morning." + +"In the morning, sir?" repeated Jack. "The morning may be too late." + +"Oh, I guess not," Secretary Daniels smiled. "It has been three weeks or +more since your first warning and nothing has happened. I guess we can +safely depend upon being let alone a few hours after the second warning." + +Jack was about to protest, thought better of it and said simply: + +"Very well, sir." + +A moment later the lads took their departure with the ambassador. In the +seclusion of the latter's automobile, Jack said: + +"I can't see how the secretary dares let time slip by like that." + +"Never mind," said the ambassador, "you'll find in a day or two that +Secretary Daniels knows what he's doing. Don't make any mistake about him. +He's a capable man." + +"I have no doubt of that, sir," replied Jack. "But if he had seen three +years of war, as we have, he would never delay. Besides, he doesn't know +these German submarines as well as I do. Neither do any of the Americans." + +"Oh, yes they do," declared Frank. + +"They do, eh?" exclaimed Jack. "Well, I'd like to know the name of one of +them." + +"His name," said Frank, "is Lieutenant Chadwick, and I think he knows just +about as much about the U-Boats as you do; and he agrees with your ideas +perfectly." + +Jack smiled. + +"That's right," he said. "I had forgotten you were a native of this land. +Well, here's hoping nothing happens before Secretary Daniels takes all +necessary precautions." + +The British ambassador left the lads at their hotel, and they returned at +once to their rooms, where for several hours they discussed the situation. + +"There is no use talking about it," said Frank at last. "Let's go to bed." + +They undressed. + +Just before extinguishing the light, as was his custom, Frank raised the +window. As he looked out he saw below a crowd of excited men and women +moving about the street. + +"Hey, Jack!" he called. "Come here." + +Jack joined him at the window. + +"Now what's up, do you suppose?" asked Frank. + +"Too deep for me," declared Jack, "but something surely. Let's go down and +find out." + +Hurriedly they slipped back into their clothes, and went down stairs. They +stepped out of the hotel and mingled with the people on the streets, quite +a crowd for Washington at that hour of the night. + +The stream of people led toward Eleventh and Pennsylvania avenue, where a +larger crowd was gathered in front of a bulletin board in the window of a +newspaper office. + +"Big news of some kind," said Jack as they hurried along. + +"And not good news, either," Frank declared. "There'd be some cheering if +it were." + +"You're right," said Jack. + +By main force they wormed their way through the crowd, until they were +close enough to read the bulletin board. Then Jack uttered an exclamation +of alarm. + +"I knew it!" he cried. + +For what he read was this: + +"Navy Department announces sinking of two freight vessels off New Jersey +coast by German submarines." + +"I knew it!" Jack said again. + + + + +CHAPTER XIII + +THE SUBMARINES GROW BOLDER + + +The boys returned to their rooms. + +"Now what?" asked Frank. + +"I don't know," was Jack's reply. "I hate to sit here quietly when the +whole American navy, or what part of it is still here, is in chase of the +Germans, but what are we going to do about it?" + +"Search me," replied Frank. + +"Our instructions," Jack continued, "are to stay here pending further +orders." + +"Maybe we'll get them soon," said Frank. + +"Yes; and maybe we won't." + +"Then we'll just have to sit tight." + +"That's what worries me." + +There was a knock at the door. + +"Come in," Frank called. + +A bell boy entered with a second cablegram. + +Jack tore it open hastily. + +"Hurray!" he cried. + +"What's up?" demanded Frank. + +He arose and peered over his chum's shoulder. What he read was this: + +"Offer your services and the services of the Essex to the U.S. Navy +Department at once." + +"Fine!" cried Frank. "Let's get busy." + +It was the work of half an hour, however, to get Secretary Daniels on the +telephone. He had been aroused at the first news of the sinkings off the +coast and had been kept on the jump ever since. But he took time to talk +to Jack. + +"I am authorized by the British Admiralty, sir," said Jack over the +'phone, "to offer the services of my ship to the American government." + +"Accepted with thanks," snapped Secretary Daniels. "You will proceed +immediately to your vessel in Newport News, after which you will join the +American vessels on patrol duty off the coast of Virginia. I shall inform +Admiral Sellings that you will report to him for instructions." + +Without awaiting a reply, Secretary Daniels hung up. + +"By George!" said Jack. "He's a man of action when he gets to moving." + +"What did he say?" demanded Frank. + +"Hurry and pack your things," was Jack's reply. "I'll explain as we work." + +It was the work of only a few minutes for the lads to gather their +belongings and dump them in their handbags. Then they hurried downstairs, +where they paid their bill and learned that they could catch a train to +Richmond within the hour. + +"Going after the submarines?" asked the night clerk. + +"Yes," replied Jack shortly. + +"Good! I hope you get 'em. Here's your taxi." + +The lads jumped into the taxi and were driven to the station, where they +caught their train with time to spare. + +It lacked two hours of daylight when they arrived in Richmond. They took a +taxi across town to the Chesapeake and Ohio station, where they caught a +train for Newport News an hour later. At eight o'clock they were in +Newport News, and fifteen minutes later stepped aboard the Essex. + +"Glad to see you back, sir," said Lieutenant Hetherton, who held the deck. +"I suppose you've heard----" + +"Pipe all hands to quarters, Mr. Hetherton," Jack interrupted sharply, +"and clear ship for action. We sail within the hour." + +Lieutenant Hetherton hurried away. + +"Frank," said Jack, "go below and have a look at the engine room. Then +find the quartermaster and see about provisions and fuel." + +Frank also hurried away. + +Sailing preparations aboard the Essex were made hurriedly and within less +than an hour all was ready for departure. Meanwhile, crowds had collected +ashore, upon learning that the Essex was about to set out in pursuit of +the German undersea raiders. + +Loud cheers split the air. Men and women waved their handkerchiefs. From a +group of soldiers on the shore came expressions of good luck. In response +to Jack's request, a pilot had been hurried aboard and now took the wheel. + +"Half speed ahead," Jack ordered. + +The water churned up ahead of the Essex, and she moved majestically toward +the center of the stream. + +Gradually the cheering died away in the distance, and the city of Newport +News was lost to sight. In Hampton Roads again, the pilot was dropped in a +small boat and rowed shoreward. + +Frank took his place behind the helmsman and Jack rang for full speed +ahead. At last the Essex was off in pursuit of the German submarines. + +Meanwhile, an account of the activity of the enemy off the coats is in +order. Besides the sinking of the first two freight vessels, which had +been reported to the Navy Department by survivors who had reached shore in +small boats, other vessels had been sent to the bottom. Most of these were +freighters or small trading ships, including two sailing vessels. Some had +been sunk off the New Jersey coast, others off the coasts of Delaware and +Virginia. + +In some cases the vessels attacked had attempted to flee, but they were +quickly overhauled by the submarines, which, besides firing torpedoes into +their hulls, shelled them with rapid fire guns and later attacked the +small boats in which the crews sought to make the shore. + +Casualties had been heavy aboard the ships sunk by the raiders. One or two +of the enemy submarines had been fired on by armed ships, but to no avail; +and as a result of those efforts, the death lists aboard such vessels had +been increased, for the Germans, angered, had swept the survivors in small +boats with rapid fire guns. + +How many submarines were operating in American waters, the Navy department +did not know. From the fact that ships were attacked in at least three +places, within a short space of time, however, it was believed that there +were at least three or four of the raiders. + +From all ports along the coast, destroyers, submarine chasers, motor boats +armed with single guns, had put to sea in an effort to run down the +raiders. But off the New Jersey coast, almost in the midst of these +vessels, a sailing ship was sunk by a submarine. Before any of the +patroling vessels could reach the scene, however, the U-Boat had submerged +and fled. + +Depth bombs were dropped by ships of war wherever it was thought a +submarine might be lurking beneath the water. But these efforts met with +no success. Reports of sinkings in other parts of the water reached the +Navy department. + +The first sinking was reported on May 10. In the week that followed, +eighteen other vessels were sent to the bottom by German submarines off +the American coast. At the end of that time, however, the waters were +being so well patrolled that it would have been suicide for a submarine to +have showed itself. + +Reports of sinkings ceased. But, from time to time, word was received that +submarines had been sighted farther south, first off the coast of the +Carolinas and then off Florida. No attacks were made in these waters, +however, and the next that was heard of the submarines they were off the +coast of South America. + +During the activities of the enemy raiders, one submarine was sunk, and +one was captured, both through the efforts of Jack and the crew and +officers of the Essex. + +After leaving Hampton Roads, the Essex steamed out beyond the Virginia +Capes. Immediately Jack sought to get into communication with Admiral +Sellings by wireless. And at last he raised the admiral's flagship, the +Dakota. + +"What do you want?" came the query from the Dakota, after Jack's flash had +been picked up. + +"British destroyer Essex, Captain Templeton, reporting to Admiral Sellings +for orders at the request of Secretary Daniels," was the message Jack sent +back. + +"One moment," was the reply. + +Jack waited in the radio room aboard the Essex. + +"Essex! Essex!" came the call five minutes later. + +"Answer," Jack directed the operator. + +"Essex replying," the operator flashed. + +"Admiral Sellings orders Essex to proceed north and stand out to sea to +protect inbound vessels. Understand one submarine sighted five miles out +five hours ago. Repeat." + +The operator repeated the message to show that he had caught in correctly. + +Jack went on deck and gave instructions necessary to putting the Essex out +at sea. Then, "Full speed ahead!" he signalled. + +The British destroyer Essex stood out to sea magnificently. Aboard, her +crew stood to their posts, ready for action. Jack, surrounded by his +officers, held the bridge. + +"We've got to keep a sharp eye out," said Jack. + +"Right," Frank agreed. "We're likely to come upon one of the enemy any +moment, and we can't afford to let him see us first." + +"Very true, sir," Lieutenant Hetherton agreed. "Fortunately all our +lookouts have sharp eyes. I'll venture to say a submarine won't come to +the surface very close to us without being seen." + +"That's the way to talk, Mr. Hetherton," said Jack. "It shows the proper +spirit." + +"And the men are imbued with the same spirit," declared Frank, "and yet +see how cool they are." + +It was perfectly true. There was no confusion aboard the Essex in spite of +the fact that each member of the crew knew he was bent on a dangerous +mission. One shot from the submarine, they knew, if truly aimed and Jack +was unable to maneuver the vessel out of harm's way, would be the end. +However, like all British tars, they had absolute confidence in their +commander; for, according to their line of reasoning, if he were not a +capable officer and to be depended upon he would not be in command of the +ship. + +Suddenly the radio operator appeared on deck and hurried toward the +bridge. Jack stepped forward to meet him. The lad took the message the +operator passed him and read: + + "S.O.S. Pursued by submarine eighteen miles off Cape May light. + Am running south by west, but foe is gaining. Capt. Griswold, + Ventura." + +"This," said Jack quietly, "means that there is still another U-Boat to be +reckoned with, but I had no idea they were operating so far out. We'll +have to get busy." + +Jack looked at his officers with a slight smile on his face, then ordered: +"Shape your course due east, Frank. Full speed ahead." + + + + +CHAPTER XIV + +THE U-87 + + +As the Essex sped forward the radio operator from time to time picked up +other messages from the Ventura. + +"She's headed directly toward us," Jack explained to Frank. "We should +sight her within the hour." + +The Ventura was sighted in less, but under peculiar conditions. + +"Ship on the starboard bow, sir," sang the lookout forward. + +A moment later the officers on the bridge sighted the vessel through their +glasses. + +"By George! She seems to be standing still," said Frank. + +"So she does," Lieutenant Hetherton agreed, "Wonder what's the matter?" + +"We'll find out fast enough," returned Jack quietly. + +"Take the bridge, Mr. Chadwick," said Jack. "I'm going below to the radio +room." + +"See if you can raise the Ventura," he instructed the radio operator, a +few moments later. + +"Ventura! Ventura!" went the call through the air. + +There was no response. + +"Try it again," said Jack. + +The operator obeyed. Still there was no reply from the Ventura. + +"Something wrong," Jack muttered under his breath, "and still I saw no +sign of a submarine. Try 'em again, Wilkins." + +Again the radio operator sent the call flashing through the air: + +"Ventura! Ventura! Ventura!" + +The instrument at Wilkins' side began to click. + +"Ventura replying, sir," Wilkins reported. + +"I hear him," said Jack briefly. "Let me get at that key, Wilkins." + +The operator sprang up and Jack took his place and strapped the receiver +over his head. + +"What's the trouble, Ventura?" he clicked. + +"Held up by submarine," was the reply. "U-Boat due east of us. You can't +see her. We sighted you just after we were boarded." + +"Then how does it come you are at the key?" Jack clicked. + +"Broke away from captors on deck. They are pounding at the door now." + +"Have they sighted us?" + +"They hadn't. There goes the door, Good-bye." + +The flashes from the Ventura ceased. Jack sprang up and turned the +receiver over to the operator. + +"Keep calling," he said. "If you pick the Ventura up again, let me know. +I'll send a man so you can report to me through him." + +Jack hurried on deck. + +In the distance the Ventura was plainly visible now. Jack changed the +course of the ship slightly, and after the vessel had gone half a mile he +made out the form of a submarine lying close astern of the Ventura. + +"By George! They must see us," he muttered. "If the lookout on the U-Boat +hasn't espied us, surely some of the Germans on the deck of the Ventura +must have done so. Wonder why the submarine captain doesn't sink the +steamer and submerge. Surely he is not going to risk an encounter with +me." + +Nevertheless, it seemed that such must be the submarine commander's +intention, for the submarine showed no sign of submerging as the Essex +bore down on her. + +Through his binoculars Frank was now able to ascertain the fact that a +struggle was in progress on the deck of the Ventura. A dozen or more +figures, closely interlocked, were scuffling to and fro across the bridge. +Frank gave an exclamation. + +"I know what's wrong," he ejaculated. + +"Well, what?" demanded Jack, turning to him. + +"Why, the crew, or some of the crew, has jumped the commander of the +submarine and his escort. That's why the officer left on the U-Boat +doesn't dare sink the vessel. And the crew of the steamer is keeping the +German and his friends so busy aboard that they haven't had a chance to +jump overboard." + +"By George! I guess you're right," declared Jack. "Now if they can hold +them fifteen minutes longer we'll get in the game ourselves." + +Again Jack altered the course of the Essex and approached the submarine at +an angle from the Ventura. + +"Forward turret guns there!" he roared. + +It was the signal the men had been eagerly awaiting. Quickly the signal +"ready" was flashed in the forward turret. The men were already at their +posts. + +"Range finders!" ordered Jack. + +"Aye, aye, sir," came the reply of the officer in charge of this work, and +he calculated the range swiftly and passed the word to the captain of the +gun crew in the forward turret. + +"Fire!" + +A heavy shell flew screaming across the water. + +But the range had not been correct and the shell flew past the submarine. +Again the range was calculated, taking into consideration the first error. +Again the command to fire was given. + +This time the range had been gauged perfectly and the shell must have gone +home had it not been for one thing. + +A moment before the command to fire was given, a torpedo was launched by +the submarine. Jack saw the torpedo come dashing through the water, and he +was forced to order the helm over promptly to escape the deadly messenger. +This maneuver was made at the precise moment that the Essex fired for the +second time, and consequently the shell again went wide. + +Almost at the same instant Frank, who had kept his eyes glued to the deck +of the Ventura where the struggle on the bridge had continued fiercely, +uttered an exclamation of alarm. + +"They've broken away," he cried. + +It was true, The submarine commander and his followers had succeeded in +eluding the crew of the Ventura and dashed to the rail. There they poised +themselves a brief moment, and then flung themselves headlong into the +sea. Directly, dripping, they appeared on the deck of the submarine and +dashed for the conning tower. + +"Quick!" roared Jack. "Forward turret guns again there!" + +Once more the range was calculated and an explosion shook the Essex. But +as before the range had not been true. The shell barely skimmed the top of +the U-Boat and went screaming half a mile past, where it struck the water +with a hiss. + +Slowly the submarine began to submerge. + +"Again!" cried Jack. + +But the next shot had no better success. + +The submarine disappeared from sight. + +Jack stamped his foot. + +"What's the matter with those fellows forward?" he demanded. "Can't they +shoot? Didn't they ever see a gun before?" + +There was no reply from the other officers and gradually Jack cooled down. + +"Pretty tough," said Frank then. "We should have had that fellow." + +Jack nodded gloomily. + +"So we should," he cried, "but we didn't get him. Well, better luck next +time. All the same, I'm inclined to believe that Ensign Carruthers needs a +talking to. He didn't take the time to calculate the range correctly." + +"I'll speak to him," said Frank. + +"Do," said Jack. "In the meantime we'll run close to the Ventura and I'll +go aboard for a word with her captain." + +The Ventura's wireless was working again now, and Jack himself took the +key. + +"Lay to," he ordered. "I'm coming aboard you." + +"Very well," was the reply. + +The two vessels drew close together. Jack had the destroyer's launch +lowered, climbed in and crossed to the Ventura, where a ladder was lowered +for him. On deck he was greeted by a grizzled old sailor, who introduced +himself as Captain Griswold. + +"Come to my cabin, sir," he said to Jack. "We can talk there without being +interrupted." + +Jack followed the captain of the Ventura below, and took a seat the latter +motioned him to. The captain set out liquor and cigars, but Jack waved +them away. + +"I neither smoke nor drink, thanks," he said. + +Captain Griswold shrugged his shoulders and put a match to a cigar. + +"Well, what can I do for you, Captain?" he asked. + +"First," said Jack, "did you get the number of the submarine?" + +"I did. The U-87, Commander Frederich, the captain styled himself; and if +there ever was a murderer unhung, he's the man." + +"Why?" asked Jack curiously. + +"Because he proposed setting my passengers and crew adrift in small boats, +without water or provisions, before sinking my ship. And when I told him +that I had him figured correctly--that he intended to shell the +lifeboats--the cold-blooded scoundrel admitted it! That's why we had the +nerve to jump him on deck. I figured we might as well die on the Ventura +as in the lifeboats--and we had a chance of taking him to Davy Jones' +locker along with us." + +"I see," said Jack. "Not a bad idea." + +"It was offered by the wireless operator," continued Captain Griswold, +"although he offered it unconsciously." + +"Explain," Jack requested. + +"Well, Harrington thought he heard his instrument clicking. He figured it +was you, whom we had just sighted. He broke through the Germans on deck +and dashed below. He locked himself in his room and began talking to you. +Three of the enemy went after him and broke in the door, but I guess he +had told you enough by that time." + +"I'd like a word with this Harrington," said Jack. "He is a brave man. +Where is he?" + +"Dead," said Captain Griswold quietly. + +Jack jumped to his feet + +"Dead?" he repeated. + +"Yes. After the Germans broke in the door, they overpowered him, tied him +and then brought back on deck. Said the German commander: 'I'll show you +how we treat men who defy us.' He stepped back several paces, drew his +revolver and fired. Then three of the enemy threw the body into the sea. +That's when we jumped them, for it was more than we could stand." + +"Then who answered the wireless when I called a moment ago?" + +"I did." + +"I guess that is enough, Captain," said Jack. He returned to the Essex. + + + + +CHAPTER XV + +JACK GIVES CHASE + + +"Any sight of the submarine, Frank?" asked Jack, when he stepped on deck +again. + +"None," was the reply. "In accordance with instructions you gave before +you went overside we dropped depth bombs in the spot where the U-Boat +disappeared, but without result." + +"I guess he's gone, then," said Jack. "But I'd like to get my hands on +that fellow," and he related to Frank the manner in which the German +commander had shot down the wireless operator aboard the Ventura. + +"By Jove! What a murderous scoundrel!" muttered Frank. + +Jack nodded. + +"No worse than the rest of them, I'll wager," he said. "But, hello! The +Ventura's moving again." + +As soon as Jack had left the deck of the steamer, Captain Griswold had +ordered the engines started and prepared for a quick dash to shore. + +"There are likely to be more of those pesky submarines about here," he +muttered, "and the sooner I reach port the better." + +Accordingly he ordered full speed ahead. + +"Do you know," said Frank, "I've a hunch that the U-87 is not through with +the Ventura. You know how the German is. He doesn't like to admit he's +been licked, so I figure the submarine commander is likely to have gone +ahead and will be awaiting the approach of the Ventura." + +"Now by George! I wouldn't be a bit surprised," Jack agreed. "Well, we'll +be ready for him." + +"What are you going to do, Jack?" + +"I'll show you. Come." + +Jack dashed to the radio room, Frank at his heels. + +"Get the Ventura for me," Jack instructed the operator. + +It was perhaps five minutes later that the Ventura answered the call. Jack +took the key. + +"Captain Griswold?" he asked. + +"Yes. Who are you?" + +"Captain Templeton, destroyer Essex." + +"Well, what do you want this time?" + +"Slow down. I'm coming aboard again." + +"What for?" + +"I'll explain when I get there." + +"All right, but I'll tell you I don't like this business." + +The instrument became silent. + +"Now tell me what you're going to do, Jack," said Frank, as he followed +his chum and commander on deck. + +"It's very simple," said Jack. "As you have said, I believe that the +submarine commander will intercept the Ventura again farther along toward +the shore. Now, I'm going to turn the Essex over to you temporarily and +go aboard the Ventura. You know the Germans as well as I do. This man will +no more think of sinking the Ventura without doing a bit of bragging to +the captain, who fooled him once, than he will of flying." + +"That's true enough," Frank admitted. + +"All right. Now I'll be aboard when he gets there. If he comes aboard, +I'll grab him there. If he doesn't I'll jump to the deck of the submarine +after him and tumble him overboard. I'll trust to you to keep the +submarine occupied and to get a boat to me." + +"It's a desperate venture, Jack," Frank protested. + +"So it is," was Jack's reply, "but I've a longing to capture this fellow. +If we just sink the submarine, I can't do it of course. Another thing, it +may be that I am not doing just right in leaving my ship, but it will only +be for a couple of hours and I know you can handle it as well as I can." + +"Oh, I won't sink her," grinned Frank. "But why not let me be the one to +go?" + +"Because I'm not sure you can handle the German commander." + +"But you're sure you can, eh?" + +"He'll have to be something new in the line of a German if I can't." + +"All right," said Frank. "Have it your own way. You're boss here, you +know." + +Meantime the Essex and the Ventura had been drawing closer together. +Directly a boat put off from the destroyer and ran alongside of the +steamer. Jack clambered over the side and the launch returned to the +destroyer. + +Captain Griswold was waiting for Jack. + +"Now what's up?" he wanted to know. + +"Come to your cabin and I'll explain," said Jack. + +In the seclusion of the cabin he outlined the situation. When he had +concluded a sketch of his plans, Captain Griswold demurred. + +"But I don't like to risk my passengers," he said. + +"You won't be risking them any more with me aboard than you will without +me," Jack explained. "Besides, you will have the additional protection of +the destroyer. In fact, it may be that the presence of the Essex will +scare the submarine off, but I doubt it. The German commander, as all of +his ilk, is angry at having been balked of his prey. He'll probably have +one more try, destroyer or no destroyer." + +"Well," said Captain Griswold, "you're a British naval officer and should +know something, whether you do or not. But I'll tell you right now I hope +the submarine doesn't show up again." + +Nevertheless, Captain Griswold was doomed to disappointment, for the U-87 +did reappear. + +It was almost 6 o'clock in the evening when all on board were startled by +a cry from the lookout. + +"Submarine on the port bow, sir." + +Instantly all became confusion on the big merchant ship. Passengers, of +whom there were perhaps fifty, became greatly excited. Every man on board +strapped on a life preserver, and waited for he knew not what. + +The fact that, directly astern, the Essex, British destroyer, was in plain +sight and trailing them, did not allay their fears. Came a shot from a gun +mounted forward on the submarine, a signal to heave to. + +"Obey it," said Jack, to Captain Griswold, on the bridge. + +Captain Griswold ordered his engines stopped. + +"I'll keep out of sight for a moment," said Jack. "The commander may come +on board." + +He stooped down in the shelter of the pilot house. + +The submarine drew close to the Ventura, and a voice hailed Captain +Griswold: + +"Thought you'd get away did you, you Yankee pig." + +It was the voice of the German commander. + +"Oh, we may get away yet," said Captain Griswold. + +"Don't depend on the destroyer this time," shouted the commander of the +submarine. "I see her approaching, but she won't be soon enough. I'll sink +you and submerge before she can fire a shot." + +"Well, you big cut throat," shouted Captain Griswold, losing his temper, +"why don't you do it?" + +"You dare to talk to a German officer like that?" thundered the submarine +commander. "You shall be sunk immediately. But first I wanted a word with +you. I just wanted to tell you what fate I hold in store for you." + +"It's my opinion," said Captain Griswold, "that you're a big bluff, like +all the rest of your stripe." + +Meantime, realizing that the German commander did not intend to board the +Ventura a second time, Jack crept from the shelter of the pilot house +unobserved and stole across the deck until he was beside the rail just +above the U-Boat, whose sides almost scraped the Ventura, so close were +the two vessels together. + +Jack removed his coat and his cap, which he dropped on deck. Then he stood +up in full view of the German submarine commander. The latter gazed at him +carelessly, for without his cap and coat Jack showed no sign of being a +British naval officer. + +Jack took in the scene about him with a careful eye. The German commander +stood close to the conning tower. There were perhaps half a dozen men +beside him, presumably his officers. The commander was directly below the +spot where Jack stood. + +One of the Germans, Jack noticed, kept a close eye on the approaching +Essex and from time to time spoke to the commander in a low tone. + +"Oh, these English can't shoot," Jack heard the commander say at last. +"However, I guess we have delayed long enough. Inside with you, +gentlemen." + +Two of the Germans descended through the conning tower. This left four on +the deck of the submarine besides the commander. These, too, moved toward +the conning tower. + +"Guess it's time to get busy," Jack muttered. + +With a single movement he leaped to the rail of the Ventura, and with a +second hurled himself to the deck of the submarine, landing in the midst +of the startled Germans. + +At the same moment, Captain Griswold, on the Ventura, signalled his engine +room for full speed ahead in accordance with Jack's instructions. + +The reason for this was obvious. First, it would take the steamer out of +the way of the torpedoes already trained on her, which would not be +launched without a command from one of the enemy officers, and, second, it +would draw the Ventura away so as to present the submarine as a clear +target for the guns of the approaching Essex. + +Jack, on the deck of the submarine, recovered himself before the German +officers could get over their surprise. He sprang to his feet and waded +into them, striking out right and left. + +Two men went staggering across the narrow deck and toppled into the sea. +The others reached for their revolvers. Before they could fire, however, +Jack sprang forward quickly and floored one of the enemy with a smashing +blow. This left the commander and one other officer on deck. + +The commander fired at Jack, but in his haste the bullet went wild. Jack +hurled himself forward, and the men gave ground. One, retreating, lost his +balance and went staggering across the deck and fell overboard. + +Only the commander of the submarine now faced Jack, and he covered the lad +with a revolver. + +"Hands up!" he said. + +For answer Jack smiled slightly, and took a quick step forward. + +"Crack!" the German's revolver spoke sharply, and Jack felt a hot pain in +his left arm. But the German had no time to fire again, for Jack was upon +him, pinning his revolver arm to his side. + +"Now," said the lad, "I've got you!" + +The two wrestled across the deck. + + + + +CHAPTER XVI + +THE FIGHT ON THE U-87 + + +In the meantime, members of the crew hearing the commotion on deck, rushed +up to see what was going on. Seeing their commander struggling with an +enemy, they hurried across the deck. + +Jack saw them coming out of the tail of his eye. It was not time to +hesitate and the lad knew it. + +With his arms still wrapped about the German commander, Jack struggled to +the rail and leaped into the sea. Down and down he went, never for a +moment relaxing his hold on the German. Then they came to the surface. + +With a sudden jerk the German freed himself and aimed a heavy blow at +Jack. This Jack dodged and sought to regain his hold on his foe. But the +German wriggled away and struck out for the submarine. + +In the meantime, Captain Griswold of the Ventura had been watching the +struggle as his vessel sped away from the scene. There was a strange light +in his eyes and he muttered to himself. At last he muttered an +imprecation. + +"He's a brave boy," he said. "I can't run away and leave him like that." + +He brought the head of the vessel around in spite of the protests of some +of the passengers, and headed back for the submarine. + +"Man the forward gun there!" he cried. + +For the Ventura, like other allied ships plying in the seas in those days, +carried small guns for defensive purposes. The gun crew sprang to obey +this order and the gun was trained on the submarine. + +"Fire!" shouted Captain Griswold. + +"Crash!" + +The gun spoke and a geyser of water was kicked up just beyond the +submarine. + +At this point the officer left in command of the submarine seemed to +realize his own danger. He sprang to the conning tower, unmindful of the +fact that his commander was struggling in the water. + +"Down, men!" he cried. + +But it appeared that the German sailors were made of sterner stuff than +was the officer. They refused to go below until their commander had been +brought safely aboard. In vain the officer pointed out their danger. + +Jack struck out after the German commander as the latter swam for the +submarine. The lad was a powerful swimmer and he felt confident he could +overtake the man before help could reach him. + +The destroyer Essex had now drawn close. Frank had been afraid to order a +shot at the submarine for fear the shell might hit Jack in the water. + +"Take the bridge, Mr. Hetherton!" he cried. "Lower a boat, men!" + +The boat was lowered in a trice and Frank and a score of sailors sprang +in. The launch darted toward Jack at full speed, Frank standing erect and +with the quartermaster at the rudder. + +They were close enough to see the struggle between Jack and the German +commander in the water. Frank saw the man break loose from Jack and strike +out for the submarine. He saw Jack make after him, and he saw something +more. + +Half a dozen German sailors leaped into the water and made for Jack, who +apparently did not realize his own danger, so interested was he in the +pursuit of the German commander. + +"Faster!" cried Frank, and drew his revolver. + +Now, for the first time, Jack realized his danger. But it was too late to +draw back, and it is doubtful if he would have done so anyway. + +"I'm going to get that fellow," he gritted between his teeth, referring to +the German commander. + +One of the German sailors struck at the lad with a knife. Jack caught the +man's arm with his left hand and twisted sharply. There was a snap, and +the knife dropped into the water. The sailor uttered a cry of pain and +turning, struck out for the submarine with his good arm. + +Two sailors now beset Jack on either side, and the German commander turned +to renew the struggle. + +"Kill him!" he cried angrily. + +One of the sailors raised himself high in the water, and a knife flashed +above him. + +"Crack!" + +A revolver spoke sharply and the knife dropped from limp fingers. + +Frank, standing erect in the Essex's launch, had fired. Now, as has been +said, Frank was a crack shot, and in spite of the pitching of the small +boat, his aim had been true. The bullet had struck the German sailor's arm +just below the elbow, shattering the nerve. + +Perceiving the approach of reinforcements, at an order from their +commander, the Germans turned and swam rapidly toward the submarine. The +sailors reached the vessel and climbed aboard. Their commander did +likewise. + +Unmindful of the cries of his friends behind him, Jack also laid hold of +the edge of the submarine and drew himself, dripping, aboard the vessel. A +sailor near the conning tower raised his revolver in deliberate aim. + +"Crack! Crack!" + +Two revolvers spoke almost as one, the first Frank's, the second that of +the sailor who aimed at Jack. But Frank's bullet went home, thus +deflecting the aim of the man who covered Jack, and the German's bullet +went wild. + +The commander of the submarine, at this juncture, losing his temper at +being pursued to the very door of safety, turned and sprang for Jack with +a wild cry. He was a big and powerful man, and as he wrapped his arms +about Jack, the lad staggered back. + +But he recovered his balance in a moment and struck out with his right +fist. Struck in the stomach, the German grunted and stepped back. + +Now the remainder of the German crew came pouring on deck. At the same +time Frank's launch grated alongside and his men poured a volley of rifle +bullets into the enemy. The latter turned and scampered for safety below +decks. + +Jack, still struggling with the German commander, paused and looked around +long enough to cry: + +"After them, Frank! Don't let them shut you out." + +Frank understood and led his men toward the conning tower at a run. Most +of the enemy were already inside and descending, but Frank arrived in time +to prevent the closing of the conning tower, which would have permitted +the submarine to submerge, leaving the struggling figures in the water. +With the conning tower open, it was, of course, impossible for the U-Boat +to submerge, for she would have been flooded immediately. + +Frank's men made prisoners of the half a dozen Germans who had not time to +get below, and then the lad ran over to help Jack. + +"Keep away, Frank," said Jack. "I've got this fellow, and I hope he +doesn't give up too easily. We've heavy accounts to settle with him." + +The big German showed no symptoms of giving up. He lashed out with both +arms and Jack was kept busy warding off the blows. But the German +commander was a novice at this sort of fighting, while Jack, only a year +or so before, had won the heavyweight boxing championship of the British +navy. So there was no doubt in Frank's mind as to the outcome. He and his +men formed a circle around the struggling figures, at the same time +guarding the conning tower to prevent the enemy from closing it. + +"Shoot the first head you see down there," Frank enjoined the men he left +on guard, and he knew they would be only too glad to obey this order. + +Jack, with a smile still on his face, permitted the German commander to +waste his energy in ineffective blows. Then Jack stepped forward and +delivered a heavy blow to the man's mouth. The German staggered back. Jack +doubled him up with a left-handed punch to the pit of the stomach, then +straightened him with a second hard right to the point of the chin. + +The German commander reeled backward. Jack followed up his advantage, and +for the space of a minute played a tattoo on the man's face with both +fists. Then he stepped back, and as the German came toward him, the lad +muttered: + +"I guess this has gone far enough. Now for the finish." + +He started a blow almost from the deck, and putting his full force behind +it, struck. + +"Crack!" + +The blow could be heard even aboard the Ventura, which had approached +close by this time. + +The German commander seemed to stagger back all of ten paces, the British +sailors scurrying back to keep out of his way. Then the man fell, his head +striking the deck with a sickening thud. + +"There," said Jack, "I guess that will settle you. Tie him up, men." + +A wild cheer had burst from the sailors as Jack delivered the finishing +touch. None of these men had ever seen Jack in action before, and it was +only natural that they should be greatly impressed at this exhibition of +their commander's prowess. + +"By glory! What a blow!" one of them exclaimed. "Did you see it, Tom?" + +"Did I?" exclaimed the man addressed as Tom; "did I? I'll say I did, and I +thought I was pretty handy with my fists. But not against Captain Jack, +not for me." + +As bidden by Jack, the sailors rolled the German commander over and bound +him. Then they carried him to the Essex's launch and threw him in, none +too gently, either, for there was no man there who had not a disgust for +Germans, German tactics and everything German. + +"Now," said Frank to Jack, "I guess we may as well stand clear and let the +Essex pour a few shells into the vessel, eh?" + +Jack shook his head. + +"No," he said, "we shall take possession of the vessel. Call down below +and see if the Germans will surrender." + +Frank approached the conning tower and called down. + +"Hello!" he shouted. + +There was no response. + +"Hello below!" he shouted again in German. + +"What do you want?" came a sullen voice from below. + +"We're in possession of this vessel now," said Frank. "Come up here and +surrender." + +"We'll stay where we are," came the reply after a brief pause. + +"But you can't man," exclaimed Frank. "Don't you know when you have been +captured." + +"We'll stay here awhile," said the spokesman of the sailors. + +"But you can't stay there forever, and you can't submerge," said Frank. +"Come up and surrender." + +To this the lad received no response. Frank reported to Jack. + +"So they won't surrender, eh?" said Jack. "Then we'll go down and get +them." + +"Rather risky, Jack," Frank warned. + +"So it is," Jack agreed. "So's the whole war. But wait. We'll see." + + + + +CHAPTER XVII + +CAPTURE OF THE SUBMARINE + + +Captain Griwsold aboard the Ventura had watched the struggle on the +submarine with eager eyes. His fingers clenched and unclenched. + +"I'd like to get into that," he muttered. "I guess I'm not too old." + +Abruptly he turned to the first officer. + +"Lower a boat," he said. "I'm going aboard the submarine." + +The first officer protested. + +"But the passengers--" he began. + +"The passengers be hanged," said the captain of the Ventura. "Besides, +we're safer here under the nose of this destroyer than we would be +prowling off by ourselves." + +The first officer protested no longer. A boat was lowered and Captain +Griswold and half a dozen sailors climbed in and put off for the +submarine, where they arrived just in time to overhear Jack say that if +the Germans in the submarine didn't surrender they would go after them. +Captain Griswold laid a hand on Jack's shoulder. + +"You're some scrapper, youngster," he said. + +Jack was thus made aware for the first time that the Ventura had not +rushed for her home port. + +"I thought you'd gone, Captain," he said. + +"I was on my way," said the captain of the Ventura, "until I saw you +fighting these murderers single-handed. I came back to see if I could +help." + +"Thanks," Jack laughed, "but I guess there are enough of us to attend to +them without you, Captain." + +"I'm not sure about that," declared Captain Griswold. "I just heard you +say you were going below after those fellows?" + +"Well?" questioned Jack. + +"Pretty risky," responded Captain Griswold, shaking his head. "How do you +figure to get 'em?" + +"Rush 'em," said Jack briefly. + +Again the captain of the Ventura shook his head doubtfully. + +"Too risky altogether," he declared. "The first one of you that shows his +head down there will be potted, sure as fate." + +"But we've got to do it, Captain," said Jack. "How else is it to be done?" + +"Well," said Captain Griswold, removing his cap and scratching his head, +"I guess I can suggest a way." + +"I'm open to conviction, Captain," said Jack. + +"Aboard my ship," went on Captain Griswold, "I have a supply of a certain +sort of gas which, if used properly, will do in minutes what it may take +you hours to accomplish." + +"By George!" said Frank. "Kill 'em all at once, eh?" + +"Well, no, it won't do that," replied Captain Griswold, "but it'll put 'em +to sleep long enough for you fellows to go down and tie 'em up." + +"Bring on the gas, Captain," said Jack quietly. + +Captain Griswold hustled back to his boat with the agility of a small +school boy. + +"Back to the ship," he roared to the sailors who rowed him. + +He mounted the ladder swiftly and summoned his first officer. + +"Helgoson," he said, "those Britishers have gone and almost captured that +submarine. It's up to us to help 'em complete the job." + +"How, sir?" asked the first officer. + +"Do you know where that gas tank is below?" + +"Yes, sir." + +"Fetch it here. It's small enough so you can carry it. Also get the hose +and the pump." + +"Yes, sir." + +The first officer hurried away. He was back in a few moments with the +necessary articles, which Captain Griswold took charge of himself. + +"Helgoson," said Captain Griswold, "if you were a younger man I would +invite you to take a hand in this party yourself. As it is, you'll have to +stick behind with the passengers." + +"But I'm younger than you by almost twenty years, sir," protested the +first officer. + +"Oh, no you're not," laughed the commander of the Ventura, "you just think +you are. I've grown twenty years younger this day." + +He summoned a pair of sailors, whom he loaded down with the gas, hose and +pump with instructions to place them carefully in the small boat. + +"And now for the submarine," he confided to his first officer. + +On deck, half a dozen passengers approached the captain with inquiries as +to what was going on. + +"Why," he said with a grin, "we're just going to capture a submarine, +that's all. Stick close to the side of the ship and you'll see how it's +done. A lesson like this may come in handy some day." + +The passengers protested. + +"But the danger--" one began. + +"Danger be hanged," said the captain. "There is no danger. While there was +danger we were scuttling for the safety of land and now we come back when +it's all over. You should all be glad of this opportunity to render your +country a service. What sort of citizens are you, anyhow?" + +Without further words he climbed down to the launch and was hustled back +to the submarine, where Jack and the others were awaiting him eagerly. + +"Well," said Captain Griswold, motioning to the articles that the sailors +laid on the deck, "here's the stuff. Get busy." + +"How do you work it, Captain?" asked Jack. + +"Don't you know?" demanded Captain Griswold. "Well, I'll tell you what. +You just put me in command here for fifteen minutes and I'll do the job +for you." + +"All right, sir," said Jack. "Your commands shall be obeyed." + +Captain Griswold turned to the nearest sailor. + +"Take that hose and attach it to the nozzle on the tank," he directed. +The sailor did so. + +"Now the pump," said the captain, "you will find a place for it on the +other side of the tank." + +This was adjusted to the captain's satisfaction. + +"Now," said the captain, "all you have to do is to stick this nozzle down +the conning tower, turn it so as to give the gas full play and pump. Of +course the gas would carry without the pump, but you save time this way." + +"One moment, Captain," said Jack. "How about ourselves? Won't the gas +affect us as well as the Germans?" + +Captain Griswold clapped a hand to his side. + +"Now what do you think of that?" he demanded. "I must be getting old +before my time. Here, Lands," he called one of his own men, who +approached. "Go and tell Helgoson I want two dozen of those gas masks in +the store room; and hustle." + +The sailor hurried away. He was back within fifteen minutes, and Captain +Griswold distributed the gas masks. Then he took the nozzle of the hose, +poked it down the conning tower and looked around. + +"Everybody ready?" he asked. + +Jack also glanced around. Every man on the deck of the submarine wore a +gas mask. + +"All right, sir," said Jack. + +"Then you turn that screw there when I give the word. All right? Then +shoot!" + +There was a hissing sound as Jack turned on the gas. + +For perhaps ten minutes Captain Griswold moved the hose to and fro. Then +he pulled it forth and motioned Jack to turn the screw again. This the lad +did. Captain Griswold then motioned the others to follow him, and led the +way below. + +At the foot of the conning tower they stumbled across several figures, +overcome by the fumes. These were quickly bound and passed up on deck to +the men who remained behind. + +The search of the submarine took perhaps half an hour. Every nook and +cranny was explored. The gas had done its work well. Apparently it had +poured in so rapidly that the crew had had no time to open the portholes, +for they were all closed. Captain Griswold opened them now. + +Then he led the way on deck, and closing the conning tower, removed his +gas mask. The others followed his example. + +"Simple, wasn't it?" said the captain of the Ventura to Jack, grinning +like a boy. "Lucky I happened to come back." + +"It is indeed," said Jack. "But won't this gas affect us, Captain?" + +"Not out here," was the reply. "It's not strong enough. You can barely +smell it now. Now what are you going to do with the submarine?" + +Jack considered a moment. + +"I'll tell you Captain," he said, "it strikes me that this submarine is +really the prize of the Ventura. At all events, I cannot be bothered with +it, for there is still patrol work to do in these waters. Can't you tow +her into port?" + +"Can't I?" shouted Captain Griswold. "You bet I can. You give the word and +I'll tie her on behind right now." + +"All right, Captain," said Jack. "She's yours." + +Captain Griswold almost danced a jig there on the deck of the German +submarine. + +"Won't New York sit up and take notice when old Captain Griswold comes +into port towing a submarine?" he chortled. "Well, I guess. Here, Lands, +go back to the ship and throw me a line. Then come back and help make it +fast." + +This was accomplished with astonishing rapidity and amid the cheering of +the crew and passengers of the Ventura and the wild hurrahs of the British +tars of the Essex. + +"Well, she's all fixed," said Captain Griswold, "and to tell you the truth +I'm rather sorry. Of course I'm old and all that, but just the same I'd +like to go with you fellows." + +"You're doing your share, Captain," said Jack seriously. "All of us can't +do the fighting, you know. But there's work just as important, and you are +doing your part. But we must be moving now. We've wasted time enough." + +"So we have," declared Captain Griswold. "Shall you leave us here, sir?" + +"No," said Jack, "we'll follow and see you safely in harbor." + +"Very well. Then I shall return to the Ventura." + +"And I to the Essex, Captain. Good-bye and good luck to you." + +Captain Griswold shook hands heartily with Jack, and then insisted on +shaking hands as well with Frank, and every officer and member of the +British crew aboard the submarine. Then he put off for his ship. + +Jack and the others returned to the Essex. When the lad reached the +bridge, the Ventura was already moving, the submarine trailing behind. + +"A fine man, Captain Griswold," said Frank. + +"Right," Jack agreed. "And the U-87 is his so far as I'm concerned. He +might hang it on his parlor wall for a souvenir." + +"Or wear it as a watch charm," added Frank with a grin. + + + + +CHAPTER XVIII + +ASHORE + + +For two days the Essex had been cruising up and down the coast on patrol +duty, looking for submarines. Several times the destroyer had been +ordered farther out to sea to form an escort for an incoming steamer, but +after her encounter with the U-87 she had sighted no more of the enemy. + +Following the report of two vessels sunk off the coast on May 10, the day +on which the presence of German raiders off the coast was first reported, +the number of sinkings increased the following day, and the next. After +that they fell off, however, and upon the fifth day only one ship--a small +schooner--was sent to the bottom off the coast of Delaware. + +The prisoners taken from the U-87 were stowed safely away below-decks on +the Essex, after which Jack got in touch with Admiral Sellings, on the +Dakota, by wireless. He reported the capture of the submarine and the fact +that it was being towed into port by the Ventura. Admiral Sellings ordered +Jack to continue his patrol of the coast until further notice. + +Nevertheless, the Essex escorted the Ventura almost to port, before +putting about and resuming her patrol duty. + +All the remainder of that day and the two days that followed Jack kept his +ship moving up and down the coast, but he caught no sight of an enemy +vessel, nor were any of the sinkings reported in that time close enough to +be considered within his territory. + +On the fourth day came a message from Admiral Sellings. + +"German submarine reported twenty miles north of Cape Charles," read the +message. "Investigate." + +Jack acknowledged receipt of the order and addressed Frank, who stood +beside him on the bridge. + +"Something definite to act on at last," he said, and read the admiral's +message aloud, adding: "Shape your course accordingly, Mr. Chadwick." + +Frank gave the necessary directions. The big ship came about and headed +south again. + +It was well along in the afternoon when the Essex reached the approximate +point designated by Admiral Sellings. Jack ran the destroyer as close +in-shore as he dared, and for several hours cruised about in the +neighborhood. But he saw nothing to indicate the presence of a submarine. + +"If there's a U-Boat here, it's keeping pretty well under cover," said +Frank. + +"So it is," replied Jack. "I don't know where the admiral got his +information, but I've got my doubts of its authenticity." + +Frank's eyes were caught at that moment by the sight of a small row boat +putting off from the shore. He watched it idly for a moment, and then +noted that it was headed directly for the Essex. + +"Hello," he said, "here comes some one to visit us." + +Directly the little boat scraped alongside the now stationary destroyer +and the figure in the boat indicated that he wanted to come aboard. + +"Don't know what he wants," muttered Jack, "but it'll be just as well to +have him up and find out." + +A few moments later the occupant stood before Jack and his officers on the +bridge. + +"My name," he said, "is Charles Cutlip, and I live back there." He waved a +hand shoreward. "I suppose you are hunting for submarines, Captain?" + +Jack nodded. + +"That's what we're here for," he affirmed. + +"I thought so," said young Cutlip--he was a little more than a boy. "Well, +Captain, maybe I can help you." + +Jack gave an exclamation of astonishment. + +"What do you mean?" he asked. + +"I don't know exactly," replied the boy. "Yesterday afternoon, while I was +in the house alone, three strange men appeared at the door. They wore the +costume of an ordinary seafaring man, but when they asked me for food they +had a strange manner of speech. They weren't Americans, I'm sure of that." + +"And you think they were from a submarine, eh?" asked Jack. + +"I'm sure of it, Captain. There were no other ships near, and they could +not have come overland, for it is a long ways to the nearest village and +they had neither horses nor automobile." + +"And what did you say to them?" asked Frank. + +"I gave them what food there was in the house, but they said it wasn't +enough. About this time my father came in unexpectedly. The strangers drew +revolvers and covered him. They told him they would be back to-night and +that they required him to have a certain amount of food on hand. They +threatened to kill him if he gave the alarm--and they threatened to kill +me too." + +"By George!" exclaimed Frank. "It looks as though we had come to the right +spot, Jack." + +"It certainly does," agreed Jack. "Now tell us the rest of your tale, +son." + +"That's about all," said the boy. "They devoured what food I gave them and +then disappeared." + +"And your father sent you for help, I suppose," added Frank. + +"No," said the boy. "I came of my own accord. My father is badly +frightened. He has gone to find the food for the strangers. I slipped away +and ran toward the sea. Then I saw your ship, sir, and I hurried to tell +you." + +"You have done well," said Jack, laying a hand on the lad's shoulder. "And +now you will be willing to help us further, will you not?" + +"Of course I shall, sir." + +"Very good. Now you look around the ship to your heart's content, while I +hold a conference with my officers." + +"Very well, sir." + +The boy walked away. Jack held a consultation with his officers on the +bridge. + +"If the boy is telling the truth," he said, "and I have no doubt of it, we +are in luck. It may be that we can capture this German crew ashore and +then take possession of the submarine." + +"But, sir," protested Lieutenant Hetherton, "if the submarine were to come +to the surface now and catch sight of the Essex it would never come back +again." + +"I had thought of that," replied Jack, "and I have a plan that will offset +it. You see that projecting reef there?" and Jack pointed to the north. +The others signified that they did. "Well," Jack continued, "back of that +is as cosy a little harbor as you would care to see. I noticed it as we +came by. We'll take the Essex there, and she will be hidden well enough." + +"Unless the submarine should chance to come to the surface there," was +Frank's objection. + +"We'll have to leave something to chance," declared Jack. + +"In which event your plan is as good as any I can conceive," said Frank. +"But after we get the Essex there, then what?" + +"Why," said Jack, "I'll take a party of half a hundred men or so and +surround the house of this Cutlip boy. When the Germans arrive we'll nab +'em. After that we can find the submarine." + +"Hasn't it struck you, sir," Frank asked of Jack, "that maybe the men who +accosted this boy and his father were merely bluffing? That they may not +return to-night?" + +"It has," Jack replied, "but at the same time there is a chance that they +will. Therefore, in lieu of any other clue as to the whereabouts of the +submarine, I deem it well to act on what information, we have." + +"It won't hurt anything, that's sure, sir," was Lieutenant Hetherton's +comment. + +In this the other officers agreed. + +"Very well then," said Jack. "It shall be as I suggested. Mr. Chadwick, +will you shape your course for the point I have mentioned." + +"But the boy, sir?" said Frank. "Shall we not put him over the side +first?" + +"No; we'll take him with us," Jack decided. + +As the destroyer began to forge ahead, the Cutlip boy grew alarmed and +hurried to Jack's side. + +"You are not taking me away, are you, sir?" he asked fearfully. + +"No," replied Jack, and outlined the situation as fully as he deemed wise. + +Young Cutlip was plainly eager to help in the capture of the German +submarine crew. + +"And you feel sure they will come back to-night?" Jack questioned. + +"Yes, sir. They must be very hungry. If you could have seen those three +men devour what little food I gave them! They seemed to be half starved." + +"Strange, too," Jack muttered, "considering the number of ships they have +sunk in these waters recently. They should have replenished their stores." + +"It may be that this was one of the less fortunate submarines," said +Frank. "The sinkings may have been done by other U-Boats." + +"That's true, too," said Jack. "I hadn't thought of that. I guess that +must be the answer." + +Less than an hour later, the Essex passed behind the shelter of the reef +Jack had mentioned. There Jack ordered her stopped, and anchor dropped. + +"We should be out of sight here," he said, "unless, as you suggested, +Frank, the enemy should come to the surface at this point. And we'll have +to trust to luck that they don't." + +"And now what, sir?" asked Frank. + +"I'll let you select a hundred men of the crew for shore duty," said Jack. + +This task did not take long, and Frank had picked and armed his men within +half an hour. + +"Now," said Jack, "I'm going to put you in command of the party, Frank. +Lieutenant Hetherton shall go along as your immediate subordinate. Two +officers are enough. The rest of us will wait here. But if you have not +returned soon after daylight, we'll start a search for you." + +"I can see no reason why we should be longer," said Frank. "We'll do the +best we can." + +"Then I would suggest that you go ashore at once," said Jack. "You must +reach the Cutlip home while it is yet daylight in order to lay your +plans." + +"Right, sir," said Frank, saluting. "We shall go ashore at once." + +They put off over the side in small boats and rowed toward the shore, +where they landed less than an hour after the Essex dropped anchor. Jack +waved a hand to his chum from the bridge. + +"Good luck!" he called. + +Frank waved back at him, then addressed his men. + +"By fours! Forward march!" he commanded. + +The party, with young Cutlip in their midst, moved inland. + + + + +CHAPTER XIX + +IN THE NIGHT + + +It was not a long march to the Cutlip home, and the Essex party reached +there some time before nightfall. Young Cutlip now whispered a word of +caution to Frank. + +"My father will not like this," he said. "He is naturally a cautious man. +If he thinks I have given the alarm--am responsible for your being +here--it will go hard with me." + +"Then he must not know it," said Frank decidedly. "Do you think he will be +home now?" + +"Yes, sir; most likely." + +Frank considered. + +"Then I'll call a halt here," he said. "You can return home and we will +come later. In that way he will not know that you gave the alarm. But by +the way, when he sees us is he not likely to try and warn the enemy?" + +"He might, sir. He is terribly afraid of submarines and men who control +them. He appears to think they are something supernatural. He believes the +crews of the submarines can whip anyone, sir. That is why he is likely to +tarry and give an alarm." + +"In that case," said Frank, "we'll have to tie him up until the game is +over." + +"He's my father, sir, and I don't want you to hurt him," said young +Cutlip, "but that would be the best way, sir." + +"Very well," said Frank. "You run ahead, now; we'll wait here for an +hour." + +He called a halt. Young Cutlip ran on ahead. Frank explained the reason +for the halt to Lieutenant Hetherton, who agreed that the lad had acted +wisely. + +"No use getting the boy in trouble if we can help, it, sir," he said. + +An hour later Frank ordered the march resumed. Young Cutlip had given +necessary directions and the party from the Essex reached the Cutlip home +without trouble. As they drew near, a man came to the door of the little +cabin that nestled in among a group of trees. Beside him, Frank made out +the figure of the boy who had given notice of the visit of some of the +submarine crew. + +Frank motioned his men to halt some distance away, called Lieutenant +Hetherton to follow him, and approached the cabin. + +"How do you do, sir?" he asked civilly of the big man in the doorway. + +"What do you want here?" was the growling response. + +"We're from a British destroyer out there," said Frank, waving a hand in +the general direction of the Atlantic, "and we are hunting for submarines +that have sunk a dozen or more ships off the coast." + +"You don't expect to find them here on land, do you?" demanded Cutlip. + +"Not exactly," said Frank. "But I have reason to believe that the crew of +one of the vessels has come ashore. Have you seen anything of them, sir?" + +"I have not," replied Cutlip firmly. + +"No one resembling a German, even?" persisted Frank. + +"No." + +"You are quite sure?" + +"Quite sure." + +"Think again, my man," said Frank. + +"Look here," said Cutlip, "do you mean to insinuate that I'm lying?" + +"I don't insinuate anything. I know you are lying. Hold up there!" + +For Cutlip had taken a threatening step forward. + +"A party of three German sailors from a submarine nearby were seen to come +this way," Frank went on. "You must have seen them. Now, if you are not +trying to shield them, tell me where they are." + +"I don't know. I haven't seen them." + +"Call a couple of men, Lieutenant," said Frank to Hetherton. + +Hetherton raised a hand, and two sailors came forward. + +"Once more," said Frank to Cutlip, "will you tell me what you know of +those men?" + +"I tell you I don't know anything," answered Cutlip doggedly. + +"Tie him up, men," said Frank briefly. + +The sailors sprang forward and laid rough hands on Cutlip. The latter +protested vigorously with his mouth, but he offered only feeble +resistance. + +"Now," said Frank to Hetherton, "we can't leave him around here for if the +Germans saw him they might take alarm. We'll have to have him sent back to +the ship. I guess those two men are big enough to get him there." + +"Plenty big enough, sir," said one of them with a grin. + +"Good. Take him back, then, and come back when you have turned him over +to Captain Templeton. Tell the captain to hold him until we return." + +The man touched his cap. + +"Aye, aye, sir," he said. Then to Cutlip in a rough voice: "March, now." + +The three disappeared, Cutlip grumbling to himself and the sailors +grinning. + +Frank turned to young Cutlip, who had watched these proceedings with some +disfavor. + +"Now, my boy," he said, "we can get ready for business." + +"They won't hurt him, will they?" asked the boy, pointing after his +father. + +"They will not," said Frank. "Only keep him safe until the trouble is +over." + +"All right. Then, I'll help you the best I can, sir." + +"That's the way to talk, my boy. Now let me look around a bit." + +Lieutenant Hetherton and young Cutlip accompanied Frank on his tour of +inspection. The lad found that the cabin was cuddled securely in a +miniature forest, or rather at one end of it. On both sides and in the +rear were a profusion of dense trees. Only the approach from the front was +in the clear. + +"It's all right," Frank said. I'll throw my men around the house from +three sides, and when the Germans have gone in we can surround it +completely. If they come after dark, there is little doubt they will +approach from the front." + +"And what shall I do, sir?" asked young Cutlip. + +Frank turned the matter over in his mind. + +"I am afraid I shall have to ask you to play rather a dangerous part," he +said at last. "You must be inside to receive them. If there were no one +there they might take alarm and run. Now, we'll go inside and see if your +father has complied with the enemy's demand." + +The three entered the cabin. Inside, Frank made out several big sacks +scattered about the floor. "Potatoes," he said, and looked further. There +he also found an extraordinary amount of salt meats and a bountiful supply +of vegetables. + +"Looks like your good father had been very busy," he said to young Cutlip +with a smile. "That's what the Germans will have the whole world doing for +them if we don't lick 'em." + +"You're right there, sir," agreed Lieutenant Hetherton. + +"Well," said Frank, "we'll leave these things as they are. It will help +divert suspicion from young Cutlip here when the Germans find his father +is not on hand. But I guess there is nothing more we can do now. Come, +we'll go outside." + +Frank now saw to the disposition of his men. These, as he had decided, he +stationed on three sides of the cabin. He himself took command of the men +on the left, Lieutenant Hetherton commanding the right wing and a sailor +named Hennessy the left. A short time later the sailors who had conducted +Cutlip the elder to the Essex returned and took their places. + +"Did he go along peaceably?" asked Frank of one of the newcomers. + +"Well, he kicked once or twice," replied the man, "but he went along all +the same, sir." + +Frank grinned. + +"Just so long as you got him there," he said. + +"Oh, he's there, all right," grinned the sailor, "but when I left he was +threatening to have the whole American navy down on us and hoping that +these German submarines shoot us to little pieces." + +"I think we'll do most of the shooting, if there is any to be done," said +Frank dryly. + +There was silence in the ranks after this, for it was now growing dark and +it was possible that the Germans might appear at any moment. Every man +strained his eyes as he peered through the trees. + +Inside the cabin a faint light glowed. Young Cutlip was in there, playing +a braver part than could his father, doing his best for his country as +enemies threatened her existence. Frank smiled to himself. + +"A nervy kid," he muttered; "yet, I wish I didn't have to use him. I shall +take especial care that no harm comes to him." + +He grew silent. + +In the distance came the sound of tramping feet--many of them. Gradually +they drew nearer and directly Frank could hear voices. Heavy, guttural +voices they were and the tongue they spoke was German. + +Up to that moment Frank had not been at all sure in his own mind that the +Germans would return to the cabin, as they had told the Cutlips. +Nevertheless, here they were, and the lad's heart leaped high. + +"They must be pretty close to starvation to take such chances," the lad +muttered to himself. "Wonder why they don't try a raid on one of the +nearby towns? Guess they don't want to stir up any more trouble than +possible, though. Well, we'll get 'em." + +Frank peered from his hiding place. The Germans were in sight now, and +approaching the house four abreast. + +"Four, eight, twelve, sixteen, twenty-four," Frank counted. + +"That's not so many. We can grab them easy enough." + +But a moment later additional footsteps were heard. Again Frank counted +moving figures to himself. + +"Twenty more," he muttered. "Where on earth did they all come from? By +George! They certainly are taking a long chance marching around like this. +Well, the more we can get the better." + +At the door of the cabin the Germans halted. Three of their number stepped +forward and went inside. This was not at all in line with Frank's plans, +and he realized now that the situation of young Cutlip, inside, was +dangerous in the extreme. Something must be done to protect him. + +As the Germans went inside the house, the others, meanwhile, standing +guard, Frank gave the signal agreed upon, a soft whistle, like the call of +a bird of the night. The British began to move from their hiding places +and to draw closer to the Germans, standing there in the open. + +"Well," Frank muttered to himself at last, "I guess the sooner we get busy +the better." + +He sprang to his feet and leaped forward. + + + + +CHAPTER XX + +THE BATTLE + + +Meanwhile, inside the cabin young Cutlip was facing the Germans cooly +enough. He rose to his feet as the door opened and the first German stuck +his head inside. The latter surveyed the interior rapidly, and seeing a +single figure there, advanced quickly, gun in hand. + +"Oho! It's the boy," he said in clumsy English. "And where is your +father?" + +"I don't know," answered the boy. "He went away." + +"But did he get the food?" + +Cutlip motioned to the sacks of provisions on the floor. + +"Good!" said the German, rubbing his hands. + +He returned his revolver to his belt and motioned his two companions to +enter. They closed the door behind them. + +"You have told no one of our presence here?" asked the first German, as he +stooped over to examine the sacks. + +"No." + +"How about your father?" + +"He has told no one, either." + +"It is well. For if you had, we would kill you now." + +Young Cutlip said nothing, but he knew by the hard look in the man's eyes +that he told the truth. In spite of the fact that the boy knew he was in +grave peril, he was perfectly cool. + +He sat down again as the Germans passed from sack to sack, examining the +contents. At last the first man stood up and faced the boy. + +"Your father, by chance, didn't say anything about pay for this food, did +he?" he asked. + +"No," returned Cutlip. + +The German grinned. + +"Guess he knew it wouldn't do much good," he said. "Well, men, let's roll +this stuff outside." + +Again the men bent over the sacks. + +At that moment there came a shot from without, followed by a volley. On +the instant young Cutlip leaped to his feet, rushed to the door, threw it +open and dashed outside. + +There he was right in the midst of the Germans. But the latter were too +busy and too surprised to pay any attention to him at that moment. They +had wheeled at the first volley from the woods, and had turned their own +weapons against the trees on three sides of the cabin. + +Two or three of their number had gone down at the first fire, and they +were almost demoralized, so sudden and unexpected was the attack. +Consequently, young Cutlip had time almost to get clear of the enemy. In +fact, by quick dodging, he did get beyond them. + +Out the door now rushed the three Germans in the cabin, apparently in +command of the men without. One issued harsh orders, and the Germans +dropped to the ground, thus making much smaller targets. + +Frank, as he sprang forward from among the trees, saw young Cutlip throw +open the door and dash out. Frank ran toward him despite the fact that he +was charging the enemy almost single-handed. But he knew that the boy was +in danger through no fault of the lad's own, and that he must be +protected. + +"Here, Cutlip!" he called. + +The boy ran toward him. + +Frank, a revolver in each hand, stopped and awaited the lad's approach. + +Two Germans raised their rifles to shoot Cutlip down. Frank's eye caught +the glint of the steel in the darkness. His revolvers spoke sharply twice, +and Cutlip came on unharmed. + +A bullet sang past Frank's right ear, another grazed his left. More +bullets began to sing by him. Cutlip stumbled forward, and sheathing one +revolver, Frank caught him by the hand. + +"Run!" he cried. + +Cutlip needed no further urging. Together he and Frank sped for the +shelter of the woods, which they reached safely and threw themselves on +the ground as a rain of bullets passed overhead. + +"Close shave, son," said Frank. + +Young Cutlip was trembling, but he was not afraid. + +"Give me a gun," he cried. "I can pick off a few of 'em." + +But Frank shook his head. + +"You've done your part," he said. "Now you get away from here until we +clean these fellows up." + +Frank circled among the trees until he came into the midst of his own men +again. These were still peppering away at the enemy from among the trees +and the Germans, lying on the ground, were returning the fire. + +"We're wasting too much time here," Frank told himself. + +He looked across to where Lieutenant Hetherton and his men were also +blazing away at the foe. + +"Forward men!" cried Frank suddenly. "Charge!" + +The British tars under Frank's command went forward with a wild yell. +Seeing their companions dashing across the open, the forces commanded by +Lieutenant Hetherton and the sailor Hennessy also broke from the trees and +charged. + +The Germans poured several sharp volleys into the attackers, then threw +down their arms. + +"Kamerad! Kamerad!" came the cry. + +"Cease firing!" Frank shouted. + +Silence reigned after the noise of the battle. + +"Take charge of those men, Mr. Hetherton," said Frank quietly, "but be +careful how you approach. I don't trust 'em. I'll keep 'em covered." + +Lieutenant Hetherton ordered his men to make prisoners of the Germans. + +There came a sudden interruption. + +The three Germans who had been in the cabin, as though by a prearranged +plan, suddenly dashed back into the little building and flung to the door +before they could be stopped. + +"Never mind," said Frank, "remove the others, Mr. Hetherton. We'll attend +to the men inside later." + +From the window of the cabin there came a sharp crack. A bullet zipped by +Frank's ear, but the lad did not flinch. He moved his position and saw the +German prisoners marched to the rear. + +"Now," he said, "we'll have to get those fellows inside. First, however, +we'll give them a chance." + +He raised his voice in a shout. + +"What do you want?" came the response from the cabin. + +"You are outnumbered ten to one," said Frank. "Come out and surrender. We +don't want to kill you." + +"Come and take us," was the sneering response. + +"Don't be fools," called Frank. "We're sure to get you." + +"Well, I'll get you first," came a sharp cry. + +Frank stepped back and none too quickly, for a bullet passed through the +space where his head had been a moment before. + +"If you must have it, all right," the lad muttered. He turned to his men. +"I want ten volunteers to go with me," he said quietly. + +Every man stepped forward. + +Frank smiled. + +"Sorry I can't use you all, men," he said. "But ten will be enough. +Gregory, step forward." + +A sailor a short distance away did so. + +"Now, Gregory," said Frank, "you pick nine more men and bring them here." + +This was the work of only a moment, and the men surrounded Frank. For a +moment the lad surveyed the cabin. They were now out of the line of fire +from the window on that side and consequently safe. It would be possible, +Frank knew, to tire the Germans out, but he had no mind for such slow +methods. He addressed his men. + +"Two of you," he said, "break in the door with your rifle butts. We'll +cover you from either side." + +Two men stepped forward and the others stationed themselves on either side +of the stout door. Frank called to Lieutenant Hetherton. + +"Guard all the windows," he shouted. "Don't let them get away." + +The door began to tremble under the blows of the two sailors. Directly +there was a crash as it fell inward. + +Now, although this had been no part of Frank's plans, the minute the door +crashed in, the two sailors reversed their rifles and sprang over the +threshold. + +"Crack! Crack! Crack! Crack! Crack!" + +The rifles of the three Germans within and the two British sailors spoke +almost as one. One of the tars crumpled up in the doorway, while one of +the Germans also threw up his hands and slid to the floor. + +With wild shouts of anger, the other sailors surged forward and poured +through the door in spite of German bullets, which now flew so fast that +accurate aim was impossible. + +Frank dashed forward with the others. Down went the second German, leaving +but one alive. Frank found himself face to face with the latter. + +"Stand back, men," he called. + +The sailors obeyed. + +In one hand the German gripped a revolver, but Frank held this arm with +his left hand and straightened it high above the German's head. Thus the +German was unable to bring his revolver to bear on the lad. + +Nevertheless, his left arm was still free, and he struck Frank a heavy +blow in the stomach with his fist. The pain was severe and Frank loosened +his hold on the man's revolver arm. With a cry of triumph, the German +deliberately lowered his revolver. + +Frank, having dropped one of his revolvers, was in a bad way. True, a +second was in his belt, but it did not appear that he had time to draw and +fire before the German's finger pressed the trigger. + +But now came an action on the lad's part that proved his right to be +called an expert with the revolver--an action that often had bewildered +Jack and aroused his envy. + +So quickly that the eye could not follow the movement, Frank dropped his +hand to his belt, whipped out his revolver, and without taking aim, fired. + +A fraction of a second later there was a second report, as the German, +with Frank's bullet already in his shoulder, pressed the trigger, almost +involuntarily. But ere he fired, Frank had dropped to the floor and the +bullet passed harmlessly overhead. + +Frank rose quietly. + +"Bind him men," he said simply. "He's not badly hurt. He'll probably live +to face the gallows. Where is young Cutlip? Has anyone seen the boy?" + +"Here he is, sir," answered the boy himself, and came forward. "And will +you release my father now, sir?" + +"As soon as we return to the ship," replied Frank. "Come, men." + + + + +CHAPTER XXI + +THE END OF THE SUBMARINE + + +Frank now took account of his casualties. Five men had been killed and +twenty more or less seriously wounded. As many more nursed slight +injuries. + +The enemy's casualties, proportionately, had been more severe. Half of the +original number were stretched on the ground. Hardly a man of the others +but had been wounded. + +Frank had his dead made ready for transportation back to the Essex, and +litters were improvised for the wounded who were unable to walk. The +grounded Germans also were carried--that is, those of them who were so +severely hurt they could not walk. Those who could walk were surrounded by +the British and marched on ahead. + +The return trip was made without incident. The wounded were hurried aboard +the ship where their injuries could be attended to. The unwounded +prisoners were promptly locked up below with the other captives. Then +Frank and Jack, accompanied by young Cutlip, went to Jack's cabin. The +third officer held the bridge. + +Frank gave an account of the events of the night as briefly as possible. +When he had concluded, Cutlip again asked: + +"Will you release my father now, sir?" + +"Certainly," said Jack. "You have borne yourself right bravely, and we +have much to thank you for, as has your country. It is too bad that your +father is not of a different stripe." + +The boy's face flushed. + +"He's a good father in many ways, sir," he said, "but he seems to be +scared to death of the Germans, especially of their submarine boats." + +"We'll have him up here before we let him go," said Jack. "Mr. Hetherton, +pass the word to have; Cutlip brought to my cabin." + +Lieutenant Hetherton left the cabin. He returned a few moments later +accompanied by two sailors, who walked on either side of the older Cutlip. +The man was still bound. + +"Remove his bonds," Jack instructed. + +Cutlip's hands were released, and he rubbed them together as he eyed the +group in the cabin. His eyes rested on his son. + +"So!" he exclaimed, "I had an idea you were at the bottom of this." + +"But, father--" began the boy. + +"I'll attend to you later," said the father, "not that I'll have need to, +probably, for the Germans will attend to both of us. What ails you, +anyhow? Don't you know that the Germans eventually will be masters of the +world? If we stand in with them, it may help." + +"The Germans will never be masters of the world," said Jack. "You are +laboring under a delusion, Cutlip. Your son is a brave boy. Not only did +he warn us of the presence of a German submarine off the coast, but he +rendered such other assistance that the entire crew has been either killed +or captured." + +Cutlip showed his surprise. + +"You can't mean it!" he exclaimed. "Why, how could you overcome them. They +are supermen. Ever since the war started I have been reading about them. +They are wonderful fighters--marvelous." + +"Your trouble, Cutlip," said Frank, "is that you have read too much about +them. I know that the country has been flooded with German propaganda, but +I'd no idea it had affected anyone like that." + +"But--" Cutlip began. + +Jack silenced him with a gesture. + +"You'll have to change all your ideas now, Cutlip," he said. "You see that +the German is not a superman. We have beaten them. Besides, your country +is at war with Germany. Only a traitor, or a coward, would refuse to help +his country." + +Cutlip seemed a bit startled. + +"I guess that's true," he said at last. "Yes, I guess you're right." + +"You and your son had better remain aboard until morning," Jack continued. +"We'll put you both ashore then." + +"Jack," said Frank at this point, "don't you think we should make an +effort to destroy the submarine before we go?" + +"By George! We certainly should," declared Jack. "That had slipped my mind +for the moment. We'll have one of the captured officers up and see if he +will reveal its hiding place." + +One of the Germans--a petty officer--entered the cabin a moment later in +response to Jack's summons. Jack explained briefly what he wanted. + +"Tell you? Of course I won't tell you," said the young officer. "Why +should I? Do you think I am a traitor to my country, or a coward?" + +Jack shrugged. + +"I was just offering the opportunity," he said. + +The officer was removed and one of the men brought in. Jack quizzed him +with no better results. One after another the unwounded men were +questioned, but none would reveal the location of the submarine. + +"Looks like we would have to find it ourselves," said Jack at length. +"There is no use questioning any of the others. They won't tell." + +Assistance came from an unexpected source. + +"Maybe I can help out a bit," said the elder Cutlip quietly. + +Jack, Frank and Lieutenant Hetherton looked at him in surprise. + +"You mean that you know and will tell?" asked Frank. + +"I do. You have made my duty plain to me. No longer am I afraid of the +Germans." + +"How do you come to know this hiding place?" asked Jack. + +"I discovered it to-day by accident. I was standing some distance back on +shore when I saw the vessel lying on the water." + +"How far from here?" + +"Just the other side of the reef." + +Jack whistled. + +"By Jove! We came awfully close," he said. + +"You did indeed," said Cutlip. "But for the reef you must have been +discovered. Fortunately, it is very high." + +"I suppose the U-Boat is on the surface at this moment," Frank +interjected. + +"Most likely," Hetherton agreed. "A small crew has probably been left on +board, and they more than likely are awaiting the return of their +comrades." + +"Strange they didn't hear the firing," said Frank. + +"Not at all," said Jack. "I heard none of it here." + +"The wind was blowing the wrong way," Hetherton explained. + +"That must be the answer," Frank admitted. "Well, Jack, what do you say? +Shall we make an effort to get the boat to-night?" Jack hesitated. + +"We may as well," he said at last. "Of course it will have to be taken +from the land, for we can't work the destroyer around the reef in the +darkness. Even if we got around safely, we should be discovered." + +"Right," said Frank. "Then let's be moving. I take it, however, we will +need boats to reach the submarine." + +"Our prisoners probably have left all the boats we need," Jack returned. + +"That's so," said Frank. "Funny I didn't think of that. Will you be our +guide, Cutlip?" + +"Glad to be," was the reply. "I want to redeem myself in some way." + +"Let's be moving, then," said Frank, starting for the door. + +"Hold on," said Jack "We've got to take a force with us, you know. Mr. +Hetherton, I'm going to leave you in command of the ship this time. I +shall command the shore party." + +Lieutenant Hetherton's face fell, but all he said was: + +"Very well, sir." + +"In the meantime," said Jack, "pick fifty men and set them ashore. We'll +be there directly." + +Lieutenant Hetherton saluted and left the cabin. + +Half an hour later Jack led his men around the reef. There, a scant +hundred yards from shore, lay the submarine. The little party moved +silently to the edge of the water, and as silently embarked in the half a +dozen small boats they found there. + +"Push off!" Jack commanded in a whisper. + +Now young Cutlip had been left behind, but the father had elected to go +with the men in the boats. So earnest was his plea that Jack did not have +the heart to refuse him. + +A dim light showed on the bow of the submarine as the little flotilla +approached; and then so suddenly that the night appeared to be lighted up +by magic, a flare of white made the boats approaching the submarine as +plain as day. + +The submarine's searchlight had been turned on them. + +"Down men," cried Jack. + +The men, or those of them who were not needed at the oars, dropped to the +bottom of the boats. But the distance was so close that those on board +were able to make out the fact that the boats approaching were not filled +with their own men. + +"Americans!" was the cry that carried across the water. "Man the forward +gun there!" + +"Fire, men!" cried Jack in a loud voice. "Sweep the deck with your rifles. +Don't let 'em bring that gun to bear." + +There was a crash of rifles as Jack's command was obeyed. Nevertheless the +Germans succeeded in training their rapid-firer, and it crashed out a +moment later. A veritable hail of bullets flew over Jack's men. + +At a quick command from the lads, the boats drew farther apart, thus +making the task of the enemy more difficult. Then they closed in on the +submarine from both sides. + +Harsh German cries and imprecations were wafted to the ears of the British +as the boats drew closer. + +"Submerge!" shouted a voice. + +"Quick, or we shall be too late," Jack roared. + +The men at the oars exerted themselves to further efforts. Then Jack +caught another cry from the submarine. + +"We can't submerge. The tanks are still broken." + +"Good!" said Jack to himself. "Now I see what the trouble is. Faster," he +cried to his men. + +"Quick," came a voice from the submarine, "we cannot let the ship fall +into the hands of the accursed Yankees. The fuse, man." + +Jack understood this well enough. He raised his voice in a shout: + +"Cease rowing!" + +Frank's voice repeated the command and the little flotilla advanced no +more. + +"Put about and make for shore," shouted Jack. "Quick." + +The order was obeyed without question, and it was well that it was. Hardly +had the boats reached the shore when there was a terrific explosion, and +the water kicked up an angry geyser. + +"And that," said Jack calmly, "is the end of the submarine. They've blown +her up--and themselves with her!" + + + + +CHAPTER XXII + +WASHINGTON AGAIN + + +Early the following morning the Essex slipped from her little harbor and +put to sea. Cutlip and his son, who had been put ashore shortly before the +departure, stood at the edge of the water and waved farewell. Following +the father's conversion, he and his son seemed to be closer than before, +and they went away happily together. + +Jack descended to the radio room. + +"Get the Dakota for me," he instructed the operator. + +"Dakota! Dakota!" flashed the wireless. + +Ten minutes later the answer came. + +"Destroyer Essex," flashed the operator again, following Jack's direction. +"Submarine reported to me yesterday destroyed. Crew either killed or +captured." + +"Fine work, Templeton," was the reply flashed back a few moments later. + +"I'm awaiting instructions," Jack flashed. + +"Proceed to Newport News," came the answer, "and report in person to +Secretary of the Navy." + +"O.K." flashed the operator. + +Jack went to the bridge, where Frank was on watch. + +"Well, old fellow," said Jack, "I guess our present cruise is ended." + +"How's that?" asked Frank. + +"We're ordered back to Newport News, and I must report to Secretary +Daniels." + +"And after that, England again, I suppose?" + +"I suppose so." + +"Too bad," said Frank, "I would like to have had time to go to New York +and Boston to see my father. He could have met me at either place." + +"You'll see him when the war's over, I guess," said Jack, "and to my mind +that will be before long now." + +"Think so?" asked Frank. "Why?" + +"Well, take for example the submarine raid off the American coast. It +looks to me like the dying gasp of a conquered foe. They must be nearing +the end of their rope to tackle such a problem." + +"And still they have had some success," said Frank. + +"True. But not much after all. What is the total tonnage destroyed in +comparison with the tonnage still sailing the seas unharmed?" + +"There's something in that," Frank agreed. "But I can't say that I'm of +your opinion." + +"Personally," declared Jack, "I believe that the war will be over before +Christmas." + +"I hope so. But I can't be as optimistic as you are." + +The run to Newport News was made without incident and the Essex dropped +anchor close to the spot where she had been stationed before. + +She was greeted with wild cheers, for news of her success had preceded her +to the little Virginia city. Jack and his officers and men were hailed +with acclaim when they went ashore. + +"Want to go to Washington with me, Frank?" asked Jack. + +"That's a foolish question," was Frank's reply. "Of course I want to go." + +"All right. Then we'll catch the ten o'clock train this morning. That will +put us in the capital some time before five." + +"Suits me," declared Frank. + +This program was carried out. Arrived again in the capital of the nation, +the lads went straight to the Raleigh hotel, where they got in touch with +the British ambassador. + +"I've been hearing good reports about you, Captain," said the ambassador's +voice over the telephone. + +"We were a bit lucky, sir, that is all," replied Jack deprecatingly. + +"Nevertheless," said the ambassador, "Secretary Daniels wishes to thank +you in person, as does the President. I shall call for you within the +hour." + +"Very well, sir." + +Jack hung up the 'phone. + +The ambassador was as good as his word. He arrived less than an hour later +and the lads accompanied him to the Navy Department, where they were +ushered into the presence of the Secretary of the Navy at once. + +Secretary Daniels shook hands with both of the lads. + +"You deserve the thanks of the whole nation for your gallant work," he +said. "I am instructed to take you to the President." + +Jack and Frank flushed with pleasure, but there was nothing either could +say. From the Navy Department, the lads were escorted to the White House +immediately across the street, where President Wilson was found in his +office. The President was reached with little ceremony, and Secretary +Daniels himself made the introduction. + +"So," said the President, "these are the young officers who commanded the +British destroyer Essex, which accounted for two of the enemy's +submarines? They look rather young for such important posts." He gazed +closely at Frank. "Surely," he said finally, "surely you are an American." + +"Yes, sir," said Frank. "Born in Massachusetts, sir." + +"Chadwick," mused the President. "Not, by any chance, related to Dr. +Chadwick, of Woburn." + +"He is my father, sir." + +The President seemed surprised. + +"But I didn't know my old friend Chadwick had a son of your age," he said. + +"Well, he has, sir," replied Frank with a smile. + +"But how do you happen to be in the British service?" + +Frank explained briefly. + +"You have certainly seen excitement," said the President. "I am glad to +have seen you. Give my regards to your father when you see him. I am glad +to have met you, too, Captain," and the President shook hands with Jack. +"I hope to have the pleasure of meeting you both again some day." + +The lads understood by this that the interview was ended. They followed +Secretary Daniels and the British ambassador back to the former's office, +where the latter handed Jack a paper. + +"Cable from the British Admiral, I judge," he said. + +Jack read the message. + +"You are right, sir," he said. "We are ordered to home waters whenever you +are through with us, sir." + +"I judged as much," said the Secretary, "which is the reason I had Admiral +Sellings order you to report to me. You are at liberty to return whenever +you please, sir. But first let me thank you for your services in the name +of the American people." + +"Thank you, sir," said Jack, and saluted stiffly. + +The lads now took their leave. The ambassador insisted on their going home +with him to dinner. + +"But we should get back to our ship at once, sir," Jack demurred. + +"Never mind," said the ambassador, "I'll take the responsibility of +holding you over an extra day." + +So Jack and Frank dined with the ambassador, and took a late train to +Richmond, where they changed early in the morning for Newport News. When +they boarded the Essex later in the day they found in Jack's cabin the +commandant of Fortress Monroe, who, having learned that the Essex would +soon depart for home, had come to pay his respects while he yet had time. + +"I want to tell you," he said to Jack, "that the Essex has made quite a +name for herself among my men." + +"I'm glad to hear that, sir," declared Jack. + +"The men are only sorry, and naturally," continued the commandant, "that +she was not manned by an American crew." + +"Naturally, as you say, sir," Jack agreed. "Yet my first officer is an +American." + +The Commandant glanced at Frank. + +"Can that be true?" he asked. + +Frank smiled. + +"It's true enough, sir," he said. "Yes, I'm a native of the Bay state and +am in the British service merely as the result of an accident." + +He explained. + +"Well," said the Commandant, 'I'm glad of it. I'll have something to tell +my officers and men that will make them proud. I hope that the next time +either of you find yourselves in these parts you will look me up." + +"Thank you, sir. We certainly shall," said Jack. + +The Commandant took his departure. + +"And now," said Jack, "for England." + +First, Jack made a personal tour of inspection of the destroyer. Finding +everything ship-shape, the crew was piped to quarters and Jack rang for +half speed ahead. + +A crowd had gathered at the water's edge and the Essex was speeded on her +way by cheering and waving thousands. It was a touching scene, and Jack +was very proud. + +"A great country," he confided to Frank, as the vessel moved slowly out +into the Roads. "A great country. I am glad to have seen it again, and I +hope to come back some day." + +"Oh, you'll come back," said Frank. "You'll come back when the war's over, +to visit me." + +"I certainly will," Jack declared. + +The fortifications of Fortress Monroe now loomed ahead. + +"I suppose the Commandant is somewhere about to wish us God-speed," Frank +remarked. + +The lad was right. And he did it in imposing manner. + +The boom of a great gun was heard. This was followed by the roar of many +more; and the rumble continued as the Essex drew near, was louder as she +breasted the fort and continued as the ship passed on. Jack ordered a +reply to the salute from the forward guns, and for the space of several +minutes, the very sea seemed to tremble. + +Then the Essex gathered speed and plowed ahead. + +"Quite an ovation," said Frank, as he and Jack descended to the latter's +cabin, leaving Lieutenant Hetherton on the bridge. + +"It was, indeed. Yes, as I said before, it's a great country. You should +be proud to be a native of it." + +"I am," said Frank simply. + + + + +CHAPTER XXIII + +BACK IN ENGLAND + + +Following the return of the Essex to English waters, Jack reported at once +to Lord Hastings in Dover. + +"I hear great things of you boys," said Lord Hastings. "Great things +indeed." + +"We were a bit fortunate, sir," Jack admitted. + +"It was more than good fortune," declared Lord Hastings. "But it's nothing +more than I expected of you both." + +They conversed about various matters for some minutes. Then Jack asked: + +"And what is in store for us now, sir?" + +"You will report to Admiral Beatty," said Lord Hastings. "The Essex will +be assigned to duty with the Grand Fleet in the North Sea. Patrol work, +mostly. There is little likelihood that the Germans will make another +effort, but the sea must be patrolled, nevertheless." + +"When do we report, sir?" + +"At once. You will weigh anchor in the morning. Admiral Beatty's flagship +is somewhere off the coast of Belgium." + +"Very well, sir," said Jack, and departed. + +The next day the Essex left Dover. Fifty miles out, Jack picked up the +flagship by wireless and received his instructions. + +Days lengthened into weeks now and weeks into months and the Essex was +still patrolling the North Sea with others of the Grand Fleet--composed +besides British vessels of an American squadron in command of Vice-Admiral +Sims. August passed and September came and still the Germans failed to +venture from their fortress of Helgoland and offer battle to the allies. + +The work became monotonous. Occasionally, the Essex put back to port for +several days to replenish her bunkers and to take on provisions. At such +times Jack and Frank usually went ashore for short periods, and the crew, +portions at a time, were granted shore leave. + +It was upon the last day of September that great news reached the +fleet--news that indicated that the war was nearing its end and that now, +if ever, the German fleet might venture from its hiding place and risk an +engagement. + +Bulgaria had broken with Germany and sued for a separate peace. + +Several days later came the news that an armistice had been signed and +that Bulgaria had ordered all German and Austrian troops to leave her +boundaries. King Ferdinand abdicated in favor of his eldest son, Boris, +who immediately ordered the demobilization of the Bulgarian armies. + +"Turkey will come next, mark my words," declared Frank as he and Jack +stood on the bridge, looking off across the broad expanse of the North +Sea. + +"Most likely," Jack agreed; "and after Turkey, Austria. That will leave +Germany to fight the world by herself." + +"She'll never attempt that," Frank declared. "The minute she sees her last +chance gone, she'll squeal for help, the same as a hog. It's not in a +German to take a licking, you know. He begins to show, yellow when the +game goes against him." + +"Perfectly true," said Jack, with a nod. "Now, it strikes me that Germany, +facing the problem of fighting it out alone--for she must see that +Bulgaria's action will soon be followed by her other allies--may send out +her fleet for a grand blow." + +Frank shook his head. + +"Not a chance," he said. + +"But," said Jack, "it has been the opinion of war critics and experts +right along that Germany was saving her fleet for the final effort when +all other means had failed." + +"I don't care what the experts think," declared Frank, "I don't think the +Germans will dare risk an engagement. In the first place, it would be +suicidal--she would have everything to lose and nothing to gain. Don't +fret. The German naval authorities know just as well as we do what would +happen to the German fleet should it issue from Helgoland." + +"Maybe you're right," said Jack, "but in the enemy's place, I wouldn't +give up without a final effort." + +"That's just it," Frank explained. "You wouldn't, and neither would I. +Neither, for that matter, would any British or American officer, nor +French. But the German is of different caliber. He doesn't fight half as +well when he knows the odds are against him. No, I believe that the German +fleet will be virtually intact when the war ends." + +"Then we'll take it away from them," declared Jack. + +"I'm sure I hope so. It would be dangerous to the future peace of the +world to allow the Germans to keep their vessels." + +"Well," said Jack, "you can talk all you please, but you can't convince me +our work is over--not until peace has been declared--or an armistice +signed, or something." + +"I agree with you there. There will be plenty of work for us right up to +the last minute." + +As it developed the lads were right. + +"It was shortly after midnight when Jack was aroused by the third officer. + +"Message from Admiral Beatty, sir," said the third officer, and passed +Jack a slip of paper. + +Jack read the message, which had been hastily scribbled off by the radio +operator. + +"German squadron of six vessels reported to have left Helgoland and to be +headed for the coast of Scotland," the message read. "Proceed to intercept +them at full speed. Other vessels being notified." + +Jack sprang into his clothes, meanwhile having Frank summoned from his +cabin. Frank dashed into Jack's cabin, clothes in hand. + +"What's up?" he demanded. + +"Germans headed for the Scottish coast," replied Jack briefly, and dashed +out of the door. + +Frank followed him a few moments later. Jack was standing on the bridge +giving orders hastily. + +"Have a look at the engine room, Frank," said Jack, "and tell the engineer +to crowd on all possible steam. We'll have need of speed this trip, or I +miss my guess." + +Frank obeyed. + +The Essex, which had been proceeding east by south at a leisurely pace, +had come about now and was dashing due north at top speed. Jack himself +shaped the course and gave the necessary instructions to the helmsman. + +Below in the radio room, the wireless began to clatter. The operator, from +time to time, was getting into touch with other vessels of the Grand Fleet +ordered north to intercept the German raiders. + +First he received a flash from the Lion; then the Brewster replied, and +after her, the Tiger, Southampton, Falcon, White Hawk and Peerless. +Counting the Essex this made eight ships speeding northward to intercept +the enemy. + +"I take it," said Jack, "that this is about the last blow the enemy will +attempt to deliver. The Germans, knowing they are beaten, are intent now +only upon doing what damage they can while there is yet time. This raid, I +suppose, they figure will throw a scare into the coast cities, as similar +raids did earlier in the war. However, they'll have a surprise this time, +for all the coast ports are fortified now. There will be guns there to +stand them off until we get there." + +"Let's hope we get there in time," muttered Frank. "I'd like one more +crack at the enemy. I'm afraid they are going to get off too easily when +peace comes." + +"We've got to get there in time," declared Jack. + +From time to time the radio operator sent reports to Jack giving the +positions of other vessels rushing to the defense of the coast ports. + +"We'll get there first, at this rate," said Jack. "We're closer than the +others." + +"But we're no match for the enemy single-handed," declared Frank. "Chances +are that the German squadron is composed mostly of battleships." + +"True enough," Jack admitted, "but we'll do what damage we can. The +Tiger, Lion, White Hawk, Falcon and Peerless are warships, you know. +They'll be more than enough for the foe." + +"Yes; but we may be at the bottom of the sea by that time." + +"Don't worry. We'll hold our own until assistance arrives." + +Jack made a rapid calculation. + +"If we had any idea of the approximate position of the enemy at this time, +we would know better how to go about our work," he said. + +"You might call the enemy and find out?" said Frank with a grin. + +"Don't be funny, Frank," said Jack severely. "This is no time for levity." + +Came a cry from the lookout. + +"Battle squadron off the port bow, sir!" + +Jack clapped his glass to his eye. + +The ships were too far distant and the night was too dark, however, to +permit him to ascertain the identity of the approaching vessels. + +"May be the enemy, Jack," said Frank. + +"Right," Jack agreed. + +A shrill whistle rang out on the Essex. + +This was the answer to Jack's order to pipe the crew to quarters. + +"Clear ship for action!" was Jack's next command. + +"If it is the enemy," he confided to Frank, "we'll try and keep him +engaged until reinforcements arrive." + +"It may not be so hard, after all," Frank said "They may turn and beat a +retreat when they find they are discovered." + +"Not if there is only one of us," said Jack. "Pass the word to the forward +lookout to sing out as soon as he can identify the enemy. I'll flash my +light on them. He may be able to make them out." + +The huge searchlight of the Essex flashed forth across the water, and +played upon the approaching ships. + +"Germans!" came the cry from the lookout. + +"I thought so," said Jack. "Frank, go to the radio room and find out how +close our nearest support is." + +Frank was back in a few minutes. + +"Lion says to engage," he reported. "Says she'll be with us in less than +an hour. Tiger says she will arrive not more than fifteen minutes later. +Falcon and Hawk report they are less than an hour and a half away." + +"Right," said Jack. "Trouble is those fellows are likely to out-range us, +in which event we'll have to retire slowly, trying to draw them after us. +In that way reinforcements may arrive sooner. Hello! There she goes!" + +The roar of a great gun came across the water. + + + + +CHAPTER XXIV + +THE ENGAGEMENT + + +"If we retire," said Jack, "we will leave the way open to the coast. At +this minute we are in their way." + +"But if we try to stick it out here we'll be sunk," said Frank. "And if we +retire toward the coast, we'll be moving away from our supports." + +"True enough," Jack agreed. "There's only one thing to do. That is to +retire as slowly as possible and try to entice all six ships after us. But +I'd much rather wade right in." + +"Same here. But discretion is the better part of valor, you know." + +"Boom!" + +Again a gun spoke aboard one of the enemy. + +"We're still out of range," said Jack. "Let 'em come a little closer." + +As Jack could now see, all six ships had altered their course slightly and +were heading directly for the Essex. + +"You may come about, Mr. Chadwick," said Jack. + +Slowly the Essex swung about. + +"Train your left guns on the enemy," Jack ordered. + +This was done. + +"Range finders!" + +"Still out of range, sir," was the report. + +"All right But let me know the minute we can strike." + +"Aye, aye, sir." + +"Half speed ahead, Mr. Chadwick." + +"Aye, aye, sir." + +Frank signalled the engine room. + +"Boom! Boom! Boom!" + +Guns spoke simultaneously aboard three of the enemy ships. + +"Still beyond range." + +It was Lieutenant Hetherton who spoke. + +"Trouble is," said Frank, "that they will be within range before we are." + +"We'll risk it," said Jack. "It's up to us to keep them busy until the +warships arrive." + +The next fire from the enemy resulted in a screaming shell to port. + +"They've got the range, sir," said Frank. + +"Make it two-thirds speed ahead." + +The speed of the Essex increased. + +But the German vessels were bearing down on her swiftly, and eventually +Jack was forced to call for full speed ahead. + +But still the German warships gained. + +"They've the heels of us, too," muttered Jack. "Well, we'll slow down a +bit and trust to luck. We can't do any damage unless we get within +range." + +The Essex slowed suddenly to half speed. + +The German fleet dashed ahead, now in single formation. This was fortunate +for the Essex, for it meant that the guns of only one ship could be +brought to bear on the British destroyer at one time. + +"Range, sir!" cried the range finder at this point. + +"Then fire!" shouted Jack to the aft turret battery captain. + +The battery spoke sharply, and the men gave a cheer of delight. + +The first shell went home. It cleared the bow of the first German vessel +apparently by the fraction of an inch and smashed squarely into the +bridge. The crash of the shell striking home was followed almost instantly +by an explosion. Timber and steel, intermingled with human bodies, flew +high in the air. This much those aboard the Essex could see by the flare +of the searchlight. + +"A good shot, men!" cried Jack. "An excellent shot!" + +An excellent shot it was indeed. + +Something appeared to have gone wrong with the steering apparatus of the +first German ship. She veered slightly to port. + +The target thus presented was an excellent one. + +"Fire!" cried Jack again. + +The aft battery crashed out and once more the British cheered. + +Two shells plowed into the crippled German just on the water line. + +"A death wound," muttered Frank. + +The lad was right. + +The German vessel staggered under the force of the impact and seemed to +reel backward. Men leaped to the rails and hurled themselves into the sea. + +Suddenly there was a loud explosion and the ship seemed to split in two, a +blaze of red fire stretching high into the heavens from the middle of the +vessel as it did so. Then blackness enveloped it again and the two parts +of the ship fell back into the water with a hiss like that of a thousand +serpents. The first German ship was gone. + +It was first blood to the Essex and the crew cheered again. + +But the other five German vessels came on apace. The gun on the forward +ship spoke, but the shell went wild. + +"If they'll keep that formation, we might get away with the whole bunch of +them," said Frank. + +"Yes, but they won't," replied Jack. + +He was a good prophet. + +Even now, the German vessels began to spread out, and within ten minutes +had formed a semi-circle. It was possible now for the forward guns on each +ship to rake the Essex without interfering with each other's fire. + +"Train your guns on the ship farthest to port," Jack instructed. + +The order was obeyed. Again came the order for range finders, and the +report that the range was O.K. + +"Fire!" cried Jack. + +Once more fortune was with the crew of the Essex. The range had been +absolutely accurate, and the heavy shell from the Essex carried away the +superstructure of the German. At the same moment came a cry from the +lookout aft: + +"Warship coming up astern, sir!" + +Quickly Jack looked around. + +"The first of our reinforcements," he said quietly. + +He gave his attention again to the enemy, who was drawing uncomfortably +close. + +"Crash!" + +Jack whirled sharply. + +A shell had struck the Essex just above the water line on the port side. + +"Go below and report, Mr. Chadwick!" Jack ordered. + +Frank hurried away in response to this command. He sought the engine room. + +"What's the damage, chief?" he asked. + +"Slight," was the reply. "Shell passed clear through us, but cleared the +boilers. Better round up the carpenter, though, sir." + +Frank hurried back to the bridge and reported the extent of the damage. +Then he sent a midshipman for the ship's carpenter. + +"Crash! Bang!" + +Another shell had struck the Essex, this time in the aft gun turret. + +"Report, Mr. Chadwick," said Jack briefly. + +Frank hurried to the turret. + +"What's the damage, Captain?" he asked of the chief of the gun crew. + +"One gun smashed, sir," was the reply. "Three of the crew killed and five +injured." + +"Other guns still working?" + +"Can't you hear 'em, sir?" + +Frank smiled in spite of himself and cast a quick glance around. + +In spite of the death that had overtaken their comrades, the surviving gun +crews in the turret were working like Trojans. The big guns continued to +spit defiance at the enemy. + +Now and then a cheer rose on the Essex as a shot went home. + +Frank again returned to the bridge to report. + +"Boom!" + +It was a deeper voice that spoke this time. + +The radio operator himself rushed to the bridge. + +"Lion firing, sir," he said. "Says she has sighted us and for us to +retire. No need of sacrificing ourselves Captain Jacobs says. The enemy +can't get away." + +At the same moment the lookout aft sang out again. + +"Warship coming up astern, sir!" + +"The second of our reinforcements," said Jack quietly. "I'll bet these +fellows wish they had stayed home." + +"I'm betting the same way," declared Frank. + +"Well, it's getting too hot here," said Jack. "We'll get back and let the +big fellows get in the game." + +"Good idea, sir," said Lieutenant Hetherton. + +"Full speed ahead!" Jack ordered. + +At the sound of the great gun on the British warship Lion, the German +admiral in command of the flotilla ordered his ships to slow down. Until +that moment he had not been appraised of the fact that the German raid was +known to the British fleet. He supposed, upon seeing the Essex, that he +had encountered a single vessel which just happened to be in that part of +the sea, but when the Lion came into the fight he began to have his +doubts. + +As yet, however, there was no other vessel in sight, and as the Germans +heavily outnumbered the British, the admiral decided to continue the +engagement. + +"I suppose this fellow happened to hear the firing and came to +investigate," muttered the German admiral. "Our raid can hardly have been +discovered yet." + +Accordingly he gave the word to advance again. + +And a moment later he was sorry that he had done so. + +Far astern of the Lion, and yet not so far that the German admiral could +not have seen her but for the darkness, came two other long gray shapes; +and from farther east, and closer, appeared a third. + +The German admiral gritted his teeth. + +"Confound these English!" he exclaimed. "Can nobody beat them?" + +For a moment he debated with himself. He had half a mind to continue the +struggle, for the odds were still, with the Germans. Then he changed his +mind. + +The wireless aboard the German flagship flashed a signal to retire. + +But the German admiral had delayed too long for a successful retreat. +Other British ships hove into view--seven of them. There was nothing for +the German fleet to do but fight it out. The admiral gave the order: + +"Advance!" + + + + +CHAPTER XXV + +THE LAST SEA BATTLE + + +The cannonading became terrific. + +Now that assistance arrived, Jack ordered the Essex, which still was the +nearest British vessel to the enemy, back into the fray. + +"The big fellows will look out for us," he confided to Frank. + +The revolving turrets of the Essex were kept on the move and guns crashed +as fast as they could be brought to bear. Shells struck on all sides of +the destroyer and occasionally one came aboard. But thanks to Jack's +maneuvering of the vessel, so far she had not been struck in a vital part. + +The main British fleet bore down on the enemy from two sides, and to +protect themselves against these new foes, the Germans were forced to turn +their attention elsewhere than the Essex. Already big shells from the +British warships were striking aboard the enemy. The range had been found +almost with the first fire from the approaching war vessels and the +Germans were replying as fast as they were able. + +The fighting was at such close range now that Jack was able to distinguish +the names of the German battleships. In the center, flying the flag of +Admiral Krauss, was the Bismarck. On the right of the flagship were the +Hamburg and the Potsdam, while on the left the flagship was flanked by the +Baden and the Wilhelm II. + +The fire of all five German vessels, at order of the admiral, was now +directed upon the Lion, which bore down swiftly and was perhaps a quarter +of a mile closer to the enemy than any other British craft except the +destroyer Essex, commanded by Jack. + +The forward guns of the Lion roared angrily and spat fire in the darkness +as she bore down on the Germans at full speed. As yet no enemy shell had +struck the Lion, but she had put several shells aboard the nearest German +battleship--the Baden. + +Now that the German fire had been momentarily lifted from the Essex, Jack +ordered his ship in closer; and a veritable hail of shells were dropped on +the Potsdam. For a moment or so the Germans paid no attention to the +destroyer, but the fire from Jack's men became so accurate that the +captain of the German ship found it necessary to disregard the admiral's +orders and turn his attention to the Essex in self-defense. + +The first shell from the Potsdam flew screaming over the bridge of the +destroyer, but did no damage. The second was aimed better. It struck the +bow of the destroyer on the port side and plowed through. The destroyer +quivered through her entire length. + +"Go below and report, Mr. Chadwick," Jack commanded. + +Upon investigation, Frank learned that the shell had plowed through the +forward bulkheads and that the outside compartments were awash. But the +inner compartments had not been penetrated. He rounded up the ship's +carpenter, who announced that the damage could be repaired in half an +hour. There had been no casualties. + +Jack accepted Frank's report with a brief nod; then gave his attention +again to fighting his ship. + +Forward and to the right of the Essex there sounded a terrific explosion, +followed by a blinding glare. The Baden, one of the largest of the German +warships, sprang into a mighty sheet of flame. A shell from the Lion had +penetrated the engine room and exploded her boilers. Came wild cries from +aboard the vessel and escaping steam and boiling water poured on the crew +and scalded them. + +With the searchlights of the British ships playing on her, the Baden +reared high out of the water, and as men jumped into the sea for safety, +she settled by the head, and sank. + +This left only four of the enemy to continue the struggle and opposed to +these the British offered eight unwounded vessels. Admiral Krauss gazed in +every direction, seeking a possible avenue of escape. And at last he +believed he saw it. + +To the east--back in the direction from which he had come--the space +between the British battleships Peerless and Falcon seemed to offer a +chance. The German admiral calculated rapidly. To the eye it appeared that +the German ships could pass through that opening before the British could +close in. + +The wireless aboard the German flagship sputtered excitedly. Instantly the +four remaining German ships turned and dashed after the flagship, which +was showing the way. + +Instantly the commander of every British ship realized the purpose of the +enemy. Even the distant Falcon and Peerless seemed to know what was +expected of them. Their speed increased and they dashed forward in an +effort to intercept the enemy. + +It was nip and tuck. The Lion was the first to dash in pursuit, followed +by the Tiger and the White Hawk. The Brewster and Southampton, closely +followed by the more or less crippled Essex, brought up the rear, each +doing its utmost to pass the other in order to get another chance at the +enemy. + +Slowly the Lion, the Tiger and the White Hawk gained on the enemy; and it +became apparent now that the Germans would be unable to get through the +space between the Peerless and Falcon without a fight. + +Aboard the Bismarck, the German admiral gritted his teeth. + +"It will have to be fight now," he muttered, "and the odds are all against +me." + +The Falcon and the Peerless, from either side and forward of the Germans, +now opened with their big guns almost simultaneously. Every available gun +aboard the German vessels replied. From astern, the guns of the Lion were +pounding the sterns of the fleeing enemy battleships. The Brewster and the +Southampton, together with the Tiger and the White Hawk, also were hurling +shells after the Germans, although with little effect, for they were +trailing too far behind. + +Jack urged the Essex forward in the wake of the others. He was far behind +and was rapidly being outdistanced by the larger ships, but he determined +to see the thing through if possible. + +The last German ship in line, struck by a shell from the pursuing Lion, +staggered and fell to one side. The Lion darted on, pouring a broadside +into the crippled enemy as she passed, then dashed after the vessels +ahead. + +The Tiger, White Hawk, Brewster and Southampton, also poured broadsides +into the Wilhelm II as they passed, but they did not even slacken their +pace. + +But the Wilhelm II apparently had not received her death blow. Her crew +continued to fight the ship heroically, and as the Essex approached she +was greeted with a heavy fire from the German. + +"The big fellows don't seem to have made a very good job of this," said +Jack to Frank. "We'll finish it for them." + +The Essex slowed down and turned sharply toward the Wilhelm II. Her guns +still in condition to fight burst forth anew. The British showed +excellent marksmanship. Shell after shell was poured into the crippled +foe. Jack ordered "cease firing." + +Taking a megaphone that lay nearby, he put it to his mouth and called: + +"Surrender!" + +His answer was a shell that came crashing aboard aft from one of the +Wilhelm II's big guns. Jack turned quietly to Frank. + +"Sink her!" he said. + +Frank dashed across the deck to where the crew of the forward gun turret +was anxiously awaiting some command. He addressed the captain of the crew. + +"See if you can put a shell into her engine room," he said. "Take your +time." + +The latter did so; and it was several seconds before the big gun spoke, +but when it did Frank uttered an exclamation of satisfaction. + +The shell had gone true. Watching eyes aboard the Essex saw it plow its +way through the side of the Wilhelm II. Then came the explosion and the +Wilhelm II seemed to part in the middle. She sank in less than five +minutes. + +Meanwhile, the Peerless and Falcon had headed off the other three German +ships, which, forced to fight, now stood at bay, with every gun pounding. +The Lion, Tiger and the other vessels bore down on them rapidly from +astern. + +For the space of half an hour the view of those aboard the Essex was +obscured by the smoke from the big guns, which could not be penetrated +even by the bright lights of the searchlights. They could hear the boom of +the big guns, the crash of the shells as they struck home and occasional +sharp explosions that told of irrepairable damage aboard the enemy +vessels, but they could see nothing. + +"This will be the last of the enemy," was Frank's comment. + +Jack nodded. + +"I should think so," he agreed. "If they let one of those fellows get away +now they should be court-martialed." + +"Don't fret," said Frank, "they won't get away." + +They didn't get away. + +Firing ceased just as the first streak of light appeared in the eastern +sky, and when the smoke of battle cleared away, Jack and Frank saw that +the British victory had been complete. + +Only two German ships were still above water. These were the Bismarck, +flagship of Admiral Krauss, and the Hamburg. The others had all been sunk. + +The Hamburg, the lads could see, was slowly sinking by the head. She was +being abandoned by her crew, who, in small boats, some even swimming, were +hurrying to the side of the Bismarck, where they were lifted aboard. + +"Why didn't they sink her, too?" demanded Frank pointing to the German +flagship. + +"Why?" repeated Jack. "Why should they? Can't you see that white flag +flying at the masthead?" + +"By George! I hadn't noticed that." + +"And there," said Jack, pointing, "goes a prize crew from the Lion to take +over the vessel." + +A launch loaded with British tars had put off from the Lion and was making +toward the German flagship. + +Admiral Krauss and his officers and men were soon transferred to the Lion +and a British crew was in possession of the Bismarck. + +Thus ended the last sea battle of the great war. In all the times that +Germany had tested the naval power of Great Britain and her allies, she +had found it great--too much for German naval tactics to overcome. And now +that the great war was drawing to an end, she did not test it again. + + + + +CHAPTER XXVI + +THE END APPROACHES + + +With the coming of November, it became apparent to every officer and man +in the Grand Fleet--as well as the rest of the world--that the beginning +of the end was at hand--that the German war machine was disintegrating and +was about to break. + +This was strengthened by the announcement on November 2 that the preceding +day England, France and Italy had concluded an armistice with Turkey, thus +depriving Germany of her second ally. This left only Germany and Austria +to continue the struggle, and upon the same day that the armistice with +Turkey was announced came word that Austria also had made overtures for +peace. + +"You can take it from me," said Jack, as the destroyer Essex continued her +patrol of the North Sea, "that this war is about to end. I'm willing to +bet that Germany will sue for peace within a couple of weeks." + +Frank expressed his doubts. + +"She's likely to continue the struggle for some time yet," he said. + +"But that would be foolish," declared Jack. "She can hope to gain nothing +thereby." + +"Perhaps not. But if Germany sues for peace now there is likely to be such +an internal upheaval in the Empire that the French revolution will look +like a house party." + +"Maybe you're right, but I stick to my opinion nevertheless." + +Events proved that Jack was right. + +On the morning of November 5, word reached the Grand Fleet that an +armistice had been concluded with Austria the day before. + +"As I expected," said Jack. "What did I tell you, Frank?" + +"Well, I anticipated that myself," said Frank. "But Germany hasn't asked +for peace yet, you know." + +"True, but I can tell you something you don't know. I just got word this +morning." + +"What's that?" + +"Why Germany, through Chancellor Ebert, already is in negotiations with +President Wilson." + +"What?" + +"Exactly. President Wilson has replied that he will stick to his original +principles of peace, announced some time ago. Germany is requested to +announce whether she will accept such terms." + +"But it seems to me," said Frank, "that if Germany wants peace she should +be made to ask it on the field of battle." + +And that is exactly what happened, for when the armistice negotiations +were finally begun it was at a conference between Marshal Foch, +commander-in-chief of all the allied forces, and a commission of German +officers. + +It was on November 8, that news of the armistice conference was flashed to +the Grand Fleet. + +"Armistice commission will meet November 10 at Hirson, France," read the +message, flashed to every vessel in the fleet. + +All that day and the next, every man in the fleet waited anxiously for +further word of the approaching armistice conference. None came. Neither +had any word been received on the evening of November 10. + +"Must have been a hitch some place," said Frank, as they sat in the +latter's cabin that night. + +"Not necessarily," replied Jack, "You know these things take time. A +matter like this can't be fixed up in an hour, or a day." + +"Well," said Frank, "I'd like to know what terms Marshal Foch will impose +on the foe." + +"They'll be stringent enough, don't you worry," said Jack. "He'll impose +terms harsh enough to make sure that Germany doesn't renew the struggle +while final peace negotiations are in progress." + +"I hope so. But I'll tell you one thing I hope he does." + +"What's that?" Jack wanted to know. + +"I hope he insists on the surrender of the whole German fleet." + +"Whew!" exclaimed Jack. "You don't want much, do you?" + +"Well, he should insist on it," declared Frank. + +"But he probably won't," returned Jack. "I figure, however that he will +insist that a large share of the ships be turned over to the allies, +including their most powerful submarines and battleships and cruisers. But +you can't expect them to give up the whole business, particularly when the +entire High Seas Fleet is practically intact." + +"Maybe not; but I'm for taking all we can get." + +"So am I," Jack agreed, "all that we can get without danger of causing a +hitch in the armistice proceedings." + +"Seems to me," said Frank, "that by this time we should have had some word +of the proceedings at Hirson to-day." + +"It would seem so, that's a fact. However, I guess we will get the +information all in good time." + +"That's all right. But I'm anxious to know what's going on." + +"Well, we won't know to-night; so I am in favor of turning in." + +"Guess we may as well." + +But early the next morning, an account of the first day's proceedings of +the armistice delegates was flashed to the fleet. This, however, did not +bring much jubilation, for the announcement simply said that the German +delegates had refused the terms offered by Marshal Foch and had returned +to their own lines for further instructions. + +"Told you so!" exclaimed Frank. "This war is not over yet." + +"Don't you believe it," declared Jack. "These Germans may do a little +bluffing--I'd probably try the same thing under similar conditions--but +you mark my words, they'll accept the terms, all right." + +"The conference is to be resumed some time this afternoon," said Frank. +"That means that we will hear nothing before morning." + +"It depends," said Jack. "If the armistice is signed to-day, we'll +probably get the word immediately; but if it stretches out for a day or +two, we probably won't" + +"I guess that's about the size of it," Frank admitted. + +All during the day excitement aboard the Essex, and all other vessels +patrolling the North Sea, for that matter, was at fever heat. While every +man knew that there was little likelihood of receiving news until long +after dark, each one nevertheless lived in hopes. + +Nevertheless, patrol work was still being done carefully. It had become an +axiom of a British sailor that a German was not to be trusted--that when +he appeared the least dangerous, it was time to watch him more carefully. +Consequently, in spite of the impending armistice, the vigilance of the +British fleet was not relaxed. + +Six o'clock came, and seven; and still there had been no word from the +scene of the armistice conference. At eight o'clock Frank said: + +"I don't know what we are sitting up for. Something must have gone wrong +again. If the armistice had been signed we would know something of it by +this time." + +"Hold your horses," said Jack. "I'm just as anxious as you are, but there +is no use getting excited about it." + +"Well," said Frank, "if we haven't heard something by nine o'clock, I'm +going to turn in." + +But at nine o'clock no word had been received. + +"I know we shall hear nothing to-night," said Frank, rising, "so I'm going +to tumble into my bunk." + +"Help yourself," said Jack, looking up from a book he was reading. "I'll +wait a little longer." + +Frank retired to his own cabin and was soon asleep. At ten o'clock, no +word having been received, Jack put down his book and rose. + +"Frank may be right," he told himself. "At all events, I may as well turn +in. My remaining up won't alter the facts, whatever they are." + +He undressed, extinguished the light in his cabin and climbed into bed. + +Aboard practically every ship in the fleet, almost the same scenes were +enacted that night. Officers and men alike remained up for hours, awaiting +possible word that the armistice had been signed. But at midnight no word +had been received, and while the big ships moved about their patrol work, +the men slept--those of them who had no duties to perform at that hour. +Only the officers and members of the crew watch, and the night radio +operators, remained awake. + +To Jack it seemed that he had just closed his eyes when he was aroused by +the sound of the Essex's signal whistle. It screeched and screeched. Jack +leaped from his bunk and scrambled into his clothes. + +"Something wrong," he muttered. "Wonder why they didn't call me?" + +He hurried on deck. + +Frank, in his cabin, also had been aroused by the noise. He, too, sprang +into his clothes and hurried on deck. + +There the first thing that his eyes encountered was a circle of figures, +with hands joined, dancing about the bridge and yelling at the top of +their voices. Among them was Jack, who, for the moment, seemed to have +forgotten the dignity that went with his command. Also, the shrill signal +whistle continued to give long, sharp blasts. Frank looked at Jack in pure +amazement. + +"Must have gone crazy," he muttered. + +He hurried to the bridge and standing behind the dancing figures, caught +Jack by the coat as he whirled by. + +"I say," he demanded. "What's the meaning of this? Have you gone mad?" + +Jack stopped and broke away from the circle which danced on without him. + +"Almost," said Jack, in answer to Frank's question, "and with good +reason." + +"What--" began Frank. + +"By George! Can't you think?" demanded Jack. + +Gradually comprehension dawned on Frank. + +"You mean--" he began again. + +"Of course, I mean it," shouted Jack. "Why else do you think I'd be +dancing around here like a whirling dervish? Come on and join the crowd. +The armistice has been signed!" + +"Hurrah!" shouted Frank. + +A moment later he was circling madly about the bridge with the others. + + + + +CHAPTER XXVII + +PREPARING FOR THE SURRENDER + +ALTHOUGH the armistice had now been officially signed and fighting had +ceased, under orders from Admiral Beatty, commander of the Grand Fleet, +every ship was still stripped for action. While it appeared that +everything was open and above-board, the British admiral intended to take +no chances. He recalled other German treachery and he was not at all sure +in his own mind that the enemy might not attempt some other trick. + +Two days after the signing of the armistice, upon instructions from the +admiralty, Admiral Beatty got in touch by wireless with the German fleet +commander in Helgoland, Admiral Baron von Wimpfen. With the latter Admiral +Beatty was to arrange for the surrender for such portions of the German +High Seas Fleet as had been decided upon by Marshal Foch and the German +armistice commission. + +All day the wireless sputtered incessantly aboard the flagship, while +other ship commanders within radio distance listened to what was going on. +Jack was among these. He relieved his radio operator for the day and took +the instrument himself. + +"The German fleet," ticked Admiral Beatty's flagship wireless, "will steam +forth from Helgoland on November 19 and move due west toward the English +coast, where the British fleet will be stationed to await its coming." + +"Shall we dismantle our guns?" asked Admiral von Wimpfen. + +"Yes." + +"And what of the size of our crews?" + +"They shall be large enough to handle the vessel. That is all. The crew of +each ship shall be reduced to the minimum." + +"And how about our submarines?" + +"They must be surrendered first." + +"But the surrender cannot be completed in one day." + +"I am aware of it," replied Admiral Beatty. "As I have instructed you, the +first of the German fleet will leave Helgoland on the night of November +19. By that I mean the submarines. They must steam on the surface. The +first flotilla to be composed of twenty-seven vessels." + +"I understand," returned the German admiral. + +"Very well. My ships will be stretched out in a fifty-mile line on either +side of your ships as they approach and will fire at the first sign of +treachery." + +"There shall be no treachery, sir. You have the word of a German admiral." + +"Very well I shall acquaint you with other details from time to time." + +This was the conversation that Jack heard that day. + +At noon on November 18, Jack, together with other commanders, received +word from Admiral Beatty to steam toward Harwich, on the English coast, +and to take his place in the long line of ships that would be gathered +there to receive the surrender of the enemy fleet. + +Excitement thrilled the crew of the Essex. They were about to witness one +of the greatest events of world history and there wasn't a man aboard who +didn't know it. Nevertheless, there was no confusion, and the Essex +steamed rapidly westward. + +"Hope we get up near the front of the line," said Frank to his chum. "Also +that we are close to Admiral Beatty's flagship." + +"Here too," said Jack. "It will be a sight worth seeing." + +"Rather." + +"Well, we can't kick no matter where they place us, you know. I suppose I +shall receive the necessary instructions in plenty of time." + +Jack did. The instructions came the following morning, while the Essex was +still possibly a hundred miles off the English coast. + +"You will report to Admiral Tyrwhitt," Jack's message read, "who will +assign you to your station." + +Jack immediately got in touch with Admiral Tyrwhitt by wireless. The +latter gave his position and informed the lad that his place in line would +be next to the Admiral's flagship. + +"I thought Admiral Beatty would be up toward the front," said Jack. + +"He probably will," was Frank's reply. "I have it figured out like this, +from what you have told me of the fact that the submarines will be +surrendered first: Admiral Tyrwhitt probably will receive the surrender of +the U-Boats, while Admiral Beatty will receive the formal surrender of +Admiral von Wimpfen himself." + +"Maybe that's it," Jack agreed. + +It was well after noon when the Essex sighted the flagship of Admiral +Tyrwhitt, the Invincible, and reported for duty. Jack received +instructions to lay to just west of the flagship. He obeyed. + +From time to time now other vessels appeared and reported to Admiral +Tyrwhitt and were assigned places in the long line. + +Suddenly there was a cheer from the crews of the many ships. Jack glanced +across the water, as did Frank. And then the latter went wild with +excitement. + +Steaming majestically toward them came five great battleships flying the +Stars and Stripes. + +"So the Americans will be in at the finish," said Jack. + +"You bet they will," declared Frank. "We're always in at the finish." + +"Well, you deserve to be this time, I guess," said Jack with a smile. + +"We always deserve to be," declared Frank. + +"So?" replied Jack. "I'm not going to argue with you about it." + +"It wouldn't do any good," declared Frank. "Let me tell you something. If +it hadn't been for the United States this war wouldn't be over yet." + +"Is that so?" demanded Jack. "Why wouldn't it?" + +"Because all the British and French together don't seem to have been able +to lick the Germans." + +"Rats," exclaimed Jack. "We would have done it in time." + +"Maybe so, but there is nothing sure about it It was the Americans who +turned the tide at Chateau-Thierry." + +"They did some wonderful work, I'm not gain-saying that," Jack admitted. +"But I can't see that it was any more remarkable than what the Canadians +did at Vimy Ridge." + +"Well," said Frank smiling, "while the Canadians are really British +subjects, nevertheless they come from the same part of the world as the +Yankees. They're made out of the same pattern." + +Jack smiled. + +"I seem to have spoiled my own argument there, don't I?" he said. + +Frank grinned too. + +"You've got to admit," he said, "that when the Americans start a thing +they go through with it. They never turn back." + +"True enough," Jack admitted, "but to my mind it takes them a deuced long +time to get started." + +"They just want to be sure they're right first," Frank explained. + +"Have it your own way. But those five American ships approaching now look +mighty good, I'll admit that." + +"I never saw a more beautiful sight," declared Frank, and he meant it. + +Majestically the American warships steamed along, the leading vessel +flying the flag of Admiral Sims. They approached almost to the flagship of +Admiral Tyrwhitt and the guns of the two flagships boomed out an exchange +of salutes. Then the American flotilla slowed down and swung to leeward, +and took its places in the long line. + +"Going to be quite an event this surrender, if you ask me," said Frank. + +"It certainly is," Jack replied. "I understand King George and Queen Mary, +together with many other distinguished British, French, Americans and +Italians, will be present to witness the surrender." + +"Including ourselves," grinned Frank. + +"Well, we're probably not such big fry," Jack commented, "but we've done +as much--and a whole lot more--than a good many of them, if you ask me." + +"My sentiments exactly," declared Frank. "And for that reason we're just +as much entitled to be in at the finish as any of the rest." + +"More so," said Jack quietly. + +"Well, we'll be there. So we have no kick coming." + +All day great vessels of war continued to arrive and take their places in +the line. As far as the eye could see long gray shapes lay in the +water--two lines of them--with perhaps half a mile between. Through this +space the German warships would pass when they came out to surrender. + +When the eye could no longer see ships, the presence of other vessels was +noted by smudges of smoke on the horizon. The line of ships, or rather the +two lines, Jack and Frank knew, stretched almost to the distant shore. + +"Yes," said Jack, "it's going to be quite an event." + +Suddenly the guns of every ship burst out with a roar. The flagship of +Admiral Beatty was approaching down the line from shore. Aboard it, every +man of the great fleet knew, besides the admiral, were King George and +Queen Mary of England; and it was the royal salute that was being fired. +Even the American ships joined in the greeting. + +The guns of Admiral Beatty's flagship were kept busy acknowledging the +salutes. On every deck handkerchiefs and caps waved frantically as the +flagship passed. + +As the vessel drew abreast of the Essex, Jack and Frank, standing together +on the bridge, made out the forms of the King and Queen of England on the +bridge. + +Both lads doffed their caps, and Jack ordered the royal salute fired by +the big guns of the destroyer. + +The vessel trembled under the detonation and the crew seemed to go wild as +they cheered at the top of their voices. + +The flagship passed on. + +A mile or so to the east, the flagship slowed down and turned into line. + +"And that's where I suppose she will remain until after the surrender," +said Jack. + +The lad was right. + + + + +CHAPTER XXVIII + +THE SURRENDER + + +Germany's sea surrender began at dawn on November 20, nine days after the +signing of the armistice. + +Out in this misty expanse of the North Sea the allied battleships had +taken up their positions in a fifty-mile line of greyhounds. Aboard the +allied battleships every eye was strained to the east; every man was on +the alert. The British and allied war vessels presented a noble sight, +stretched out as far as the eye could see, and beyond. + +Every ship was stripped for action. Crews were at their posts. Not until +the surrender was an accomplished fact would the vigilance of the British +naval authorities be relaxed. Not until the German vessels were safe in +the hands of the allies would British officers and crews be certain that +the enemy was not meditating trickery up to the last moment. + +The destroyer Essex, commanded by Jack, as has already been said, was at +the extreme east of the long line of battleships. Beyond it were the +flagship of Admiral Beatty, flanked still farther east by three big war +vessels, and Admiral Tyrwhitt's flagship. + +Jack and Frank were on the bridge of the destroyer. Other officers were at +their posts. The crews stood to their guns. Below, the engine room was the +scene of activity. A full head of steam was kept up, for there was no +telling at what moment it might be needed. + +Came a shrill whistle from the farthest advanced British vessel, followed +by a cry from the lookout aboard the destroyer: + +"Here they come!" + +As the red sun rose above the horizon the first submarine appeared in +sight. Soon after seven o'clock, twenty-seven German submarines were seen +in line, accompanied by two destroyers. These latter were the Tibania and +the Serra Venta, which accompanied the flotilla to take the submarine +crews back to Germany. + +All submarines were on the surface, with their hatches open and their +crews standing on deck. They were flying no flags whatever, and their guns +were trained fore and aft in accordance with previous instructions from +Admiral Beatty. + +Until the moment that they had sighted the first ship of the British +fleet, the German flag had flown from the mastheads of the various +undersea craft, but they had been hauled down at once when the allied war +vessels came into view. + +The leading destroyer, in response to a signal from Admiral Beatty on his +flagship, altered her course slightly and headed toward the coast of +England. + +The wireless instrument aboard the destroyer Essex clattered and a few +moments later the radio operator rushed to the bridge with a message for +Jack. The latter read it quickly, then said: + +"Send an O.K. to the admiral?' + +"What's up, Jack?" asked Frank. + +"Lower half a dozen small boats, Mr. Hetherton," instructed Jack before +replying to Frank's question, "and have them manned by a score of men +each, fully armed." + +"Aye, aye, sir." + +Lieutenant Hetherton hurried away. + +"What's up, Jack?" asked Frank again. + +"I have been ordered to inspect each submarine as it comes abreast of us," +Jack replied. "Apparently the admiral still fears treachery. I'll remain +aboard here, and leave the work to you and the other officers." + +This was done. As each submarine drew up with the Essex she was boarded by +a score of the Essex's men. Some stood guard at the hatches with weapons +held ready, while an officer and the others of the crew went below for a +hurried trip of inspection, searching them diligently for "booby traps," +and other signs of treachery. + +This necessitated a slowing down in the speed of the German craft, but at +length the work was accomplished and Frank and his men, and all others +belonging aboard the Essex, returned to their ship. + +"All serene, Jack," Frank reported. + +"Very well, I shall so inform the admiral." + +He scribbled off a brief message, which he sent to the radio room. + +Now, with the submarines well along the line, the British fleet began to +move--escorting the U-Boats toward Harwich. The fleet would return the +next day to receive the surrender of the larger enemy war vessels, but +to-day it meant to make sure that the submarines were taken safely to +port. + +There was one brief halt while the German admiral in command of the +flotilla went aboard Admiral Tyrwhitt's flagship to make formal surrender +of the submarines. He was accompanied by two members of his staff. + +Admiral Tyrwhitt received him on the bridge. There were tears in the eyes +of the German admiral as he said: + +"Sir, I surrender to you this submarine fleet of the Imperial German +navy." + +He extended his sword. + +Admiral Tyrwhitt waved back the sword and accepted the surrender in a few +brief words. The German admiral turned on his heel and walked to the rail. +There one of his officers held out his hand to a British lieutenant who +was nearby. + +The latter refused it, and the German turned away muttering to himself in +his native tongue. The German admiral and his officers returned to the +destroyer, and the march of the fleets continued. + +It was a procession of broken German hopes--in the van, a destroyer of the +unbeaten navy; behind, the cruel pirate craft that were to subjugate the +sea. Each of the allied warships turned, and keeping a careful lookout, +steamed toward Harwich. + +As the Essex passed one of the largest submarines, which carried two 5.9 +guns, Frank counted forty-three officers and men on her deck. The craft +was at least three hundred feet long. + +"By George! Isn't she a whopper?" exclaimed the lad. + +Jack nodded. + +"She is indeed. The largest submarine I ever saw." + +Near the Shipwash lightship, three large British seaplanes appeared +overhead. They were followed by a single airship. The sight of the Harwich +forces, which soon appeared in the distance, together with the seaplanes +and the airship, was a most impressive one. + +Suddenly two carrier pigeons were released aboard one of the captured +submarines. + +A shock ran through the officers and crew of every allied vessel in sight. +Apparently something was wrong. Sharp orders rang out. But the matter +passed over. It was explained that the pigeons had been released merely to +carry back to Germany the news that the surrender had been made. + +Nevertheless, the act called forth a vigorous protest from the flagship of +the British commander-in-chief. + +"Another act like that and I shall sink you," was Admiral Beatty's +message. + +Still ten miles off shore, the procession came to a halt. Feverish +activity was manifest aboard the British vessels. Small boats were lowered +and put off toward the submarines. These carried British crews that were +to take over the vessels and conduct them to port. As fast as a British +crew took possession, the German crews were transferred to the German +destroyers there for the purpose of taking them back to Germany. + +Then the procession moved toward Harwich again. + +As the boats went through the gates into Harwich harbor, a white ensign +was run up on each of them, with the German flag flying underneath. + +Before being removed to the destroyers, which were to carry them back, +each submarine commander, who were the only Germans left aboard the +vessels as they passed into the harbor, was required to sign a declaration +that his submarine was in perfect running order, that his periscope was +intact, the torpedoes unloaded and the torpedo head safe. + +Despite orders issued to the Harwich forces in advance, to the effect that +no demonstration must be permitted in the city after the surrender of the +German fleet, wild cheering broke out on the water front as the +submarines, escorted by the great British warships, steamed into the +harbor. + +Military police cleared the water front of the dense throng that had +gathered, but the best efforts they put forth were unable to still the +bedlam that had broken loose. + +Commanders of the British ships had difficulty in restraining cheers by +their crews and later by the Harwich forces themselves when the fleet of +captured submarines was turned over to Captain Addison, the commandant at +that port. + +Harbor space for the surrendered U-Boats had been provided in advance, +and the vessels were now piloted to these places, where they were placed +under heavy guard. + +This work took time, and it was almost dark before the last submarine had +been escorted to its resting place. + +All day crowds thronged the streets of Harwich, cheering and yelling +madly. In vain the military authorities tried to stop the celebration. As +well have tried to shut out the sound of thunder in the heavens. At last +the authorities gave it up as a bad job, and joy and happiness ran rampant +and unrestrained. + +It was a glorious day for England, and thousands of persons from London +and the largest cities of the island had hurried to Harwich to witness the +formal surrender of the fleet and its internment. All night the thousands +paraded the streets of the little village, the celebration seeming to grow +rather than to diminish as the early morning hours approached. + +So passed the bulk of Germany's undersea fighting strength into the hands +of Great Britain and her allies. No longer would they terrorize with their +ruthless warfare. They were safe at last. The fangs of the undersea +serpents had been drawn. + +And on the night of November 20, 1918, thus made harmless, they lay +quietly in the harbor of Harwich, England, above them flying the Union +Jack. + + + + +CHAPTER XXIX + +THE SURRENDER COMPLETE + + +November 21! This was to be a day, perhaps, more historic than the one +that preceded it, for on this day was to be surrendered to the allied +fleet the bulk of the great war vessels that comprised the Imperial German +navy. + +Heading the great British flotilla that moved out to sea again was the +super-dreadnaught the Queen Elizabeth, Admiral Beatty's flagship, aboard +which were King George and Queen Mary, as they had been the day before. + +Following the first twenty-five British ships steamed the American +squadron, Admiral Rodman, aboard the dreadnaught New York, showing the +way. Following the New York were the Florida, Wyoming, Texas and Arkansas. +Behind the Americans trailed a pair of French cruisers, followed in turn +by a few Italian vessels, after which came the remainder of the great +British fleet. + +So the flotilla moved out again and took up the positions they had held +the day before. Again every eye was strained to catch sight of the first +German warship. And at last came the cry, sounding much as it had on the +preceding day: + +"Here they come!" + +The German fleet that approached now came much more swiftly than had the +flotilla of undersea craft. This time the halt was made while the German +flagship was abreast of the Queen Elizabeth. Admiral Baron von Wimpfen put +off for Admiral Beatty's vessel in a launch. + +Admiral Beatty received the German admiral on the bridge of the Queen +Elizabeth, with him were King George and Queen Mary. Admiral von Wimpfen +made the formal declaration of surrender and it was accepted by the +British admiral without ostentation. + +The German fleet thus turned over to Admiral Beatty consisted of +approximately one hundred and fifty vessels of all classes, including +dreadnaughts, battleships, cruisers and destroyers. Slowly these giant +vessels fell into line now and steamed toward Harwich, the British ships, +still cleared for action, accompanying them and watching carefully for the +signs of treachery. + +But no such signs showed themselves. No longer were the Germans thinking +of fight. They had been decisively beaten, and they knew it. Apparently +they considered themselves lucky to get off so easily. + +Still some distance off-shore, the crews of the German ships were +transferred to the half-dozen small vessels that were to carry them back +to the Fatherland, and British crews were put aboard the vessels. Then, +their eyes sad and watching what had once been the pride of Germany, the +German officers and sailors began their cheerless journey home. + +Again it was a night of festivity in Harwich, and in all England, and all +allied countries, for that matter. The surrender of the great German fleet +was now a thing of the past. Germany's hands were tied. She could continue +the struggle no longer even should she elect to do so. While a formal +declaration of peace had not been signed, and probably would not be signed +for months to come, the war was over, so far as actual fighting was +concerned. + +No wonder England, France, America, Italy and the smaller nations with +them went wild with joy. After four years of war, peace had again cast its +shadow over the earth, and everyone was glad. + +"So it's all over." + +It was Frank who spoke. He and Jack were in the latter's cabin on the +Essex. The ship was lying at anchor just outside Harwich harbor, riding +gently on the swell of the waves. + +"Yes, it's all over," said Jack, "and I'm glad." + +"So am I," Frank declared; "and yet we have had a good time." + +"So we have, of a kind. And still you can't rightly call it a good time +when all we have been doing is to seek, kill and destroy." + +"But it had to be done," Frank protested. + +"Oh, I know that as well as you do. But war is a terrible thing, and the +more you see of it the more certain you become that it is all +foolishness." + +"And yet, you can't permit a big bully to run amuck and smash up things +all over the world." + +"That's true, of course, and it's exactly what the kaiser and his war +machine tried to do. Now, the machine had to be smashed, of course, and it +has been smashed. But how long will it take the world to recover? How long +will it take to rebuild what has been destroyed in these four years of +war?" + +Frank shrugged his shoulders. + +"I'm not good at conundrums," he replied. + +"Nor I; and yet I'll venture to say that the reconstruction days will be +as hard as many we have experienced in the war." + +"The thing that I want to know," said Frank, changing the subject +abruptly, "is just what will be done with Germany in the final peace +conference." + +"You know as much about it as I do," replied Jack, "but my own idea is +that the German empire will be dismembered--divided into the states of +Prussia, Saxony, and so forth, as they were years before they united under +one head." + +"I'm sure I hope so. Certainly the allies will never permit Germany to +attain such power that may make all our fighting futile--they'll never let +her grow strong enough to start another world struggle." + +The lads conversed far into the night before retiring. Nevertheless they +were astir at an early hour, awaiting orders that they knew must come that +day; and they came shortly after noon in the shape of a wireless from Lord +Hastings. + +"Return to Dover at once," the message read. + +Again the Essex put to sea. + +But it was upon a peaceful voyage that the destroyer was bound now. No +longer did her decks bristle with shining guns, crew at quarters and ready +for action. True, the Essex still showed plainly that she was a ship of +war, but her threatening attitude was gone. The war was over and all was +quiet aboard. + +That night the destroyer put into Dover harbor and the lads went ashore to +report to Lord Hastings. It was after ten o'clock, but their former +commander received them at once in spite of the lateness of the hour. + +"Sorry to disturb you at this hour, sir," said Jack, "but I thought +perhaps you would wish us to report to you immediately." + +"And I am glad you did," returned Lord Hastings. "Come, tell me something +about yourselves. So you were in at the finish, eh?" + +"You bet!" exclaimed Frank enthusiastically. "You should have been there, +sir." + +"I was," replied Lord Hastings. + +"You were, sir?" + +"Yes." + +"But we didn't see you, sir," said Jack. + +"I know you didn't. But I saw you. And I saw Frank when he inspected the +submarines on the first day of the surrender." + +"Where were you, sir?" demanded Frank. + +"Aboard the Queen Elizabeth. I viewed the surrender as the guest of +Admiral Beatty, and their majesties." + +For some time the conversation dealt only with the surrender of the fleet. +Then Lord Hastings said: + +"Well, boys, the war is over. What do you intend to do now?" + +"I know what I shall do, sir," said Frank. + +"Well, let's hear it." + +"I shall return to America as soon as I am able to procure my discharge." + +"As I thought," said Lord Hastings. "And you, Jack?" + +"I hardly know, sir. I have no relatives, few friends. There is no one +dependent on me, and I am dependent on no one. It strikes me, sir, that +the navy might be a good place to stick." + +"And I had expected that, too," said Lord Hastings quietly. "But I don't +agree with you, Jack." + +"Why not, sir?" asked Jack, in some surprise. + +"In the first place," said Lord Hastings, "the life would begin to pall on +you when it settled down to dull routine. Now in active service, of +course, it's different. I know, because I've tried both. No, my advice to +you Jack, is to get out of the navy." + +"But what shall I do, sir?" + +"There are many things," said Lord Hastings quietly. "There is the +consular service, the diplomatic service. Who knows how far you may rise? +Already you have made a name for yourself and have won distinction. You +may go far, if you apply yourself." + +"That's true, too, sir," said Jack. "I have thought of that, at odd +moments. But I guess you are right about the navy, sir." + +"I know I am. And the sooner you get out of it the better." + +"Then I'll take your advice, sir. But I'm afraid it won't be possible to +get a discharge for some time yet." + +"It will be much simpler that you think, for both of you," said Lord +Hastings with a smile. "I still have some influence, you know, and I shall +see you receive your discharges within a fortnight, if you wish." + +"Hurray!" shouted Frank. "That suits me. There is no use sticking in the +navy now. There is nothing to do." + +"And," continued Lord Hastings to Jack. "In the meantime I'll look around +and see what I can turn up for you, Jack." + +"Thank you, sir," said Jack. + +"And in the meantime, Jack," added Frank, "you are going home with me for +a visit. That is, as soon as we get our discharges." + +Jack hesitated. + +"But I don't know that I should," he said. "Lord Hastings----" + +"Go by all means," said Lord Hastings. "You have earned a rest and should +take it. Now I'll see about the discharges at once, and as soon as you +receive them, both of you take my advice and go to the United States. That +will give me additional time to look around, Jack. And when you get there, +stay until I send for you." + +"All right, sir," said Jack with a smile. "You're still my superior +officer, sir. I must obey your commands." + +The three shook hands and Jack and Frank returned to the Essex. + + + + +CHAPTER XXX + +HOME AT LAST + + +"Recognize that, Jack?" asked Frank, pointing across the water. + +The lads were standing on the forward deck of a great trans-Atlantic liner +that was edging its way into New York harbor. + +Jack looked in the direction Frank indicated. + +"Rather," he said, "although I only saw it once before. That's the Statue +of Liberty." + +"Right," said Frank, "the emblem of that for which America went to war." + +"And the spirit for which we all fought," Jack added. + +"Exactly. Well, it's been a long time since I saw her. I'm glad to see her +again." + +It was morning of the last day of the year 1918. + +True to his word, Lord Hastings had been able to secure discharges for the +lads within two weeks after the surrender of the German fleet. They +accompanied Lord Hastings to London, where they remained some time at his +home. Frank, meanwhile, communicated with his father and announced that he +would be home soon. He did not give the exact date, for he wished his +return to be a surprise. And a surprise he knew it would be, as he now +stood on the deck of the incoming liner. + +The ship docked a short time later and Jack and Frank went ashore at once. +They took a taxi to the Grand Central station, where they caught a fast +train for Boston. It was night when they arrived there, but Frank +determined to go out to his home in Woburn, ten miles from Boston, at +once. + +Accordingly they took an elevated train at the South Station. This put +them in the North Station ten minutes later, and Frank found that there +was a train for Woburn in half an hour. + +It was after dark when the lads alighted from the train in the little town +of Woburn. Jack had been there with Frank before, when the lads had +crossed the Atlantic to New York soon after the United States entered the +war. Accordingly, he knew the way from the station to Frank's home almost +as well as the latter did himself. + +"Know where you are?" asked Frank. + +Jack grinned. + +"I've been here once," he said. "That should answer that question. You +know my memory is pretty good." + +"Then you can show me which house I live in," said Frank. + +Jack pointed to a house a block away where a dim light showed from beneath +a drawn curtain. + +"There's the house," he said, "and there appears to be some one home." + +"That's father, of course," said Frank. "He seldom goes out in the +evening." + +The lads quickened their steps and soon were before the house. Quietly +they mounted the steps and as quietly tip-toed across the porch. Frank +tried the door. It was unlocked. + +"Careless of father," he whispered. "I'll have to speak to him about +that." + +He opened the door gently and the two lads passed within. Frank closed the +door noiselessly behind him. The lads dropped their grips silently in the +hall and then tip-toed toward a room at the far end, where a light showed. + +Keeping out of sight, Frank peered in the door. There, with his back to +his son, sat Dr. Chadwick, reading. Frank stepped softly across the room +leaving Jack standing, grinning, at the door. + +Frank reached out and put both hands across his father's eyes. + +Dr. Chadwick's book dropped to the floor and for a moment Frank was afraid +he had frightened him by this unceremonious greeting. But Dr. Chadwick's +hands reached up and clasped the hands that for the moment blinded him. + +"Frank!" he cried, and sprang to his feet. + +The next moment father and son were in each other's arms. + +Dr. Chadwick held his son off at arm's length, and looked at him. + +"You're a sight for sore eyes," he declared. "You look better than you did +the last time I saw you, and you were looking fine then." + +"Here, Father," said Frank, "is a friend of mine come to see you." + +Dr. Chadwick turned and saw Jack in the doorway. He stepped forward and +gripped Jack's hand heartily. + +"Jack Templeton, eh?" he exclaimed. "I'm glad to see you. And you are +Captain Templeton now, I perceive." + +Jack blushed. + +"They insisted on making me one, sir, and I couldn't refuse," he said. + +"Now," said Dr. Chadwick, "you two boys sit right down here and tell me +all about yourselves. But first, are you hungry?" + +"No, sir," said Frank. "We had dinner on the train just before we reached +Boston." + +"Then let's hear what you have been doing. I understand you were present +at the surrender of the German fleet. Give me some of the details." + +Until long after midnight the three sat there, Dr. Chadwick listening +eagerly to the tales of his son and the latter's chum. But at last he +looked at his watch. + +"Why, it's after midnight," he exclaimed. "Time for bed." + +Frank led the way to the room he had occupied since babyhood. This Jack +was to share with him during his stay. + +"I'll tell you," said Frank, as he climbed into bed, "it feels pretty good +to a fellow to get back into his own bed after all these years." + +"I should think it would," agreed Jack. "But mine is a long ways from +here. However, I guess I shall see it again some day." + +"Of course you will, old fellow, and I'll go along with you." + +They fell asleep. + +Both lads were awakened by the sound of a commotion without. They jumped +out of bed. It was broad daylight of the first day of January, 1919. + +"Still celebrating the new year, I guess," said Frank. "Remember we heard +'em shooting before we went to bed?" + +Jack nodded. + +Frank went to the window and stuck his head out. Instantly there was a +wild yell outside. Frank drew his head hurriedly back again. + +"What's the matter?" asked Jack. + +"I don't know," said Frank. "There is a whole gang of fellows out there +and they all seem to be crazy about something." + +Jack had a faint suspicion. He crossed to the window and looked out. + +Again a yell went up, followed by a cry from many throats: + +"We want Frank!" + +Even Frank heard this. His face turned red and he began to act flustered. + +"Some of the fellows know I'm home, I guess," he said. + +"That's what's the matter, all right," Jack agreed. "Better show yourself +again." + +"Wait till I get some clothes on and I'll go down and see 'em," said +Frank. + +"They'll probably want you to make a speech," Jack suggested. + +Frank was alarmed. + +"Speech?" he repeated. "I can't make a speech." + +"Oh, yes you can. You don't mean to tell me that a fellow who has done +what you have--who has talked with kings and czars--is afraid to talk to +some of his old friends and companions?" + +"That's different," declared Frank. + +Jack smiled. + +"I catch your point, and maybe you're right," he admitted. "However, +you'll have to do it." + +"I suppose I shall," said Frank with a sigh, "so the sooner I get it over +with the better." + +He led the way downstairs and on to the front porch. Jack stepped forward +close beside him. Again there was a wild cheer from many throats. + +Both lads still wore their British uniforms, and they both presented a +manly and handsome appearance as they stood there on the front porch of +Frank's home. + +"Hello, Frank!" "Glad to see you back!" "Are you going to stay here?" +"Tell us about yourself." + +These were some of the cries hurled at the lad. + +Frank's face turned red and he would have turned away had not Jack's +stalwart frame stayed him. + +"Speech! Speech!" came the cry. + +The hubbub increased. + +"I can't do it, Jack!" Frank exclaimed. + +"Oh, yes you can," replied his chum. "I'll help you." + +He raised his right hand for silence, still keeping his left tightly on +Frank's shoulder, for the latter showed signs of bolting at the first +opportunity. Instantly the shouting died away and the crowd of young +fellows waited expectantly. + +"I just want to introduce my friend," said Jack smiling. "Lieutenant +Chadwick, gentlemen, of His British Majesty's service, though an American +citizen, and a good one at that. Lieutenant Chadwick will be glad to say a +few words to you." + +The cheering burst forth again, but died away as Jack pushed Frank +forward. + +Frank made a brave effort and finally managed to say a few words. He grew +more at ease as he went along and his audience listened intently. He +spoke for perhaps five minutes, then concluded: + +"And now, fellows, I want you all to step up and shake hands with my +friend--also my commander--Captain Jack Templeton. He's an Englishman, but +a pretty good fellow at that--and he's no older than any of us." + +There was another cheer and the boys gathered around to shake Jack's hand +and get acquainted with him. And after they had talked and talked and +feasted their eyes on the British uniforms to their hearts' content they +went away. Then Jack and Frank went in to breakfast, where Dr. Chadwick +was awaiting them at the table. + +A few words more and the history of The Boy Allies on the Sea is complete. + +Jack remained with Frank for several weeks, then returned to England upon +receipt of a message from Lord Hastings announcing that he had found a +place for the lad in the diplomatic service. The story of Jack's struggles +in his chosen profession would make interesting reading, perhaps, but it +is in no wise connected with the great war. Suffice it to say that he is +rapidly rising to fame and fortune and that in years to come, in all +probability, he will hold one of the most important posts in the British +government. + +Frank, for his part, remained in his home town, where he took up the +study of law. He proved an apt student and soon showed signs of talent +that undoubtedly will make him famous. + +So here we shall take our leave of Jack Templeton and Frank Chadwick, +knowing that, in years to come, they will meet again, both famous then, +and that through all the years their friendship shall survive, and grow +stronger than it was in the days when they fought side by side for the +freedom of the world. + +THE END + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Boy Allies with the Victorious +Fleets, by Robert L. 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