diff options
| author | nfenwick <nfenwick@pglaf.org> | 2025-01-27 11:13:57 -0800 |
|---|---|---|
| committer | nfenwick <nfenwick@pglaf.org> | 2025-01-27 11:13:57 -0800 |
| commit | f4a6c1724ebd1509d14d5e22e6123a6bf77dc22b (patch) | |
| tree | ab47bbf3e12ef2d9e2f5eead9b638fe962438fe4 | |
| parent | b3f6c3294b57618a7515dffc27dfadf917eaf244 (diff) | |
| -rw-r--r-- | .gitattributes | 4 | ||||
| -rw-r--r-- | LICENSE.txt | 11 | ||||
| -rw-r--r-- | README.md | 2 | ||||
| -rw-r--r-- | old/60345-0.txt | 6877 | ||||
| -rw-r--r-- | old/60345-0.zip | bin | 112500 -> 0 bytes | |||
| -rw-r--r-- | old/60345-h.zip | bin | 211752 -> 0 bytes | |||
| -rw-r--r-- | old/60345-h/60345-h.htm | 9986 | ||||
| -rw-r--r-- | old/60345-h/images/billiardtable.jpg | bin | 23822 -> 0 bytes | |||
| -rw-r--r-- | old/60345-h/images/cover.jpg | bin | 58839 -> 0 bytes | |||
| -rw-r--r-- | old/60345-h/images/titlepage.jpg | bin | 7690 -> 0 bytes |
10 files changed, 17 insertions, 16863 deletions
diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf 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. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..953e385 --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #60345 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/60345) diff --git a/old/60345-0.txt b/old/60345-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index cacc5ba..0000000 --- a/old/60345-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,6877 +0,0 @@ -Project Gutenberg's The War Zone of the Kaiser, by Capt. V. T. Sherman - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world 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. If you are not located in the United States, you'll -have to check the laws of the country where you are located before using -this ebook. - - - -Title: The War Zone of the Kaiser - -Author: Capt. V. T. Sherman - -Release Date: September 23, 2019 [EBook #60345] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE WAR ZONE OF THE KAISER *** - - - - -Produced by David Edwards and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net - - - - - - - - - - - THE WAR ZONE - OF THE - KAISER - - _By_ - CAPT. V. T. SHERMAN - - Author of - - BOY SCOUTS WITH JOFFRE; - SCOUTING THE BALKANS IN - A MOTOR BOAT; CAPTURING - A SPY; THE RUNAWAY BALLOON; - A LOST PATROL, ETC. - - [Illustration] - - Chicago - M. A. DONOHUE & CO. - - - - -Boy Scout Series - -And Nature Adventure - -Written by that Great Writer for Boys - -CAPT. V. T. SHERMAN - - -TEN TITLES TWELVE MO. CLOTH - -This series of books embraces a variety of interesting and instructive -stories of the kind that are so much sought after and so eagerly devoured -by the youth of this country. Every live, red-blooded boy and girl in the -land will want to read each book in this series. They are endorsed by -Scout Masters, Educaters and Trainers of the youth, and are written along -the lines that inculcate and exemplify the ideals and principals of the -universally accredited - -BOY SCOUT MOVEMENT - -The books average from 256 to 320 pages of large, clear type, printed on -a superior quality of book paper, are bound in genuine binders’ cloth, -stamped from unique, appropriate dies in two colors, and each book is -wrapped in an attractive, multicolored jacket printed from a special and -appropriately drawn design. - -LIST PRICE, 40c PER VOLUME - - 1—Boy Scouts with Joffre; or, In the Trenches in Belgium - - 2—The War Zone of the Kaiser; or, Boy Scouts in the North Sea - - 3—Scouting the Balkans in a Motor Boat; or, An Escape from the - Dardanelles - - 4—Capturing a Spy; or, A New Peril - - 5—The Runaway Balloon; or, The Beseiged Scouts - - 6—A Lost Patrol; or, Scout Tactics to the Front - - 7—The Boy Scout Signal; or, The Camp on the Cliff - - 8—An interrupted Wig Wag; or, A Boy Scout Trick - - 9—The Call of the Beaver Patrol; or, A Break in the Glacier - - 10—The Perils of an Air-ship; or, Boy Scouts in the Sky - -Copyright 1913, M. A. Donohue & Co. - - - - -CONTENTS - - - _Chapter_ _Page_ - - I—A PACKAGE VANISHES 7 - - II—DIFFICULTIES AND DANGER 18 - - III—THE MAN WITH THE SCAR 30 - - IV—THE LENA KNOBLOCH 42 - - V—TWO MYSTERIOUS CHANGES 54 - - VI—A DIFFICULT DEPARTURE 65 - - VII—A WARNING FROM THE SEA 76 - - VIII—MORE ABOUT THE “U-13” 87 - - IX—A STRANGE VISIT 98 - - X—SHIPWRECK AND RESCUE 109 - - XI—A FLEET OF SUBMARINES 120 - - XII—A NEW “U-13” APPEARS 131 - - XIII—A THREATENING SITUATION 142 - - XIV—HELPED BY AN ENEMY 153 - - XV—MISTAKEN IDENTITY 165 - - XVI—A STRANGE DISCOVERY 176 - - XVII—ALONE AND HELPLESS 187 - - XVIII—HELP FROM A STRANGER 198 - - XIX—MACKINDER AGAIN 209 - - XX—A MYSTERIOUS CRAFT 221 - - XXI—A MYSTERY EXPLAINED 232 - - XXII—MORE MYSTERY 240 - - XXIII—THE MYSTERY OF THE “U-13” 246 - - - - -Boy Scouts in the North Sea; - -or, - -The Mystery of “U-13” - - - - -CHAPTER I - -A PACKAGE VANISHES - - -“Good night!” exclaimed a lad of about eighteen peering from the window -in a railway coach. “This train’s running on a regular lake!” - -“What’s that, Jimmie?” asked a companion approaching the first speaker. -“Are we on a ferry? I still feel the wheels hit the rail joints.” - -“Oh, yes, now and again we crawl along a rail’s length or two,” admitted -the boy, “but it’s mighty slow work! I’m getting tired!” - -“What place is this, anyway?” inquired a third boy coming to the window. -“It looks as if we’re going out into the ocean!” - -“We can’t be headed for Holland at this rate!” - -“We surely are!” assured the one addressed as Jimmie. “I’ll bet I can -tell you what that is! The Belgians cut their dikes and flooded the -country to drive out the Germans. My dream book says that’s it!” - -A general laugh greeted this assertion. Moving about in the limits of the -none too commodious compartment of a European railway carriage four boys -dressed in the well-known khaki uniforms of the Boy Scouts of America -endeavored to observe the scenery through the windows. - -To those of our readers who have followed the adventures of this group of -boys as related in the previous volumes of this series no introduction -is necessary. However, for the benefit of those who have not been so -fortunate, a word of explanation may not be out of place at this time. -The lads had very recently been engaged in a man hunt that led through -parts of France and Belgium. They had visited the trenches of both the -French and German forces and had several times faced death. - -Just now they were practically prisoners, having been accorded passage -from the German lines to a neutral port in Holland, where they expected -to take ship for their home town of New York. - -Ned Nestor, a fine, manly lad, was the Leader of the Wolf Patrol of -New York City, Boy Scouts of America. He had been often selected for -difficult work by the Chief of the United States Secret Service because -of his aptitude for the work. His coolness and sound judgment had carried -himself and his companions through many difficulties. It was a mission of -this character upon which the boys had recently engaged and from which -they were now returning. - -Jimmie McGraw, freckle-faced and red-headed, was a member of the Wolf -Patrol of which Ned was leader. He was an ardent adherent of Ned’s. -Brought up a newsboy on the Bowery of New York the boy had come under the -observation of the older lad, who had found him indeed worthy of all the -care which had been bestowed. - -Jack Bosworth, the son of a prominent corporation attorney, and Harry -Stevens, whose father was a well-known automobile manufacturer, were the -other members of the group. These latter two were members of the Black -Bear Patrol of New York. All the lads appeared to be about eighteen -years old. Their tidy uniforms, their well-knit frames and their alert -attitudes bespoke the constant training of their leader. - -As they looked from the windows of the car in which they now found -themselves they discovered that the situation was even as Jimmie had -stated. The country was flooded with water released from the dikes. - -“Tell you what,” declared Jack Bosworth, after a prolonged inspection of -the landscape, if it may be so called, “this is some wet!” - -“You win the argument,” announced Jimmie, wrinkling his freckled nose at -his companion. “I always said you were the wise little fox!” - -Jack’s answer to this pleasantry was an attempt to box the younger -lad’s ears. Jimmie’s resentment of the procedure drew the others into a -friendly scuffle that terminated only when the contestants paused for -breath. - -“I wish they’d hurry up and let us get onto dry land again!” said Jimmie, -when he next found himself able to draw a long breath. - -“You won’t find much dry land when it rains like it’s going to right -now!” stated Harry, pointing out of the window. “Watch it come down!” - -“I hope they don’t get to the border while it rains like this,” answered -Ned, with an involuntary shiver. “I don’t fancy standing out in such a -drizzle as this appears to be. We’d be wet through in no time!” - -“Why, do they make us get out?” queried Harry. - -“Yes, I understand from what the officer said back there at the old -castle that we’ll be searched body, boots and baggage.” - -“And what if they find something they don’t like?” - -“Perhaps they’ll put us in jail for a few months or until the war has -ceased,” replied Ned. “I’m sure I don’t know what they’ll do.” - -“Br-r-rh!” shivered Jimmie. “I wouldn’t turn our old friend The Rat out -into a rain like this! That would be cruelty to animals!” - -“Small chance anyone’ll have to turn him out now!” spoke up Jack. “That -dynamite fixed him so he won’t be turned out for some time!” - -“Don’t speak of it, boys,” protested Ned. “I see him yet!” - -“Let’s change the subject,” proposed Jimmie, out of consideration for his -chum’s feelings. “I think I see some land. Can we be coming to the border -I wonder? I hope we are and that we can soon be starting home!” - -“Train’s slackening speed,” announced Harry. “They’re stopping!” - -It was even as the boy had said. With many a bump and groan of grinding -brakes the train crawled to a standstill beside a hut built upon a rise -of ground. Here was stationed a force of soldiers detailed to the work -of searching and examining all who attempted to pass from Belgium to -Holland. Those who were not certified as refugees or in other ways vested -with proper authority to pass were promptly rejected and turned back. - -A guard came running along the foot board opening doors. He shouted -instructions to the inmates of the carriages, who promptly began -scrambling out of the uncomfortable cars. All baggage was placed along -the track to facilitate examination. The train itself was searched. - -Gesticulating and conversing rapidly two soldiers approached the little -group of Boy Scouts. Apparently an argument of some sort was in progress, -but the boys could not determine the nature of it. - -One of the men pointed to the uniforms and to the medals upon the sleeves -of the boys’ jackets. Gradually his companion seemed to be convinced by -the flow of words. At length he nodded his head, as if surrendering his -last doubts. The two men fell to examining the luggage. - -“Go as far as you like, Old Scout!” scorned Jimmie, as he observed the -rough manner in which his belongings were being tossed about. “I’ll bet -I’d punch your dome a little, though, if you could talk English!” - -“Ah, ha!” cried one of the soldiers, tapping his comrade on the shoulder, -as if his argument had been conclusively supported. “Anglaise!” - -A torrent of words from the other seemed to meet a receptive ear. The -first speaker nodded energetically. His satisfaction was all too evident. -From his appearance he was expecting nothing short of a medal. - -“Judging from their motions,” Jimmie remarked, “these two fellows are -about to fight a duel. I’ll bet on the shorter one!” - -“Not much!” declared Harry. “They’re merely telling one another what a -nice day it was yesterday and how fine the weather’ll be when it clears -up. They are using the sign language, that’s all!” - -“Don’t you kid yourself!” protested Jimmie, uneasily. “I smell Old Man -Trouble coming around the corner right now!” - -“Go on, Jimmie!” scorned Jack. “You’re dreaming again!” - -“I know I am!” replied the younger lad. “Last night I dreamed of eating -salt mackerel and my dream book says that means trouble!” - -“Here they come now!” cautioned Ned. “Hush a minute, boys!” - -Addressing the boys in German the soldier was evidently asking some -question which demanded an answer. Ned as spokesman shook his head. The -other soldier spoke rapidly in the French language. - -“Excuse me, gentlemen,” Ned said, lifting a protesting hand, “we cannot -understand the language you are using. We speak only English!” - -“Ah, ha! Anglaise!” cried the soldier, gesticulating. - -“There, you put your foot in it!” declared Jimmie. “Why didn’t you say: -‘Come across with some good old United States, Bo’?” - -“They probably don’t understand your slang, Jimmie!” replied Ned. - -“So-o-o,” exclaimed one of the men in poor English, “you speak English, -do you? And from what part of England do you come?” - -“We are not from England at all,” explained Ned, “but from the United -States. We are being sent home by the kindness of a German officer, who -has been most considerate. See, here are our passports!” - -“Bah!” scornfully protested the man. “Passports are most easily forged. -And information may be carried still more easily!” - -“But I assure you,” continued Ned, “we are speaking the truth!” - -“So say all spies!” replied the other. “We shall see for ourselves just -what information you have in your possessions!” - -“Go as far as you like,” replied Ned, somewhat nettled at the soldier’s -insolence. “You won’t find a thing that shouldn’t be there!” - -One of the men was already bending over the bags containing such articles -as the boys had deemed necessary for their trip. Without regard for -the owners’ rights he was rapidly taking out every piece separately. -After carefully examining it he threw the article on the ground. He was -evidently annoyed at not finding something incriminating. - -Submitting to the search with poorly concealed dislike of the man and -his methods, the boys waited with what patience they could muster until -the ordeal should be ended. Ned endeavored to distract their thoughts by -commenting on the others, who were meeting similar treatment. - -He was interrupted by an exclamation of delight from the searcher. - -“Ah!” cried that worthy, standing upright. “Nothing contraband! Nothing -to be concealed! No information! These are not spies!” - -He held in his hand a flat packet wrapped in heavy oiled silk, tied with -many wrappings of stout twine and sealed carefully with wax. - -“Gather your possessions quickly and follow me!” commanded the soldier -triumphantly, drawing a revolver. “We shall visit the commander!” - -“What is that thing and where did it come from?” questioned Ned. - -“Search me!” declared Jimmie, excitedly. “Maybe this gink had it up his -little sleeve and dropped it in there at the right minute!” - -“He looks equal to it!” stated Jack stoutly. “He’s a villain!” - -“Better be careful what you say!” cautioned Ned. “We are not out of the -woods, and these fellows understand English pretty well!” - -“I wish I had my automatic and about ten yards start!” stormed Jimmie, -gathering up wearing apparel and jamming it into his kit. “I could beat -that slow-footed camel in a straightaway without half trying!” - -“Better wait and see it out,” advised Ned, replacing his own belongings. -“It’s only a mistake and can surely be explained.” - -“Maybe we can be examined and go ahead on this same train,” offered -Jack consolingly. “Anyhow, we won’t gain anything by arguing with these -fellows. They have no sense of humor and don’t want one!” - -Following their two captors the lads trudged down the track toward the -hut. Carefully they picked their way between groups of genuine refugees -rearranging their meagre possessions in the coaches. - -In a short time the boys were duly presented before a gray-haired officer -seated at a table placed against the wall of the hut. It was darker -in the room than out of doors. A single oil lamp served to dispel the -gathering gloom of the early twilight. - -Reporting volubly in German, with many gesticulations, the soldier -presented the four boys. At the conclusion of his recital he laid the -parcel upon the table. Drawing himself to his full height and assuming a -tragic air he surveyed his captives with complacency. - -“Look at that mark!” whispered Jimmie hoarsely. “What is it?” - -“It says ‘U-13’ as plainly as the freckles on your nose,” replied Harry, -who stood nearest the table. “I don’t know what it means!” - -A challenge from the sentry at the door drew the attention of those -within the hut. For a moment every eye turned toward the entrance. - -Ever on the alert, Jimmie saw a hand thrust through the open window. It -seized the package and noiselessly disappeared. - - - - -CHAPTER II - -DIFFICULTIES AND DANGERS - - -Finding that the disturbance had been caused by the approach of one of -the refugees who demanded an audience with the commander, but who had -quickly been satisfied by the explanation of the sentry, the officer -again gave his attention to the group before him. - -“Proceed!” he ordered. “You may speak English for the benefit of these -young gentlemen. Let us have the story, now!” - -“Myself and my comrade searched the baggage of these fellows,” began the -soldier, directing a contemptuous glance at the boys. “When we reached -the kit of that one there,” here he pointed at Ned, “we discovered what -seemed to us to be suspicious goods. Here it is—!” - -A gasp of astonishment terminated the triumphant recital. - -“Go on!” ordered the officer without emotion. - -“But a moment ago the package was lying on your table!” almost shouted -the soldier. “Now it is gone!” - -“So I perceive!” replied the officer. “If you have evidence, please -produce it. Otherwise I shall examine the passports of the young -gentlemen, and if they are found correct I shall permit them to depart.” - -He reached out a hand for the passports, which were quickly presented. -After a minute scrutiny and careful comparison of descriptions he -returned them to the lads. Again he turned to the soldier. - -“Have you any evidence of their guilt?” he inquired. - -“I believe they have stolen the package!” stormed the soldier. - -“Search them!” commanded the officer. “With respect!” he added. - -During the hasty but thorough search of the lads’ clothing Jimmie grinned -maliciously into he faces of the soldiers. His delight knew no rounds. -Their discomfiture upon failing to find the package was exceeded only by -the delight of the lad, who prudently held his own counsel. - -“There must have been a mistake!” at length declared the officer -impatiently. “We cannot delay the train longer. Permit them to proceed!” - -“But I swear I discovered in their luggage a suspicious parcel!” - -“It is not here! The young gentlemen do not seem to have it! In the face -of their apparently correct passports and this courteous request from -their friend, von Moltke, I am not justified in holding them longer! -Young men, you may resume your journey!” - -Thanking the officer in grateful acknowledgment of his courtesy the lads -again found their compartment. Scarcely had they regained their former -position before the train again began to move. - -“Now, Ned,” began Harry, as the wheels once more clicked over the rail -joints, “produce! Let’s have the secret!” - -“Produce nothing!” declared Ned. “I have nothing to produce!” - -“The package, man, the mysterious package of contraband spy literature!” -demanded Harry in a serious tone. “What secrets are you carrying out of -this country to help the English?” - -“I tell you I have nothing at all! I don’t know what that package -contained, nor do I know where it came from!” - -“That’s all right, too!” declared Jack. “But where did it go to so -suddenly? That’s the interesting part! What did you do with it?” - -“Honestly, boys,” protested Ned, “I haven’t got it. I saw that fellow -fish it out of my kit. I saw him put it on the table. When I turned back -after glancing at the door the package was gone!” - -“We know that!” continued Harry. “Now, who took it?” - -“I’d give a good deal to know that myself!” declared Ned. - -“Just how much would you give?” queried Jimmie from his seat in a corner -from whence he had been listening. “I’d like to make a stake!” - -“Jimmie pinched it!” cried Harry, pouncing upon his comrade. - -“Deliver that package!” shouted Jack, going to the assistance of his -chum. “Search him, Ned!” he continued, as Jimmie was dragged to his feet. -“Go through him carefully while we hold him.” - -“Go as far as you like,” grinned Jimmie teasingly. “It’s not here!” - -“Where is it, Jimmie?” questioned Ned, seriously, “let’s have it!” - -“I tell you I haven’t got it!” declared Jimmie, still grinning. “But I -saw it when it disappeared and I know where it went!” - -“Hurry up!” shouted Jack, impatiently. “Say something!” - -“It went out of the window of the shanty!” declared Jimmie. - -“Aw, go on!” scorned Harry. “Just jumped up and flew away!” - -With a laugh Jimmie then related what he had seen at the moment when all -the other occupants of the hut had been giving their attention to the -disturbance at the front door. The tale astonished his chums. - -“I saw the hand as plainly as I see my own!” declared Jimmie, holding -his hand up to the light of the single oil lamp. “It was the hand of a -gentleman, I should say. I mean by that, it was soft and well kept—not -hard and calloused. The peculiar mark by which I shall know it again if -I see it was a scar extending clear across the back. I somehow connected -that scar with a saber or sword cut. It was an ugly wound.” - -“Did you see anything of the man?” asked Ned, eagerly. - -“No, I wasn’t turned far enough and didn’t dare move,” replied Jimmie. -“All at once I seemed to comprehend that the thief was saving us a lot of -troublesome delay, and I just let him make his getaway without raising a -holler! I thought he was helping us as well as himself!” - -“I think we ought to vote Jimmie a credit mark!” declared Ned. - -“He certainly exercised wonderful self-control in not making a noise at -a critical time,” added Jack. “I wonder, now, if the chap at the door -made the disturbance to assist the other fellow in grabbing the parcel. -It would almost seem as if they were working together!” - -“It does seem like that!” stated Ned, thoughtfully. “But what puzzles me -most is the fact that the package was in our baggage!” - -“I wonder what on earth could have been in the old ‘U-13’!” - -But ponder and speculate as they might the lads were unable to arrive at -a solution of the mysterious presence and disappearance of the package -bearing the curious mark. Weary with the exertion of attempting to solve -the problem the boys at length composed themselves for sleep. - -Mile after mile the train bumped jerkily along the uneven track. -Occasionally a guard opened the door to scrutinize the compartment, but -upon finding the little party at rest he again proceeded to his duties. - -Gradually the train drew away from the inundated section. To the -southward, whence they had come, the boys were leaving the scene of the -mighty conflict, the like of which history had never seen. Behind them -were the trenches filled with soldiers—some happy and gay even in the -presence of death, others disheartened and downcast. There, too, they -were leaving the great cannon with their roaring, screaming shells, the -vicious crack of rifles and the wasp-like singing of bullets. - -Before them in fancy they saw a great ship upon which they would take -passage to the peace and quietness of their own country. Their dreams -were filled with scenes of New York and their beloved club room, hung -with trophies of the prowess of the members of their patrol. - -At Amsterdam they would embark speedily and after a week or ten days of -ocean travel would see again the Goddess of Liberty holding up to the -world a beacon to guide their ships into a haven of peace and plenty. - -Could the boys have pierced the veil and looked upon the scenes through -which they were soon to pass their rest that night might not have been so -tranquil, their dreams would perhaps have been less pleasant. - -Thanks to the consideration extended them at the instance of their -friend, von Moltke, the German officer in whose charge they had been -placed during the last exciting scenes of their stay in the war zone, -the lads had been accorded the privilege of a whole compartment. Due to -this fact they found room in which to stretch out as they slept. This -exceptional advantage was fully appreciated. - -Toward morning the boys were awakened by the bustle surrounding the -arrival of the train at Utrecht. At this point another passenger was -thrust unceremoniously into the compartment. After performing this duty -the guard hastened away to perform similar services for others. - -“Good morning, gentlemen,” said the newcomer pleasantly. - -“Top of the morning to you!” smiled Jimmie, rising and endeavoring to -smooth out the wrinkles in his uniform. “How’s the weather outside?” - -“Clearing rapidly, but there’s promise of some wind,” replied the -newcomer. “May I ask how far you are going?” - -“New York!” declared Jimmie with a grin. “That is,” he added, “if this -old ark holds together until we get to Amsterdam and we can find a ship -there. It would be just our luck to find the last canal boat gone!” - -“Been having tough luck?” inquired the other solicitously. - -“Rotten!” stated the boy. “How far do you go?” he asked. - -“Amsterdam is my present destination,” was the reply. “My name’s -Mackinder—Robert Mackinder, and I’m trying to get out of this forsaken -country, don’t you know. I’m in hopes I’ll be able to find some craft -destined to a point where I’ll be able to get home.” - -Introductions of the four lads followed. Mackinder proved himself an -entertaining talker. Listening to his tales of adventure in various lands -the boys were soon at ease. The man apparently had traveled over the -whole world for he seemed familiar with all lands. - -“I say,” declared Jimmie, as their new found friend concluded a tale of -privation through which he had passed in South Africa, “that story of -starvation reminds me that I am hungry. I haven’t eaten in a week!” - -“Jimmie, Jimmie!” cautioned Ned. “Get down to recent dates!” - -“Well, it feels that way, anyhow,” persisted the boy. - -“Can you tell us where we’ll be able to find a lunch counter?” asked Ned. -“We have nothing in our kits except some hard tack.” - -“There is no place short of Amsterdam where one can get anything like -a decent meal,” replied Mackinder. “There I can show you the way to a -restaurant that is all right. It is not far from the docks.” - -“Then we’ll get one good, solid, square meal!” shouted Jimmie. - -“And after breakfast,” put in Harry, “we’ll go aboard the steamer and let -’em sail as soon as they like! What shall we eat?” - -“I want a limburger cheese sandwich,” announced Jimmie. “I’d like it to -be on rye bread with plenty of mustard. Then with a couple of cups of -real old Dutch coffee I guess I’d last until noon.” - -“By noon we’ll be out on the North Sea, I hope,” stated Harry. - -“You don’t get onto the North Sea direct from Amsterdam!” scorned Jack. -“You have to go through some sort of lake or bay first!” - -“Leave it to Mr. Mackinder here!” protested Harry. - -“Your friend is right, Harry,” smiled Mackinder, thus appealed to. -“Amsterdam is on the Zuider Zee. If we get a vessel at that place we will -pass northward through that water, thence between some of the Friesian -Islands into the North Sea. From that point it is but a short distance to -my destination. Any port in England will be suitable for my purpose.” - -“Nix on England for mine!” declared Jimmie. “I’m for the little old -United States every time. We are neutral there without having to think -about it. I’m about done with war. I’ve seen enough!” - -“Too much is plenty, as the Dutchman says,” put in Harry. “But about this -Amsterdam place, now. Do you know the town, Mr. Mackinder?” - -“Indeed I do!” was the reply. “I have been there many times.” - -“Then perhaps you’d be good enough to give us a little help. You see, -we’re strangers there and since we’ve lost our airship we’re almost -helpless. We’re not accustomed to finding our way about where the -inhabitants don’t speak English. Besides, we’re not provided with a map.” - -“I shall be delighted to help you in any way possible,” continued the -man. “I think that if you follow me you’ll have little trouble.” - -The lads gladly availed themselves of this offer, and shortly after -their arrival at the city they found themselves in a room plainly but -comfortably furnished. From their windows they could see the shipping in -the harbor. Before them a busy street teemed with traffic. - -Watching the strange sights below, the boys were startled to hear: - -“I’ll trouble you now for the ‘U-13’ package!” - -Wheeling quickly they were frightened to observe that Mackinder had them -covered with a revolver. His look was stern and determined. - - - - -CHAPTER III - -THE MAN WITH THE SCAR - - -“What package is it you want?” inquired Ned in amazement as he saw that -Mackinder evidently intended to enforce his demand at all costs. - -“I shall countenance no delay!” spoke the man sharply. “You may step to -your luggage there and produce that package instantly. If you refuse I -shall summon assistance and will be taken forcibly.” - -“You have the wrong pig by the ear this time, partner!” put in Jimmie. -“Just put up your little cannon. It won’t do you any good here.” - -“Enough!” snapped Mackinder. “You will gain nothing by attempting such -methods. I am not to be balked by trivialities!” - -“Well, Boss,” smiled Jimmie, “we haven’t got any ‘U-13’ package and we -haven’t got any of those other things, either!” - -“I warn you,” went on Mackinder in a menacing tone, “it has become known -to the authorities that you have this package. I have been commissioned -to secure it. If you surrender it before leaving this country you will -lose nothing. If you refuse it will be taken by force. In that case you -need not expect to receive any degree of clemency in the matter!” - -“Mr. Mackinder,” began Ned with dignity, “we don’t understand what you -mean. If you intend to infer that we have some mysterious package that we -should not have you are not fair to us. Perhaps you would like to examine -our luggage and be sure it is not there.” - -“Very well,” stated Mackinder grimly. “If you insist.” - -Keeping the revolver leveled in the direction of the group the man -stepped to the side of the room. He grasped the old-fashioned bell-pull. -In answer to his summons steps were heard approaching the door. - -“Ah, there you are, Norton,” sighed Mackinder in a relieved tone as a -man in uniform appeared. “Just keep an eye on these chaps, will you. I’m -going through their luggage. Look sharp, now!” - -From Norton’s appearance the boys judged that the task was much to his -liking. He fingered a wicked looking revolver, as if anticipating trouble -and hoping that would come quickly. His manner was that of an eager -hunting dog scenting game and only waiting a command to attack. - -Thinking it best to offer no resistance and understanding that arguments -would not avail under the present circumstances Ned seated himself in a -convenient chair. He began to divert the minds of his comrades by talking -of the shipping and the traffic which they could see. - -Hastily Mackinder tossed the luggage about in his efforts to locate the -article he sought. Finally he turned to Ned. - -“Where have you concealed it?” he asked, with some display of anger. - -“Concealed what?” asked Ned impatiently. “I tell you, Mr. Mackinder, I -don’t like the idea of your holding us up in this manner without apparent -authority. You are imposing on good nature!” - -“Perhaps I have been a little hasty,” stated Mackinder, “but I have been -commissioned to secure a certain package which is alleged to contain -information vital to two countries. It may possibly concern more. You -are said to have had possession of this package at the time you left the -castle in Flanders. Where is it now?” - -“Do you mean the flat package the soldier found in our baggage at the -frontier where we were searched?” inquired Jimmie. - -“No doubt it is the same one,” stated Mackinder. - -“Then,” declared the boy, pointing at Mackinder’s hand, “I have every -reason to believe that you know more about the whereabouts of that -package than do we. I recognize that peculiar scar on your hand!” - -Quick glances of inquiry were directed by the boys at the hand toward -which Jimmie was pointing. It bore a scar running clear across the -back—an ugly, jagged scar that they had heard Jimmie describe. - -“What did you mean by coming here and trying to throw a bluff into us -about the package still being in our kits when you yourself took it from -the table in the hut?” demanded Jimmie aggressively. - -“You’re mistaken, boys, I don’t know what you’re talking about!” - -“Then you’ve got a mighty poor memory!” declared the lad. - -“Mr. Mackinder,” Ned said in a low tone vibrant with indignation, “if -you’ve quite satisfied yourself that we have not got the package you seem -to be seeking we’ll excuse you. We don’t want your company any more, and -we shall try to proceed upon our journey alone.” - -“But, see here, boys—” Mackinder attempted to explain. - -“Not another word!” cried Ned rising. “There is the door and you are at -liberty to use it quickly. You are welcome to the package!” - -“You will find out later on,” Mackinder said, as he started to leave the -room in company with Norton, “that I’ve been trying to help you out of -mighty suspicious circumstances. You are ungrateful!” - -“Good-bye!” called out Jimmie. “Don’t slam the door!” - -For a moment the boys gazed at one another in amazement after the two men -had left the room. They were excited and puzzled. - -“Well, this is a stunner!” declared Ned at length. - -“Who is this Mackinder, who is Norton, what is in this ‘U-13’ package -that he wants, how did it get into our baggage, why was it put there, -where are we going, when do we eat?” demanded Jimmie in a breath. - -“That’s the way to talk, Jimmie!” cried Harry, laughing in spite of the -situation that the boys all felt to be a serious one. - -“The last question is the most important!” stated Jack. “I’m in favor of -the eats part and that without further delay.” - -“Come on, boys,” suggested Ned. “Let’s eat first and talk things over -afterward. I’m nearly famished myself, and Jimmie is hungry, too!” - -In a short time the lads were seated in a quaint restaurant ordering -strange dishes. They were hungry, as only healthy, active boys can be. -The food was well cooked and appetizing. They ate heartily. - -“Now, I’m in favor of getting to the docks as quick as possible,” -announced Jimmie, pushing his plate away. “Let’s get our passage settled.” - -All were in favor of this arrangement. After paying for their breakfast -the lads set out in search of a ship upon which they might secure passage -to the United States. But they were not to secure this easily. - -Extended inquiry during the forenoon elicited the information that there -was no vessel clearing from the port of Amsterdam for any place in -America. Although they made every effort to find a steamer which would -afford them the accommodations they sought none was found. - -Inquiry at the railway station disclosed the fact that their airship, the -Grey Eagle, now dismantled and packed in boxes, was at the freight sheds -waiting a claimant. Until they could find a vessel to carry it home the -boys preferred to let it remain in its present location. - -After dinner they continued their inquiries for a vessel. At length they -learned of a full-rigged three-masted ship that was to clear in a few -days for New York. Regretting even this short delay the lads decided to -attempt to secure passage, although the journey would be a long one. - -Ned secured the services of a boatman, who offered to row them out to the -ship, which lay at anchor in the harbor. The man charged them what the -boys considered an extraordinary price for the service, but explained -that the weather was unfavorable and that at any moment a storm might -break. To this the boys could but agree. A glance at the sky convinced -them that a storm of rather unusual violence was gathering. - -“Take him up, anyhow, Ned!” urged Harry. “We want to get home!” - -“All right, then, here goes!” declared Ned, stepping aboard the -waterman’s craft. “Pull away, my friend, we’re all aboard.” - -In a short time the man was threading his way amongst the shipping in the -harbor. From their position so low upon the water the masts and spars of -the vessels looked to be of extraordinary height to the boys, who viewed -every object with keen interest. - -A hail from the boatman was answered by a man from the deck of the ship. -He thrust his head over the rail inquiringly. - -“Where’s your captain?” asked Ned, as the man appeared. - -“What do you want of the captain?” asked the man in a surly voice. - -“We want to talk with him,” replied Ned. “We’ll explain to him.” - -“He’s busy now and don’t want to be disturbed. Tell me what you want and -I’ll give him your message. Maybe he’ll see you!” - -“We want to arrange passage on your ship to the United States.” - -“I’ll see what he’s got to say,” replied the man, moving away. - -While he was gone the boys examined the vessel closely. Jimmie pronounced -the vessel very much to his liking. He admired the lines and pointed with -pride to the modeling of the stern. - -“Hello!” the boy cried excitedly, his arm extended still in the act of -indicating the ship, “there goes our friend Mackinder in a launch!” - -“Where?” asked Ned eagerly, turning about in his seat. - -“Right astern of us!” replied Jimmie. “I wonder what he was doing aboard -this ship. He seems to be in a hurry to get ashore.” - -“Maybe he wasn’t on this ship at all,” was Harry’s objection. “He might -have been out on the harbor for a pleasure ride.” - -“Sure, he’s just the chap to take a pleasure ride on the harbor with a -storm brewing! I’ve got a picture of that chap joy-riding!” - -“I hope he doesn’t see us,” declared Jack. “He might have enough -influence with the captain to prevent our securing passage on this ship.” - -The conversation was interrupted by the advent of the captain, who looked -over the rail at the little craft riding alongside. - -“What do you want?” he inquired in a business-like tone. - -“We want to arrange passage on your ship to New York, Captain,” stated -Ned respectfully. “We understand you are to sail soon. We are citizens of -the United States homeward bound. Can you help us out?” - -“Not this trip!” decided the captain instantly. - -“We are able to pay well for our accommodations,” continued the boy. “It -is rather important that we get home as quickly as possible.” - -“Possibly,” returned the captain shortly. - -Nonplussed, Ned was at a loss to find words with which to urge his -request further. The captain’s distant manner gave him no encouragement. - -“We’ll not be the slightest trouble, Captain,” the lad presently -continued. “We understand you’ll be loaded in a few days and will sail -for New York direct. Cannot you arrange to accommodate us?” - -“This isn’t a passenger vessel,” stated the captain. - -“Well, then, couldn’t we sign articles and work our way over? We’d be -willing to pay whatever you think is right for that privilege.” - -“You want to get me into trouble with the authorities, don’t you?” -replied the other, preparing to move away. - -“But, Captain, just think a moment. There must be some way in which you -can arrange it. Don’t leave us in a foreign country!” - -“You seem to have done pretty well in foreign countries as it is! If you -can pull off the stunts you have just done I guess you’ll get over to New -York all right—if that’s where you want to go!” - -“What do you mean? I don’t understand you!” - -“Oh, you don’t, eh? Well, to put it plainly, this is a peaceable, neutral -ship doing honest trading. I carry freight, not spies!” - -With these words the captain disappeared. The boys gasped in astonishment -at the words and looked at each other speechless. - -Ned motioned to the boatman to return to the dock. His puzzled frown -showed plainly that the boy was at a loss to understand the situation. - -“I’ve got it!” almost shouted Jimmie, as the lads were once more on land. -“I know what the answer is! I’ve been reading my little dream book!” - -“All right, wise man, let’s have it! Don’t keep it bottled up!” - -“Mackinder!” declared Jimmie impressively. - -“You don’t mean to say that he beat us to the ship and managed to get the -captain to refuse us passage on his vessel?” asked Ned. - -“I believe I’m right at that!” maintained Jimmie, stoutly. - -“Then the only thing we can do is to try to find some coasting vessel -to carry us out of the Zuider Zee into the North Sea and make a port in -England. We can then go overland to Liverpool and get a ship from there -home. Suppose we try that?” offered Ned. - -The boys were passing along a covered dock at the moment. As they turned -a corner they saw Mackinder standing near. A smile of triumph lighted his -face. - - - - -CHAPTER IV - -THE LENA KNOBLOCH - - -“What did I tell you?” inquired Jimmie, as the boys passed the man. -“There he stands with his arms folded and grins like a cream stealing -cat! I wish I had a half a brick! We’ll have to watch out for him!” - -“It surely looks as if you were right, Jimmie!” assented Ned. - -“But what gets me,” put in Harry, “is why he should be after us! What -have we done? He seems to have information that we’re criminals!” - -“It looks mighty strange that he should have stolen the package out of -that hut and then continue to insist that we have it,” remarked Ned. “Are -you sure he’s the same fellow, Jimmie?” - -“It’s the very same hand,” declared the lad, “and that hand is a dead -give away! I wonder he didn’t wear a glove or bandage!” - -“Maybe he didn’t have time when he got the package,” explained Jack. “Can -anyone tell me how the thing got into our kits?” - -This question was unanswerable by any of the lads. Puzzling over the -strange adventures they had recently encountered the lads proceeded to -their hotel, where they spent some time in freshening both themselves and -their uniforms and in rearranging their baggage. - -At supper time they were tired and very hungry. At the first opportunity -they proceeded to the restaurant where they had formerly eaten. - -Jimmie’s spirits revived as food was set before them. In a moment he was -laughing and chatting away without a care in the world. His good humor -was infectious. Soon all four boys were in a merry mood. - -“I wish we could get a civilized paper,” declared Jack at length. “I’d -really like to see what’s going on in the world.” - -“Maybe we can get one at the desk. Or possibly the cashier can tell us -where they will have English papers for sale,” suggested Harry. - -“Here comes a man who looks as if he were a native,” spoke up Jimmie. -“I’ll bet he can tell us a whole lot of things we want to know!” - -The boys glanced up to observe a man approaching their table. He was -evidently a seafaring man. His dress and manner betokened the deep sea -mariner. A decided air of the ocean marked him to the boys’ eyes. - -“Goot efening, Chentlemen!” the stranger said as he approached. - -“Howdy!” replied Jimmie, with a wave of his hand. “What’ll you have?” - -“Vell,” replied the visitor, “schnapps vas goot, but you couldn’t get ’em -here. Dis isn’t no blace for dot! No, sir!” - -“I wasn’t inviting you to have a drink,” snapped Jimmie somewhat -confusedly, “I meant to ask you what’s on your mind.” - -“So-o-o-o!” exclaimed the newcomer with a long drawn expression of -surprise. His shaggy eyebrows raised as he extended his chin and shrugged -his shoulders, pantomiming an apology. “So, dot’s it, eh?” - -“Sure thing!” answered Jimmie, regaining his composure in a measure but -with his face still flushed. “We want to know what you’re after.” - -“Vell,” went on the visitor, “my name’s Captain Johannes von Kluck. Don’d -forgot dot ‘Captain’ part, eider. Und I haf learned dot you chentlemans -vas lookin’ for a fine, fast ship. Und I have chust dot!” - -As he made this announcement Captain von Kluck smiled a wide look of -friendship at the entire party. It was a wonderful smile, beginning at -the tiny wrinkles surrounding the corners of his eyes. From there it -spread all over his face, gradually distorting the features until, as -Jimmie afterward declared, the boys were forced to smile in spite of -themselves. - -“And where does your fine ship go, Captain von Kluck?” asked Ned. - -“Chust vherefer you vant to go!” declared the captain solemnly. “Me, I am -a goot navigator, und mine mate he is, too, a goot von!” - -“We want to go to New York,” continued Ned. “If you can arrange to -furnish us passage to that port, we’ll pay you well.” - -To this the captain answered by spreading his hands and shrugging his -shoulders until they nearly reached his ears. Over his beaming face -spread a look of despair. He slowly shook his head. - -“To New York I cannot go!” he answered dolefully. “Bud I vill put you -ashore in England, und from dere you can easy get a ship!” - -“Well, that’s better than nothing at all!” admitted Ned. - -“Sure!” declared Jimmie. “Anything to get out of this place!” - -“When can you be ready to sail, Captain?” inquired Ned. - -“Who, me?” questioned the captain in a tone of surprise. - -“Nobody else but you, your crew and we boys!” laughed Ned. - -“Sure! Dot’s all ridt!” nodded von Kluck. “Vhell, I’m ready now. Yet I -haf some cheeses on board to put, und some odder tings!” - -“Can you accommodate the boxes containing our airship?” asked Jimmie. “We -have the Grey Eagle over here at the railroad station and don’t want to -leave it behind us when we leave the country.” - -“Maybe it vould on de schip go!” consented von Kluck. - -“Hurrah!” exultantly cried the lads. “That’s fine!” - -“How big is your ship, Captain?” asked Ned, “and what’s her name?” - -“Mine schip is der Lena Knobloch!” smiled the captain. “Dot’s vot you -English beoples call garlic. Und id vas a goot schip alreaty!” - -“Well, then,” suggested Ned, “suppose the captain takes supper here as -our guest. Two of us will remain with him to arrange details while the -other two hasten away and get a truck to take the boxes to the dock. Can -you give us directions for reaching the vessel, Captain?” - -“Sure,” assented the captain, seating himself. “Und I know a man vot -vould haul your goots, too. I get him,” he added. - -“In that case, we’ll all go over together,” proposed Jack. “I don’t like -the idea of separating while we’re in a strange town.” - -“Perhaps the captain can tell us where we can get some English papers,” -ventured Jimmie. “We’d like to get the latest news.” - -Wheeling in his chair the captain bawled out an order in Dutch. A waiter -came bustling up with an air of deference. Evidently he knew the captain -and understood that no delay would be tolerated. - -A few words were rapidly spoken, whereupon the waiter hastened away to -return presently with several newspapers. These were spread upon the -table before the boys, who began a perusal of their contents. - -“Gee whiz!” exclaimed Jimmie, glancing at the headlines of the paper -which had fallen to his lot. “Listen to this—three vessels sunk in the -mouth of the Mersey river by a German submarine identified as the ‘U-13.’ -Then there’s been two vessels sunk at the mouth of the Thames!” - -“What sunk them?” inquired Harry. - -“It says here that they were sunk by a German submarine. In each case the -diver has been identified as the ‘U-13’ by the crews of the ill-fated -vessels. Now, that’s going some!” - -“Let’s see,” pondered Harry, “the Thames is the river leading to London, -while the Mersey is the river leading to Liverpool.” - -“Right you are, Old Scout, go to the head of the class!” - -“Hush, Jimmie, no nonsense!” cautioned Ned. - -“What I was thinking about,” continued Harry, “is the distance a boat -would have to travel to get from one place to the other. It must be all -of seven hundred miles around Land’s End. A boat would have to be speedy -to cover that distance so quickly!” - -“How quickly?” demanded Jimmie. “The paper says the three ships were -sunk at the Mersey on Wednesday morning. Those at the Thames, or rather -‘off Margate,’ as the article states, were sunk Thursday afternoon. That -wouldn’t be such an impossible feat after all!” - -“Twenty miles an hour sustained speed for about twenty-eight hours is -running along at a pretty good clip, just the same!” - -“Well, the vessel did it!” declared Jimmie. “The paper says that about -six o’clock Wednesday morning the Wanderer, a vessel laden with -foodstuffs from Australia, was hailed by the crew of a submarine. They -were permitted to take to the small boats and then the Wanderer was -torpedoed, going down at once. The submarine was positively identified -as the ‘U-13.’ Then the other paragraph says that at about eight o’clock -on Thursday evening the steamer Adventure from Buenos Ayres with a cargo -of flour for London was treated in the same manner off Margate by the -‘U-13’!” - -“Isn’t it a little strange that the submarine should have attacked a -peaceful merchant vessel?” inquired Jack. “That isn’t war!” - -“Evidently it is the intention to blockade all English ports and shut -off the food supply of the nation,” ventured Ned. “You see the article -relates that all the ships were loaded with food and destined to English -ports. It must be a blockade movement!” - -“Here’s an account,” announced Harry, “that says a steamer was hailed by -a submarine a few miles off the Lizard Head. It escaped by its superior -speed, but only by a narrow margin, for the submarine launched a torpedo -that barely missed striking the after portion of the ship!” - -“Maybe it was the same little old ‘U-13,’” suggested Jimmie. - -“Oh, you ‘U-13’!” laughed Jack. “You’re some boat, all right!” - -“Say!” shouted Jimmie, jumping quickly to his feet. The boy glanced about -the group with startled looks. “What about that ‘U-13’ package? Do you -suppose it was intended for the submarine?” - -The boys exchanged puzzled looks. Perplexity was expressed in every face. -A look of worry began to appear on Ned’s countenance. - -“I wonder who Mackinder is and what he has to do with that package,” -the lad said presently. “Boys, we’re surely stumbling into a mess of -something. We’ll have to be careful!” - -“Captain,” demanded Jimmie, turning to von Kluck, “what do you know about -this ‘U-13’ business? What is the ‘U-13’?” - -Leaning back in his chair the captain drew a long breath. He filled a -great pipe from a capacious pouch. Gravely he packed the tobacco into the -immense bowl, accompanying the procedure with sundry shakes of his head. -Not until the pipe was drawing freely did he reply. - -“Ach, id vas vot der Deutsch say it ‘Unterseeboot’! You English say it -submarine! Und dot liddle schip goes ‘Boom’! und down goes der big -schips under der vasser! Und dey stay, too!” he concluded. - -“Yes, we know that,” assented Jimmie, punctuating his statement with a -poke at the paragraph he had just read, “but who owns it?” - -“Vhell, der Chermans dey claim to haf a big share in id!” - -“Then if we start out for England in this Lena Knobloch of yours how do -we know that the ‘U-13’ won’t come along and take a poke at us just out -of pure spite?” questioned the lad. - -“Vhell, maybe she vill,” agreed von Kluck, between puffs. “Bud if you -vhas like me, you iss willing to took a chance. I go, und das Lena goes, -und by und by maybe we make blenty money und go ashore to shtay.” - -“You take it easy, I must say!” returned Jimmie, somewhat amused. - -“Are you going out just the same, Captain?” inquired Jack. - -“Sure!” proclaimed the captain, in no uncertain tones. - -“Then let’s be getting that truck and take the Grey Eagle boxes aboard -the Lena Knobloch!” cried Jack. “The sooner it’s over the easier I’ll -feel. I’m beginning to get nervous about all this ‘U-13’ business!” - -After paying their bill the boys set out in company with the captain to -find the trucker. That individual put up a strong protest at taking out -his horses at the unseemly hour, but a piece of coin slipped into his -hand at the opportune moment by Ned soon changed his mind. - -Another piece of money changing hands at the proper moment secured the -consent of the official in charge of the freight sheds to the delivery of -the boxes containing the precious Grey Eagle. - -Making the affair a pleasure jaunt the lads lost no time in loading the -cases aboard the truck. Merrily they set off for the dock. - -Upon arriving in the vicinity of his vessel the captain shed his jovial -air like an overcoat. He bawled out orders to his crew, emphasizing his -commands with sundry fistic punctuations. The men evidently knew with -whom they had to deal, for they fell to the work with a will. - -The boys turned back to the hotel to secure their hand baggage. - -A small cart drawn by two huge dogs was approaching. In the vehicle were -some milk cans. The figure of a woman guided the strange team. - -“This is rather early for the milklady!” laughed Jimmie. - -“That’s no woman!” declared Jack. “Look at that walk!” - -“That’s Mackinder!” Jimmie cried. “See the scar on his hand!” - - - - -CHAPTER V - -TWO MYSTERIOUS CHANGES - - -“Hey, you!” shouted Jimmie, dashing across the street in the direction of -the queer outfit. “Come here! I want to see you!” - -The pseudo milk vendor gave a quick glance at the approaching boy. A -street lamp cast a flickering glare upon the automatic which Jimmie had -drawn from his pocket. Without waiting to explain or ask questions the -person addressed deserted the dog team instantly. - -With but a single look over its shoulder the figure darted toward a -building at the head of the quay. Boots clattered on the pavement, while -the long stride clearly indicated to the boys that Jimmie and Jack had -been correct in their surmise that the garb of a woman milk vendor had -been assumed as a disguise. - -Although Jimmie’s speed was great, the lad’s sprint was not sufficient to -permit him to overtake his quarry. - -“He’ll never make it!” declared Jack, tugging away at his own automatic -and preparing to follow his comrade. - -“Come on, fellows, let’s get a move on!” suggested Harry. “That fellow -will just about get into a corner somewhere and knock Jimmie over the -head. He’s capable of worse than that, I believe!” - -All three lads hastened after the fleeing figure of their red-headed chum -and the one whom he was pursuing. - -An open door in the building indicated that the race had turned in that -direction. Producing an electric searchlight Ned urged caution. Directly -the lads heard the sound of a falling body. This was at once followed -by an exclamation of surprise and disgust. They recognized the tones as -those of their companion. - -“Are you there, Jimmie?” called Ned, swinging the beam from his -searchlight about the interior, lighting up a collection of merchandise -piled in the warehouse. Jimmie was nowhere to be seen. - -“Where could he have gone so suddenly?” queried Harry. - -“Maybe Mackinder hit him over the head!” ventured Jack. - -“Mackinder better be careful how he monkeys with this crew!” was Harry’s -belligerent comment. “Maybe that guy’ll get all that’s coming to him and -get it right in the neck!” - -For a moment the boys stood listening intently for some indication of the -presence of their comrade. Once Ned thought he heard a soft footfall. He -put out his hand to touch Jack on the arm. - -“Ss-s-sh!” he hissed. “What was that?” - -“Rat, maybe!” suggested Jack. “Turn your searchlight this way a minute. I -want to see where this passage leads.” - -Ned swung the searchlight in the direction indicated. Its lance of flame -pierced the gloom, revealing tiers of boxes and piles of bags and bales -heaped up in orderly array. Sufficient space had been left between the -heaps of merchandise to provide passageway. - -“Come on,” cried Jack, “we’re losing time standing here!” - -Scarcely had the boy uttered the words ere an object came hurtling -through the air. It struck the searchlight fairly upon the lens. There -was a quick cry of distress from Ned, a rattle of broken glass, the -tinkle of the falling searchlight. For a moment complete silence reigned. -The next instant there was a rush of a heavy body. - -Taken by surprise the boys were not prepared for the onslaught. They went -down like ten pins. Harry received a blow on the jaw that nearly put him -out for the count. Jack declared afterwards that his stomach would never -cease aching from the punch that landed there. - -Ned had been bringing up the rear of the little party, hence suffered -least. He felt about quickly for the searchlight as he lay on the floor. -Before he could recover it the boys heard the outer door slam and knew -that someone had passed out of the building after the sudden attack. Who -it might have been they could only conjecture. - -“Oh, my poor jaw!” groaned Harry. “I’m knocked out!” - -“No, you’re not!” protested Ned. “That only shook you up!” - -“Sure!” agreed Jack. “Shook us all up so we’ll get a little more ‘pep’. -Let’s hurry up and follow that guy!” - -“Wait a minute,” objected Ned. “We want to find Jimmie first!” - -“Right-O!” agreed Harry. “I think my jaw is better now. Where are we -going, anyway? Do you suppose that was Jimmie that floored us just now? -Maybe he thought Mackinder had pals coming in!” - -“I don’t believe it,” stated Ned. “Jimmie must have known that Mackinder -was alone with the milk wagon. He also knew that we would follow him -here. Possibly the lad is farther along in the warehouse, lost amongst -this merchandise. That must have been Mackinder!” - -“You’re right, Ned!” declared Jack. “He probably misled Jimmie in here -and then dashed out as we came in!” - -“But where is Jimmie now?” queried Harry. “I don’t hear him!” - -“Oh, Jimmie!” called Ned in a loud tone. - -To this hail there was no answer. Complete silence reigned. - -“That’s mighty funny!” puzzled Harry. “Get your searchlight and let’s -hunt him up. He can’t have gotten far away.” - -A short search by all three boys resulted in the recovery of the -searchlight. Beyond the damaged lens the instrument had suffered no -injury. It was still serviceable and cast a strong beam of light. - -By its aid the lads followed the passage, stepping rapidly forward. -They were becoming alarmed over the failure of their chum to respond to -their calls. All feared that Mackinder might have done the lad harm. -Momentarily their anxiety increased. - -“Here’s a side passage!” declared Harry, who brought up the rear of the -little procession. “Where does this go?” - -“Wait a minute with that searchlight, Ned!” called Jack, who followed Ned -closely. “Throw it back here a minute for Harry!” - -Before the light could be brought into service Harry had taken a step -into the passage he had just discovered. A sharp cry of surprise brought -Jack and Ned to his side in an instant. - -The lads saw Harry bending over the form of their missing chum. Jimmie -lay in a heap, blocking the passageway. - -Fearful that their first suspicions had been correct, the boys scarcely -dared investigate. Jack began growling out uncomplimentary remarks -concerning Mackinder. Ned quickly forced his way to Harry’s side. - -“Here, let me see him!” Ned cried, throwing the flame of his searchlight -on the recumbent form. “Why, he’s all huddled up!” - -“All in a bunch!” agreed Harry. “I wonder if he’s hurt!” - -“Roll him over,” directed Ned. “Let’s get him out of here!” - -“Why, he’s tied!” cried Harry, in a startled voice. - -“Tied?” questioned Jack, pushing forward. “Who tied him?” - -“And gagged!” went on Harry, his voice vibrating with indignation. -“Mackinder will pay for this!” the lad continued. “We’ll get him!” - -Without the loss of a moment Harry was swiftly relieving Jimmie of the -object which prevented speech. A small block of wood had been forced -between Jimmie’s teeth. This had been secured in place by tying a -handkerchief over his face. The gag had been extremely effective, even -though it was uncomfortable and crude. - -As the gag was removed Jimmie wagged his jaw a few times to relieve the -strained muscles. He nodded his appreciation. - -“How are you feeling, Jimmie?” was Ned’s solicitous inquiry. - -“All right,” replied the lad. “Untie my hands, will you?” - -“Gee, but you’re an artist, Jimmie!” cried Jack. “We’ll get you a job as -‘Tricko, The Handcuff King’! I want to say right now,” the boy went on in -mock seriousness, “there are very few people who can tie themselves up so -completely and so quickly as this job has been done!” - -“You win the argument!” decided Jimmie, ironically. “If I get my tutor -where I can lay hands on him I’ll show him a trick or two that wasn’t in -the first chapter. He’s in for some instruction all right!” - -“What happened, Jimmie?” asked Ned, carefully passing his knife through -the bonds that confined the other’s hands and feet. - -“Well, when I came slamming along into the warehouse I was only a few -feet behind the milk maid!” began Jimmie. “I at once crept in on tiptoe, -because I reasoned that he would be slugging along, making considerable -noise. I didn’t know that there were goods in here. - -“I couldn’t see him anywhere. From that I concluded that he had either -stopped or had taken to tiptoeing, too. I had my ‘gat’ ready and started -in. I felt along the bales and boxes a ways. Just as I heard you fellows -come into the door something tripped me and down I went. - -“Before I could say a word he had shoved that thing into my mouth, pulled -a handkerchief out of my pocket, tied it around my face and then tied my -hands together under my knees. Say,” the lad continued earnestly, “that -guy never got his knowledge out of a correspondence course! He’s been -there and helped skin ’em! He’s smooth!” - -“Where’s your automatic?” asked Harry. - -“I don’t know,” replied Jimmie. “Let’s have the bug a minute. I’m sure I -heard it fall, but I can’t say whether Mackinder got it or not!” - -“Mackinder?” questioned Ned. “How do you know it was he?” - -“Because as he was tying my hands together I had a chance to feel of the -back of his right hand. I could feel the scar as plainly as could be. It -was the same scar I saw before he started to run and the same scar I saw -when the ‘U-13’ package was pinched!” - -“I’d like to take a poke at him just for luck!” declared Jack. - -“I don’t know about that,” stated Jimmie. “I can’t help but admire a -fellow as capable as he is. He tied me up so quickly and cleverly and yet -so effectively. I’d like to take lessons of him!” - -“Here’s your gun!” joyously announced Harry. “And here’s the milkmaid’s -dress he shed in here after he trussed you up.” - -“Now, then,” began Ned, as the party was again complete and ready for -action, “let’s get out of here and get our baggage.” - -“Let’s get Mackinder first,” proposed Jack. - -“I vote ‘No’ on that question, Mr. Chairman!” declared Jimmie. - -“Why?” questioned Jack, with surprise. “What’s the matter?” - -“Well, there are several matters!” declared Jimmie. “I don’t feel that -we’d gain anything by chasing him. The ‘U-13’ package is not in our -possession and he knows it. Besides, he’s a clever guy and we might get -the worst of it if we step out of our way to go after him.” - -“I agree with Jimmie,” announced Ned. “Let’s get aboard the Lena Garlic -and get started on our way as soon as possible.” - -“You mean Lena Knobloch!” corrected Harry. - -“It’s the same thing!” declared Ned. “Knobloch means garlic!” - -“All right, then, let’s get going!” agreed Jack. - -The boys lost little time in proceeding to their hotel, where they went -directly to their room. Here a scene of confusion awaited them. Their -possessions lay scattered around in disorder. - -“Well, Great Frozen Hot Boxes!” cried Jimmie. “What’s this?” - -“Mackinder and Norton again, I’ll bet my head!” said Jack. - -“Weren’t satisfied with their first search,” agreed Jimmie. - -“Came back here and went through everything. Then I’ll bet Mackinder -grabbed that milk cart and dogs, slipped on an old lady’s dress and -chased down to the dock to see if he could stop us!” put in Jack. “When -he found we were armed he just cut it and ran away!” - -“Boys, we will do well to pack up and get aboard that vessel as quickly -as possible!” declared Ned. “Through a mistake we’re under suspicion, and -it won’t pay us to remain here another minute!” - -Replacing their belongings in the bags with skill and despatch the lads -were soon ready. They at once proceeded to the dock. - -Tramping aboard they proceeded to the cabin at the after end of the -vessel. Entering they discovered Captain von Kluck seated at the little -table. Before him was a bottle and a glass. - -“Well, Captain,” began Ned, “we’re here and ready to go!” - -“So-o-o?” queried von Kluck. “Vhell, if you’re reatty to go, vhy go! But -you don’d go on dis schip. Vhe don’d carry bassengers!” - - - - -CHAPTER VI - -A DIFFICULT DEPARTURE - - -Astounded at the statement of the captain, whom they had begun to regard -as a friend but whose present manner indicated anything but friendship, -the boys glanced at each other in some degree of alarm. - -“Just what do you mean by that, Captain?” inquired Ned. “I thought it was -understood that we were to have passage on your boat!” - -“Vhell, den I forgot dot vhe don’d carry bassengers!” - -“And I suppose it took Mackinder to refresh your memory!” snapped Jimmie, -stepping forward with an outward thrust of his chin. - -At the mention of Mackinder’s name the captain gave a quick start. His -glance at Jimmie was one of uneasiness and alarm. - -“Vot do you know about Mackinter?” he inquired. - -“I know this,” stated Jimmie, angrily. “He’s a fake and if you know when -you’re well off you’ll let go your lines right now!” - -“Yes, Captain,” added Ned, “we found Mackinder trying to detain us -because he fancies we have done something wrong or because he thinks we -have something he wants. Who he may be we don’t know!” - -“I know!” stated the captain, stoutly. “I know dot feller is a officer in -der British army, und vhen he says shtay, den I shtay!” - -“An officer in the British army!” gasped Jimmie. - -“I think I see now why he wants that package!” declared Ned. “He thinks -that we are bringing some instructions or something to the submarine -named ‘U-13’ and he’s trying to intercept the despatches!” - -“Well, he’s welcome to the ‘U-13’ package as far as we’re concerned!” -maintained Jimmie. “What we want is to get home to the little old U. S. -A., and that right quick. So, Captain, we’ll go now, if you please!” - -“No!” decided the captain bluntly. “Vhe don’d go!” - -“But you may listen to reason!” said Jimmie, drawing his automatic. “I -don’t like to hold you up, but you’re going to get out of town right now -and we’re going with you!” - -“Put dot gun oop!” cried the captain, starting from his seat. - -“I will on one condition!” declared the boy. “If you get under way at -once without any more monkey business I’ll keep it in my pocket. If you -don’t I’ll use it! We are neutral and we’re going to remain neutral if we -have to fight to do so!” - -“Vhell, I guess dere’s no real goot reason vhy vhe shouldn’t go, anyhow!” -decided the captain. “Mackinter don’d got no license to shtop us. Aber he -don’d like id, he couldt lump id!” - -“Now you’re talking sense!” declared Jimmie. “But, remember! No tricks, -or we’ll feel like starting something ourselves!” - -“All right!” consented von Kluck, secretly anxious to help the boys. -“Chust come along und make me leaf port. Dot let’s me ouid!” - -Upon von Kluck’s appearing at the companionway the crew immediately -assumed an air of attention. Some were grouped about the capstan, where -they were watching the sky and speculating on the character of the -approaching storm. Others were occupied at various duties about the -vessel. Every man seemed to stand in fear of the captain. - -Bawling out a hoarse order, von Kluck at once assumed command of the -deck. Lines were thrown down from the belaying pins. A group of men -tailed onto the halyards, hoisting the foresail, staysail and jib. - -The Lena Knobloch was a schooner-rigged vessel with two masts. The boys -noted with a considerable degree of satisfaction that she was built along -clipper lines, vastly different from the round-bowed type of vessel -commonly seen in those waters. - -Under jib, staysail and foresail the vessel swung around as the dock -lines were let go. Gathering speed with the force of a favorable wind -the little vessel plunged ahead. Von Kluck was evidently planning on -leaving the harbor without the use of a tug—a somewhat difficult, if not -dangerous, experiment. - -Urged by the vociferous driving of the mate men were already hauling -on the halyards of the mainsail. With the added press of sail the Lena -Knobloch heeled over until her lee rail was nearly awash. - -A strong wind was coming out of the northwest, favoring the maneuver of -von Kluck, but kicking up considerable commotion on the harbor. Waves -were running so high as to make navigation of small craft exceedingly -difficult if not dangerous. - -Carrying full staysail, jib, foresail and mainsail the schooner plunged -into the waves, sending cascades of water over her forecastle with every -leap. She was loaded deeply and the boys could see that she would prove -to be what the sailors term a “wet ship.” - -Every moment the speed was increasing. The mate had trimmed the sheets to -the exact point for greatest efficiency. - -Suddenly all hands were startled by a hail from a point on the starboard -bow. They saw a small motor boat riding dizzily upon the crest of a wave -one moment to be dropped out of sight in the trough the next. - -“Ahoy, the Knobloch!” came a cry. - -“Ahoy, the launch!” bawled out the mate in a voice of thunder. “What do -you want? Stand off or we’ll run you down!” - -“We want those passengers of yours!” was the reply. - -“All right, come on and get ’em!” yelled the mate above the noise of -singing wind in the rigging. “We can’t stop now!” - -“If you don’t heave to I’ll fire!” was the answer. - -“Good night!” cried Jimmie from a position near the lee rail, where he -could look out beneath the main boom. “That’s Mackinder!” - -A revolver shot sounded amidst the tumult of rushing waters and singing -rigging. The echo was quickly bitten off by the rising wind. The shot -sounded dully above the humming and roaring. - -Before Ned could detain him Jimmie fired. Faintly the boys heard a crash -aboard the motor boat. The green starboard sidelight of the launch -disappeared. Urged on by the tremendous press of wind in her sails the -Lena Knobloch was fast dropping the launch astern. - -No other shots were fired at the schooner. Scrambling from his position -at the starboard rail Jimmie made his way aft to a point beside the -helmsman. Here he peered eagerly into the darkness astern. - -“I can’t see them at all!” he announced, turning presently to his -companions, who were grouped about the little skylight. - -“Perhaps we’ve shaken them off for keeps!” ventured Jack. “Did you see -who that was with Mackinder?” - -“I thought,” said Harry, “that it was his pal, Norton!” - -“Well, they’re safely out of reach now!” declared Ned. “I’m glad of it, -too! If we can hold on at this gait we’ll soon reach a port in England, -where we can transship the Grey Eagle and get home.” - -“I only hope the real ‘U-13’ doesn’t come along and demand that package -from us!” laughed Harry. “They might take a notion to send us to the -bottom if we don’t deliver it on demand!” - -“Let us hope they’re busy on the west coast of England by this time!” -suggested Jack. “I don’t want any more ‘U-13’ in mine!” - -“Vhat’s dot about der ‘U-13’?” inquired von Kluck, coming up to the -little group. “Is id der ‘U-13’ dot you’re skipping?” - -In a few words Ned related the important details of their experience with -the ‘U-13’ package and with Mackinder. - -“And so,” the boy concluded, “we were just hoping that the real ‘U-13’ -wouldn’t show up and claim the package that we haven’t got!” - -“No danger!” reassured von Kluck. “Dis vindt keeps dose fellers under -vasser deep! Dey like rough vedder not at all!” - -“Hurrah!” joyfully cried Jimmie. “Blow, winds; blow hard!” the lad -continued, stretching his hands to windward in an appealing attitude. -“Blow hard enough to keep the submarines submarooned!” - -A laugh went round as the boys listened to Jimmie’s coined word. They -were all heartily in sympathy with the expressed wish that the wind would -blow hard enough to keep the submarines from the surface. - -“But, den,” continued von Kluck, with a frown that wrinkled his heavy -brows, “dot’s not all. Dere’s mines floatin’ round der Nord Sea dot dem -verdom Deutsches blanted. Maybe vhe hit one of dem und if vhe do—” - -Here the captain shrugged his shoulders, spreading his hands palm upward, -and extending them with a final toss aloft to indicate the hopelessness -of a situation such as he intimated might befall them. - -“Can’t we dodge a mine?” queried Jimmie. - -“Sure, if vhe can see id!” declared von Kluck. - -“That’s the trouble,” explained Ned. “These mines float deep and before a -ship can know of its danger—Bang!” - -“Well, Ned,” announced Jimmie with a grin, as he wrinkled his freckled -nose, “I’ll tell you what I’ll do. I’ll bet you my old hat that if we do -hit a mine and get blown up I go higher than you do!” - -“All right,” agreed Ned, laughing in spite of the seriousness of the -situation. “We’ll ask von Kluck to be the judge.” - -“Von Kluck don’t seem to be very much worried over the prospect of -hitting a mine!” declared Jimmie. “I guess we’re all right!” - -“Und now,” announced the captain, “come to der cabin und eat!” - -The boys needed no second invitation. They were soon seated about the -little table, where they found great slabs of cheese set out on a -plate. Loaves of hard, black bread were placed upon the table by the -steward, who withdrew to presently reappear bearing a great pot of -steaming coffee. Von Kluck refreshed himself with a glass of his beloved -“schnapps,” then fell to heartily upon the bread and cheese, motioning to -the boys to do likewise. - -With considerable relish the lads made a good lunch off the bread and -cheese and coffee. Hard and dark, but possessing considerable nutriment, -the bread was not at all unpleasant to the taste. It had been plentifully -seasoned with small seeds, which lent an appetizing flavor. - -Shortly after finishing their lunch the boys again gained the deck, to -find the mate actively driving the men in their various duties. The wind -still came out of the northwest with a stinging snap. Ned declared that -he could feel rain approaching. - -“Feels to me more like snow!” stated Jimmie, sniffing to windward. “We’ll -be getting outside the Friesian Islands soon and then we’ll find out -what’s coming. We’re somewhat protected here.” - -“How long will it be before we pass into the North Sea, Captain von -Kluck?” asked Ned of the captain, who approached. - -“Vhe might make id by morning,” stated the captain. “I vish I make a -swift voyage dis time. If Mackinter gets news to England ahead of me, -maybe he makes droubles by das Lena Knobloch.” - -“So you’re carrying all the canvas you dare?” asked Harry. - -“Chust now, yes! Maybe vhen vhe come about und head up into der vindt vhe -get oop der tops’ls und put oop under vun chib. I reach off a goot vays -und leaf Amsterdam und der vest coast of der Zuider Zee, den I make vun -straight reach und run ouid by Eijerlandsche Gut.” - -“Then I’m going below to try for a little sleep!” declared Jimmie. “I’m -not needed on deck and this wind is too cold for comfort!” - -“I’ll go with you and keep you company,” volunteered Jack. - -“We’ll all go,” added Harry. “Come on, Ned.” - -Clinging to hand rails the lads scrambled below. The deck leaned at an -angle that made walking almost impossible. Every plunge sent shivers -through the little vessel. Tons of water broke over the bows and dashed -along the planks to rush hissing through the scuppers. - -In the cabin a lamp swung wildly from a beam overhead, throwing weird, -dancing shadows on the bulkheads. Here the noises of the wind were -hushed. Only a moaning from the taut rigging reached the ears of the four -lads. But the cabin was full of eerie sounds of creaking timbers and -straining planks. For some time the boys lay on lockers listening to the -confusion of noises. Presently they fell asleep. - -They were wakened by the sound of tramping feet on deck, and knew that -some maneuver was about to be executed. Coils of rigging were flung on -deck. The stentorian voice of the mate bawled out orders. - -“Stand by to come about!” roared von Kluck over their heads. - - - - -CHAPTER VII - -A WARNING FROM THE SEA - - -Springing from their resting places the four boys staggered up the -unsteady companionway. As they gained the deck they were assailed by -terrific gusts of wind carrying sleet and snow. During their stay below -the weather had turned colder, bringing fitful dashes of sleet out of the -north. The schooner presently rode easier. - -A hoarse order from forward was followed by a clanking of the cable -through the hawse pipes. The sails rattled with great slapping noises as -the Lena Knobloch rode to her anchor. - -Men were instantly aloft securing the lighter topsails. With a run the -foresail and mainsail were lowered and furled. The staysail and jib had -but a moment before been lowered as the schooner was headed into the -wind. Under bare poles they rode on gentler swells. - -“Where are we?” asked Harry, throwing up an arm to protect his face. -“Have we reached England yet? Where is the captain?” - -“Vhell, how do you like id now?” roared the voice of von Kluck almost at -Harry’s elbow. “Vhat you tink of dis for some shtorm?” - -“This is fierce!” replied the lad, bracing himself against the wind. -“Where are we now, Captain von Kluck?” - -“Under der lee of one of der Friesian Islands,” replied the captain. -“I see some rocks aheadt und dere is a big shteamer in drouble oop to -vindvard. I hope she makes id into safety, bud I don’d know!” - -Shaking his head doubtfully the captain went away forward. Presently he -returned, still shaking his head. The crew except the captain and the -mate were gathered forward round the capstan. - -“Dere’s rocks dere—lots of dem!” announced von Kluck. “Dot wessel looks -like she’s lost her rutter, und if she gets off dem rocks dot captain -needs a medal. I tink he’s a goner, sure!” - -It did, indeed, appear as if von Kluck was right. A big cargo steamer, -now dimly discernible to the boys, was rolling in the trough of a heavy -sea, urged on by a vicious wind from the northwest. Her range lights -showed clearly at the mast heads. A gleam of red indicated that the -vessel was showing her port side. With every roll great masses of water -boarded the weather rail, sweeping the decks of every movable object. - -“Look!” cried the mate, excitedly pointing toward the steamer. - -There was no need of explanation. A great mass of rock directly in the -path upon which the steamer was drifting sent gigantic columns of water -into the air with every wave. Although the eastern sky showed a tinge -of gray the blackness upon the water was intense. It was lightened -momentarily by the white smother of spray and foam cast upward as wave -after wave broke upon the black and threatening menace lying immediately -before the apparently doomed vessel. - -“Py golly, he’s all right!” yelled von Kluck in a moment. “He’s lost dot -rutter und he’s backing on his enchines! He’ll make id!” - -Surely enough the steamer’s captain was executing the very maneuver at -which von Kluck had guessed. By backing on his engines he succeeded in -drawing the vessel so far to one side of the dangerous rock that it was -passed. Only a margin extremely narrow intervened. - -But the danger had not passed. Another rock threatened to tear to pieces -the all but helpless vessel. With straining eyes and beating hearts the -lads watched anxiously as this danger was also cleared. - -They clung to the weather shrouds in spite of the whip-like sting of -sleet and spray, watching the struggle against wind, wave and rock. - -At length the vessel won through the dangerous places. It was now so -close that the boys could make out the details of the rigging. Ned -procured a pair of binoculars and spelled out the name. - -“That steamer is the Anne of Melbourne,” he announced. “I wonder if it -isn’t an Australian vessel. They have had a hard time of it.” - -“She’s close to us now,” cried Harry. “I wonder what they’ll do.” - -“If they’re wise they’ll let go an anchor and ride it out,” answered -Jimmie. “If I had sense enough to bring a vessel through a tight place -like that I’d get a hook overboard as soon as I could.” - -“That’s just what they are doing!” announced Ned. “There’s a group of men -at the forward end preparing to get the anchor over.” - -Directly the boys heard the rattle of the cable in the steamer’s hawse -pipes, followed instantly by a great splash at the bow that told as -plainly as words that the ground tackle was out. - -Still feeling the heave of waves surging around the head of the island -the steamer slowly swung to her cable. The range lights shifted their -position. The red side light disappeared. - -“She’s safe now!” cried Ned, in a tone of relief. “I’m glad they made it -all right. I wonder how they got crippled.” - -“Let me take the glasses a minute, Ned,” requested Harry. - -“Can you see what’s the matter with her?” queried Jimmie. - -“Yes,” replied the boy, with the glasses to his eye. “Von Kluck was -right. It looks as if the rudder stock is twisted and bent badly out -of shape. As the stern lifts I can see the blades of the propeller all -right, but the rudder seems to be missing.” - -“The Anne of Melbourne,” mused Ned. “I wonder now what that vessel is -doing away off up here. If they had a cargo destined for an English port -they should have been much farther south.” - -“You don’t suppose the captain lost his reckoning and got this far out of -his course, do you?” suggested Jimmie. - -“I don’t know,” replied Ned. Then turning to Captain von Kluck the lad -continued: “Captain, what do you think about it?” - -“Mit der var doing so many tings, I don’d know what to tink!” - -“I can see men moving about on deck now, apparently clearing up the -recent damage,” stated Harry. “And I see a Boy Scout, too!” - -“No!” objected Jimmie. “Don’t say that! I don’t want any more Boy Scouts -mixed up in this! It isn’t fair!” - -“Just the same, he’s there!” laughed Harry. - -“Well, then,” stated Jimmie, with a sigh of resignation, “we are in for -another siege of it. I never knew it to fail! Just as quickly as we get -going somewhere and a Boy Scout shows up there’s trouble ahead and lots -of it! Why can’t they stay home?” - -“Now, Jimmie,” cautioned Ned, “you know we’ve never in all our adventures -found a Boy Scout that really brought us ill luck. Sometimes they’ve -caused us a lot of trouble, but usually they help!” - -“That’s true, too, but I wish we could get home to the little old U. S. -A. without mixing up in this ‘U-13’ business with the Boy Scouts!” - -“Maybe it’ll come out all right after all,” soothed Ned. - -“Maybe,” reluctantly agreed Jimmie. “I say, Harry,” he continued, “let -me take those glasses. I want to see what that fellow’s like.” - -Long and eagerly the lad peered through the binoculars. - -“I see him!” he cried, presently. “He’s going up the foreshrouds! I’ll -bet he’s working his passage on that steamer!” - -“What’s he doing on the foreshrouds?” asked Ned. - -“It looks as if something had fouled at the fore top,” replied Jimmie. -“He’s going up to clear it, I guess. Oh, look!” the boy shouted. “He’s -falling! He’s broken one of the ratlines and is falling!” - -“I see him!” cried Ned. “I can see him!” - -“Oh, good!” exclaimed Jimmie, the next moment. “He hit the shrouds and -the steamer rolled at the right minute, throwing him clear of the deck. -See that splash in the water?” - -“I see it!” answered the others, together. - -“Are they trying to help him?” asked Harry. - -“Yes, they are,” stated Jimmie. “They’ve thrown him a ring buoy!” - -“Can you see him now?” asked Ned. - -“Yes, and he’s swimming. There must be a current in here that’s dragging -him away from the steamer. The buoy fell short and he’s swimming -directly away from the steamer. He’s coming towards us!” - -Intently the lad watched the one in the water. He swam a good stroke -resting easily, even though somewhat impeded by his clothing. - -Now and again as the crest of a wave approached the swimmer his head -was submerged, only to reappear again in the yeasty froth following -the racing monster. Eagerly his progress was noted by all on board the -schooner. They were at a loss to understand why he had left his own -vessel to swim toward a strange craft. - -Presently, however, as he approached the Lena Knobloch the lad’s strokes -became more feeble. He was evidently tiring rapidly. - -“Captain, what do you say to getting a boat over?” asked Ned. - -“Vhait!” grunted von Kluck. “Id’s lots of vork to do id!” - -“But the lad may need help!” urged Ned, eagerly. - -“Vhell, if he needs id, I put him ofer. Nod before!” - -Jimmie ran forward into the very eyes of the schooner. In his hands he -grasped a ring buoy, to which was attached a goodly length of line. This -he coiled ready to heave the buoy to the one in the water as soon as he -should come within reach. - -Just as Jimmie was measuring with his eye the distance separating the -swimmer from his goal and preparing for a mighty throw of the buoy he -noted that the other’s stroke was fast weakening. - -With a jerk the Wolf unfastened and kicked loose a shoe. In an instant -the other followed. A rapid movement loosened his jacket. A backward -twist of his shoulders helped him slip from the garment. - -One look over the rail showed that the swimmer was losing control of his -muscles. Both hands went up into the air only to disappear beneath the -crest of an oncoming wave. The boy stayed under. - -“Stand by to get me, boys!” shouted Jimmie. - -A splash told that he had gone overboard. His companions crowded eagerly -to the rail, watching for his reappearance. In a moment they were -relieved to see his red head come up close to the spot where the other -had sunk. Emptying his lungs of the pent up air with a loud “Whoosh!” the -boy instantly refilled them to plunge again under water. - -To the intense satisfaction of those on board the schooner he again came -quickly to the surface, this time dragging by the hair the boy to whose -rescue he had gone. Swimming on his back, using but one hand, Jimmie -slowly brought the other lad to a position where he could reach the buoy -flung to him by Ned’s strong arm. - -Harry had already made a bowline in a bight at the end of a line. This -he passed over the side to Jimmie, who succeeded without difficulty in -getting the loop over the shoulders of the rescued lad. - -Soon both were on deck, where they received the attentions of all -hands. Captain von Kluck insisted upon giving the newcomer a draught of -“schnapps” to assist in the reviving process. As the fiery liquor burned -its way down his throat the lad coughed violently. - -Choking and spitting the lad clawed at his burning mouth and throat. -Evidently he thought the cure worse than the disease. - -“Let’s get into the cabin,” suggested Jimmie. “I’m freezing!” - -“Sure enough!” cried Ned. “How thoughtless of us! Captain,” he added, -“can you have the steward bring us some coffee?” - -Roaring for the steward to perform this service, the captain picked -up the nearly drowned lad in his strong arms. He deposited the boy on -a locker in the cabin, then stood aside to permit his passengers to -administer such assistance as they might. - -Ned stepped forward to begin operations. With a cry he bent over the boy. -Wonderingly the others crowded forward. - -“Frank!” cried Ned, seizing the lad by the shoulders. “Frank! Speak to -me! Frank, how did you get here?” - -“Who is it?” asked Jimmie, elbowing his way into the group to a position -where he could see the recumbent figure. “Why,” continued the boy in a -tone of amazement, “if it ain’t old Frank Shaw of New York!” - -A cup of steaming coffee at this moment brought by the steward was -offered to the newcomer, who drank eagerly. He glanced about the group -with a faint smile in answer to their puzzled looks. - -“Look out for the ‘U-13’, boys!” he said. - - - - -CHAPTER VIII - -MORE ABOUT THE “U-13” - - -“Frank Shaw!” cried Jimmie, crowding close to the lad lying on the -locker. “What’s that you’re saying about the ‘U-13’?” - -“I say ‘Look out for it,’ that’s all!” - -“No, it isn’t all!” protested the boy. “Take another drink of this coffee -and then brace up and tell us what you know! How did you get here and -what and who and where and why is this ‘U-13’?” - -Frank smiled as he struggled to a sitting posture. - -“If you’ll rub the cramp out of that leg, boys, I’ll ‘fess up’ -everything,” he began. “That leg feels as if some one were trying to pull -some teeth out of it by the roots. A cramp is fierce.” - -Two lads began massaging the offending member. - -“If I’d known it was you swimming to us, I’d have lowered a boat myself -and come to your assistance!” declared Jimmie. - -“And if I’d known you were on board this schooner,” replied Frank, “I’d -have left that ship long before I did!” - -“Why, what’s the matter on that ship, Frank?” asked Ned. - -“Oh, nothing, only it’s one of these ‘workhouses’ just exactly like we -have read of. The captain is a hard nut and the mates are both of the -‘bucko’ type. There isn’t a man aboard who hasn’t got a mark from one or -the other of the mates. They’re a tough crowd!” - -“I’ll bet you didn’t just fall overboard, then!” shrewdly guessed Jimmie. -“You missed your footing purposely! You know you did!” - -“How do you know?” grinned Frank, nursing his cramped leg. - -“I was watching through the binoculars,” answered Jimmie. “But go ahead -and tell us something. We’re dying from curiosity!” - -“Well,” began Frank, “you know I wasn’t quite satisfied to be left behind -when you four lads left in chase of the fellow who had stolen the Panama -plans. I wanted to go along in the Grey Eagle.” - -“We know that, and we’re sorry we didn’t take you!” cried Ned. - -“I went to see Mr. Bosworth about following you,” continued young Shaw. -“He was opposed to that plan, but you know I usually get my own way -somehow. I put together a kit and started out. I had little difficulty in -securing passage on a ship loaded with miscellaneous cargo for England. -The vessel was a British tramp—a ‘bucko’ ship. - -“We got close to Land’s End after a rather uneventful voyage across the -Atlantic. I was dreaming of getting ashore in a short time and then -hiking across the channel into France to hunt you up. - -“One fine morning we were all startled to hear a hail from the lookout -informing the deck that a submarine was approaching. We hove to at the -command of the submarine people. They commanded our captain to get his -crew into the boats as quickly as possible, for in five minutes they -intended torpedoing the ship. They wouldn’t take ‘No’ for an answer.” - -“That was going some, I must say!” put in Jimmie. - -“You needn’t be told, of course,” went on Frank, “that we lost little -time making preparations. One of the sailors disputed my right to take my -kit into the small boat. I objected and he cracked me on the jaw. When -I recovered I was alone on the vessel. The boats were at some little -distance away, with the crew pulling like racers. - -“For a moment I was quite desperate, not knowing how to escape. I -thought of trying to signal the submarine, but could see the vessel -just launching a torpedo. Seemingly the whole after end of the ship was -shattered by the explosion. As soon as I could I tried to signal the -enemy, but they were just turning about to leave the spot. - -“Maybe I didn’t hustle about some. The ship was already filling rapidly. -The stern was settling fast. All the boats were gone. I could see nothing -to serve as a float. Desperately I seized a capstan bar and knocked the -wedges and battens off a hatch cover. Then I got a small piece of line. I -passed it through a ring bolt and made fast. I figured that when the ship -went down the cover would float free for a raft on which I could keep up. -Before I was fully ready the compressed air blew the cover off with a -‘boom’. It landed close to the rail. - -“Just as the hull took a last slant I jumped overboard. After swimming -quite a distance away I saw the ship go down. I turned back. There was my -hatch cover floating just as I expected.” - -Here Frank paused to extend his hand for another cup of coffee. - -“You’re the wise little Scout!” declared Jimmie, admiringly. - -“Sure!” agreed Frank. “Then,” he continued, “I floated around for the -rest of the day on that hatch cover. Toward evening I saw a smoke off -to the southwest. It was just out of the glare of the sun. When it got -nearer I knew it was a steamer bound for England or some nearby place. It -was the Anne of Melbourne. So here I am!” - -“But what about this ‘U-13’?” inquired Harry, eagerly. - -“Oh, yes, I nearly forgot,” said Frank. “The submarine that torpedoed the -ship was marked ‘U-13’ on the side!” - -“They’ve been doing a lot of that, according to the newspapers!” stated -Ned. “But why do you warn us to look out for her?” he asked. - -“When I told the captain of the Anne of my experience,” went on Frank, -“he decided to head north, intending to go to the westward of Ireland, -around between Scotland and the Shetland Island into the North Sea, in -the hopes of dodging the submarine, which seemed to be working the waters -of the English Channel. Yesterday morning we were hailed by a submarine. -I could see that it was the same old ‘U-13’!” - -“How did it get way up here?” questioned Ned, incredulously. - -“Search me!” replied Frank. “They ordered us to heave to, but that -captain is a daredevil. He cracked on all steam full speed ahead, -declaring that if they took him they’d have to catch him. - -“The submarine launched a torpedo at us, but it only smashed our rudder. -We had good headway on. That, of course, put us in a mighty bad fix, as -the submarine could then have easily sent a torpedo into us, but for some -unknown reason they turned and left us. - -“The captain was nearly crazy when he discovered what damage had been -done. The vessel had been bad enough before, but it became ten times -worse. I got a crack or two with a rope’s end that sting yet!” - -“How could they navigate?” asked Jimmie. - -“They couldn’t!” answered Frank. “We just lay in the trough of the seas -and let the old tub roll. They even put preventer stays on the masts and -on the boilers to keep them from rolling out of the crazy old wagon. You -never saw such a place as that ship was!” - -“And then when the captain got her under the lee of this land and you saw -this schooner you just concluded that you’d jump the ship?” - -“Exactly!” agreed Frank. “I had lost my kit when the sailing vessel went -down, so I left nothing on the steamer.” - -“I’m awful glad you got here safely,” stated Ned, grasping Frank’s hand -in a hearty clasp that spoke eloquently of the friendship between the two -boys. “But you’re too late to help capture the Panama Canal plan thief. -He’s out of his misery quite a while ago!” - -“But he’s just in time to get mixed up in this ‘U-13’ business!” urged -Jimmie. “He’s right in the midst of the excitement!” - -“But since you don’t want any more Boy Scouts along we’ll pitch Frank -overboard again!” declared Harry, with mock gravity. - -“Aw, you go on!” scorned Jimmie. “I didn’t know it was Frank!” - -Laughing at Jimmie’s confusion the boys related to their chum the salient -points of their experience up to the time of their strange meeting. Frank -was greatly puzzled over the circumstances of the strange package, for -the presence of which in their kits the boys could not account. - -For some time the lads remained in the cabin, drying the uniforms of the -swimmers and exchanging experiences. It was the opinion of all that they -would be adopting a wise course to return at once to New York. - -Captain von Kluck was greatly interested in his strange passengers. -He listened eagerly to Frank’s account of the doings of the strange -submarine. At the conclusion of the recital he paced the deck nervously. - -Not until midafternoon did the wind decrease sufficiently to permit the -Lena Knobloch to venture forth from her position of shelter. - -Through the binoculars the boys made long examinations of the steamer -lying to windward of their position. They determined that preparations -were being made to send a boat’s crew to some port for assistance in -towing the crippled vessel to a harbor. - -At one bell, or half past four o’clock, Captain von Kluck came from his -cabin. He stepped to the rail, sniffing at the wind. Presently he turned -to join the mate in his walk across the deck. - -For some minutes the two conversed in low tones. Directly the mate -stepped forward, bawling out orders to his men. - -At once all was commotion on the Knobloch’s decks. Men tumbled eagerly -about, hauling a line here, letting go another there, until they had set -the double reefed mainsail, foresail and a mere rag of jib. - -When this had been accomplished all hands seized capstan bars. To the -tune of a Dutch sailors’ “chanty” the links of the cable slowly clanked -inboard. With a lurch the Lena Knobloch swung as the anchor broke ground. -Like a storm driven bird she was off in the wings of a northwester, lying -far over even under the greatly reduced sail. - -“Where to now, Captain?” asked Ned as von Kluck stepped along the deck -with head bent forward. By his manner of nervous intentness Ned guessed -that the captain was carrying a load on his mind. - -Von Kluck’s only response was a growl as he passed the boys. - -“Captain’s grouchy!” declared Jimmie. “Leave him alone, Ned!” - -“Sure, don’t bother him!” added Frank. “He’s worried enough!” - -“Just the same, I don’t like his looks!” stated Ned with some degree of -apprehension. “He seems to have soured after hearing about the ‘U-13.’ -Didn’t you fellows notice how he listened to Frank’s story?” - -“Sure we did,” Jimmie replied, “but then, it’s only natural that he -should be worried over the possibility of losing his vessel!” - -“Well, his getting under way in this weather shows that he intends to be -square and land us in an English port as he agreed!” - -“I guess von Kluck is a pretty good sort of a chap, after all!” ventured -Harry. “He has tried to treat us as right as he could!” - -“I think you’re right. We can’t blame him for feeling somewhat worried -under the circumstances. We’d be grouchy, too!” - -Under a port helm the Lena Knobloch swung to starboard leaping forward -into the waves as if glad to again be battling with the sea. - -Ned and his companions felt that they could be of no service in handling -the schooner. They, therefore, retired to the shelter of the cabin, where -they were protected from the stinging blasts of sleet and snow that came -screaming out of the northwest. - -Scarcely had the schooner won clear of the jagged ledges when the full -force of the tumbling waves was felt. It seemed to the boys that the -stern of the little vessel was hurled to an unbelievable height only to -drop so far they feared nothing could save them. - -But Captain von Kluck and his mate were expert navigators. They had -sailed the ocean since large enough to handle a line. They knew the Lena -Knobloch’s ability to withstand the buffeting of the elements. - -As night drew on the boys expected to witness a cessation of the storm. -Their prediction was fulfilled. Gradually the gale blew itself out, -leaving but a strong sailing breeze, although the water still continued -rough. Captain von Kluck took advantage of this change to shake out the -reefs in his canvas and to spread more sail. - -Just as the moon showed in the east between masses of cloud the lookout -reported a ship in sight off the port bow. In a short time the two -vessels had approached within about two miles of each other. - -“They’re apparently heaving to!” cried Ned who had been using the -binoculars. “It looks as if they’re getting the boats over!” - -From the waist of the other vessel the boys saw a great cloud of dark -smoke appear. The small boats had scarcely gone a ship’s length away from -the scene. The crew were rowing with the greatest haste. - -“I see the conning tower of a submarine!” cried Ned. - - - - -CHAPTER IX - -A STRANGE VISIT - - -Clearly visible to the members of the crew on the Lena Knobloch the great -cloud of smoke slowly spread over the vessel. - -Directly a sullen “Boom” reached their ears. As the smoke spread away the -lads could see a great rent in the side through which water was rushing. -Already the ship was listing heavily. - -Two small boats were being pulled away from the vicinity by the crew of -the doomed vessel. The small craft were handled in a seamanlike manner. -They made good progress in spite of the still heavy sea. - -“By golly!” ejaculated Von Kluck, drawing a long breath. “Maybe vhe get -id next, vhat? Dere ain’d no vay of tellin’!” - -“Why do you think that, Captain?” questioned Ned. - -“Dot verdom ‘U-13’!” grunted Von Kluck. “Vhe’ll pe lucky,”—here his -excitement grew so intense that he delivered himself of several great -sailor’s oaths—“if vhe make a port in England alretty!” - -“Keep a sharp lookout, boys,” said Ned. “Maybe we can get a sight of the -‘U-13’ if it’s still in this neighborhood.” - -Scarcely had the boy uttered the words before the lookout hailed the -deck. His voice vibrated with excitement and fear. - -“Vot is, aloft, dere?” roared Von Kluck. - -Excitedly jabbering in his intense emotion the lookout frantically -pointed in the direction of the sinking ship. Without waiting for orders -he came sliding down the halliards. As he landed on deck he turned an -ashen face toward the captain. Again he pointed seaward. - -“The ‘U-13’!” he gasped in an agony of terror. - -A glance in the direction indicated showed the boys an object like a spar -buoy apparently standing upright in the water. The next moment a swell -rolled over something beneath the upright object. - -The next wave disclosed a long, rounded steel hull. In the center the -conning tower showed plainly. A moment later the outlines of the dreaded -submarine were distinguishable as the craft was propelled to the surface. -Each wave broke clear over the arched back of this terror of the seas -leaving the black hull gleaming in the faint light. Only the upper -portion of the conning tower escaped a ducking. - -Presently the hatch was opened. A man in uniform stepped out onto the -narrow confines of the small deck. His attention was directed toward -the schooner. After what seemed to the boys to be an almost endless -examination of their vessel the man turned to address a remark to some -one evidently close to the hatch but out of their vision. - -“What is he saying?” Ned asked von Kluck. - -“He iss telling dot odder feller dot vhe iss das Lena Knobloch!” - -“What next, I wonder?” speculated Jimmie aloud. - -“Next?” almost screamed von Kluck. “Next, vhe iss ordered to get by our -boats into und row far enough avhay so dey couldt blow up us!” - -In his intense agitation the captain began pacing up and down the deck. -The submarine drew close alongside the schooner easily keeping pace with -the sailing vessel at the rate they were progressing. - -“Von Kluck is certainly worked up about it,” remarked Harry as he noted -the captain’s distracted manner. “He’s almost bughouse!” - -“Well, so would you be, too, if all you had were about to be sent to the -bottom of the ocean!” declared Ned. “It’s tough luck!” - -“Maybe we’d better be getting our kits in shape,” suggested Jack moving -toward the cabin. “I don’t want to leave everything!” - -“I had to leave everything,” put in Frank, “when they sunk the ship I was -on. I felt lucky to get away with my life!” - -“Let’s make a try for it, anyway,” continued Jack. - -“Wait a minute!” cried Ned, “let’s see what they’re going to do. The man -is going below again! Why don’t he hail us?” - -Strangely enough the officer was descending the hatchway without speaking -a word to those on board the schooner. - -This procedure puzzled von Kluck, but did not serve to reduce in any -degree the excitement under which he was laboring. - -“Lay aft a couble of handts und make reaty der boats!” he shouted. “Come -on, hurry oop! Lifely, now, men!” - -In obedience to this command two members of the crew sprang towards -the stern of the schooner to make preparations for launching the boat -lashed at the stern. Two others frantically loosened the lashings of the -upturned boat lying amidships. - -A clanking sound indicating that the hatchway of the “U-13” had been -closed attracted the attention of the boys in that direction. - -“What are they going to do now?” questioned Jimmie eagerly. - -“I fancy they are going to pull away a little so as to launch a torpedo -at us,” stated Ned. “It don’t look as if they’re going to be kind enough -to let us get off the vessel before they blow it up!” - -“Then it isn’t the same crew I met!” declared Frank firmly. “They treated -the men fine! While I must admit that I don’t admire their way of sinking -merchant ships, I will have to say that they gave the people a chance to -get out of danger!” - -“Well, is it the same submarine you saw?” asked Ned. - -“It looks exactly like it. Besides,” the boy continued, “I see the -figures ‘U-13’ painted on the side of this one, too. I believe it is the -very same vessel. Maybe they won’t sink us!” - -With hatch closed the submarine was preparing to execute some maneuver. -Gathering speed the craft plunged ahead quickly leaving the schooner -alone. Scarcely had the bow of the sailing vessel been passed ere the -submarine was so far beneath the water as to show only the periscope. -In a moment there was but a swirl to indicate where that had been. -Presently it, too, disappeared. The “U-13” was gone. - -For some time the boys stood at the rail eagerly scanning the water to -discover evidence of the submarine’s return. Their search was fruitless. -Nothing was found to indicate the presence of their late visitor. The -waves rose and fell without hint of its location. - -“Oh, Captain von Kluck!” Ned called. “They have gone!” - -“Vhat?” asked the captain in a tone expressing doubt. - -“Yes,” continued the boy. “They have slipped back into the ocean again -and have left us. Possibly they think we’re too small for them to waste a -torpedo on. Torpedoes cost a lot of money, you know!” - -“Vhell, dot’s lucky!” answered the captain, much relieved. - -“Sure is!” assented Jimmie, throwing out his chest. “You see, Captain, -we’re mascots for you. We’ve brought you good luck!” - -Joining in the laugh that greeted this remark the captain ordered the men -who had been at work upon the boats to cease their operations. A hand was -again posted aloft to act as lookout. - -After a short consultation between von Kluck and the mate it was decided -to proceed on the course traveled by the steamer from which Frank Shaw -had recently escaped. They intended to pass between the Shetland islands -and the coast of Scotland in an attempt to make a port on the west side -of England, believing that there would be less danger in this procedure. -Accordingly all sail possible was made. - -As if understanding the necessity for haste the vessel leaned far over -under the press of canvas and sprang forward with increased speed. - -“We ought to make the west coast of England in a short time, Captain, at -this rate,” said Ned as he noted with satisfaction the rate at which the -Lena Knobloch was traveling through the water. - -“I don’d know!” declared von Kluck. “Dere’s nasty vedder oop dere!” he -added, pointing to the western sky. “I don’d like id!” - -“It can’t very well blow hard enough to stop us, can it?” - -“Don’d you tink it can’t blow hard in dese vatters! Ask me—I know!” -replied the captain sagely wagging his head. - -With eager looks the boys watched the gathering clouds to westward. The -captain’s prediction seemed about to be verified. - -An uncommonly strong puff of wind struck the schooner heeling her far -over to starboard. The blast bore a chill as of ice. - -“Oh, boys,” cried Jimmie turning his head away from the biting blast, -“look up to windward and see how smooth the ocean is getting!” - -“That’s wind coming!” shouted Ned. - -An order was roared out by von Kluck. Men sprang to the lines. The sails -were stowed with a speed that seemed scarcely credible. Heeling round on -a port helm the Lena Knobloch turned from the approaching blast. - -Leaving only the shortened jib von Kluck and the mate stood on the after -deck peering anxiously at the violent disturbance overtaking the little -vessel. Now and again the mate glanced apprehensively at the schooner’s -masts or along the decks. - -With a shriek the storm struck. For a moment the very weight of wind -seemed to settle the schooner farther into the water. The next instant -they were tearing along with the speed of a race horse. - -Flattened by the pressure of the wind the waves no longer gave her -motion. By reason of her being headed directly away from the blast the -schooner rode on an even keel. Every line, every shroud hummed like the -strings of a gigantic harp. The noise was terrific. - -A glance at the compass in the binnacle showed Ned that they were headed -nearly northeast. They were fast leaving England astern. - -Conversation was almost impossible in the howling gale that tore and -fretted at the vessel. Yet Ned managed to shout to the captain: - -“How much sea room have we got in this direction?” - -A shrug of the shoulders indicated the captain’s doubt. He accompanied -this movement with a wagging of the head. - -“Vhe’ll get into der lee of somedings bretty soon,” he replied. - -“I surely hope so!” declared Ned, cupping his hands to carry his voice to -the other’s ear. “I’d hate to hit anything at this rate!” - -Nodding an acknowledgment to this assertion the captain by signs -indicated to the mate that he desired a hand sent aloft as lookout. - -In a short time it seemed to the boys that the terrific force of the gale -had somewhat spent itself. Waves began to toss the vessel at an alarming -rate. Each mountain of water appeared about to board the schooner at the -stern, threatening to crush the craft by its weight. - -Anxious for the safety of the vessel and for their own welfare the lads, -nevertheless, understood that they could do little good on deck. They, -therefore, made their way into the cabin, where they sat on lockers. - -Here the noises of the tempest were somewhat stilled, but the creaking -and groaning of the timbers was far more noticeable. It seemed to the -lads that the vessel was being torn asunder by every billow. - -“I wonder what weather the old ‘U-13’ is making of it about now?” said -Frank, as the boys grouped themselves about the little table. - -“She’s in smoother water than this, I’ll venture to say,” put in Jimmie, -clutching the edge of the table in an effort to support himself. - -“If they are not in better water than this,” remarked Harry, “they’re -getting shaken up some! I’d like to be under water right now!” - -“Why, Harry,” spoke up Ned, “you shouldn’t say that!” - -“I mean in a tight little submarine!” explained Harry. - -“I wish we had the Sea Lion over here!” cried Jimmie. “We could have more -fun than we had when we tried to rescue the papers out of that ship in -the Gulf of Tong King with Moore and his nosey son butting in!” - -“That was sure some fine boat!” declared Ned. “Just as easy to ride in as -a rocking chair. And it was always smooth and—” - -The boy’s speech was cut short by a violent roll of the vessel. All the -lads were thrown in a heap to the cabin floor. Directly the schooner -righted herself, but began pitching with a violent motion. From the -sounds the boys knew that the captain had hove to, bringing the vessel -into the wind. Apparently he intended riding out the storm. - -Waves were breaking over the bows, falling with tremendous blows upon the -forward deck. The scuppers were not able to release the flood. - -Suddenly a terrific crash sounded directly beneath the cabin floor. The -stern seemed to lift bodily into the air. A shudder ran through the -fabric. Again the boys fell to the deck. - - - - -CHAPTER X - -SHIPWRECK AND RESCUE - - -Above the noises of the tempest and the straining timbers sounded cries -from the deck that told of confusion amongst the crew. Von Kluck’s hoarse -voice was bawling out orders mixed with great sea oaths. He was driving -the men to some duty. - -The tramping of feet above the boys sounded for a moment, then ceased. -Judging from the sounds they thought the men had gathered in the waist of -the vessel. Puzzled, they looked at each other in fear. - -“What’s up?” inquired Jimmie, attempting to rise to his feet. - -Ned steadied himself at the table as he tried to peer out of the little -skylight overhead. He could see nothing. - -“We just about struck something!” declared Jimmie. - -“Maybe we hit another vessel,” ventured Harry. - -“Or a rock, perhaps,” continued Jack. “We surely struck something solid. -I hope we don’t hit it again like that first crack!” - -“Look here, boys!” cried Ned in alarm. “The motion of this ship is much -less than it was a minute ago! Notice it?” - -“It surely is!” agreed Jack. “Is the wind going down?” - -“We are getting into some sort of shelter,” guessed Harry. “Probably von -Kluck has navigated the schooner behind a breakwater.” - -“Boys, the ship is sinking!” shouted Ned. “See the water coming into this -cabin! We’ve struck a floating mine!” - -In alarm the boys sprang to their feet. As Ned had said, the motion was -lessening rapidly. They found little difficulty now in keeping their -footing without support. With one accord they made a break for the -companionway, crowding out in a body. - -The sight that met their gaze brought consternation to every heart. -The schooner lay head to the wind. The mainsail had been set with a -double reef, to help keep the vessel in that position. The seas seemed -alarmingly higher than when they had been last on deck. - -This was due, of course, to the difference in perspective, owing to the -fact that they were fast settling into the water. - -Above the stern clung traces of heavy, black smoke. A disagreeable odor -pervaded the atmosphere in spite of the strong wind. - -“There goes von Kluck and the crew!” shouted Harry, pointing to leeward. -“They’re scared to death. That mine settled them!” - -A short distance away the boys could see the larger of the two boats that -had been carried by the schooner. In it were the members of the crew, -accompanied by the captain and the mate. - -Tossed about by the angry waters the little shell seemed about to be -engulfed at any moment. However, skillful hands were at the oars. Rising -and falling, now on top of a wave, now out of sight, the boat soon put -considerable distance between the two parties. - -“Well, Great Frozen Hot Boxes!” exclaimed Jimmie in disgust. “What do you -know about that? They’ve gone and left us!” - -“And the ship is settling fast!” cried Ned, in alarm. “We’d better get -busy if we don’t want to go down with it!” - -“What can we do?” asked Harry. “The boat’s gone!” - -“Suppose we try to patch up the leak,” suggested Jimmie. “Maybe we could -keep the old tub afloat until the storm dies down!” - -“No chance!” decided Ned. “Von Kluck and his crew would have done that if -they could. We’d better get busy!” - -“What’s the matter with using the small boat at the stern?” - -“That’s a good idea unless it is broken too badly. Let’s have a look at -it anyway,” replied Ned, hastening toward the stern. - -A brief examination of the small boat indicated that it would be more -seaworthy than the hull upon which they were standing. No time was lost -in preparations for launching the craft. - -“When folks get shipwrecked,” suggested Jimmie, “don’t they take water -and food with them if they have it?” - -“They surely do, little man!” cried Ned. “Hustle about and see what you -can get. Try to find something in which to carry fresh water.” - -Jimmie dashed back into the cabin to raid the pantry. There he found the -water gaining rapidly. It was almost knee deep. - -Splashing his way about with the aid of the swinging lamp the boy found -several loaves of the hard, black bread with which the vessel was -provisioned. These he wrapped in an oilskin coat from the captain’s room. -He tucked the parcel under one arm. With his free hand he seized a huge -piece of the captain’s beloved cheese. - -Hastening quickly to the deck he deposited his burden in the boat. -Another trip to the cabin failed to locate any vessel in which fresh -water could be carried. The boy then dashed forward to the galley. - -There he found a huge kettle used by the cook for boiling beef. This -Jimmie filled with water from the barrel on deck. The cover of the kettle -was provided with a clever device for fastening it in place. This Jimmie -secured, then staggered toward the stern with his burden. - -Working with desperate speed the four boys had succeeded in launching the -small boat. It now hung bobbing about to a short length of painter under -the schooner’s stern. It was not far below the taffrail. - -Ned and Harry made a hurried trip to the cabin to secure the kits, -returning just as Jimmie succeeded in placing his kettle of water aboard. - -“Hurry up, Ned,” cautioned Jack. “The little wagon is just about to say -‘Goodby’! We’ll have to go some to escape the suction!” - -“All aboard!” replied Ned, tossing his kit into the boat. - -Harry pitched the luggage he was carrying to waiting hands. Both boys -then watched for an opportune moment when the small boat swung close to -the sinking stern. A quick leap carried them safely aboard. - -“Oh, I forgot!” cried Ned. “I was going to bring the compass!” - -“Never mind the compass now, Ned!” cried Jimmie, seizing an oar. - -“No,” put in Frank, “we don’t know where we are at anyhow, and the -compass wouldn’t be of any use to us in such a case as this!” - -“Goodby, Lena Garlic!” shouted Jimmie a moment later as he pulled -manfully at the oar. “Goodby and good luck!” - -The others turned to see the schooner now with decks awash. A loud -detonation marked the blowing off of the hatches by the compressed air in -the hold. That incident seemed to mark the passage of the vessel. - -Gradually settling by the stern the schooner quietly slipped backward, -settling deeper and deeper, until a large wave overwhelmed the craft, -leaving only the masts projecting above water. In another instant these, -too, had disappeared, leaving but a few floating pieces of wreckage to -mark the spot where the boys had only a short time before been standing. - -“And goodby, Grey Eagle!” almost sobbed Ned. “No more flying in that -little airship! I wish we could have saved the machine!” - -This seemed to be the sentiment of all, but they knew that their sturdy -aeroplane was now gone forever. - -“The Germans needn’t think we’ll ever trouble them again in that -airship!” declared Jimmie. “We can’t be pinched for that!” - -For a moment the disappointment of their recent experiences sat heavily -on all the lads. At length, however, Ned roused himself and tried to -cheer his comrades. He knew that nothing could be gained by bemoaning the -fate that had happened to them. - -“We can’t be far from land,” the lad stated presently. “Von Kluck and his -crew seemed to be heading the same way we are. They evidently knew about -where they were and have made for the nearest port.” - -“Let’s keep right on after them, then,” suggested Frank. - -“Second the motion!” panted Jimmie, straining at his oar. “But this is -hot work! Wish I had a drink of water!” - -“You’ll have to go slow on the water, boys,” cautioned Ned. “That kettle -holds only about three gallons, and we can’t drink sea water.” - -“Let me take the oar a while, Jimmie,” volunteered Harry. “I guess you’ve -worked about hard enough, anyway. You rest a bit.” - -Cautiously the boys changed places. What with their kits, the bundle -of bread and the cheese the little boat was carrying all that could -be conveniently stowed. They were glad that no more had remained to -accompany them. Soon all had settled themselves quite comfortably. - -“Now,” spoke up Jack, presently, “all we’ve got to do is to let this wind -blow us along. We’ll just keep the boat straightened into the seas and -take it easy. We can’t do a thing to help matters.” - -“Right you are, Scout!” agreed Jimmie. “I think it’s getting gray over -there,” the lad continued, pointing toward the east. “Morning will be -along shortly and we can see what time it is.” - -“Maybe we’ll meet some ship that will pick us up,” ventured Harry, -hopefully. “There are plenty of vessels in these parts.” - -“I see a smoke astern of us now, I think!” declared Frank. “It seems to -be from a vessel low in the water.” - -“Let me take a look,” cried Ned, standing and balancing himself by -clinging to Jimmie’s shoulder. “Yes, I can see it, too! It seems to be -overhauling us quite rapidly,” he added. “Maybe they’ll help us!” - -Ceasing their efforts to propel the boat the boys handled the oars only -enough to keep their tiny craft properly riding the seas. - -“It looks to me like a tug!” stated Jimmie, presently. - -“A tug wouldn’t come smashing along at that rate!” objected Ned. - -“Well, then, what can it be?” queried the other. “It is too low in the -water for a battleship and no freight steamer ever made such good time as -they are clipping off! They’re coming up fast!” - -The boys were not long left in doubt. Rapidly overhauling them the -strange vessel did, indeed, seem to be at first glance a tug tearing -along through the waves at a great rate. The bow was lost in a smother of -foam and spray. But a tiny speck of deck house was visible. The stacks -were low. Great billows of black smoke vomited forth from the short -funnels came drifting down the wind. - -In a short time the vessel approached near enough so that the boys could -distinguish a small gun mounted at the bow. - -“I know what that ship is!” announced Jimmie, directly. “That’s what they -call a torpedo boat destroyer or despatch boat!” - -“I believe you’re right, Jimmie,” decided Ned. “They certainly have got -the speed!” he added admiringly as the craft approached. - -“Get ready to hail ’em!” cried Frank. “Get out a flag!” - -“Haven’t got a flag aboard this wagon!” scorned Jimmie. “What do you -think this is—a dreadnaught with full equipment?” - -“Then take off your shirt and wave that at ’em!” - -“Just the idea!” agreed Jimmie, proceeding to follow the advice. - -Bracing himself against a thwart amidships Jimmie waved the improvised -distress signal. His efforts were not unavailing. - -“They see you, Jimmie!” shouted Jack, presently. “There’s a man on the -bridge looking at you with glasses. They’re shifting the helm!” - -“I can see two or three men standing on the bridge!” announced Ned. “They -are examining us pretty closely. Wonder who they are?” - -The boys were not long left in doubt. Way was checked on the stranger. -As the vessel drew close to the small boat a churning of foam at the -stern told the lads that the engines were reversed in an effort to stop. -Presently the stranger ranged alongside. A line was flung to the boys. -They were towed beside the other under bare steerageway. - -Fending their craft off the larger vessel Ned explained their plight to -an officer. They were invited aboard the steamer. Their boat was hoisted -aboard, where it was carefully stowed. - -The lads found themselves upon the steel deck of a peculiarly long -and narrow vessel. Guns were mounted forward and aft. Only a cursory -examination was necessary to determine that they were quick firers. - -“Now, boys,” said the officer who had invited them aboard, “I shall ask -you to step to the cabin. The commander will hear your story.” - -As the boys entered the cabin in response to the other’s request they saw -a familiar face. Beside the commander seated at the table was none other -than their one time acquaintance, Mackinder. - - - - -CHAPTER XI - -A FLEET OF SUBMARINES - - -Upon seeing Mackinder’s face, Ned halted in amazement. - -A smile spread over the other’s countenance as he noted Ned’s look of -wonder. But beneath the appearance of amused indifference the lad’s quick -eye detected a look of care. He was not the same Mackinder. - -For a brief moment nothing was said. Then the officer saluted the -commander, who recognized the act. The boys were presented. - -“So, my friends,” the commander began, “you were adrift on the North Sea -in an open boat? Have you suffered greatly?” - -“No, thank you,” replied Ned, acting as spokesman. “We have not been -adrift very long. The vessel on which we were riding struck something -which we took to be a floating mine. The crew got away quickly in one of -the boats, while we left a little later in another.” - -The shrewd eyes of the commander narrowed perceptibly. - -“And what was the name and rig of the vessel?” - -“The Lena Knobloch, a schooner, of Amsterdam,” replied Ned. - -“And the name of her captain?” continued the commander. - -“Von Kluck,” the boy answered. - -“Ah, a Hollander! I believe he is a peaceful trader in small cargoes. He -is what the English call a ‘tramp’ of the sea.” - -“May I ask what boat this is and where you are bound?” asked Ned. “We -would like to get to the United States, you know,” he added. - -“Yes,” smiled the commander. “But you are far from that country now -and we think your company delightful. This vessel is the Sturmvogel, a -destroyer of the German navy. We have been doing some small tasks upon -the high seas and are returning to a base of supplies.” - -“Can you put us in touch with some means whereby we can secure passage on -a vessel leaving for the United States?” asked Ned. - -“I am afraid that is impossible for the present,” slowly replied the -other, with apparent reluctance. “We like your company, you see. We -also are favored with the presence of one of your countrymen,” here he -indicated Mackinder, “who has consented to pay us a brief visit.” - -“Pardon me, sir!” stated Mackinder, half rising. “These are _not_ -countryman of mine! I must disclaim that honor!” - -“So-o-o?” drawled the other. “Then you do not know them?” - -“No!” stated Mackinder positively. “They are strangers to me!” - -“Then you did not mean what you said a few moments ago?” - -“I was mistaken!” replied the other, briefly. - -“As you please,” responded the commander with a wave of his hand. -“Perhaps I misunderstood your statements concerning them!” - -An order was given to the officer who had conducted the boys to the -cabin. The German language was used. Saluting the officer approached -Mackinder. Without a word that gentleman rose and stepped from the room. - -As Mackinder was conducted from the apartment the commander motioned the -boys to seats about the table. He smiled at them kindly. - -“Do you know what von Kluck’s cargo consisted of?” he asked. - -“Mostly cheeses,” replied Ned. “Also an airship!” he added. - -“An airship?” was the questioning response. “An airship?” - -Ned smiled a trifle regretfully as he related briefly the adventures -of the four lads with those who have read the previous volume of this -series are already familiar. He concluded by saying: - -“We were trying to get ourselves and the airship back to the United -States, when this man Mackinder seemed bound to delay us on some flimsy -pretext. Unfortunately our Grey Eagle went down with the schooner.” - -“Yes. And now you are headed directly away from your desired destination. -For you, at least, the situation is unfortunate!” - -“We think we are lucky to be afloat!” declared Ned. - -“Yes. You are indeed fortunate in that respect. But I wish to make some -inquiries,” went on the commander. - -“We shall be pleased to give you any information possible,” answered the -lad heartily. “We highly appreciate your kindness to us!” - -“Perhaps my act of picking you up was not altogether prompted by such a -noble sentiment,” smiled the other. “I want some information.” - -“I hope we can help you out,” replied the boy. - -“What I want to know is this: What did you do with the package?” - -“What package?” puzzled Ned, unable to grasp the other’s meaning. - -“The package so much desired by your friend Mackinder!” - -Instantly the boys comprehended the statement. They were unable to -understand how this man should know anything of the mysterious package -unless Mackinder had told him. They glanced at each other in apprehension. - -“Haven’t we got clear of that thing yet?” spoke up Jimmie. - -“If you please, sir,” said Ned, “we don’t really know anything about the -package. A package was found in our baggage when we were searched at the -border between Belgium and Holland. It was stolen by some person whom we -believe to be this man Mackinder, who has since been trying to get us to -deliver it to him, although we have not had it.” - -“I presume that you understand him to be an officer in the British army?” -inquired the commander kindly. - -“We heard so from von Kluck,” replied the boy. - -“Do you know what was in the package?” - -“No. We had not seen it until the time it was taken from our kits by -the soldiers who were searching them. All we know is that it was marked -‘U-13’ on the outside. We have seen it but that once.” - -“I cannot understand why Mackinder should be trying to take the package -out of the possession of his own countrymen!” - -“But I beg to say that we are not countrymen of his!” declared Ned. “We -are citizens of the United States. Here are our passports!” - -“I beg your pardon!” apologized the commander. “Circumstances seemed to -indicate that you were Englishmen. The mistake is mine!” - -“I admit that the mistake was natural,” said Ned. “But can you tell me -if there is any connection between the package marked ‘U-13’ and the -submarine vessel of the same name? If there is, why should Mackinder, an -Englishman, have anything to do with the package?” - -A smile greeted this query. Clearly the officer was amused. - -“If, as I suspect,” he stated presently, “the package contained -information valuable for the ‘U-13’ do you not understand why Mackinder -would be glad to get possession of it? The ‘U-13’ is a German craft!” - -“Oh, yes,” cried Ned. “And the two countries are at war!” - -“And you will also understand why, under the circumstances, we must feel -honored by your presence, as well as that of Mackinder, for a little -time. Just now we should hate to see you go!” - -“Then we are going to be prisoners?” asked Jimmie. - -“Oh, no! Nothing so harsh as that!” reassured the other. “We will call it -simply guests for the time being. That sounds better!” - -“Would you mind telling us what Mackinder had to say about us?” inquired -Ned. “We would like very much to know that!” - -“Consider,” temporized the officer, “how little time there has been since -we first sighted you for conversation of any sort!” - -“Yes,” agreed the lad, “but he has told you something!” - -“Nothing of importance!” declared the other, rising to indicate that the -interview was at an end. “You will be given quarters forward, where you -will receive every consideration until we reach our destination.” - -“Where are you bound, Captain?” asked Jimmie. - -“Our destination just now is a lonely island in the North Sea,” answered -the other. “It is heavily guarded, so you will be in no danger.” - -“Does Mackinder go ashore, too?” Jimmie continued. - -“That has not been decided yet,” replied the commander. He touched a -button, summoning an orderly. “Take these young gentlemen forward and see -that they want no comfort. They are our guests!” he ordered. - -In a few minutes the boys were seated at a table in the forecastle, where -they were provided with a great profusion of well-cooked food from the -sailors’ mess. With sharpened appetites they fell to eagerly. - -Since none of the members of the crew with whom they came in contact -seemed able to speak English the boys were forced to content themselves -with speculating on their destination. - -They knew that the torpedo boat destroyer had been headed nearly -northeast when it overhauled and picked them up. They also knew that -in this direction lay the entrance to the river Elbe and the Kiel ship -canal, but whether the boat was making for some port in that vicinity -they were unable to learn. - -Keenly as the lads regretted their lack of definite information they were -not inclined to become despondent. They found it possible by using signs -to carry on a sort of desultory conversation with the members of the -crew, who had gathered out of curiosity in their vicinity. - -At length Frank jumped from his seat with an exclamation. - -“I’ll bet I know where we’re going!” he announced, gleefully. - -“So do I!” stated Jimmie in a nonchalant manner. - -“Where?” asked Frank, somewhat crestfallen. “Aw, you don’t either!” he -declared, after searching his comrade’s face intently. - -“All right,” admitted Jimmie, laughing. “I just wanted to take some of -that overconfidence out of your system, that’s all!” - -“Where do you think we are bound for, Frank?” inquired Ned. - -Frank placed a finger on his lips, glancing about to make sure that no -one was close enough to overhear his whispered words. - -“Helgoland!” he said, cautiously. - -Instantly the others jumped to their feet, slapping Frank’s shoulders, -shaking his hands and otherwise showing their appreciation of his -shrewdness. Their enthusiasm could scarcely be restrained. - -“Sherlock Shaw, The Scout Sleuth!” shouted Jimmie. - -“Frank, you’re the real, old-fashioned guesser!” declared Jack. - -“How did you do it, Frank?” asked Harry, admiringly. - -“Well, the commander said we were destined for a lonely island in -the North Sea that was heavily guarded. I guess Helgoland fits that -description right enough. Besides, as I remember the geography of these -parts, that’s about the first land we’d strike going on this course.” - -“But I understand that is a sort of naval base,” put in Harry. “Isn’t -that the island where the Germans are fitting out so many of their -Zeppelins? Seems to me I read something about that in a paper.” - -“That’s the very place!” put in Ned. “The paper said it was a lonely, -rocky island, difficult of approach and quite well fortified.” - -“And book agents, canvassers, peddlers and rag men are not allowed there -at all!” asserted Jimmie, gravely. - -“Take his pie away!” shouted Jack. “He’s raving again!” - -“And you have to deliver all goods in the rear,” added Jimmie, as Jack -reached for the plate containing the lad’s breakfast. - -“Hurry up, let’s finish this food and get out on deck, where we will be -able to see something,” suggested Harry. “This is interesting!” - -Directly the boys were standing in the lee of a deck house eagerly -scanning the horizon for some sign of the island where they expected to -be landed as prisoners of war. - -The gale gave no hint of abating. Indeed, the motion of the waves was -much more noticeable. Jack attributed this partly to the build of the -craft, whose lines were sharper than those of the Lena Knobloch. The -sharp prow cut the water like a knife, while the slender, tapering stern -slipped through the seas without making a roller of large proportions. - -Presently, just as Jack declared he could see a blue smudge in the -distance, indicating the presence of land, the lads were joined by -Mackinder. He glanced at the group without speaking. - -Speedily the vessel approached the object that had been sighted. - -An officer drew near. He conducted Mackinder toward the stern. - -As the craft slowed slightly to enter a harbor Jimmie grasped Ned’s arm. -He pointed eagerly toward several large objects on land. - -“There is a whole flock of Zeppelins,” he declared. “And as I live,” he -continued, “I see a bunch of submarines at that dock over there!” - -“There must be a dozen or more!” gasped Frank, in amazement. - - - - -CHAPTER XII - -A NEW “U-13” APPEARS - - -Eagerly the lads gazed at the strange sights before them. On their right -rose several huge buildings; evidently workshops. On the left they could -see a field devoted to the erection and testing of several gigantic -dirigibles. Everywhere they saw bustling activity on the part of the -numerous workmen. Sentries paced about with arms in readiness. - -“That fleet of submarines looks to me as if Germany were preparing to -destroy every ship in the world!” stated Jack presently, as the destroyer -on which they stood passed the undersea craft. - -“The workmen seem to be fitting out some of the divers, too!” ventured -Jimmie. “See them carrying packages aboard that outside one!” - -“Maybe the grocer is coming to deliver the goods in the rear!” laughed -Ned. “Those packages look like groceries in disguise!” - -“I’ll bet Mackinder would like to see those submarines!” Harry said. -“He’d give his eyes almost for one good long look at them!” - -“Mackinder won’t see enough to carry any news back home from this place!” -declared Frank. “Didn’t you see the officer take him below?” - -“Yes, I did! I also saw the black look he gave us as he was being taken -away from this deck house. He likes us a lot—nit!” - -“I believe the commander of this craft is favorably disposed toward us,” -put in Ned. “He probably realizes that we want to be neutral and that our -presence in this neighborhood is due to our misfortune and not to our -fault. I do wish, though,” the lad added, “that we could leave!” - -“How much would you give to get away?” questioned Jimmie. - -“I’d give a good deal!” replied Ned. “I don’t like the idea of remaining -on this island a prisoner for any length of time!” - -“Well, if you’ll make it worth while,” Jimmie offered, “I’ll take you -along as a passenger. You must behave, though!” - -“Ah!” smiled Ned, thinking Jimmie was indulging in another of his jokes. -“May I ask when your ship leaves?” - -“I’m thinking of leaving about midnight or a little after,” stated -Jimmie, gravely. “It will depend somewhat on the wind and weather. If it -comes on to blow and the sea is rough I believe we’ll get out on time. -However, if this breeze should die away, we may not go!” - -“You’re rather reversing the order of things,” commented Ned. “Most -captains want clear weather and smooth seas for their departure!” - -“Well, if it remains stormy, as it has every prospect of doing and you -want a swift ride, you just keep watch of your uncle!” - -“Thanks!” laughed Ned. “You may surely count on me!” - -“May we go along, too, Jimmie?” asked Harry. - -“Sure, you may all go!” answered the lad. “But I warn you right now,” he -added, “that you’ll have to work your passage!” - -“That suits me!” returned Harry, greatly amused at carrying on what he -considered as a pleasant joke to while away the time. - -But to Jimmie, at least, the matter was not by any means to be regarded -as anything but a serious proposition. The lad had quickly formulated -a plan of escape. The very daring of his intended action was its best -guarantee of success. Failure meant disaster, but Jimmie was prepared to -risk all in the attempt. - -For a time the lad said no more. His tightly shut jaws showed the -determination that possessed him. The others became absorbed in -observing and discussing the monster Zeppelin dirigibles, hence they said -nothing more upon the subject. There was much to attract their attention. - -Directly they were summoned before the commander. As they entered the -cabin the Sturmvogel drew up alongside a dock. - -“Young men,” the officer began as the lads entered the cabin, “I regret -keenly the circumstances that seem to make it necessary for us to detain -you. I understand how anxious you must be to reach your homes, but it -is not possible to permit you to depart at this time. You will be given -every consideration during your stay at this place.” - -“Can’t we go with you when you leave here?” asked Frank. - -“No, that is impossible!” the other replied, shaking his head. - -“Then maybe some other vessel will call and we can get passage on it? We -are not particular about the class of accommodations!” - -“You forget that for some distance in every direction the sea is mined. -No vessels approach this island unless they know the channels.” - -“Then I guess we’ll have to be contented,” sighed the lad. - -“Is Mackinder going to remain here also?” questioned Ned. - -“I am very sure of it!” smiled the commander. “I believe that several -members of the guard are quite prepared to insist upon his staying here -until the knowledge he now possesses would be of no use to his own -country. Yes,” he added, “Mackinder will remain!” - -“I hope matters will be arranged so that we shall soon be able to leave -for home,” stated Ned. “We are not anxious to leave good company, but -we would like to get away from the scene of so much trouble. We want to -remain strictly neutral, and think the best place for that is at home!” - -“I haven’t a doubt of your neutrality!” declared the officer heartily. -“You may be assured that I shall do everything to help you. I believe I -can arrange so that certain privileges will be granted. It will not be -necessary, I am sure, to confine you to one of the buildings.” - -“Thank you!” replied Ned, gratefully. “You are most kind.” - -“And now, if you please, we will go ashore to meet the officer in charge -of this place,” stated the other. “You will like him, I’m sure.” - -Congratulating themselves on the kindness shown in their behalf the boys -prepared to leave the Sturmvogel. They collected the kits of the four -who had left Amsterdam on the Lena Knobloch. As they gained the dock -they found the small boat in which they had left the schooner. It was -evidently being preserved as evidence of the circumstance of the rescue. - -Already the work of provisioning and fitting the vessel was in progress. -The wireless had been busily used during the last few hours of their -voyage to the end that just the supplies needed were waiting at the -wharf. A huge coal barge fitted with a “whirlie” had drawn up alongside. -Great buckets of coal were pouring into the bunkers, while porters -carried all sorts of stores and supplies aboard. Cases of ammunition were -being hoisted aboard and stowed in their proper compartments. - -Stepping along the dock, dodging wagons loaded with fresh provisions and -stores, the boys kept pace with their friend, the commander. - -Presently they reached one of the buildings given over to the use of -offices. Here they were admitted into a room, where they found the -officer in command of the island. - -A short conversation in German served to inform this gentleman of the -situation so far as the commander of the destroyer could report. At the -end of the recital the boys were addressed by the one they had been -brought to visit, who had been introduced as General Gruenwold. - -“I understand that you young gentlemen lost an airship when the schooner -sank?” he inquired of Ned, motioning the boys to chairs. - -“Yes, sir!” replied Ned. “It was, of course, a complete loss.” - -“Then you understand machinery pretty well?” - -“We have always thought so,” was the modest reply. - -“And electricity?” - -“Yes, sir. We understand wireless, also.” - -“Then I am fortunate. Perhaps you would consent to assist us in some -difficult technical tasks we have on hand.” - -“We shall be glad to do what we may to reimburse you for our keep if you -will be good enough to assist us to return to the United States!” - -“Let us discuss that at another time, if you please,” replied Gruenwold. -“Just now we are short of practical electricians. If you will offer your -services in that direction we shall be very grateful. You may be sure -that we shall not be forgetful when it is possible to reciprocate.” - -“Thank you,” replied Ned in acknowledgment of the indirect promise. “Now, -if you will show us what you want done we shall be most happy to proceed. -I believe we have nothing else to do.” - -“Here are some plans,” stated the other, opening a cabinet at one side of -the room. “In these compartments are plans of certain vessels. You will -observe on these sheets marked ‘elek.’ complete diagrams of the plan of -wiring. Take this one, for instance. Do you think you could understand -what is meant by these tracings?” - -Ned studied the diagram for a few moments. The other boys leaned over his -shoulder. Presently, after conferring with his friends, the lad announced -that he understood the drawings perfectly, even though he was unable to -read the explanations which were in the German language. - -A smile lighted the face of Gruenwold as this statement was made. -Evidently the need for completing the work was urgent. - -“In that case, we will ask you to accompany this orderly on board the -vessel and proceed with the work. I will write an order directing the -ones in charge of the vessel to admit you and render such aid as may be -necessary. Later I will send a man who can speak English.” - -While the general was writing the necessary order to the ones in charge -of the vessel to which he had referred the boys were busy communicating -with each other by means of the mute language, in which they were quite -adept. By supreme efforts they were able to suppress the excitement under -which they were laboring. - -“What a piece of luck!” rapidly signalled Jimmie to Ned. - -“Keep cool!” cautioned Ned in reply. “Don’t give it away!” - -“Insist that we stay together on the job,” returned Jimmie. - -“You may be sure I shall do that!” came the answer instantly. - -“I hope the storm increases!” was Jack’s contribution. - -“Now, gentlemen,” announced the general, “if you are ready to proceed you -may accompany this man. He will direct you to the work.” - -Ned bowed in acknowledgment and the party turned to accompany the -orderly, who appeared in answer to the summons of his superior. - -They were led away from the dock at which the Sturmvogel lay. In a short -time they had traversed a goodly distance toward the mouth of the harbor. -Their destination proved to be the building adjacent to the group of -submarine vessels. By inquiries both direct and indirect Ned and his -companions decided that the orderly was unable to comprehend English, but -for the sake of absolute safety they continued to use the sign language -largely in their conversation as they proceeded. - -In a short time they had been admitted to the outermost craft, which lay -moored to its fellows. Communication had been established between the -vessels by means of a row of planks laid from deck to deck. - -Once inside the submarine the boys made a hurried yet thorough -examination of every part, taking a complete inventory of the exact state -of affairs. Frank and Jimmie managed to overhaul the stores. Harry and -Jack looked over the mechanical equipment. Ned, with the plans in his -hands, went carefully over every detail of the electric system. - -“I say, fellows,” announced Ned at length, as all the lads met beneath -the hatch, “this wagon is nearly complete. It looks a lot like the -‘U-13’!” - -“That’s what it does!” agreed Jimmie. “What more is needed?” - -“A few pieces of wire and about an hour’s work for me.” - -“Frank and I have found enough food to last a couple of months if we can -count hard-tack, sausage, and the supply of canned goods.” - -“Jack and I,” announced Harry, “have found the engines and pumps -apparently ready for duty in a moment. My idea is that they are trying to -get this vessel ready for a cruise at the first possible moment.” - -“It looks as if they are expecting a crew from some place and want the -boat ready for duty as soon as the crew arrives!” stated Ned. - -Further conversation was cut short by the arrival of the orderly. - -“Essen?” he inquired, pointing at his mouth and rubbing his belt. - -“Don’t say it twice!” cried Jimmie. “We heard you the first time!” - -The boys prepared to follow the orderly, who evidently intended to escort -them to the mess hall, where they would secure dinner. - -As they turned toward the iron ladder leading to the hatch Jimmie, who -had followed close upon the orderly’s heels, cried out: - -“Hello, Mackinder, where you from?” - - - - -CHAPTER XIII - -A THREATENING SITUATION - - -“Who’s there, Jimmie?” asked Ned, pressing forward. - -“Nobody now,” answered the other. “I thought I saw our friend Mackinder -looking down the hatchway, but possibly I was mistaken. At any rate he’s -gone now and we’d better hurry on for dinner.” - -“Mackinder’s a prisoner here,” stated Ned, positively. - -“Maybe he broke loose,” suggested Harry. - -“All right, I’m going up to the deck and look about,” said Ned. - -As the boys reached the narrow confines of the small deck at the top -of the conning tower they saw a figure hastening along the foot planks -that led from vessel to vessel. The fleeing person was now almost at the -building on the wharf. In a moment the shelter of this structure had been -gained. The figure dodged out of sight. - -“Now, that’s a funny thing to do!” mused Ned. “I wonder just what the -fellow wanted. Are you sure it was Mackinder, Jimmie?” - -“No, I’m not,” admitted the lad. “Of course, the face was in shadow as he -looked down the hatch. I’m not positive, but thought it was he.” - -“Well, let’s not bother about it any more,” said Ned, apparently -dismissing the subject. “We’re too hungry for any more mysteries!” - -As only hungry boys can the five attacked the ample dinner provided for -them. The dishes were strange but appetizing. Jimmie declared that he -intended to remain in that location for some time in order to become -acquainted with the chef. He said that he would be the envy of the entire -Wolf Patrol if he could cook in German style. - -After dinner the boys gathered in the lee of a small building, where -they would be protected from the chilling blasts. Puffy squalls, bearing -dashes of snow, sleet or rain, came threshing out of the west. It -appeared to the lads that the weather was growing decidedly worse. - -In spite of the inclement weather a number of the hardy workmen were -indulging in out of door sports during their rest hour. - -For some time the lads watched the games as the hardy men relaxed their -work-tensed muscles. The sullen booming of surf on the rocky coast -constantly sounded in their ears. - -“There goes our late rescuer!” announced Jimmie presently. - -“Where?” asked Frank. “Whom do you mean?” - -“The Sturmvogel!” answered Jimmie, pointing toward the harbor, where -could be seen the speedy destroyer slipping quietly out to sea. - -“Here’s hoping you have a good voyage, friend!” said Frank. - -“Yes,” added Jimmie, “we’ll see you a little later!” - -“That reminds me,” put in Ned, “we might as well get back to the ‘U-13’ -and begin work. There’s no use delaying the game!” - -“That’s right,” agreed Harry. “These fellows are probably in a hurry for -that submarine. We might as well be decent.” - -“Wait a minute,” suggested Jimmie. “You’ve given me an idea! Your mention -of the name of a certain undersea craft started a train of thought in my -alleged brain. Take it easy for a moment!” - -“Yes,” cried Jack, in mock sympathy, “stand back! Give him air! If Jimmie -is really going to think, let’s give him lots of room!” - -“Aw, you go on!” scorned Jimmie. “I’ve got a right to think if I want -to, haven’t I? I guess that’s my privilege!” - -“Not unless you have a union card!” protested Jack, laughing. - -“That’s all right,” retorted Jimmie with a grin as he wrinkled a freckled -nose at the other. “I was going to think about a scab, anyhow, so I don’t -need a card. Besides, this is on overtime!” - -“All right, you win!” declared Jack, submissively. “Go ahead!” - -“If you’ll promise to never, never tell, I’ll let you in on the scheme!” -whispered Jimmie, glancing about to make sure that no strangers were -within earshot. “Do you solemnly promise?” - -“I do!” answered the boys in chorus, anxious to receive the news. - -“Then here it is: If we could paint the name ‘U-13’ on that tub there’s -nothing to prevent our getting away in it!” - -“Hush, Jimmie!” cautioned Ned, in a startled tone. - -“Hush nothing!” declared the other boldly. “It’s now or never! The -destroyer’s gone—everything’s gone that could chase us. Mackinder’s loose -on this island. He’ll make us trouble if we stay. If we go now we are -safe from pursuit until another German boat comes in unless they flash -the news by wireless. In that case, we have an even chance of getting -away. If we don’t go now tell me when we can get home?” - -“I guess you’re right, Jimmie, but how are you going to work it?” - -“Simply putter along this afternoon,” explained the lad, “fixing the -wiring and so on. If necessary, rip out some and replace it. We can get -in one another’s way enough to kill a lot of time. After supper we’ll -manage to slip back to the submarine, paint ‘U-13’ on the side, every man -to his post, let go lines easy and skedaddle for the open sea.” - -“It sounds easy enough,” assented Harry. - -“Yes, unless you happen to get caught!” agreed Ned. - -“What is there to catch us?” asked Jimmie, bristling at this hint of -opposition. “The guards are all wise to the fact that the channel is -mined. They will be sleepy and lazy. They know that the torpedoes are not -aboard yet and believe it impossible for the submarine to leave without -a crew. The weather looks as if it were going to be rough. What more can -you want? It looks to me as if we’d never have another chance like it!” - -“Right you are, Mr. Wolf!” declared Frank. “I, for one, am willing to -take a chance. I’ll go with you to the limit!” - -“Here, too!” heartily agreed Ned. “How about it, boys?” - -Eagerly the others signified their willingness to undertake the task -suggested. They felt no compunction over the seizure of the boat. - -“Now, we’ll have to do some tall thinking before night comes!” stated -Jimmie. “Each of us’ll have his station and we must know just what to do -at the proper time. I had this in mind ever since we came up the harbor -past those boats. I noticed particularly the buoys marking the safe -channel leading into this harbor.” - -“Good for you!” cried Ned, administering an affectionate slap upon -Jimmie’s shoulder. “I knew you had something up your sleeve!” - -“So did I!” added Jack. “I couldn’t guess what it was, though!” - -“It was my arm!” declared Jimmie, with mock gravity. “Now, let’s go back -to this ‘Untervasserbootschiff’ and stall around a while.” - -“Correct!” cried Harry. “We’ll rehearse for this evening. We shall depend -on Jimmie to be the pilot, though!” - -“Leave it to me!” declared the younger lad. “I know where the buoys are! -I have them all located in my head!” - -“But we must be mighty careful,” declared Ned. “We don’t know how much -English these fellows understand. They must not suspect!” - -“Mum’s the word!” put in Frank. “Everybody mum!” - -First visiting the warehouse at the wharf, where they procured a quantity -of supplies, such as might be needed to carry out the work which they -were supposed to be doing, the lads proceeded aboard the submarine. - -Upon their arrival they found a painter at work inscribing the vessel -with identifying marks. He had proceeded so far as to place “U-1—” on -each side of the vessel. Jimmie joyfully declared that fortune was -playing into their hands in this respect, and that if something would -compel the man to quit work for a while the disguise could be quickly -made. - -At Ned’s request Harry began fitting wires from the storage batteries to -the motors used for propelling the vessel. The boys were startled to hear -him utter an exclamation of dismay. They found upon inquiry that he had -endeavored to strip the insulation from a wire by using his pocket knife -and had cut a finger badly. - -“Pooh, pooh!” stated Jimmie, upon discovering the wound. “Don’t make so -much fuss over a little thing like that. We’ll soon have you fixed up. -Here, just hold the wound closed with your other hand while I hunt up -some bandages. You’ll be all right in a minute!” - -But Harry declared that the wound pained excessively. He refused to -treat the matter lightly, but gathered up the tools with which he had -been working. These he deposited in a canvas bag in which they had been -brought aboard the vessel. - -Presently Jimmie located a first aid kit among the stores. He was not -long in cleansing and bandaging the wound. - -“There you are!” he stated. “Just as good as new! Now go lie down for a -little while. I’ll finish this job if I know enough.” - -Chatting together in a somewhat nervous manner the boys anxiously -awaited the approach of evening. As the time wore on their restlessness -increased. Again and again they carefully went over each detail of their -proposed plan for escape in the submarine. - -It was decided that Jimmie should take the wheel while Harry stood watch -at the engines. The others were assigned to various other duties at -favorable positions. Nothing remained except to wait for night. - -A short time before darkness settled an orderly visited the craft. He was -able to converse slightly in English. - -“How are you getting along, boys?” he asked, as he stepped down the iron -ladder. “Can we put the torpedoes aboard tomorrow?” - -“Yes, I think you will be able to place the torpedoes after tomorrow -morning,” replied Ned. “We will have our work all done then.” - -“That is good!” was the other’s comment. “Where is Mackinder?” was his -next question. “He will have to come ashore now!” he added. - -“Mackinder?” was Ned’s startled response. “He’s not here.” - -“But he was here!” firmly declared the orderly. “He was seen by one of -the sentries to come aboard this vessel, and has not since been noticed -going ashore, although a close watch has been kept!” - -“We haven’t seen him at all!” stated Ned, just as firmly. - -“We shall have to search the vessel!” affirmed the orderly. “You will -please remain aboard for a short time.” - -Quickly ascending the ladder the man summoned another soldier from the -shore. Together the two made a hasty examination of the boat. - -Unable to discover any trace of the missing prisoner they shook their -heads as if greatly puzzled. Now and again they glanced at the boys, -exchanging at the same time comments in German. - -“Come with us,” finally said the first visitor. - -Obediently the lads followed ashore. They were conducted to the office -building, where they were shown into the presence of General Gruenwold at -once. In a few words the orderly stated the case. - -“This looks serious, boys,” commented the General. “Can you not explain -the whereabouts of Mackinder? He is a prisoner, you know!” - -“We know nothing of the man!” declared Ned, earnestly. “We don’t like him -and surely would not think of assisting him to escape!” - -“If you please, sir,” began the orderly, “it is the opinion of my comrade -and myself that the boys have done away with Mackinder!” - -“What!” almost shouted Gruenwold, rising from his chair. - -“Yes, sir,” continued the man. “There was found in the boat much blood. A -hammer in their tool kit was also blood-stained. We think they possibly -made away with him and might have dropped his body into the harbor very -quietly without being seen from shore!” - -“This is serious, indeed!” gasped Gruenwold. “We shall investigate this -in the morning. Meanwhile, search the vessel again. The boys will be put -in the guardhouse until tomorrow.” - -Protests on the part of the lads were unavailing. Gruenwold was -determined in his decision. Ned’s explanation of the presence of the -blood in the vessel was listened to, but without influencing the general. - -Directly the lads found themselves in a room used for the accommodation -of such prisoners as might need confinement for a time. The island -boasted no regular prison, but a house not far from the water had been -utilized for the purpose. A guard paced a beat in the vicinity. - -Disappointed and angry at the turn of affairs the lads made but a poor -supper of the food that was brought to them. Presently, they composed -themselves to sleep on the floor. - -A tapping at the window attracted their attention. - - - - -CHAPTER XIV - -HELPED BY AN ENEMY - - -“What’s that?” inquired Ned, startled at the unexpected sound. - -“Loose board, I guess,” replied Jimmie, rather disgruntled at the turn -affairs had taken. “The wind’s ripping everything loose!” - -Again the tapping was repeated in an insistent manner. - -“I’m going to see what’s going on here!” declared Ned, rising from his -position. “Some one is trying to communicate with us!” - -“Some bloomin’ Dutchman’s tryin’ to ask us whether we want sausage with -our pancakes for breakfast!” growled Jimmie. “Let ’em alone!” - -Disregarding this statement the older lad proceeded toward the window, -where fitful gusts of sleet beat. Outside the darkness covered -everything. Only an occasional point of light indicated a sentry hut. - -“Who’s there?” demanded Ned in a low tone. - -“Sh-h-h!” came a hiss from the darkness. “Open the window!” - -Ned fumbled a moment at the fastening. Presently he found the catch -sliding the sash back in its channel. An exclamation escaped him as he -did so. The face of the visitor was none other than that of their missing -acquaintance, Mackinder. Ned was astounded. - -“Thought you were dead!” he cried in amazement. - -“Hush!” cautioned the other. “Not so loud. Now, if you lads want to get -out of here this is your time. Everybody’s busy or asleep!” - -“How do you know we want to get out of here?” demanded Jimmie in a low -tone as he approached the opening. - -“Don’t you suppose I have eyes? I saw what you were up to!” - -“Oh, you did, eh? Then what do you want us to do?” - -“If you want to get away from this place according to your plan, now is -the time to take action,” replied Mackinder in a whisper. “If you prefer -to wait until tomorrow and stand trial for an offense of which you are -innocent I cannot offer any objection of course.” - -“Ned, I think we’d better make our getaway while the going’s good!” - -“Second the motion!” declared Harry, who had softly approached the -window. “Let’s make a noise like a drum!” - -“I’m with you!” stated Frank, raising a foot to the window sill. - -“Easy there!” cautioned Jimmie. “Mind your step!” - -Frank was through the window in an instant. He landed on the earth with -Mackinder’s assistance without noise. Quickly the others followed. Ned -took the precaution to slide the window shut. - -Cautiously the little group of six made their way in the direction of -the wharf where the submarines were moored. Mackinder took the lead as -if familiar with the ground. Once he paused, extending a warning hand to -Jimmie, who was directly behind him. The lad performed a similar service -for those in the rear. A sentry was approaching. - -Mackinder sank upon the ground. Although the night was too dark for -the lads to see this action they were close enough to be aware of the -movement. Instantly all followed suit. - -In a moment they breathed more freely. The sentry had passed within a -few paces of their position. Evidently his feeling of security in the -isolation of the island had made him somewhat negligent of his duties. -He proceeded against the storm with head bent low. - -Again Mackinder rose to his feet. Cautiously he crept forward. - -On tiptoe the party gained the shelter of the warehouse. - -“Gee!” declared Jimmie as the edge of the wharf was gained, “I clean -forgot my kit! What shall we do?” - -“Hush!” warned Ned. “Don’t even dare think of your kit!” - -“I should say not!” put in Harry. “Think of your head instead!” - -“And the mines at the harbor entrance,” added Frank. - -“All right!” submissively agreed Jimmie. “I’ll keep quiet!” - -The wind had risen to such an extent that walking on the narrow planking -was not only uncertain but extremely dangerous. Mackinder solved the -problem by dropping to all fours. The boys followed suit. - -Directly, they gained the submarine, the hatch was placed quietly in -position for prompt closing and the lines which held the boat were let go. - -Owing to the movement of the boats caused by the roughened surface of the -harbor creakings and groanings of the fenders had served to drown any -noise the party had made in crossing the narrow bridge of planks. - -Jimmie held the wheel as Ned gave the signal for casting off the lines. -A touch of Harry’s hand on the lever started the engines. The submarine -began to move. Suddenly a loud splash alongside attracted the attention -of all. Frank came scuttling down the ladder. - -“Now I’ve done it!” he gasped. “I forgot to shove the plank back onto the -next boat and it fell into the water as we started!” - -“Wonder if the guard has heard it!” speculated Ned. “Let me up!” - -Under protests from his companions the lad mounted the iron ladder and -thrust his head through the hatch. - -“I hear someone running along the dock!” he announced presently. “I’ll -bet they have heard that noise! I see a light!” he added. - -“What are they doing?” inquired Jimmie, holding the boat directly in the -center of the channel as he peered anxiously ahead. - -“A fellow with a lantern is running out along the planks,” replied Ned. -“They’ve got to the outside boat now. Now they’re turning back.” - -“Better get that hatch closed so we can dive,” admonished Jimmie. “This -is our time for getting out of sight in a hurry!” - -“There goes their searchlight!” shouted Frank, who had crowded up the -ladder close beside Ned. “They’re going to spot us in a hurry!” - -“Ah,” cried Ned as a sullen roar came to their ears. “They’re taking a -chance shot at us from that cannon on the hill. Let’s dive!” - -Quickly the two boys adjusted the hatch. As they signaled to their -companions that this task was completed Harry and Jack turned the -deflecting rudders. The half-manned submarine slowly began to descend. - -“Get some water into the tanks quick, Harry!” called Jimmie. - -“Pump’s going right now!” declared the other. “We’re going down!” - -“Take a look through the periscope, Ned,” requested the pilot, “and let -me know what you can make out. Can you see any buoys ahead?” - -“Try to see if they’ve located us with their searchlight,” suggested -Mackinder. “Maybe they are getting our range with that gun!” - -“Never mind about that searchlight,” snapped Jimmie. “I want to find out -what’s ahead, not what’s behind us. We’ll run this boat!” - -“I simply wanted to know,” objected Mackinder somewhat ruffled at the -lad’s peremptory manner. “No objection, is there?” - -“All the objection in the world!” declared Jimmie. “You’re quite welcome -aboard as a passenger, but we’ll navigate the vessel, please!” - -Scarcely knowing whether to be amused or defiant at this attitude -Mackinder chose the wiser course and refrained from further comment. - -Although the boys could not be sure that the persons on the island were -making efforts to hinder their escape they felt the better course was to -remain beneath the surface until well out of the harbor. - -Directly Jimmie called the attention of his comrades to an object in the -water at no great distance ahead. The rays of the searchlight with which -the submarine was provided indistinctly revealed a huge bulk slightly -above the level at which they were traveling. - -“What is that, a ship?” asked Harry wonderingly. - -“I’ll bet a cookie that’s a mine!” declared Jimmie positively. “I’m going -to give it a little more leeway, anyhow. It pays to be safe!” - -Ned was working the periscope in an effort to locate the buoys as -directed by Jimmie. Occasionally he turned the glass toward the group of -buildings they had just left. - -“They’re shooting at us, I guess!” he stated presently. “I can see the -flash of that cannon. It seems to be pointed this way!” - -“Let ’em shoot, they can’t see anything but the periscope and they’d have -an awful time hitting that!” boasted Jimmie. - -Scarcely had the lad spoken before the vessel was shaken by the force of -a mighty concussion. A gigantic wave tossed the craft up and forward with -a heave that threw the boys off their feet. - -“What was that?” gasped Jimmie glancing at his companions with a -terrified face. “Has one of the fuel tanks blown up?” - -“Nothing doing!” replied Harry. “I think that cannon hit the mine we just -passed. I’m glad we were no closer!” - -“We’ll soon be out of their range!” stated Jimmie. “Shut up your -periscope and we’ll go deeper. Give us a little more speed, Harry!” - -In an hour Jimmie declared that they should be out of sight of the -island altogether. The engines had been working at full speed ahead. -Harry nursed the machinery constantly, knowing that it was new and would, -therefore, require considerable care. Their urgent need for speed induced -the lads to crowd the machinery to the limit, and Harry was gratified to -note that every part responded properly to its task. - -“Well, Mackinder,” stated Ned as the tension on their nerves began to -relax with the increasing distance traveled, “we’re surely grateful to -you for suggesting that we get away as you did!” - -“My motive was largely a selfish one, I must confess,” returned -Mackinder. “I wanted very badly to get away from that island.” - -“How did they ever get hold of you, anyhow?” questioned Jack. - -“I left Amsterdam the same evening you did. After the Lena Knobloch went -past us as she did I knew there was little use trying to delay you. -Therefore, my aide and myself left at once on a train for Rotterdam. -There we found a fishing boat which we thought would answer our purpose. -We induced the captain to take us aboard, intending to cross to England. -After traveling some distance the storm overtook us. We were blown far -out of our course. The vessel was badly battered. The crew left in a -panic, leaving me on board. Just in time the German destroyer came along -and took me off. That’s it in a nutshell.” - -“Yes, and then when you discovered us in our little boat you went and -told the captain of the destroyer a lot of nonsense, didn’t you?” -questioned Jimmie in a somewhat aggressive manner. “Why did you do it?” - -“I only told him that you had at one time a package that belonged to me. -I wanted the package badly. I thought he would assist me.” - -“That wasn’t a very nice way to go about it,” declared Jimmie with -emphasis. “After searching our baggage twice, and after we had told you -how the package was in our kits without our knowledge, also that it had -been stolen away from our possession, why didn’t you believe us?” - -“There is an old saying that all is fair in love and war!” replied -Mackinder. “You know that my country and Germany are at war. As an -officer in the British army, it is my duty to do everything possible to -assist my country. I believe that package contains information that my -country could use. That is my justification for my acts, and I hope you -boys are fair-minded enough to hold no resentment.” - -“I’m just fair-minded enough to be neutral,” declared Jimmie, “if I have -to fight for the right to remain that way. I’m just a little sore at you -for supposing that four boys who are citizens of a neutral country would -be carrying information around for another country at war!” - -“I’m sorry you feel that way,” said Mackinder. “I assure you there was -nothing personal in my acts. I simply tried to do my best!” - -“Well, you did a lot, at that!” returned the lad. - -“All right, folks, let’s drop the subject,” spoke up Ned. “I feel that -the air in here is getting bad. Suppose we go to the surface.” - -“Right you are,” agreed Harry. “Let’s rise and fill the tanks!” - -Jimmie, in compliance with this wish, steered the craft upward. - -At the surface the boys found the water much smoother than they had -expected would be the case. Jimmie declared that he intended painting -the balance of the name “U-13” on the vessel while the other lads were -occupied in airing out the vessel and refilling the compressed air tanks. - -Slung in a boatswain’s chair over the sloping deck the lad soon completed -this task. Feeling a considerable degree of elation at the success of his -undertaking Jimmie returned with his brush and paint. - -“If you’re ready now we’ll dive again and proceed!” - -“Wait a minute, Mackinder’s still on deck!” stated Jack. - -“He wasn’t there when I came below!” protested Jimmie. - - - - -CHAPTER XV - -MISTAKEN IDENTITY - - -Ned looked at Jimmie in astonishment. He could scarcely credit his -senses. He began ascending the iron ladder leading to the deck. - -Eagerly the lad glanced about the upper portion of the submarine which -now showed black and gleaming above the surface of the water. - -“Harry,” he called down the hatchway, “didn’t Mackinder say he was coming -on deck to see if he could be of service to Jimmie?” - -“He certainly did!” answered Harry. “Then we went on working at the -pumps. I was busy with the starboard pump, because it wasn’t working just -as it should. I saw him start up the ladder!” - -“And I saw him when he was about half way up!” put in Jack. - -“I’m equally certain he didn’t return, but it may be well enough to stop -a minute to search the interior. Perhaps he came back.” - -In a moment all five boys were busily going over every corner of the -craft. From stem to stern they ransacked every place where it would have -been at all possible for their guest to have hidden. - -At length they met in the space directly below the hatchway. - -“Find anything?” queried Ned glancing about the group. - -“Not a hint of anything at all resembling an Englishman!” stated Jimmie. -“Perhaps it would be a good idea to put an ad. in the paper.” - -“Yes,” scorned Jack. “Like this: ‘Lost—one perfectly good Englishman. -Finder please return to the “U-13” and receive reward’!” - -“Sure!” agreed Jimmie. “Have them charge it, please!” - -“Hush this nonsense, boys!” cried Ned. “This may be serious!” - -“Well, where is he?” protested Jimmie. “We haven’t got him!” - -“Maybe he fell overboard!” suggested Ned. “Let’s have a look.” - -Again the lad mounted the ladder. As he reached the small deck he peered -anxiously about the vessel seeking what he hoped he might not find. - -The others came crowding after their chum, filling the space. - -“There he goes!” cried Jimmie pointing away to the north. - -“Where?” inquired Ned looking in the direction indicated. “Oh, I see -him,” the lad went on. “He’s swimming a good stroke, too!” - -“Is he crazy or just disgusted with the company on board the ‘U-13’?” - -“Perhaps he thinks he’ll be picked up by that boat!” stated Jimmie again -directing the attention of his comrades to a small fishing craft. “They -seem to be heading a course that will reach Mackinder.” - -“He was wise enough to take one of the life preservers,” said Harry -indicating a space from which a buoy was missing. - -“Sure enough!” agreed Ned. “He’s no fool at any rate!” - -“Let’s wait a while to see if they pick him up,” suggested Jimmie. - -“If they don’t get him, we’ll chase over there and take him aboard again. -What do you say?” asked Ned of the others. - -There was no dissenting voice raised to this suggestion. Eagerly the lads -watched the boat momentarily drawing nearer the swimmer. - -In a short time the boat rounded to, losing her way in the water. A sharp -skiff was quickly launched over the side. Into this tumbled two men. -They soon covered the distance between their vessel and the swimmer. -Without difficulty they succeeded in assisting Mackinder into the skiff, -then put quickly back to the sailing vessel. - -“Ah, he’s safe at any rate!” gladly stated Ned. “Now we can go on and -finish our voyage in peace! I’m glad he’s gone!” - -“So am I!” declared Jimmie. “He’s a good fellow as one might say, but -he’s too awfully stuck on getting some information for that bloomin’ -Hinglish Harmy, don’t you know!” - -“That’s hardly fair, Jimmie!” laughed Ned. “He didn’t drop his ‘H’s’ and -he did only what he considered his duty.” - -“He will probably get that fisherman to set him ashore on English soil as -soon as possible,” conjectured Jack. “Suppose we follow them.” - -“What for?” asked Harry. “Why should we chase after those chaps?” - -“Unless we do something of the sort, we’ll have to go at it blindly!” -urged Jack. “We don’t really know where we are!” - -“That’s so,” admitted Harry reluctantly. “We haven’t a chart nor a -course. We don’t know how far we are from anywhere at all!” - -“We might keep on steering just as we started,” stated Frank. “I believe -southeast was the course we used coming away from Helgoland.” - -“That course would surely bring us up somewhere,” put in Ned, “but it -would be much better if we could find out exactly where we are. Then we -could steer a course with intelligence.” - -“Aw, what do we need of a chart?” scorned Jimmie. “We know that England -lies to the southwest of us. It’s big enough so we can’t miss it. If we -blunder into the coast we can just cruise along a ways until we come to -some place or other and then head in.” - -“That’s a good idea, too,” agreed Frank. “When we get to a port we can -turn the submarine over to the English authorities as a prize of war. -They’ll probably be glad enough to get the machine.” - -“Then we’ll head for the little old U. S. A.!” cried Jimmie. - -“You’re right we will. When we get there, we’ll chase ourselves out to -Long Island. The first thing I’ll do will be to get the factory started -on another engine like the Grey Eagle’s!” declared Harry. - -“Good enough! Now let’s be ‘wenting’!” added Jimmie. - -“But, boys,” objected Ned, “this hit or miss fashion of navigating is not -correct. Something may happen to change our course. If we don’t know what -we are doing, we might get into lots of trouble!” - -“Maybe you’re right, Ned!” assented Frank. “What shall we do?” - -“I think we’d better cruise carefully along on the surface until we see a -ship. We can ask them for our latitude and longitude. From that we’ll be -able to lay a course to any point.” - -“Maybe they’ll give us a chart, too!” put in Harry. - -“All right, then, here goes!” shouted Jimmie preparing to slide down the -ladder. “Somebody’ll have to keep on deck.” - -Harry at once followed Jimmie into the interior. The engines responded to -his touch. The new “U-13” sprang forward half submerged. - -“We’ve got plenty of gas in the tanks, Harry,” stated Jimmie to his chum -as the latter moved about the interior looking after the machinery. -“We’re making only about fifteen miles now by this log.” - -“I’ll give them another touch,” responded Harry. “The sooner we get -there, the quicker we’ll arrive, so here goes!” - -The increased speed of the engines urged the submarine ahead at a goodly -rate. Jimmie presently declared that the log indicator showed a good -twenty-five miles an hour. Those on the little deck above the conning -tower found the increased speed uncomfortable by reason of the dashing -spray, but all felt that this was not unendurable. - -“Sail, ho!” Ned presently called down the hatchway. - -“Where away?” asked Harry, looking up at his comrade. - -“Almost dead ahead!” replied Ned. “We’re overhauling them fast. It looks -to be a three masted ship as nearly as I can make out!” - -“Hold your course, Jimmie!” directed Jack. “We’ll come up close enough to -hail them in a little while just as we are heading!” - -In a few minutes the ship was so close that all could make out the -details of her rigging. It was a large three masted square-rigged vessel -evidently in ballast for the hull was high out of water. - -“I believe they see us!” announced Frank, using a pair of binoculars he -had found among the fittings of the submarine. - -“Can you make out the flag at the peak?” asked Jack. - -“Yes, I think so. I believe it is the British flag.” - -“Then, they’ll be glad to help us out, especially if they find that we -intend to turn the ‘U-13’ over to their government!” - -“I don’t know about that!” doubted Frank. “I see men running aloft. It -looks as if they’re rigging out studding sail booms on the main yards. -And I see others on the topsail yards,” declared the boy. - -“Why, in that case, they’re trying to get away from us!” - -“It certainly looks that way. Now I can see men setting the studding -sails on the booms. They are putting on every rag the old hooker will -carry!” cried the lad excitedly. - -“I know why,” stated Harry. “They think we’re a German submarine chasing -them and they’re trying to get away!” - -“Let’s run up a white flag, then,” urged Ned. “They ought to know what -that means. They’ll stop for that!” - -In response to this suggestion the lads quickly overhauled the flag -locker finding just what they sought. The white flag was at once brought -to the deck where it was bent on to the halliards. It fluttered gaily -at the top of the short flagstaff. Some difficulty was experienced in -securing the staff because of an improperly fitting socket. - -“Do they seem to be making any change?” inquired Harry presently. - -“Yes,” answered Ned. “They’re crowding on more sail!” - -“Then we might as well give it up!” stated the other. “They’ll never stop -for us. Our only hope is to dive and come up close to some vessel so they -can’t get away before we ask the questions.” - -“Maybe that would be a good idea,” admitted Ned. “Anyhow, we’ll have to -take down this flag. The signal staff don’t fit!” - -Disappointed because their efforts had been unavailing, the lads -regretfully folded the flag. It was restored to its proper place. - -Harry, however, continued to urge the engines forward in the hope of -eventually overhauling the ship. This seemed to be within the range of -possibilities, but the boys all knew the maxim concerning a stern chase, -and were somewhat discouraged. Knowing that their intentions were of the -best, they felt slightly aggrieved that the other did not stop. - -“I see a smoke away ahead of the ship!” announced Frank after a few -moments. “I can’t tell which way they are headed, though!” - -“At this rate of traveling, we’ll soon find out!” declared Jack. - -Evidently the smoke had been discovered by those aboard the sailing -vessel, for the course was altered slightly in that direction. - -This change was noted by the boys. Jimmie shifted the helm slightly in -order to keep the submarine directly in the track of the ship. - -“I wonder what that other vessel can be,” puzzled Ned. “Let me take the -glasses a moment, Frank. I wish we were higher in the water,” he added, -“then we could get a better range of vision.” - -Long and earnestly the boy inspected the strange vessel. Presently he -returned the glasses to Frank with a sigh. - -“What is it?” asked Jack with keen interest. - -“I believe it is a warship of some sort!” replied Ned. - -“Then they’ll capture us and take us to port mighty quick!” - -“I guess they’ll capture us all right!” put in Frank. “I can see the -sailing vessel making signals. They’ve got a string of flags flying from -the foretopmast head. I don’t know what they mean, but they’re calls for -help, or I’ll miss my guess! They are something like the U. S. flags!” - -Those on board the steamer had evidently seen the string of flags or else -by the peculiar actions of the sailing vessel guessed that something was -wrong, for the boys saw that their course was at once altered. From the -clouds of dense black smoke pouring from the funnels they knew that the -stokers were being urged to their best efforts. - -In a short space of time the combined speeds of the two vessels brought -them close together. As the other approached, Harry shut off the power of -the engines, checking them to little more than steerageway. - -As the steamer passed the ship Ned could see that some communication had -been made between the two. The steamer came quickly on. - -“Pass me up that white flag again, Harry,” requested Ned. “I think -they’re coming up to speak to us, and I’d just as soon have that handy. -Maybe these fellows might misunderstand our motives, too!” - -“I wish now I hadn’t painted that ‘U-13’ quite so plainly on the sides!” -grumbled Jimmie. “I’ll bet they’ve seen that!” - -“Of course, they’ve seen it, but if we show a white flag they won’t do -anything to us. They’ll let us ask questions!” - -In answer to this statement, a shot echoed across the water. A ball -striking the crest of a wave sent a cloud of spray over the “U-13.” - - - - -CHAPTER XVI - -A STRANGE DISCOVERY - - -“Get down that hatchway!” ordered Ned, wiping the spray from his face. -“Those fellows see the name ‘U-13’!” - -“Won’t they observe the white flag if we put it up?” asked Jack. - -“I don’t believe they will!” Ned stated. “Better get below!” - -As if to emphasize the boy’s opinion another report echoed over the space -of water separating the battleship from the new “U-13.” - -This time the shell had been aimed a trifle too high. It went directly -over the lads on the diminutive deck. Instinctively they all ducked their -heads as the missile screamed wickedly in its useless flight. - -If anything was needed to decide the matter, this last offering seemed -to serve the purpose. All three lads hastened down the ladder without -further parley. Ned lingered a moment to close the hatch. - -“Hang onto your hats!” cried Jimmie the next instant. - -“Let’s get down quick!” urged Jack. “Those fellows up there seem to mean -business. My stars!” he added breathlessly, “that last one was certainly -a beauty! They are getting the range, too!” - -Already Harry had started the pumps, filling the ballast tanks with water -to assist the “U-13” in the evolution of the dive. The rudders were -deflected to their extreme range. With decks inclined to an alarming -angle, the submarine fled toward the bottom like a hunted creature. Until -the gauges showed a depth of twelve fathoms, Jimmie held the levers in -position. Then he brought the craft to an even keel. - -“It’s plain to be seen that we’ll not get much help from any ship on the -North Sea!” declared Jack at length, as the ballast tanks were found to -trim the vessel. “They’re scared of us, I believe!” - -“They haven’t any reason to be scared of us!” stoutly protested Jimmie. -“We have never done a thing to them. We’re absolutely neutral!” - -“It seems to be one thing to be neutral,” laughed Ned, “and quite another -thing to convince other folks of the fact!” - -“They might at least have given us a chance to explain!” grumbled Jimmie. -“We had a white flag flying for them to see!” - -“Yes,” argued Ned, “but did you stop to think that we were showing -ourselves in a bad light? Remember the newspaper accounts of all the -damage done by a submarine? I’m not surprised they ran away.” - -“And then we come along in a submarine! Of course, we couldn’t expect -them to wait for a German undersea craft to come popping out of the ocean -and waltz up alongside so they could say: ‘Good morning, Mr. Dutchman! -Won’t you please accept this fine ship?’” added Jack. - -“Well, I’m it!” declared Jimmie, joining in the laugh that followed -Jack’s facetious remark. “The joke’s on me, all right! If I hadn’t -painted that figure ‘three’ in the name, we would have been on our way -to England by this time! Oh, well,” the boy added, “we’ll get to England -before long, anyhow, so I should worry!” - -“It all shows, boys,” spoke up Ned, “that we’ve got to be mighty careful -about our appearance and the company we keep. We have gotten into this -scrape largely because we were found in possession of goods we had no -business to have. This last incident came about because we pretended to -be something we were not!” - -“I think that ought to be a good lesson to us,” stated Jimmie. “It will -be for me, I know! I’m sure I’ll take it to heart!” - -“I’m mighty glad we’re away from that inquisitive gunboat!” put in Frank. -“Now, what’s the next thing for us to do?” - -“I move that we keep below the surface for a while. If we hold on a -general southeasterly course, as has been suggested, we can’t fail to -bring up somewhere on the English coast.” - -“That sounds like the most reasonable plan,” agreed Frank. “I propose -that we put on speed and hurry along. Let’s get somewhere!” - -“Here we go!” cried Harry, increasing the speed with a touch on the -levers. “Let’s keep a sharp lookout, though!” - -About half past three o’clock the boys decided to rise to the surface for -the necessary airing of the vessel and storing of another supply of fresh -air in the tanks provided for that purpose. - -In furtherance of this plan, the rudders were shifted while Harry slowed -the engines. Directly the craft ascended. The gauges indicated a depth of -about eight fathoms when Jimmie, who was at the helm, requested that the -rudders be again deflected. - -“What’s the matter?” questioned Ned, stepping forward. - -“I can see the light reflected down through the water, and there’s a big -shadow up there!” declared Jimmie. - -“What do you think it can be?” asked Ned wonderingly. - -“Probably it’s a big vessel of some sort. It may be a war ship, or it may -be only a cargo carrier. In either event I don’t want to get tangled up -in the propellers. Let’s sheer off a bit.” - -“All right,” agreed Ned. “I’ll go to the periscope. Maybe I can find out -something as we rise slowly to the surface.” - -Cautiously creeping nearer the surface, the lads put the periscope into -action. By its aid Ned made out that the craft was an armed vessel. The -new “U-13” lay just submerged about a ship’s length to starboard of the -stranger. They maintained about the same speed. - -Ned declared that he could make out the British flag at the stern of the -other vessel. He stated that he could also notice a number of people -aboard the steamer. - -“Can you see what they look like?” asked Jimmie. - -“They are regular sailors and marines,” answered Ned. “Why,” went on the -lad excitedly, “that looks like Mackinder at the rail!” - -Curiously the others crowded about the object glass of the periscope. -Each declared in turn that they recognized Mackinder. - -“Now, I wonder what he’s doing aboard that vessel!” mused Jack. - -“Quite likely this ship met the fishing boat and took him off so as to -save the other the trouble of going clear back to England!” - -“No doubt that’s it,” agreed Jack. “But look!” he continued, “he’s -discovered us! See him pointing toward us!” - -“Better get ready to dive, then,” cautioned Harry. “If he’s able, he’ll -get them to shoot at us. If they hit the ‘U-13’ it’ll be a long way to -Tipperary for us! We don’t know how thick this armor is!” - -“Down we go!” shouted Jimmie, seizing the wheel. “Lively, now!” - -Even as the boy spoke, a muffled roar was distinctly heard by the lads -in the submarine. A crash that reverberated through every portion of the -vessel told that they had been hit by a projectile. - -With a quick, startled glance at his companions, Ned hastened aft to -examine the possible damage. He could discover no leak. - -“I guess we’re lucky, after all!” he stated presently. “We’re not taking -in water, so I’m sure they didn’t do very much damage.” - -“It might have been more serious, though!” commented Jack. - -“Maybe the shot just carried away some of the light work like railings -and so on around the deck. I don’t think the shot struck the hull, or -we’d have heard more racket,” went on Ned. - -“Let’s keep below the surface for a while. Maybe we can get away from -those fellows far enough to be out of their sight while we change air. -They’re not the least bit sociable!” - -“Full speed ahead, Harry!” cried Frank. “Let’s hurry on!” - -“Better take it easy,” cautioned Jimmie. “We may not be out of the woods -yet. Let’s just go along slowly for a while.” - -“Aw, go on!” scorned Frank. “What’s there out here to bother?” - -“Sure!” chimed in Jack. “We’re away out in the North Sea where we can -find nothing but warships and sailing vessels and such!” - -“Maybe we might run into the real ‘U-13’,” countered Jimmie. “Then, what -would you do if you should meet that fellow?” - -“Why, put on steam and run away from him, of course!” - -“All right, go ahead if you want to,” submitted Jimmie unwillingly, “but -I don’t think it wise. It’s taking considerable risk!” - -Since the majority seemed to be in favor of more speed, the engines were -again urged to greater effort. Suddenly all were startled by a cry from -Jimmie. The boat swerved sharply to starboard, rolling until the deck was -at an acute angle. Harry reached for the levers, prepared to stand by the -engines for orders from the pilot. - -Directly Jimmie rang a stop bell. The vessel came again to an even keel. -The boys were once more able to stand upright. - -“What’s the matter, Jimmie?” cried Ned, as he scrambled to his feet. “Is -it a whale, or did you nearly have a collision?” - -“Collision is exactly the word!” declared the other. “I saw the masts of -a ship standing right in our path. I got this little craft turned just in -time! That’s what we get for blundering along so fast!” - -“What kind of a ship is it?” asked Frank, peering from one porthole after -another. “Are you sure it was the mast of a vessel?” - -“Why, certainly, I am sure!” was Jimmie’s decisive answer. “Don’t I know -a ship’s masts? I surely do!” the lad answered his own question. - -“Let’s swing around and see what it was,” proposed Frank. - -“All right, turn the deflecting rudders and down we go!” - -Swinging in a broad circle, the submarine was directed downward to a -level equal with that of the hull of the ship, whose masts had so nearly -proven disastrous to the boys. As the craft sank deeper the crew watched -with a great deal of curiosity from the thick glasses over the portholes. -Carefully they studied every detail of rig. - -Although the sunshine penetrated to some distance below the surface, they -found that at the depth where the hull lay a semi-twilight prevailed. The -upper portions of the masts had been clearly visible, but the decks lay -in a haze that prevented their seeing well. - -“Looks like the ship is almost new!” stated Frank. - -“Possibly it has been sunk only a short time,” ventured Jack. - -“Can you make out what ship it is?” asked Ned. - -“Wait a minute until we pass the stern again,” said Frank. - -“I can see it!” declared Harry in a moment. “It’s the Wanderer of Sydney! -That will be an Australian vessel!” - -“And that great gap in the port side indicates that the sinking was the -work of our namesake!” stated Ned. “This is another victim of the German -‘U-13’. Probably it is only one of many!” - -“No wonder the other fellows don’t seem inclined to be any too sociable!” -said Jack. “They really cannot be blamed!” - -“Right you are, Jack,” responded Ned. “When anyone hits at the pocketbook -we’re apt to consider everybody under suspicion.” - -“Let’s get closer and examine the damage done by the torpedo,” suggested -Frank. “I’d like to observe the effects of the attack.” - -Shortly the misnamed “U-13” was creeping alongside the hull of the sunken -vessel. Jimmie handled the wheel dexterously, ever alert for possible -danger. Harry stood by the engines, ready at a moment’s notice to assist -in executing any maneuver desired. - -“Looks as if the whole side of the ship had been torn away,” stated Ned, -as the submarine crept slowly past the jagged wound. - -“Those torpedoes surely are powerful,” agreed Frank. “I hope everybody -got away from the ship before the explosion took place.” - -“They probably gave the crew plenty of time to escape if this is the -work of the ‘U-13’,” commented Ned. “You say they gave the crew on your -vessel ample time to get safely away?” - -“Yes, but the men let themselves become panic-stricken. They lost their -heads and consumed a good deal of time. Besides that, they forgot they -were civilized. One of them hit me an awful clip.” - -“And pretty nearly left you on board to be drowned!” - -“These fellows did the same thing!” announced Jack, peering out. - -“Did what?” queried Ned, wondering what the other meant. - -“Left a man aboard when the ship sank,” stated Jack, pointing through the -little port hole. “There he is, walking about!” - -Clearly the boys saw a figure apparently crossing the deck. - - - - -CHAPTER XVII - -ALONE AND HELPLESS - - -“Good night!” almost shrieked Frank. “That’s uncanny! Whoever heard of a -man walking about at the bottom of the ocean?” - -“Where did he come from, Jack?” asked Ned. - -“I saw that figure come out of the companionway,” stated Jack. “I thought -I was mistaken at first, because of the dim light. I looked again as -you boys were talking. Then I saw that it was the figure of a man, -apparently. He seems to be carrying something in his arms!” - -“There he goes over the side of the vessel!” whispered Harry in an -awestruck voice. “What sort of deal is this, anyway?” - -“Did you notice the knapsack thing he was wearing on his back?” asked -Frank. “If I was superstitious, I’d say it was the ghost of a soldier who -had been drowned and was seeking his way back home!” - -“We don’t take any stock in that ghost business!” declared Ned stoutly. -“Some things may look supernatural because we don’t understand them, but -there’s always an explanation if we seek it!” - -“What is your explanation of this thing, Ned?” questioned Jack. - -“Probably some mass of seaweed or some other substance got caught in a -current and lodged against the cabin on the Wanderer. When we circled -about the wreck we set up counter currents that may have released this -mass. It then floated along in the current to finally sink on the other -side of this submerged hull. That’s all there is to it!” - -“I wonder what sort of a current is bringing the bloomin’ thing back -again!” announced Jack as Ned concluded his explanation. “It’s moving its -lower edges most remarkably like a man walking!” - -Ned’s look of bewilderment increased. Clearly the boy was puzzled. Even -he, himself, was not quite satisfied with the explanation of the strange -sight which had greeted the boys. - -Slowly forging ahead, the submarine passed toward the stern of the -Wanderer, shutting the strange figure out of sight. - -“Turn around the stern again, Jimmie,” requested Ned. “Go easy on the -engines, and we’ll have a look from a new angle. This is getting rather -spooky, I must say. I want to examine into it!” - -Again the false “U-13” rounded the stern of the wreck. Slowly the craft -nosed along the port side to a point abreast the mizzen chains. Directly -at a signal from the pilot, Harry shut off power altogether. - -The strange magnetism that seems to exist in all objects at sea slowly -drew the submarine toward the ship. Its drift had been sufficient to -bring the vessel to a point abreast the main rigging before it stopped. - -By this time the craft had approached close to the wreck. A very slight -jar told the boys that their vessel had touched the other. Eagerly all -watched from the portholes, now but a short space above the level of the -rail across which they looked. Directly all was still. At this depth no -movement of water was discernible. - -Feeling awed by the strangeness of the situation, the boys refrained from -speech. They watched for the reappearance of the strange figure. - -Soon Jimmie hissed a warning. He reached out a hand to turn the switch -controlling the lights. The boat lay in utter darkness. - -A figure stepped out of the Wanderer’s companionway. - -It appeared to be that of a person of medium build. The boys could now -see that it was clothed in what seemed to be a diver’s suit. The helmet, -however, was not connected to any air pipe. Neither was there a line -leading upward to indicate the presence of assistance. A hump on the -shoulders, giving the impression of a knapsack, afforded much wonderment -and increased the mysterious look of the newcomer. - -“Sh-h-h!” warned Ned in a sibilant hiss, as the figure came directly -toward their position. “Keep quiet!” he whispered. - -A few steps carried the stranger to the rail. The boys saw him give -a start of amazement as he prepared to go over the side of the ship. -Clearly the strange diver was surprised to see the craft in that -position. He stepped back a pace, then came gingerly forward. - -Evidently the man was astonished to observe the “U-13”. He climbed slowly -into the main shrouds. From that position he surveyed the craft more -completely. Again he returned to the deck. - -During this examination the lads had remained quietly at their posts, not -caring to make their presence known until they were sure of the identity -of the other. They still remained with their faces at the portholes, -where they observed, so far as possible, every move of the stranger. - -Directly they observed the diver pick up the burden he had brought from -the cabin. He hastened to the rail of the wreck. In a moment he had -clambered overboard, letting himself down by means of a line secured to a -belaying pin at the mainmast. - -“That’s funny!” observed Ned, as the other disappeared from view. “What -do you suppose made him scuttle out of sight so hurriedly?” - -“Maybe he, like the warship, saw our name—‘U-13’—on the side of the -vessel!” ventured Jimmie. “They all run away from that!” - -“It surely doesn’t make us many friends!” declared Ned. - -“You’re right!” answered the other. “It’s the original killjoy!” - -“Let’s dive a little deeper,” suggested Jack. “Perhaps we can find out -where this new chap is going with those bundles.” - -“Perhaps we’ll find out how he got here!” added Frank. - -“And while you fellows are ‘perhapsing’,” put in Jimmie, “I’ll say that -perhaps we’d better stick out! Perhaps he doesn’t want us nosing around -his property, and perhaps he’ll touch off a bomb!” - -“What’s the matter with you lately?” inquired Frank. “You’re getting to -be a regular little ‘fraid-cat’! You never used to be so timid about -sticking your nose into other people’s business!” - -“I’m not afraid to go looking into things now, only I’ve got a hunch that -we’d better not do it, that’s all!” answered the lad. “Just because I -happen to want to leave a fellow alone is no sign I’m a ‘fraid-cat’. If -you lads want to go anywhere, you tell me the name of the place. I’m game -to stick with you until they turn out the lights!” - -“Spoken like a man, Jimmie!” declared Frank. “That sounds like the old -Jimmie we used to know. Now, let’s go down a ways.” - -Harry sprang to the levers. A few shifts of the control brought the -storage batteries to work operating the pumps. With the additional water -admitted by this process, the false “U-13” sank until far below the level -of the rail of the wreck. Still deeper and deeper it settled. - -Presently the boys at the port holes could discover the bends of the -sides, indicating that they were nearly to the ocean floor. In another -moment a slight bump told them that the craft rested on bottom. - -“I saw a flash of light just now!” stated Jimmie. - -“Where did it come from?” asked Ned, stepping forward. - -“Just ahead of us on this side of the ship. The shadow lies heavily -there, so I can’t make out what’s located in that place!” - -The boys had not long to wait, however, to discover the cause of the -flash which Jimmie had seen. Almost following the boy’s words came a -dazzling beam of light, piercing the dark shadow like an arrow. For a -moment the boys were blinded as the searchlight’s flame played on the -forward part of their vessel. - -Presently the light shifted. It was turned against the side of the sunken -Wanderer. Up and down the light traveled, revealing the rugged sides of -the hull, with its covering of barnacles below what had been the water -line. Outward the beam went, showing nothing but ocean floor. Fishes were -illuminated and dazzled by the strong ray. - -Finally the light returned to the false “U-13”, where it settled for a -moment. Directly the light was turned off. - -Jimmie had been shading his eyes with a protecting hand. He was, -therefore, not so much blinded by the glare as the others had been. - -“There they go!” he cried, as the light was removed from the port hole -through which it had been shining. “They’re rising!” - -“Who can it be, I wonder?” questioned Ned. - -“I’ll never tell you!” declared Jimmie. “Oh, yes, I will, too!” he -amended his statement. “If you want to know, it’s the ‘U-13’!” - -“The ‘U-13’?” questioned the lads in chorus. - -“The ‘U-13’!” positively stated Jimmie. “Here,” he cried, turning a -switch leading to the searchlight. “Take a look!” - -The powerful storage batteries on the vessel occupied by the boys -generated a ray of light that pierced the darkness of the undersea world -with ease. Sharply outlined in the circle of flame the lads clearly saw -the form of a submarine vessel similar in many respects to their own. -There was the same sharp prow, the same tapering stern with conning -tower, keel, port lights, and every essential feature of the vessel upon -which they were located. - -Outlined upon the side, in letters fully the same size as those upon -their own vessel, the lads saw distinctly the mark “U-13.” - -“What do you know about that?” gasped Frank. “That’s fierce!” - -“Is it the same vessel you saw off Land’s End, Frank?” asked Ned. - -“I’m sure I can’t say,” returned the other. “I think it is! Of course, -we’re somewhat below it. Besides the difference in perspective from this -angle the water has a great deal to do with changing the appearance of -everything. The general outlines appear similar, however.” - -“Then we’re in a ticklish position!” declared Ned. “Suppose those fellows -take it into their head to torpedo us?” - -“If they do,” stated Frank decisively, “they’ll play havoc!” - -“They’re going over the wreck!” stated Jimmie in a whisper. - -“Let’s rise a little and see which way they head for,” proposed Frank. -“We can then go in the opposite direction for a while.” - -“I think we’d better slide right along to the southwest,” stated Jimmie. -“I know I’m meeting a good deal of opposition, but I’ve a hunch that -we’ll be better off if we get right away from this spot!” - -“Been reading that dream book again, little man?” asked Ned, with a -laugh. “Sorry, Jimmie, but the majority seems to be against you!” - -“All right, Boss!” returned Jimmie with a smile. “I’m game to stick with -the bunch! You’ll find me right here smiling all the while!” - -“Jimmie,” gravely stated Ned, “I wish we could all get some of that sunny -disposition of yours. We need a lot of your optimism.” - -“Thanks!” was Jimmie’s reply, delivered with an excess of politeness. -“Now, I’m at the wheel, Captain. Where to, sir?” - -“Let’s rise first and see what the other is doing!” - -“Ding, ding!” cried Jimmie. “Touch up the mule, Harry!” - -Harry’s manipulations of the levers brought the false “U-13” rapidly to -a level with the Wanderer’s deck. Through the port lights the boys could -see the other submarine across the sunken ship. It seemed to be gradually -descending toward the bottom. - -“Let’s follow them and see where they go!” proposed Jack. - -“At your service, sir!” cried Jimmie, saluting. “We’ll proceed to -proceed!” he added with a grin. “Here goes after the real ‘U-13’!” - -“Go ahead slowly, Harry,” cautioned Ned. “We don’t want to overtake them -yet. We’re in the shadow here, so they probably won’t see us if we hang -back a little. Just give the wheel a little kick.” - -Slowly the vessel carried the boys over the sunken Australian. They were -passing between the main and mizzen rigging at a level slightly lower -than that of the main yard. - -“What’s that just ahead of us?” queried Jack, at the porthole. - -“I don’t see anything,” replied Ned. “What and where is it?” - -“Right here,” declared Jack, pointing. “No, you’re too late! I thought it -looked like a snake in the water at first, but I see it was only a piece -of rope hanging from the rigging. It’s all right!” - -“Possibly it has been hanging down all the time but the current caused by -the passage of the other vessel swung it outward,” ventured Ned. “It will -no doubt slip past in a moment!” - -But this prediction was not fulfilled. With a sudden lurch, the stern of -the false “U-13” rose, tilting the deck sharply forward. - -With a groan the propellers stopped. - - - - -CHAPTER XVIII - -HELP FROM A STRANGER - - -Harry uttered a sharp cry as he stumbled forward along the steep incline -of the floor. It seemed as if some huge power had grasped the stern of -the craft, raising it until the vessel tilted forward at an angle which -rendered walking impossible. - -All the boys were thrown toward the forward end of the vessel, where -Jimmie was located. Ned and Jack lost their footing. They rolled -awkwardly to the forward bulkhead. Harry and Frank managed to remain -upright by hurriedly grasping at parts of the machinery or at stanchions. -Their progress was undignified as well as sudden. - -“What’s up?” sharply questioned Jimmie, regaining his feet. - -“The stern’s up!” facetiously replied Jack, also struggling to a standing -position. “Is anybody hurt?” the boy continued. - -A brief examination disclosed the fact that beyond a few minor bruises -none of the boys had been seriously injured. Their first care was for -each other. All were glad to find no one badly hurt. - -“What on earth can have happened to us?” asked Ned, peering from a port -light on the starboard side. “Did we collide with something?” - -“I don’t believe we did,” returned Harry. “There wasn’t any bump as if -we’d run into another object. We just stopped!” - -“And then the stern went up into the air and stayed there!” put in Jack. -“Something’s got us by the stern and won’t let go!” - -“I think I know what it is!” announced Frank. “What is it they call these -fishermen with a big net dragging around?” - -“Fishermen!” answered Jimmie, with a grin. - -“Stop your nonsense!” ordered Frank, administering a friendly punch to -his red-headed comrade. “I mean the fellows with a big drag net!” - -“Trawlers is the word you want, Frank!” said Jimmie. - -“That’s it!” agreed Frank. “I’ll bet we’re tangled in one of their nets. -Maybe we can’t get loose again, either,” he added. - -“Don’t you believe it!” scorned Jimmie. “If it was a fisherman had hold -of us, we’d be yanked around pretty lively. I think it is that rope we -saw hanging in front of the port light!” - -“I believe you’re right, Jimmie!” Ned put in as he gazed through the -heavy glass on the port side. “I can see that we’re swinging close to the -mainmast. There is no motion to the boat, so that makes me think your -solution is about right. Now to get loose!” - -“Yes, I agree with you!” stated Harry. “But how? If your assumption is -correct, we’ve got a big piece of line wound around the outboard end of -the shaft. It is probably more or less tangled up in the propeller also. -We can’t turn the engines over!” - -“Maybe we could throw out the clutch and turn the shaft backwards enough -to unwind the line!” suggested Frank. - -“I’m in favor of rising to the surface if the slack of line will permit,” -offered Jack. “We could then open the hatchway. It would be easy enough -from there to clear the line from the screw.” - -“That’s probably the best way out of it,” commented Ned. “Suppose we try -that. Harry, can we rise as Jack suggests?” - -“I don’t know,” came Harry’s hesitating reply. “I’ll try!” - -Accordingly the boy clambered from his position near the forward bulkhead -to the compartment amidships, where the pumps were located. A shift of -valves followed by a touch on the levers connecting the storage batteries -with the electric pumps started the process of emptying the ballast tanks. - -Almost instantly the forward end of the craft began to rise. Very shortly -the deck was in a level position. Then, as Harry continued to empty the -water ballast, Frank and Ned, assisted by Jimmie and Jack, threw the -clutch on the propeller shaft out of contact in order to permit the tail -shaft to turn without moving the engines. - -They then endeavored to turn the portion of the shaft which projected -through the stern bearing in the back up motion to free the propeller. -They hoped thus to release the rope which they believed to be wound -around the outboard portion of the shaft. - -Strive as they might, however, the shaft stubbornly refused to move. -Their utmost efforts were unavailing. - -At length, out of breath and exhausted, Ned sank back upon a locker. He -looked at his companions with a curious expression. - -“What’s the matter, Ned?” inquired Jack anxiously. “Are you ill?” - -“I feel badly, boys,” replied Ned. “Unless we can devise some means to -free that line from the shaft, we are in a pretty tight fix!” - -“How near the surface can you bring the boat, Harry?” asked Frank. - -“The gauges show that we’re about two and a half fathoms down at -present,” replied Harry. “I have pumped a lot more water out than would -ordinarily be required to bring us to the surface.” - -“Then we must be held by that line!” declared Ned. - -“Let’s try some other maneuver with the ship before we give up!” put in -Jack. “We’re not half though our experiments yet!” - -“All right, what’ll you try?” asked Ned in a despairing tone. - -“I don’t know,” was the answer. “But we’re going to do something to help -get us out of this fix. How would it do to fill the tanks to sink us as -far as we can go? Then we could empty them in a hurry, which would make -the boat rise swiftly. The jounce would perhaps break the line and let us -up so we could get some fresh air.” - -“If we don’t get some fresh air pretty soon, we’ll have to do something -desperate. The reserve tank is nearly exhausted!” - -In compliance with Jack’s suggestion, the ballast tanks were again -filled. Gradually the “U-13” descended to the bottom. As the deck began -to tilt forward, as it had done when the craft was first stopped, Harry -threw into operation every pump that could be used to empty the water -from the ballast tanks. The boat rose rapidly. - -With a jerk that nearly threw the boys off their feet, the “U-13” came to -a rest. The gauges still showed the same depth as before. - -Ned’s face turned ashen as he sank upon a locker. The others gathered -around him, expressing sympathy. The boy was clearly distressed. - -“Never mind, Ned!” spoke up Frank. “We’re coming out all right! The only -trouble is that we haven’t tried the right thing yet!” - -“But I can’t seem to think of a thing to do in this case,” protested the -other. “I’m all out of ideas! I’m sorry that we tried to follow that -other submarine. I wish we had taken Jimmie’s advice!” - -“Never mind that now, Ned. We’re close to the surface. If it becomes -necessary, I will volunteer to be shot out of the torpedo tube. I can -rise to the surface, swim about until I get my wind again, and then dive -and cut the rope. That will release the whole ship!” - -“Jimmie, that’s awfully good of you to offer that, but I feel that I -should be the one to do it,” was Ned’s reply. - -“No, sir!” declared Jimmie promptly. “You’re in no condition to attempt -anything like that. You’re worried, and your heart action is not right -just now. My mind is a blank, and my heart is as sound as a bullet! I’m -just the one for the job!” - -As if the matter were understood, Jimmie began divesting himself of his -clothing. He deposited his jacket on the locker beside Ned. - -“Harry,” he said, turning to his chum, “will you see that the torpedo -tube is connected up and in working order? You might try a discharge for -practice. We can spare a little of this air!” - -By the time Jimmie had stripped and secured a knife to a belt about his -waist, Harry pronounced the tube ready for operation. - -“Now, fellows,” said Jimmie, shaking hands with his chums, “there’s about -one chance in a million that I won’t get through this all right. If you -are not up to the surface in five minutes, you may know that I’ve failed. -Then you’d better send out another lad!” - -“Me next!” shouted Jack, beginning to remove his shoes. - -Harry was peering from the heavy glass protecting the forward porthole. -As Jimmie stepped forward to enter the torpedo tube, Harry held up a -warning hand. He turned an anxious face to his friends. - -“There’s something outside here!” he announced in an anxious tone. “I saw -it once, but didn’t get a clear view!” - -“What did it look like?” asked Jimmie. “Is it alive?” - -“I’m not sure, but I think it’s another submarine!” - -“Probably the real ‘U-13’ come up to look us over. Never mind those -fellows. I’m going ahead and cut this wagon loose!” - -“Wait a minute!” cried Ned. “I see the craft over here to starboard. It’s -a peculiar vessel, too! I think I see a man!” - -“I see him, too!” declared Frank from a porthole a short distance aft. -“Do you suppose he’s trying to get us to descend again?” - -“Maybe that’s it! Let’s try it, anyway!” offered Harry. - -“Go ahead!” agreed Ned in a tone that showed he was again taking heart. -“Let’s act on the suggestion. We can try our scheme later!” - -Harry’s hand had already found the levers. In a moment the ballast tanks -were being filled with water. Gradually the vessel sank. - -As the light grew more dim at the increased depth, Jimmie declared he -could see the other vessel descending at about the same speed. - -Presently the two craft were at the limit of their travel. The visitor -rested on the deck of the Wanderer, while the ‘U-13,’ in which the boys -were imprisoned, hung again at an angle from the line. - -Directly the lads saw the figure that had formerly attracted their -attention. It was climbing the main shrouds of the wrecked ship. When the -man reached a position level with their craft he began making signs and -motions. In his hand he flourished a knife. - -“Looks rather bad for us!” commented Jack. - -“Don’t you get him?” asked Jimmie impatiently. “He understands our -predicament and intends to help us! He motioned out that he is going to -climb the rigging until he can find the rope. Then he’ll slide down it -until he lands on our stern. If we’ll agree not to start the engines -while he’s there, he’ll cut the rope. But we must be ready at the ballast -tanks to let the vessel settle slowly to the deck of the ship, so he can -get off and clear the line from the propeller!” - -“I don’t believe it!” stated Jack. “I think he meant to cut the line as -soon as he gets to it and let us settle down slowly. What would be the -sense of his riding around the ocean seated on the stern of a disabled -submarine? He’s got too much sense for that!” - -“Maybe you’re right!” admitted Jimmie. “Let’s float the boat on an even -keel and see. I’m going to dress again!” - -Even as the lad hastened to put on his clothes the boys felt a sudden dip -made by the submarine. Gradually they descended. - -“Hurrah, he did it!” exultantly cried Ned. “Now, where has he gone? I do -hope he’ll free the propeller wheel at once!” - -“We could rise to the surface even if the propeller is stuck!” declared -Harry. “I can pump the ballast all out of the tanks!” - -“But if we do that we’ll have to dive overboard to clear the wheel!” -protested Frank. “I know that water is good and cold!” - -“Wait a minute, boys, and see what the fellow does,” cautioned Ned. -“Maybe he wants to help us, so it wouldn’t be nice to run away!” - -“Here he is, now!” cried Jack from his position near a porthole. “He’s -looking through the glass, and making motions again!” - -“I know what he wants!” declared Harry. “He’s making motions for us to -unscrew a pipe! He wants us to let in a lot of the ocean!” - -“Wait a minute, Harry!” put in Ned. “He’s walking toward his own boat. -Let’s see what he’s going to do!” - -In a short time their rescuer had reached the side of his own vessel. He -stepped into an open door in the side and disappeared. - -“An air lock!” cried Ned. “Did you see that, boys?” - -“Just like the little old Sea Lion we used in the China Sea!” - -“Here he comes again with a line!” announced Harry. “Now what?” - -The boys heard a hammering and thumping near one of the sea cocks. - - - - -CHAPTER XIX - -MACKINDER AGAIN - - -Even as the five boys glanced at each other with startled and wondering -looks, the thumping ceased abruptly. In a short space it was resumed. -Instinctively the boys gathered near the spot. - -While they stood there trying to determine the cause for the strange -procedure, the noise ceased. They heard a tapping at one of the -portholes. Jimmie rushed across the compartment to investigate. - -“Hey, fellows, come over here a minute!” he called out. - -“What have you found now?” questioned Ned, obeying the request. - -“Here’s this chap, and he’s making all sorts of signals!” - -“That’s funny!” puzzled Ned. “Can you make out what he wants?” - -“He’s making his hands go in the strangest way! I’m sure I can’t -interpret such motions unless he wants us to turn around while he places -a bomb or something close enough to blow us out of the water.” - -“I know what he wants!” shouted Harry, who had been closely observing the -stranger’s repetition of the strange motions. “He wants us to open the -valve leading from that sea cock where he has been working!” - -“Fine business!” scorned Jimmie. “Open up the sea cock and let the ocean -come running all over our nice carpets! I guess not!” - -“I’m going to try it, anyway!” declared Harry. “If a little water does -come in, the pumps will take care of it before it becomes dangerous. At -least, it’s well worth trying!” - -“Go ahead, then, but don’t blame me if anything happens!” - -Harry moved to the vicinity of the spot where the stranger had been -occupied but a few moments before. Jimmie was at the porthole. - -A turn of the valve resulted in a sudden short inrush of water. - -This ceased abruptly, bringing forth an exultant cry from Harry, while -the other boys crowded around, speculating on the cause. - -“I’ve got it!” cried Harry, dancing about the compartment. “I know what -he’s going to do. Go to the porthole, Jimmie, and see where our friend is -now. Tell me just what he’s doing. I’m going to stand guard over this -valve here for a while in case something happens.” - -“He’s going back into his little cage!” stated Jimmie from his position. -“He’s just shutting the outer door.” - -“Stand by to see something happen now, boys!” announced Harry. - -“What’s going to happen, Harry?” asked Jack. - -Before Harry could answer, a sputter of water and air was observed at -the open valve. A small quantity of water was blown out of the pipe. -Following this came a rush of sweet, pure air that was very grateful to -the boys after they had been using the vitiated atmosphere of their craft. - -In fact, the lads were much nearer the complete exhaustion of their -supply of usable atmosphere than they really comprehended. - -“Um-m-m!” exclaimed Jimmie, inhaling great draughts of the incoming -current. “Smell that, will you? It’s just like a posy bed!” - -“That’s quite remarkable!” declared Ned, as he, too, sniffed the new -atmosphere. “It does really seem to carry the odor of flowers!” - -“Maybe it’s a sort of gas that he’s unloading on us to render us -unconscious, so he can capture the whole outfit!” conjectured Jack. - -“I don’t believe it!” protested Ned. “I’m quite convinced that this is -pure air. He seems to have quite a lot of it stored up!” - -“Let’s pump out some of this foul air and change with the new!” - -“Go ahead!” consented Ned. “It’s a good move, I’m sure!” - -In a short time the boys began to feel the effects of the inflow of -vitalized atmosphere. They were livelier, with less depression. - -Directly their attention was attracted to the porthole again by a -tapping. The stranger was once more trying to convey some information by -signs. He repeated the motions of a short time before. - -“I got you!” cried Harry, holding up a hand as a sign of understanding. -“He wants us to shut the valve off. Perhaps he’s given us all the nice -fresh air that he feels it possible to spare!” - -“Shut the valve, then,” directed Ned. - -“What’s next?” spoke up Jimmie, listening to a slight hammering outside -of the hull. “He’s disconnecting the pipe now!” - -“Better wait a bit and see what he wants us to do,” cautioned Ned. “Maybe -he’s going to cut the line out of our propeller.” - -The lad’s prediction was correct. In a very few moments they could hear -the stranger working away at the encumbering line which held their -propeller in a vise-like grip. - -Not many minutes passed before the stranger again appeared at the -porthole. Making a few signals easily comprehended by all, he repaired to -his own craft, entering and closing the door of the air lock. - -Almost immediately the other craft began to ascend perpendicularly. - -“Guess we may as well make a mooch!” stated Jimmie, as he watched the -other submarine rise out of their range of vision. “We’re done here!” - -“All right, let’s get going!” agreed Harry, stepping toward the levers -and preparing to start the motors at the pilot’s command. - -At once Jimmie sprang to the wheel. He gave a pull at the bell cord, -jangling out a “go ahead” signal to Harry. As the latter touched the -levers a startling crash at the stern of the craft was heard. - -The motors spun the shaft around futilely without making headway. - -With blanched faces the lads glanced about the craft. Harry’s hand -instinctively sought the levers again to turn off the current. - -“What’s the matter?” called Jimmie from his position. - -“I don’t know!” declared Harry. “It sounded as if that fellow had tied a -can to us and we’d set it going! What did he do?” - -“Let’s pump the ballast out and rise straight to the surface,” suggested -Ned. “I noticed that he did that. Maybe there’s a reason!” - -Harry lost no time in acting on this suggestion. The electric pumps were -not long in emptying the ballast tanks. With this weight removed, the -boat quickly shot upward to the surface. - -As the conning tower portholes rose above the surface, the boys noticed -that the afternoon was far spent. Darkness already was gathering. - -Ned was working frantically at the clamps securing the hatch cover. -With a cry of delight he swung the cover out of position, admitting a -cool breeze. The wind had died down, leaving the surface of the ocean -comparatively smooth. Sufficient breeze was moving, however, to serve the -purpose of airing out the interior of the craft without putting the great -fans into commission. All the boys came to the tiny deck. - -Lying but a few fathoms from their port side they discerned the other -submarine. Clearly distinguishable on the sides were the great letters -“U-13” painted in almost exact duplicate of those on their own boat. - -“What do you know about that?” was Jimmie’s surprised exclamation. “If -that fellow isn’t a dead ringer for this ship, I’m a Dutchman!” - -“He surely does look a whole lot like us!” agreed Ned. - -“I say, Frank,” put in Harry eagerly, “is that the fellow that sank the -ship you were on? Can you identify it now?” - -Frank shook his head hesitatingly before he answered slowly: “Boys, I -hate to say it, but it looks as like the other as two peas. I would not -like to make an affidavit, but I’m willing to say that it bears a most -remarkable resemblance to that other one, if it is ‘other’!” - -“Then, I guess we’re done for!” despaired Jack. “If that’s a German -craft, we may as well hoist the white flag now and surrender!” - -“Think they’ll take us back to Germany?” asked Ned quizzically. - -“I’m sure of it!” declared the boy. “And we won’t stand much show, -either, when they find that we’ve stolen this ship away from Helgoland!” - -“Goodness!” exclaimed Ned suddenly. “I declare I’d actually forgotten -that we were on board a stolen submarine. That does make it look rather -dubious for us. We are in a pretty mess!” he added. - -“Here comes someone now!” announced Jimmie. “Watch the hatch!” - -A movement of the hatch cover on the other vessel indicated that someone -was about to appear on deck. Slowly a figure stepped forth. - -The stranger was of medium build, and wore a suit of blue with a round -hat to match. He was carefully dressed. After taking a long survey of the -group on the deck of the false “U-13,” he waved a hand in welcome. - -“He wants us to come over and pay him a visit!” stated Jimmie. - -“Why don’t you accept, then?” inquired Ned. “We’re into it now and may as -well be sociable. Being balky won’t help matters any!” - -“I would if we had a boat,” announced the other. - -“Maybe the real ‘U-13’ there has a boat they’d spare,” suggested Jack. -“Why don’t you hail and ask him if he won’t send a boat?” - -“Hail him yourself if you want to! Maybe he don’t talk English!” - -“Try him on United States then!” laughed Jack. “I would!” - -“Help yourself!” said Jimmie, leaning back against the rail. - -“Ahoy the submarine!” shouted Jack in response to this suggestion. “We -haven’t a boat or we’d come over. Can you send a boat to us?” - -Waving an arm as if comprehending the lad’s statement and inquiry the -figure on the other vessel clambered quickly to the after deck. After a -moment’s fumbling at what appeared to be a lock, he lifted a cover. In -a short time the boys saw him drag from its place a small, light, steel -boat. - -This was at once launched over the side. Running out upon a light iron -ladder the man dropped into the rowboat. He sculled the small craft -quickly over the intervening distance and was soon alongside. - -“Come aboard, sir,” invited Ned, reaching out a hand to assist. - -“Good night!” ejaculated Jimmie. “How did you ever get here so quickly, -Mackinder? We thought you were aboard that warship!” - -“I’ve been here a long time!” laughed the other, looking at the lad. - -“You’ve made a quick trip, all right!” returned Jimmie. - -The others crowded forward with eager, questioning looks. Upon the face -of each was to be seen amazement, wonder and perplexity. - -“Come aboard, Mackinder,” invited Ned. “We’d like to hear an explanation -of the strange goings on hereabouts. Can you help us?” - -“First, I’d like to hear your explanations,” stated the newcomer. “But -before you start your story, please tell me why you call me Mackinder.” - -“Isn’t that your name?” asked Jimmie. “Tell us that!” - -“Yes, that’s my name, you know!” replied the stranger, smilingly. “But -how did you happen to know it? I’m rather puzzled, you know!” - -“Why, you told us yourself on the train running into Amsterdam!” stated -Jimmie, with rising indignation. “Then we called you by that name while -you were trying to delay our start. Also Captain von Kluck used that name -when he referred to you. I guess it’s your name all right!” - -“I don’t deny that!” stated the newcomer. “What puzzles me is how you -chaps know it so quickly, don’t you know.” - -“It don’t make much difference how we know the name so quickly,” went on -Jimmie. “We’d know you anywhere we saw you. We’d especially recognize -that hand with the scar! That’s a dead giveaway!” - -The newcomer glanced quickly at his right hand, which Jimmie had -indicated. As he brought it up to view, the boys could see a jagged scar -running clear across the back. They had seen such a scar before. - -With an accusing finger pointing at the disfigurement, Jimmie snapped out -in crisp accents that indicated plainly his excitement: - -“That’s the same hand that tied and gagged me in the warehouse in -Amsterdam, and the same hand that I saw shoved into the window of the -frontier hut to get the ‘U-13’ package. Deny it if you can!” - -“I am not going to deny anything, you know!” returned the other coolly. -“You seem so positive about it there’s little use denying!” - -“You bet there’s no use denying anything like that!” declared Jimmie with -some heat. “You can’t deny that you tried to sic the German torpedo boat -destroyer onto us, either. You can’t deny that you sneaked away from this -very submarine when I was painting the name on the bow. You’d better not -try to deny that you showed us to the British gunboat a while ago and got -them to fire at us. If you start denying anything,” the boy went on, -“I’m going to deny that I’m neutral!” - -With a laugh the newcomer threw back his head in amused fashion. - -“Have your own way about it, you know,” he replied, “but I’m going to -tell you one thing. I’m not Mackinder!” - - - - -CHAPTER XX - -A MYSTERIOUS CRAFT - - -The surprise of the lads at this declaration of their visitor was -profound. They stared at the stranger who bore such a striking -resemblance to Mackinder and who had just declared that he was not that -person. Speechless at the apparent untruth, they could only stare. - -Seeing their looks of astonishment at his declaration, the man laughed -loudly, apparently enjoying hugely the joke that the boys could not see. -Supporting himself against the rail, he gave vent to peals of merriment -at the expense of the five young lads. - -“So you don’t believe me, eh?” he inquired at length, controlling himself -with an effort. “I can’t blame you, don’t you know!” - -“Say, Mackinder, you ought to be in vaudeville!” declared Jimmie in -reply. “For a lightning change artist, you’re decidedly it!” - -“Thank you!” acknowledged Mackinder, choosing to accept the boy’s words -as a compliment. “You’re almost too kind, don’t you know!” - -“And then,” the boy went on, “as a monologue artist, you’d certainly have -them all backed off the boards. I know a place in New York where you -could draw down your two fifty per without half trying!” - -“An engagement, do you mean?” queried the man, with interest. - -“Just that!” stated Jimmie. “And then, there’s another place up the -Hudson a ways where you ought to be making little ones out of big ones. -They give a fellow a long engagement there and supply costumes!” - -“All of which means that you’re spoofing me a bit, don’t you know!” -returned their visitor without resentment. He was apparently enjoying the -situation hugely, and meant to make the most of it. - -Seeing that his words failed to arouse or draw out the other, Jimmie -turned disgustedly away to lean over the rail. - -Ned began to question their guest, but was interrupted by Jimmie, who -announced that he saw a steamer’s smoke on the horizon. - -“This water is quite thickly sprinkled with vessels of all sorts,” said -the alleged Mackinder. “Perhaps we’d better get out, you know!” - -“What do you make that vessel out to be?” asked Ned. - -“It doesn’t make any difference what it is,” replied the other, “we shall -be better off if they don’t find us! We don’t need them!” - -“Very well,” put in Jimmie, “then we’ll get up steam on this wagon and -slide along. I’m going to say this to you, though, that Mackinder or no -Mackinder, we’re very grateful for your help. If we get an opportunity to -reciprocate, we’ll be only too glad to do it!” - -With this, the boy turned and offered his hand to the man. It was grasped -with a hearty grip that conveyed a sense of friendliness. - -“You can help me right now,” was the response. “Come aboard my vessel and -give me a hand on a little project I have under way.” - -“I don’t think we’d better do that right now,” stated Jimmie. “You see, -we’re neutral, and we don’t want to take sides either way!” - -“So am I neutral! I care nothing for this awful war except to see it -stop. I shall do nothing for either side, so rest easy on that score. But -your propellor is broken by having that line jammed in it. You cannot -navigate your vessel, and would better come aboard mine!” - -Doubting this statement, Jimmie clambered into the small boat and -sculled toward the stern of the false “U-13”. There he could look into -the water to a depth sufficient to confirm the other’s statement. - -“It’s no use, boys,” he declared, returning to the conning tower. “The -blades of the propellor are damaged beyond use. We might as well go!” - -Securing a line to the bow of the false “U-13” the man proposed to tow it -to a safe place where it could be anchored to await repairs. Two trips -were necessary to transfer the boys to the craft which had been of such -signal service in their hour of extreme need. - -Led by their recent guest, who was now their host, the lads descended -into the interior of the vessel. Here a strange sight met their gaze. In -cages canaries were twittering gaily while all about the bulkheads had -been fastened pots of plants, some of which were in bloom. - -“Now I understand why the air you so kindly pumped into our vessel had -the odor of flowers and growing things!” declared Ned as he turned to -their host. “You have things fixed pretty cozy here!” - -“Just a touch now and again to make it look home-like!” said the man. “I -prefer the sight of a flower to that of a cold steel bulkhead. Besides, -it’s more healthful to have a few plants about.” - -Harry was lost in admiration of the machinery which he declared to be far -superior to that of the vessel they had lately abandoned. - -With a touch their strange host sent the craft forward at a good speed. -He explained to the lads a gyroscope arrangement by which he controlled -the steering gear that kept the vessel on any chosen course and at any -desired depth after once being adjusted. - -“And now, if you please, Mr. Mackinder,” questioned Jimmie at length, -“will you be so good as to tell us what your mission may be?” - -“Certainly!” replied the other frankly. “I see the steamer is not -following us so I will take plenty of time to give you details.” - -“Thanks!” drily responded the lad. “We’ll appreciate it!” - -With a laugh the man seated himself on a locker and motioned the lads to -do likewise. They listened intently as he proceeded: - -“You perhaps all realize that the possession of wealth is the desire -of almost every human being. I am not different from the rest in that -respect at least. Owing to some family trouble which I shall not at this -time detail, I was not given the advantages that accrue ordinarily to -heirs. I think you will understand what I mean?” - -“You were left out in the cold when they passed the dough?” asked Jimmie -with a knowing look. “Just shoved one side?” - -“That’s about it!” replied the man. “But I resolved to get some money, -nevertheless. I had a fertile imagination, some education and a very -small amount of money. I did not want to take so cheap a way as to rob or -cheat my fellow men. I was not shrewd enough to enter the business world. -Therefore, I turned my attention to lost or buried treasure.” - -Jimmie delivered a broad wink toward Ned. It was not lost by their -observant entertainer, who laughed much to the boy’s confusion. - -“Amongst other inventions that were in my brain was an instrument for -detecting the presence of gold similar to the instrument called a -compass. In this instance electricity had nothing to do with its action. - -“To make a long story short, you know, I finally succeeded in perfecting -the arrangement. It was an amusing circumstance that I had a very hard -struggle preserving my last gold piece with which to test the device,” he -went on with a laugh at the recollection of his trials. - -“At last, I thought I had my instrument perfected. I next needed only -something on which to practice. With my precious treasure carefully -guarded I succeeded in reaching the Gulf of Mexico, where it is said so -much pirate gold has been buried. Wonderful to relate, I actually located -and recovered a small amount. It was not large but helped me to fit out a -vessel in which to make other cruises.” - -“And it really worked?” inquired Jimmie in a tone of unbelief. - -“How well I shall presently demonstrate, you know,” was the reply. “But -I found that the crew was tricky. They helped me get a treasure aboard -then calmly turned pirates themselves and ran away with the treasure. For -nearly a year I had hard luck. Then I succeeded in locating a large sum -of gold that had been buried by a man’s grandfather. - -“My past experiences had taught me that I could not trust anyone. -Therefore I determined to prosecute my search in other channels. - -“Piece by piece in different shops I had this vessel constructed after my -own designs. The pieces were assembled in a part of the Gulf of Mexico -little frequented. There I tried out the undersea boat, named it the -‘U-13’—the ‘U’ standing for Undersea and the ‘13’ in defiance of the -popular superstition. But I found a new difficulty. - -“The instrument, although working perfectly on land, was not reliable -under the ocean, for as you know there is a large amount of suspended -gold in sea water. That made the instrument unreliable.” - -“What did you want to go under water for, anyway?” asked Ned. - -“Gold!” was the curt reply. “So I had to construct another device that -would neutralize the local attraction of the sea water just on the same -principle that the mariner has the two iron balls near his compass to -overcome the local attraction on his vessel. - -“Then I was prepared to pursue my quest for treasure undisturbed. My -first venture was the recovery of a large sum from a sunken ship in -Havana harbor. This provided me sufficient funds so that I put stores -aboard and came across to seek for the vessels of the Spanish Armada.” - -“How did you get across the Atlantic?” asked Jimmie incredulously. - -“In this vessel!” was the reply. “And most of the way under water, too, -you know! I didn’t want anyone to see me!” - -“But you had to come up once in a while to get air!” - -“Oh, no! Here is a contrivance,” indicating a huge box-like affair, “with -which I separate the oxygen from the hydrogen by electricity. Water, as -you know, is composed of two gases—oxygen and hydrogen. Two atoms of -hydrogen combined with one atom of oxygen and make a tiny bit of water. -By the aid of this special device I segregate the two gases, use the -oxygen and discharge the hydrogen overboard.” - -“I’m going to take my hat off to you!” declared Jimmie. “But you had to -have some means to prevent discomfort from the storage batteries!” - -“Not with these!” smiled the other. “I’m using, without permission, of -course, a new storage battery that does away with the lead-sulphuric acid -type of battery. The inventor is a man whose name is familiar to you -all. He uses a nickel, iron oxide and steel combination in a solution of -potash. This battery, instead of causing inflammation or even proving -deadly as is the case with the old type, is actually a benefit to a -person. It is exactly opposite in its effect to the old style.” - -“And you manage to make a cruise of days and days under water?” - -“Surely!” smiled their host. “There’s nothing to prevent it!” - -“That’s going some!” declared Jimmie. “But I don’t believe you managed to -dig up a lot of gold from the bottom of the ocean!” - -“What is there to hinder?” questioned the other. - -“Everything!” declared Jimmie. “In the first place there is all the water -about. Then, too, it would be easier to take this instrument into the -regions where gold is usually discovered on land. You could prospect with -it in almost the positive knowledge that you would locate a vein. Digging -then would be easy.” - -“Yes, but I don’t like to dig!” laughed the other. “Perhaps I’m too lazy -to do that sort of thing!” - -“There’s something queer here that I don’t quite get,” stated Jimmie. -“Can’t you explain a little more in detail?” - -“Why, certainly, I’ll be glad to elucidate!” was the answer. “You have -in mind the securing of free gold in nuggets and dust. I go about it in -quite another way. My purpose is to recover the minted coins that have -been placed aboard ships. When the ships sink, no diver yet has been able -to reach those in deep water. Therefore, most of the gold that has been -carried to the bottom in sunken vessels is forever lost. I intend to -recover a great deal of it!” - -“Then when you know approximately where the vessel was wrecked or sunk,” -put in Ned, “you go to that neighborhood. Your instrument indicates the -presence of gold and you follow its directions until the exact spot is -reached. Then you step out and carry the money aboard your own craft. Is -that the correct explanation?” - -“You have it exactly. And I have done pretty well so far!” - -“I don’t believe it!” declared Jimmie flatly. “The whole thing sounds -mighty fishy—not meaning any disrespect,” he added addressing the man who -sat leaning back against a bulkhead. - -“But I assure you that what I have said is absolutely true!” - -“I’m from Missouri!” stated Jimmie in a tone of doubt. - -Their host stepped to a locker which he opened. - -“Great Frozen Hot Boxes!” cried Jimmie. - - - - -CHAPTER XXI - -A MYSTERY EXPLAINED - - -“Why, boys, look at this!” cried Jimmie, his voice rising to a shriek -then trailing off into a whisper. “Did you ever see the like?” - -“Let’s see!” put in Frank, crowding forward. “What is it?” - -Eagerly the boys gathered around the open compartment. They heard -distinctly the tinkle of coins as Jimmie seized a handful and let them -slip one by one back into place. Again and again the boy dived his hands -into the yellow mass of metal. He raised handfuls of coin to look at them -a moment, then let them drop from his grasp. - -“Good Night!” he ejaculated at length, turning a round-eyed face to the -man who stood smiling beside the group. “Why, you must have enough here -to buy a farm and build a fence clear around it!” - -“Quite likely I have!” declared the other quietly. “But there are two or -three other wrecked vessels that I wish to visit before I stop. I have -the exact locations charted and have examined the interiors.” - -“Why didn’t you take the gold away with you, then?” - -“For the very simple reason that I found one pair of hands not enough -to perform the task. I could have taken the gold away from the sunken -wrecks, but the matter of getting it ashore was another thing!” - -“Why, what’s to prevent?” asked Ned wonderingly. - -“Several things!” declared the other. “In the first place the peculiar -phase of human nature that makes every man mad when he sees a lot of -money would operate against my plan of taking the gold ashore. Who could -I hire to move the heavy stuff with any assurance of their honesty if -they once found out what might be in the packages?” - -“That’s so!” admitted Ned thoughtfully. “Human nature is crooked!” - -“My plan has been to find some one who needs the money and who would -work on a percentage basis—share and share alike. We can then get the -money ashore, negotiate the older coins that possess more than their face -value, bank the current coins and be prepared to use the wealth exactly -as we see fit. So long as it remains under water it is safe.” - -“But I can’t understand how you get it aboard!” declared Jimmie. - -“I have a tank of compressed air fixed to the back of a special diving -suit,” explained the man. “There’s also a search light and a small -storage battery provided. In this suit I step out through the air lock -onto the wreck. The rest is easy. I return with the load of gold the same -way I went out. The submarine is anchored. The whole thing is simple!” - -“Sure enough!” exclaimed Jimmie. “Why didn’t I remember our arrangement -on the Sea Lion? And then, too, we saw you walking about on the decks of -the Wanderer! I guess I’m going daffy!” - -“What do you say, boys, will you join the expedition?” - -“We don’t stand much chance of getting home right away,” stated Ned. “I -guess we might as well—” what he would say was cut short by the sound of -a cannon shot booming through the gathering darkness. - -“What’s that?” inquired Jack anxiously, jumping to his feet. - -“I’ll bet it’s that bloomin’ steamer we saw!” cried Jimmie. “That must be -another of those gun boats and they’re chasing us!” - -“I’ll go up to the deck and see!” offered Ned. - -“Be careful, don’t let them get you!” warned Jack. - -“I’ll watch out for that,” laughed Ned, mounting the iron ladder. - -Directly the little group at the foot of the ladder were startled to hear -their companion’s voice. A note of anxiety vibrated through his words. - -“Boys,” Ned cried, “there’s a gunboat out there, and I think I see -another submarine. It looks to be like the ‘U-13’ for all the world. What -shall we do?” - -“Here,” urged Jimmie, “take the glasses and have a good look. If it is -that Dutchman, I’m for beating it out of here mighty quick!” - -For a tense moment Ned gazed through the glasses at the strange vessels. -At length he lowered the binoculars and turned toward his companions. -With a shake of his head and a quick indrawing of breath, he said: - -“It’s the ‘U-13’ as sure as can be!” - -“Let’s go!” was Jimmie’s only comment as he turned toward the switchboard -with outstretched hand. - -“I’m with you!” declared Ned, quickly descending the ladder to join the -group. “Go ahead slow, though. Don’t break the hawser, or we’d lose the -other vessel.” - -“Perhaps we would do better to abandon your vessel,” Mackinder suggested -as he prepared to go on deck. “Let me have the glasses, if you please. -I’ll look them over.” - -Jimmie paused, with his hand on the starting switch. - -Suddenly all were startled by a cry from their host. - -“Go ahead! go ahead!” he shouted down the hatchway. “That other fellow -has launched a torpedo at us!” - -“Let go the line, then!” urged Ned. “We’ll have to run for it! Full -speed, Jimmie!” he added. - -Mackinder was casting off the hawser with rapid motions. Jimmie, in -response to Ned’s command, threw the switch over. The “U-13” began to -gather headway. - -All were startled to hear the report of a cannon shot. This was followed -almost instantly by a shriek from the man on deck. - -“Mackinder’s hit!” gasped Ned, turning a blanched face to his chums. -“What shall we do?” - -As if in answer to his query, the voice of Mackinder reached the ears of -the lads. - -“Bring an axe!” he shouted. “I’m fast in the bight!” - -Wrenching an axe from its pocket on the bulkhead, Ned sprang up the -ladder at his best speed. On deck he found Mackinder caught in a bight -of the hawser by which the other vessel had been towed. His leg was -jammed against the fairleader. Only one glance was required to show the -boy that serious injury had been done. - -Without waiting for words, the lad stepped to the side of the fallen man. -Swinging his axe quickly, he struck at the taut bond of hemp. A shower of -sparks followed the ringing thud of the axe upon the steel deck. - -Mackinder dropped back upon the deck, limp and helpless, as the singing -of the parted line told of his release. - -With tender solicitude the boys mounted the ladder to assist their -injured friend to the room below. Scarcely had the boys gained the -deck when they were startled by a terrific explosion. As Ned afterward -declared, it seemed as if they had been caught in a volcano of water. - -“What has happened?” queried Jack, releasing his hold upon Mackinder. - -A flood of sea water descending upon the little deck prevented an answer -to his question. In a moment the lads were able to look about. - -“Where’s our ‘U-13’?” asked Harry. - -“Gone!” stated Ned, his voice trembling. “I’ll bet that German torpedoed -it! I’m glad we are on this ‘U-13’!” - -Echoing this sentiment, the lads hastily proceeded to lower Mackinder -through the hatchway. This done, the injured man was deposited on a -couch, the hatch was closed, and Ned began first-aid ministrations. - -“What course shall I hold?” asked Jimmie. - -“Better head on a southwest course,” stated Ned, briefly glancing up from -his work over Mackinder’s leg. - -“I can do that all right,” responded Jimmie. “The gunboat and the -submarine can fight it out alone.” - -“We’ve got a clear field, Jimmie, so shove the little wagon along for all -she’s worth,” put in Jack. - -Mackinder had been exercising wonderful command of himself, but in spite -of his best efforts a groan now and again escaped. The injured leg was -proving a painful matter. - -“We’ll do all we can for you, Mackinder,” Ned offered, “but we need -better skill than is available here. Would it not be best to make at once -for some port where we can secure the services of a surgeon?” - -Mackinder’s only reply was a nod. His teeth were closed tightly to -suppress the cry of anguish from his hurt. - -“Keep on the surface, boys,” urged Ned as he went about making the man -comfortable with such simple means as were at hand. “I believe we are -not far from the coast.” - -Surrendering the wheel to Frank, and with Jack at the engines, Jimmie -insisted upon mounting to the deck again to look about them. - -Cool and sweet the air gushed down the little open hatchway upon the -injured man. Under its influence and aided by the ministrations of Ned, -the proprietor of the third “U-13” rapidly gained control of himself. - -“Head west southwest,” he instructed Ned. “We’ll be mighty apt to find -the mouth of the Thames on that course. There are many places I’d rather -go, but you are right—we must have a surgeon!” - -Giving the course to Harry, Ned proceeded to do everything in his power -to ease the hurt of their friend. - -“On deck, there!” announced Jimmie presently, his face at the hatchway. - -“Hello!” answered Ned. “What is it?” - -“I see a light about a point off the port bow!” - -“What do you make it out to be?” - -“I think it is a lighthouse!” declared Jimmie. - -“Margate!” murmured Mackinder. “We are safe enough now, but be careful -about the money, boys!” - -“Sail ho!” rang out Jimmie’s voice again. - - - - -CHAPTER XXII - -MORE MYSTERY - - -“What do you see now, Jimmie?” asked Ned anxiously, stepping to the foot -of the ladder. - -“There’s a small steamer coming up rapidly from the starboard side,” -replied the lookout. - -“Perhaps we’d better dive again,” suggested Ned. - -“Aw, go on!” protested Jimmie. “What’s the use of diving every time -anything comes along? We’re neutral!” - -“We are, yes,” agreed Ned, “but this ‘U-13’ name is not neutral, and -if the steamer is an English vessel they’ll probably not stop to ask -questions.” - -“Why not swing a white light at ’em, then?” - -“That’s a good idea, too!” agreed Ned. “If they seem to be heading toward -us, just get a white flag going.” - -“They are not showing any light at all,” announced Jimmie. “They’re just -sneaking along like an express train.” - -“Let us know at once if anything happens,” Ned responded, turning back to -his patient. - -The boys had not long to wait. - -Out of the gathering darkness Jimmie saw a burst of flame which lighted -up a portion of the approaching steamer. A bright flash in a wave some -distance in advance of the “U-13” next attracted his attention. The sharp -roar of a cannon came to the ears of all. - -“Are they shooting at us?” asked Ned, again approaching the ladder. - -“Don’t know!” Jimmie replied briefly. “I saw the flash and heard the -noise. There was a splash some distance ahead of us in the water. Maybe -they can’t aim straight.” - -Ned mounted the rungs of the ladder without further delay. He closed his -eyes as he did so, the better to accommodate his vision to the change -from the light below to the darkness outside. In a moment he was peering -in the direction indicated by Jimmie. - -“Can you make her out?” - -“Yes,” replied Ned. “I can just see a sort of thick place in the -darkness. My eyes will be all right soon.” - -“I don’t believe they were shooting at us at all!” commented Jimmie, -musingly. “They can’t see us!” - -As if to disprove this statement, another flash lighted up the forward -portion of the other vessel. - -Ned grasped Jimmie’s arm and pointed straight ahead. - -Skipping from wave to wave, throwing up a fountain of spray from each, -the shot from the steamer plowed its way across the path of the “U-13,” -passing so close that the boys were struck by the flying drops of water. - -“That means that we are to stop!” declared Ned. “Next time they’ll shoot -_at_ us!” - -“And hit us, too!” excitedly put in the other. - -Without waiting for orders from Ned, the lad leaned over the coaming of -the little hatch. - -“Shut her off, Jack!” he cried. “Back on your engines. That guy thinks we -are Germans!” - -Jack at once complied with the request, and soon the “U-13” was gently -rolling in the trough of the sea. - -Frank sprang from the wheel to the ladder, mounting to the deck just as -a beam of flame from a powerful searchlight aboard the steamer swept the -“U-13” from end to end. - -In the glare of the light the three boys stood plainly visible. They -could not, however, distinguish the details of the other vessel because -of the flaming eye regarding them with unwinking stare. - -For a few moments they stood close to each other, uncertain what to do. -At length a voice hailed them. - -“Submarine, ahoy! What vessel is that?” - -“Shall I tell them our name?” asked Ned anxiously. - -“No,” urged Jimmie. “Don’t say ‘U-13’!” - -“They’ve seen it on the side, anyhow!” scorned Frank. - -“Don’t let them think we’re Germans. Don’t you see they’re English?” -queried Jimmie. - -“It doesn’t signify they’re English, even if they do speak the language,” -returned Ned. “Can’t you answer?” - -“Ahoy, there!” came an impatient voice. - -“Steamer, ahoy!” replied Ned. “We’re a peaceful submarine manned by -neutral non-combatants!” - -“A likely yarn, indeed!” laughed the stranger. “Stand by to receive a -boat. I shall send an officer aboard to investigate.” - -“All right, Captain,” consented Ned. “Glad to meet you!” - -Still standing under the unwinking eye of the searchlight, the little -group waited expectantly for the arrival of the boarding party. - -A splash of oars preceded the boat which soon shot out of the darkness. - -In another moment an officer in uniform had mounted the little deck. -Wonderingly he glanced about the group, now augmented by the arrival of -Jack and Harry. - -“Where is your commander?” he inquired somewhat stiffly, addressing no -one in particular. - -Indicating Ned, the boys silently waited. - -“Are you in charge of this vessel?” asked the officer, with just a trace -of amusement. - -“I am and I am not,” replied Ned, with dignity. - -“That’s very enlightening, I’m sure,” returned the other. “But time is -short, and I must see the person who is in charge, and that at once.” - -“The owner is lying in the cabin with a broken leg which he received as -we were escaping from a German submarine,” explained Ned. “We boys are -trying to get to some port where we can secure the services of a surgeon.” - -“Oh,” exclaimed the officer, “escaping from a German?” - -“Yes, sir. They torpedoed another submarine that we were towing, and in -casting off the towing line the gentleman below was caught in the line. -His leg is badly broken.” - -“Who is this other person?” - -“He gave us the name of Mackinder.” - -A frown settled over the face of their questioner. Stepping forward, with -flashing eyes he addressed Ned in a low voice vibrant with emotion. - -“Now, if you have all the lies out of your system,” he gritted, “we’ll -listen to the real story.” - -“That is the real story!” protested Ned. “Step below, if you don’t -believe me, and you may see for yourself.” - -“We have already seen enough to discredit such a wild yarn as that!” -declared the other. “Too many of our brave sailors have been killed and -set adrift by the ‘U-13.’ Besides, the man you mention is certainly not -in the cabin. I can swear to that. Now, will you tell me the truth?” - -“I say, Mister,” put in Jimmie, “suppose you go fifty-fifty with us. Who -are you, and what right have you to stop us?” - -A short laugh was the man’s only answer. He turned to hail the vessel -from which he had just come. - - - - -CHAPTER XXIII - -THE MYSTERY OF THE “U-13” - - -“Ahoy!” his hail rang out over the waters. “Send another boat aboard us. -I will transfer the crew of this vessel!” - -“Yes, you will!” scornfully replied Jimmie. “You’ll do a lot, you will. -We have something to say about that!” - -“I am more astonished than I can say,” the officer replied as he -gazed at the lad. “I had supposed that Boy Scouts would not under any -circumstances lend themselves to a project of an unworthy character.” - -“Well, who has done all that?” bristled Jimmie, wrinkling a freckled nose -at the man. “You’re taking a lot for granted, I must say! Who are you, -anyhow?” - -“You’ll find out quickly enough!” was the answer. - -Turning at the sound of approaching oars, the officer quickly issued a -few short commands. - -In obedience to his orders, the boys were required to enter the small -boat without even an opportunity of going below. - -“Dodson,” ordered the officer, “take a couple of men and search the -vessel for others. We were informed there were but five, but they may -have confederates.” - -Wonderingly the lads sat in the boat as they were rowed across the -intervening distance to the steamer. Scarcely had they set foot on deck -before a line was passed to the submarine and the vessel was under way, -towing their recent habitation. - -An orderly conducted the lads directly to the cabin, where they were -greeted by an officer seated at the head of a table. He arose as they -entered and extended a hand to each. - -Motioning to seats, the officer again busied himself with some papers -on the table. For some time the boys glanced expectantly at each other, -waiting for the officer to open the anticipated conversation. - -Impatiently the boys waited, listening to the regular throbbing of the -steamer’s propellors that told they were again under way. - -At length the silence was broken by the arrival of an orderly. Saluting, -he reported briefly to the officer. A nod dismissed him. - -“Boys,” began the officer in a kindly tone, “we find ourselves rather -puzzled by some mysterious circumstances which we hope you can explain. -Will you assist us?” - -“I assume from the looks of things aboard that you are English,” answered -Ned. “Am I correct?” - -“You are. This is a scout vessel doing patrol duty along the coast. In -common with others, we have been on the sharp lookout for a submarine -named ‘U-13,’ which has been doing considerable damage to our shipping. -We capture it without difficulty, to find it manned by Boy Scouts instead -of Germans, as we had expected. Can you explain that?” - -“Yes!” laughed Ned. “That is easy. The boat you have captured is owned -by a private individual named Mackinder, who has been amusing himself -in a perfectly innocent pastime. He, like ourselves, is neutral, but -unfortunately has gotten into rather compromising situations.” - -“Mackinder?” repeated the officer, wonderingly. - -“Yes, sir,” continued Ned. “He rescued us from our disabled submarine. He -is now aboard his vessel with a broken leg.” - -“We had him brought aboard this vessel, and find that his leg is really -broken,” explained the officer. “But,” he continued, “you have not quite -explained your presence on a submarine.” - -“That is easy—” began Ned. He was interrupted by a sign from the officer. - -“Just a moment,” the other said. “We will have Mackinder in here, and -perhaps he can explain a little of the mystery himself.” - -At a command from the man two orderlies approached. In a few moments the -boys observed four sailors bearing a mattress upon which lay their late -host. - -At the same moment a group approached from the after part of the cabin. -Glancing from one group to the other, the boys rose to their feet with -exclamations of surprise. - -“Well, Great Frozen Hot Boxes!” cried Jimmie. “How did you get here, -Mackinder?” - -A man from the small group behind the officer stepped forward, smiling. - -“I was picked up by the fishing boat you probably saw when I swam away -from the submarine you captured. They transferred me to this craft. We -have since been looking for you.” - -“Well, I’m glad to see you, anyway,” returned the lad. “But you couldn’t -prevent our leaving Holland, even if you did try good and hard. Have you -found that package yet?” - -The smile quickly faded from the face of the other. - -“No, I haven’t,” he answered in a low voice. “I find that you boys have -gotten me into a lot of trouble, too.” - -“Trouble?” puzzled Ned. “How have we done that?” - -“By secreting that package,” explained Mackinder. “You see, I was -detailed to duty on the Holland frontier. When I saw that package, and -knew that you had recently come from the German lines, I assumed, of -course, that it contained information for the German submarine that has -been causing so much havoc amongst the English shipping. Without waiting -for orders, I tried to follow you and gain possession of the object. Now -it seems I am disobeying regulations by absenting myself from my post of -duty without leave. Further, I was seen aboard or coming from a German -vessel. Hence circumstances look bad for me. I’m due for a court martial -as soon as we land at Margate, which must be close aboard by now.” - -All were startled to hear a groan escape the man lying upon the mattress. -He had raised himself upon one elbow. - -“Oh, Robert!” he cried. “Not that!” - -“Tom!” gasped Mackinder. Soon the two men were shaking hands at a great -rate, tears in their eyes. - -“Boys,” Mackinder announced at length, “I must introduce my brother Tom.” - -“We have had the pleasure of meeting the gentleman,” stated Ned. “In -fact, we owe our lives to his kindness.” - -“But, see here,” demanded Jimmie, stepping forward, “this needs an -explanation. Which one of you fellows was at the little cabin on the -Holland border?” - -Tom Mackinder smiled, in spite of the pain of his crushed leg. He turned -his glance toward his brother, whose hand he held. - -“We both were there, Jimmie,” he said. “I took the package from the -window. You see,” he continued, “it contained plans of my submarine, with -which you are familiar. I tried to sell the plans to Germany, but found -they had beaten me. So upon my return trip I slipped the package into -your baggage, thinking to escape search and detention at the border. I -have it here now.” - -As he ceased speaking he drew from his pocket the same flat package the -boys had seen before. - -“Hurrah!” cried Jimmie. “Now we can explain how your brother came to be -captured by the Germans, and how under his direction we stole the other -‘U-13’ and escaped from Helgoland.” - -“If what you say is true, young man,” put in the officer, “the -anticipated court martial may never convene.” - -“We can prove it!” protested Jimmie vigorously. - -“Then we have solved the Mystery of the ‘U-13’!” declared the officer, -with evident relief. - -“And now we’ll head for the little old U.S.A. and peaceful neutrality!” -was Jimmie’s joyful comment. - -“But you’ll first arrange to care for your share of the cargo aboard my -boat,” interposed the injured Mackinder. - -He would not entertain any of the objections raised by the boys, but -insisted that they share in the treasure which had been recovered from -the ocean’s grasp. - -A few days later as the boys watched the chalk cliffs of Dover slip away -into the eastern horizon Jimmie turned from the rail of the steamer upon -which they had taken passage. - -“Good by, England, and good by the Mackinders,” he said. “I’m glad we are -out of the war zone at last and that we solved the Mystery of the ‘U-13’.” - - -THE END - - - - -Boys! Own a Man’s Billiard Table - - -Soon Paid at 10c a Day - -Our handsomely illustrated billiard book—sent FREE to every boy—reveals -the rousing sport thousands of boys are enjoying _right at home_. How -their parents praise billiards and _pay to play_ till the table is paid -for. How any room, attic, basement or loft gives plenty of space for a -real Brunswick Carom or Pocket Table—now made in sizes from 2½×5 feet to -4½×9 feet, regulation. - -[Illustration: “BABY GRAND” - -Combination Carom and Pocket Style] - -Superb Brunswick “Baby Grand” - -“Grand,” “Convertibles” and “Quick Demountables” - -Made of rare and beautiful woods. Not toys—but scientific tables, with -accurate angles, ever-level bed—life! speed! lightning-action! - -Yet our prices are low—due to mammoth output—now $27 upward. - -You can pay monthly as you play—terms as low as 10c a day. - -Our famous book—“Billiards—The Home Magnet”—shows these tables in actual -colors; gives prices, terms, etc. The coupon brings it—send today! - -Playing Outfit Free - -Balls, Cues, Cue Clamps, Tips, Brush, Cover, Rack, Markers, Spirit Level, -expert book on “How to Play,” etc., all included without extra cost. - -30 Days’ FREE Trial - -Then 10c a Day - -Our plan lets you try any Brunswick _right in your own home 30 days FREE_. - -Mail This For Billiard Book FREE - - The Brunswick-Balke-Collender Co. - Dept. 33Z, 623-633 S. Wabash Av. Chicago - -Send postpaid, free, color book— “Billiards—The Home Magnet” and tell -about your Home Trial. - -_Name_............................ - -_Address_............................................................. - - - - -BOYS’ COPYRIGHTED BOOKS - -Printed from large, clear type on a superior quality of paper, -embellished with original illustrations by eminent artists, and bound in -a superior quality of book binders’ cloth, ornamented with illustrated -covers, stamped in colors from unique and appropriate dies, each book -wrapped in a glazed paper wrapper printed in colors. - - -MOTOR BOAT BOYS SERIES - -By Louis Arundel - - 1.—The Motor Club’s Cruise Down the Mississippi; or, The Dash for Dixie. - 2.—The Motor Club on the St. Lawrence River; or, Adventures Among the - Thousand Islands. - 3.—The Motor Club on the Great Lakes; or, Exploring the Mystic Isle of - Mackinac. - 4.—Motor Boat Boys Among the Florida Keys; or, The Struggle for the - Leadership. - 5.—Motor Boat Boys Down the Coast; or, Through Storm and Stress. - 6.—Motor Boat Boys’ River Chase. - - -THE BIRD BOYS SERIES - -By John Luther Langworthy - - 1.—The Bird Boys; or, The Young Sky Pilots’ First Air Voyage. - 2.—The Bird Boys on the Wing; or, Aeroplane Chums in the Tropics. - 3.—The Bird Boys Among the Clouds; or, Young Aviators in a Wreck. - 4.—Bird Boys’ Flight; or, A Hydroplane Round-up. - 5.—Bird Boys’ Aeroplane Wonder; or, Young Aviators on a Cattle Ranch. - - -CANOE AND CAMPFIRE SERIES - -By St. George Rathborne - - 1.—Canoe Mates in Canada; or, Three Boys Afloat on the Saskatchewan. - 2.—Young Fur Takers; or, Traps and Trails in the Wilderness. - 3.—The House Boat Boys; or, Drifting Down to the Sunny South. - 4.—Chums in Dixie; or, The Strange Cruise in the Motor Boat. - 5.—Camp Mates in Michigan; or, With Pack and Paddle in the Pine Woods. - 6.—Rocky Mountain Boys; or, Camping in the Big Game Country. - -For sale by all booksellers, or sent postpaid on receipt of 50 cents. - - M. A. DONOHUE & CO. - 701-733 So. Dearborn Street, Chicago - - - - -BOYS’ COPYRIGHTED BOOKS - -The most attractive and highest class list of copyrighted books for boys -ever printed. In this list will be found the works of W. Bert Foster, -Capt. Ralph Bonehill, Arthur M. Winfield, etc. - -Printed from large clear type, illustrated, bound in a superior quality -of cloth. - - -THE CLINT WEBB SERIES - -By W. Bert Foster - - 1.—Swept Out to Sea; or, Clint Webb Among the Whalers. - 2.—The Frozen Ship; or, Clint Webb Among the Sealers. - 3.—From Sea to Sea; or, Clint Webb on the Windjammer. - 4.—The Sea Express; or, Clint Webb and the Sea Tramp. - - -THE YOUNG SPORTSMAN’S SERIES - -By Capt. Ralph Bonehill - - Rival Cyclists; or, Fun and Adventures on the Wheel. - Young Oarsmen of Lake View; or, The Mystery of Hermit Island. - Leo the Circus Boy; or, Life Under the Great White Canvas. - - -SEA AND LAND SERIES - -Four Boys’ Books by Favorite Authors - - Oscar the Naval Cadet Capt. Ralph Bonehill - Blue Water Rovers Victor St. Clare - A Royal Smuggler William Dalton - A Boy Crusoe Allen Erie - - -ADVENTURE AND JUNGLE SERIES - -A large, well printed, attractive edition. - - Guy in the Jungle Wm. Murray Grayden - Casket of Diamonds Oliver Optic - The Boy Railroader Matthew White, Jr. - Treasure of South Lake Farm W. Bert Foster - - -YOUNG HUNTERS SERIES - -By Capt. Ralph Bonehill - - Gun and Sled; or, The Young Hunters of Snow Top Island. - Young Hunters in Porto Rico; or, The Search for a Lost Treasure. - Two Young Crusoes; by C. W. Phillips. - Through Apache Land; or, Ned in the Mountains; by Lieut. R. H. Tayne. - - -BRIGHT AND BOLD SERIES - -By Arthur M. Winfield - - Poor but Plucky; or, The Mystery of a Flood. - School Days of Fred Harley; or, Rivals for All Honors. - By Pluck, not Luck; or, Dan Granbury’s Struggle to Rise. - The Missing Tin Box; or, Hal Carson’s Remarkable City Adventure. - - -COLLEGE LIBRARY FOR BOYS - -By Archdeacon Farrar - - Julian Home; or, A Tale of College Life. - St. Winifred’s; or, The World of School. - -For sale by all booksellers, or sent postpaid on receipt of 50 cents. - - M. A. DONOHUE & CO. - 701-733 So. Dearborn Street, Chicago - - - - -ALWAYS _ASK FOR THE_ DONOHUE - -COMPLETE EDITIONS—THE BEST FOR LEAST MONEY - - -WOODCRAFT - -_for_ Boy Scouts and Others - -_By_ OWEN JONES _and_ MARCUS WOODMAN - -_With a Message to Boy Scouts by_ SIR BADEN-POWELL, _Founder of the Boy -Scouts’ Movement_. - -One of the essential requirements of the Boy Scout training is a -_Knowledge of Woodcraft_. This necessitates a book embracing all the -subjects and treating on all the topics that a thorough knowledge of -_Woodcraft_ implies. - -This book thoroughly exhausts the subject. It imparts a comprehensive -knowledge of woods from fungus growth to the most stately monarch of -the forest; it treats of the habits and lairs of all the feathered and -furry inhabitants of the woods. Shows how to trail wild animals; how -to identify birds and beasts by their tracks, calls, etc. Tells how -to forecast the weather, and in fact treats on every phase of nature -with which a Boy Scout or any woodman or lover of nature should be -familiar. The authorship guarantees it’s authenticity and reliability. -Indispensable to “Boy Scouts” and others. Printed from large clear type -on superior paper. - -Embellished With Over 100 Thumb Nail Illustrations Taken From Life - -Bound in Cloth. Stamped with unique and appropriate designs in ink. - -Price, 75c Postpaid - - M. A. DONOHUE & CO. - 701-727 S. Dearborn St. CHICAGO - - - - -ALWAYS _ASK FOR THE_ DONOHUE - -Complete Editions and you will get the best for the least money - - -Henty Series - -_FOR BOYS_ - -¶ G. A. Henty was the most prolific writer of boy’s stories of the -nineteenth century. From two to five books a year came from his facile -pen. No Christmas holidays were complete without a new “Henty Book.” This -new series comprises 45 titles. They are printed on an extra quality of -paper, from new plates and bound in the best quality of cloth, stamped on -back and side in inks from unique and attractive dies. 12 mo. cloth. Each -book in a printed wrapper. - - 1 Among Malay Pirates - 2 Bonnie Prince Charlie - 3 Boy Knight, The - 4 Bravest of the Brave - 5 By England’s Aid - 6 By Pike and Dyke - 7 By Right of Conquest - 8 By Sheer Pluck - 9 Captain Bayley’s Heir - 10 Cat of Bubastes - 11 Col. Thorndyke’s Secret - 12 Cornet of Horse, The - 13 Dragon and the Raven - 14 Facing Death - 15 Final Reckoning, A - 16 For Name and Fame - 17 For the Temple - 18 Friends, Though Divided - 19 Golden Canon - 20 In Freedom’s Cause - 21 In the Reign of Terror - 22 In Times of Peril - 23 Jack Archer - 24 Lion of St. Mark - 25 Lion of the North - 26 Lost Heir, The - 27 Maori and Settler - 28 One of the 28th - 29 Orange and Green - 30 Out on the Pampas - 31 Queen’s Cup, The - 32 Rujub, the Juggler - 33 St. George for England - 34 Sturdy and Strong - 35 Through the Fray - 36 True to the Old Flag - 37 Under Drake’s Flag - 38 With Clive in India - 39 With Lee in Virginia - 40 With Wolfe in Canada - 41 Young Buglers, The - 42 Young Carthaginians - 43 Young Colonists, The - 44 Young Franc-Tireurs - 45 Young Midshipman - -All of above titles can be procured at the store where this book was -bought, or sent to any address for 50c. postage paid, by the publishers - - M. A. DONOHUE & CO., - 701-727 South Dearborn Street - - CHICAGO - - - - -ALWAYS _ASK FOR THE_ DONOHUE - -Complete Editions and you will get the best for the least money - - -THRILLING, INTERESTING, INSTRUCTIVE _BOOKS_ - -_By_ HARRY CASTLEMON - -No boy’s library is complete unless it contains all of the books by -that charming, delightful writer of boys’ stories of adventure, HARRY -CASTLEMON. The following are the titles, uniform in size, style and -binding: - - 1 Boy Trapper, The - 2 Frank the Young Naturalist - 3 Frank in the Woods - 4 Frank on the Lower Mississippi - 5 Frank on a Gunboat - 6 Frank Before Vicksburg - 7 Frank on the Prairie - 8 Frank at Don Carlos Ranch - 9 The First Capture - 10 Struggle for a Fortune, A - 11 Winged Arrows Medicine - -All of the above books may be had at the store where this book was -bought, or will be sent postage prepaid at 75c each, by the publishers. - - M. A. DONOHUE & CO., - 701-727 S. Dearborn Street, CHICAGO - -_ASK YOUR BOOKSELLER FOR_ THE DONOHUE COMPLETE EDITIONS and you will get -the best for the least money - - - - - -End of Project Gutenberg's The War Zone of the Kaiser, by Capt. V. T. Sherman - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE WAR ZONE OF THE KAISER *** - -***** This file should be named 60345-0.txt or 60345-0.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: - http://www.gutenberg.org/6/0/3/4/60345/ - -Produced by David Edwards and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net - - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed. - -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United -States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. Special rules, set forth in the General Terms of Use part -of this license, apply to copying and distributing Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic works to protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm -concept and trademark. Project Gutenberg is a registered trademark, -and may not be used if you charge for the eBooks, unless you receive -specific permission. If you do not charge anything for copies of this -eBook, complying with the rules is very easy. You may use this eBook -for nearly any purpose such as creation of derivative works, reports, -performances and research. They may be modified and printed and given -away--you may do practically ANYTHING in the United States with eBooks -not protected by U.S. copyright law. Redistribution is subject to the -trademark license, especially commercial redistribution. - -START: FULL LICENSE - -THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE -PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK - -To protect the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting the free -distribution of electronic works, by using or distributing this work -(or any other work associated in any way with the phrase "Project -Gutenberg"), you agree to comply with all the terms of the Full -Project Gutenberg-tm License available with this file or online at -www.gutenberg.org/license. - -Section 1. General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic works - -1.A. By reading or using any part of this Project Gutenberg-tm -electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to -and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property -(trademark/copyright) agreement. If you do not agree to abide by all -the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or -destroy all copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in your -possession. If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a -Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work and you do not agree to be bound -by the terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the -person or entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph -1.E.8. - -1.B. "Project Gutenberg" is a registered trademark. It may only be -used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who -agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement. There are a few -things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works -even without complying with the full terms of this agreement. See -paragraph 1.C below. There are a lot of things you can do with Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic works if you follow the terms of this -agreement and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg-tm -electronic works. See paragraph 1.E below. - -1.C. The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation ("the -Foundation" or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection -of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works. Nearly all the individual -works in the collection are in the public domain in the United -States. If an individual work is unprotected by copyright law in the -United States and you are located in the United States, we do not -claim a right to prevent you from copying, distributing, performing, -displaying or creating derivative works based on the work as long as -all references to Project Gutenberg are removed. Of course, we hope -that you will support the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting -free access to electronic works by freely sharing Project Gutenberg-tm -works in compliance with the terms of this agreement for keeping the -Project Gutenberg-tm name associated with the work. You can easily -comply with the terms of this agreement by keeping this work in the -same format with its attached full Project Gutenberg-tm License when -you share it without charge with others. - -1.D. The copyright laws of the place where you are located also govern -what you can do with this work. Copyright laws in most countries are -in a constant state of change. If you are outside the United States, -check the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this -agreement before downloading, copying, displaying, performing, -distributing or creating derivative works based on this work or any -other Project Gutenberg-tm work. The Foundation makes no -representations concerning the copyright status of any work in any -country outside the United States. - -1.E. Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg: - -1.E.1. The following sentence, with active links to, or other -immediate access to, the full Project Gutenberg-tm License must appear -prominently whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg-tm work (any work -on which the phrase "Project Gutenberg" appears, or with which the -phrase "Project Gutenberg" is associated) is accessed, displayed, -performed, viewed, copied or distributed: - - This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and - most other parts of the world 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. If you are not located in the - United States, you'll have to check the laws of the country where you - are located before using this ebook. - -1.E.2. If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is -derived from texts not protected by U.S. copyright law (does not -contain a notice indicating that it is posted with permission of the -copyright holder), the work can be copied and distributed to anyone in -the United States without paying any fees or charges. If you are -redistributing or providing access to a work with the phrase "Project -Gutenberg" associated with or appearing on the work, you must comply -either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 or -obtain permission for the use of the work and the Project Gutenberg-tm -trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or 1.E.9. - -1.E.3. If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is posted -with the permission of the copyright holder, your use and distribution -must comply with both paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 and any -additional terms imposed by the copyright holder. Additional terms -will be linked to the Project Gutenberg-tm License for all works -posted with the permission of the copyright holder found at the -beginning of this work. - -1.E.4. Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg-tm -License terms from this work, or any files containing a part of this -work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg-tm. - -1.E.5. Do not copy, display, perform, distribute or redistribute this -electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without -prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with -active links or immediate access to the full terms of the Project -Gutenberg-tm License. - -1.E.6. You may convert to and distribute this work in any binary, -compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including -any word processing or hypertext form. However, if you provide access -to or distribute copies of a Project Gutenberg-tm work in a format -other than "Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other format used in the official -version posted on the official Project Gutenberg-tm web site -(www.gutenberg.org), you must, at no additional cost, fee or expense -to the user, provide a copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means -of obtaining a copy upon request, of the work in its original "Plain -Vanilla ASCII" or other form. Any alternate format must include the -full Project Gutenberg-tm License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1. - -1.E.7. Do not charge a fee for access to, viewing, displaying, -performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg-tm works -unless you comply with paragraph 1.E.8 or 1.E.9. - -1.E.8. You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing -access to or distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works -provided that - -* You pay a royalty fee of 20% of the gross profits you derive from - the use of Project Gutenberg-tm works calculated using the method - you already use to calculate your applicable taxes. The fee is owed - to the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark, but he has - agreed to donate royalties under this paragraph to the Project - Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation. Royalty payments must be paid - within 60 days following each date on which you prepare (or are - legally required to prepare) your periodic tax returns. Royalty - payments should be clearly marked as such and sent to the Project - Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the address specified in - Section 4, "Information about donations to the Project Gutenberg - Literary Archive Foundation." - -* You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies - you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he - does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg-tm - License. You must require such a user to return or destroy all - copies of the works possessed in a physical medium and discontinue - all use of and all access to other copies of Project Gutenberg-tm - works. - -* You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of - any money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the - electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days of - receipt of the work. - -* You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free - distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm works. - -1.E.9. If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic work or group of works on different terms than -are set forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing -from both the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation and The -Project Gutenberg Trademark LLC, the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm -trademark. Contact the Foundation as set forth in Section 3 below. - -1.F. - -1.F.1. Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable -effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread -works not protected by U.S. copyright law in creating the Project -Gutenberg-tm collection. Despite these efforts, Project Gutenberg-tm -electronic works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may -contain "Defects," such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate -or corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other -intellectual property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or -other medium, a computer virus, or computer codes that damage or -cannot be read by your equipment. - -1.F.2. LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the "Right -of Replacement or Refund" described in paragraph 1.F.3, the Project -Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project -Gutenberg-tm trademark, and any other party distributing a Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic work under this agreement, disclaim all -liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal -fees. YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT -LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE -PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH 1.F.3. YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE -TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE -LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR -INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH -DAMAGE. - -1.F.3. LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a -defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can -receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a -written explanation to the person you received the work from. If you -received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium -with your written explanation. The person or entity that provided you -with the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in -lieu of a refund. If you received the work electronically, the person -or entity providing it to you may choose to give you a second -opportunity to receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund. If -the second copy is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing -without further opportunities to fix the problem. - -1.F.4. Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth -in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you 'AS-IS', WITH NO -OTHER WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT -LIMITED TO WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE. - -1.F.5. Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied -warranties or the exclusion or limitation of certain types of -damages. If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement -violates the law of the state applicable to this agreement, the -agreement shall be interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or -limitation permitted by the applicable state law. The invalidity or -unenforceability of any provision of this agreement shall not void the -remaining provisions. - -1.F.6. INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the -trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone -providing copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in -accordance with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the -production, promotion and distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm -electronic works, harmless from all liability, costs and expenses, -including legal fees, that arise directly or indirectly from any of -the following which you do or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this -or any Project Gutenberg-tm work, (b) alteration, modification, or -additions or deletions to any Project Gutenberg-tm work, and (c) any -Defect you cause. - -Section 2. Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg-tm - -Project Gutenberg-tm is synonymous with the free distribution of -electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of -computers including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers. It -exists because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations -from people in all walks of life. - -Volunteers and financial support to provide volunteers with the -assistance they need are critical to reaching Project Gutenberg-tm's -goals and ensuring that the Project Gutenberg-tm collection will -remain freely available for generations to come. In 2001, the Project -Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation was created to provide a secure -and permanent future for Project Gutenberg-tm and future -generations. To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation and how your efforts and donations can help, see -Sections 3 and 4 and the Foundation information page at -www.gutenberg.org Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg -Literary Archive Foundation - -The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non profit -501(c)(3) educational corporation organized under the laws of the -state of Mississippi and granted tax exempt status by the Internal -Revenue Service. The Foundation's EIN or federal tax identification -number is 64-6221541. Contributions to the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent permitted by -U.S. federal laws and your state's laws. - -The Foundation's principal office is in Fairbanks, Alaska, with the -mailing address: PO Box 750175, Fairbanks, AK 99775, but its -volunteers and employees are scattered throughout numerous -locations. Its business office is located at 809 North 1500 West, Salt -Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887. Email contact links and up to -date contact information can be found at the Foundation's web site and -official page at www.gutenberg.org/contact - -For additional contact information: - - Dr. Gregory B. Newby - Chief Executive and Director - gbnewby@pglaf.org - -Section 4. Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg -Literary Archive Foundation - -Project Gutenberg-tm depends upon and cannot survive without wide -spread public support and donations to carry out its mission of -increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be -freely distributed in machine readable form accessible by the widest -array of equipment including outdated equipment. Many small donations -($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt -status with the IRS. - -The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating -charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United -States. Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a -considerable effort, much paperwork and many fees to meet and keep up -with these requirements. We do not solicit donations in locations -where we have not received written confirmation of compliance. To SEND -DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any particular -state visit www.gutenberg.org/donate - -While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we -have not met the solicitation requirements, we know of no prohibition -against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who -approach us with offers to donate. - -International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make -any statements concerning tax treatment of donations received from -outside the United States. U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff. - -Please check the Project Gutenberg Web pages for current donation -methods and addresses. Donations are accepted in a number of other -ways including checks, online payments and credit card donations. To -donate, please visit: www.gutenberg.org/donate - -Section 5. General Information About Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works. - -Professor Michael S. Hart was the originator of the Project -Gutenberg-tm concept of a library of electronic works that could be -freely shared with anyone. For forty years, he produced and -distributed Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks with only a loose network of -volunteer support. - -Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks are often created from several printed -editions, all of which are confirmed as not protected by copyright in -the U.S. unless a copyright notice is included. Thus, we do not -necessarily keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper -edition. - -Most people start at our Web site which has the main PG search -facility: www.gutenberg.org - -This Web site includes information about Project Gutenberg-tm, -including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to -subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks. - diff --git a/old/60345-0.zip b/old/60345-0.zip Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 0e39b99..0000000 --- a/old/60345-0.zip +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/60345-h.zip b/old/60345-h.zip Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 6f5b4da..0000000 --- a/old/60345-h.zip +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/60345-h/60345-h.htm b/old/60345-h/60345-h.htm deleted file mode 100644 index 9900c96..0000000 --- a/old/60345-h/60345-h.htm +++ /dev/null @@ -1,9986 +0,0 @@ -<!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" xml:lang="en" lang="en"> - <head> - <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html;charset=utf-8" /> - <meta http-equiv="Content-Style-Type" content="text/css" /> - <title> - The Project Gutenberg eBook of The War Zone of the Kaiser, by Capt. V. T. Sherman. - </title> - - <link rel="coverpage" href="images/cover.jpg" /> - -<style type="text/css"> - -a { - text-decoration: none; -} - -body { - margin-left: 10%; - margin-right: 10%; -} - -h1,h2 { - text-align: center; - clear: both; -} - -hr { - margin-top: 2em; - margin-bottom: 2em; - clear: both; - width: 65%; - margin-left: 17.5%; - margin-right: 17.5%; -} - -ul { - list-style-type: none; - margin: 0; -} - -li { - margin-top: .5em; - padding-left: 2em; - text-indent: -2em; -} - -p { - margin-top: 0.5em; - text-align: justify; - margin-bottom: 0.5em; - text-indent: 1em; -} - -table { - margin: 1em auto 1em auto; - max-width: 40em; - border-collapse: collapse; -} - -td { - padding-left: 2em; - padding-right: 0.25em; - vertical-align: top; - text-indent: -2em; -} - -.tdr { - text-align: right; - padding-right: 0em; -} - -.tdpg { - vertical-align: bottom; - text-align: right; -} - -.ad { - margin: auto; - max-width: 35em; -} - -.box { - width: 100%; - border: 2px solid black; - padding: 0.5em; - margin-bottom: 0.5em; -} - -.center { - text-align: center; - text-indent: 0em; -} - -.coupon { - border-left: dashed black; - border-right: dashed black; - border-bottom: dashed black; -} - -.figcenter { - margin: 3em auto; - text-align: center; -} - -.larger { - font-size: 150%; -} - -.pagenum { - position: absolute; - right: 4%; - font-size: smaller; - text-align: right; - font-style: normal; -} - -.reverso { - margin-left: -0.2em; - margin-right: -0.2em; - background-color: black; - color: white; - font-weight: bold; -} - -.smaller { - font-size: 80%; -} - -.smcap { - font-variant: small-caps; - font-style: normal; -} - -.spacer { - margin-left: 6em; - margin-right: 6em; -} - -.titlepage { - text-align: center; - margin-top: 3em; - text-indent: 0em; -} - -@media handheld { - -img { - max-width: 100%; - width: auto; - height: auto; -} -} - </style> - </head> -<body> - - -<pre> - -Project Gutenberg's The War Zone of the Kaiser, by Capt. V. T. Sherman - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world 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. If you are not located in the United States, you'll -have to check the laws of the country where you are located before using -this ebook. - - - -Title: The War Zone of the Kaiser - -Author: Capt. V. T. Sherman - -Release Date: September 23, 2019 [EBook #60345] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE WAR ZONE OF THE KAISER *** - - - - -Produced by David Edwards and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net - - - - - - -</pre> - - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_1" id="Page_1">[1]</a></span></p> - -<p class="titlepage larger">THE WAR ZONE<br /> -<span class="smaller">OF THE</span><br /> -KAISER</p> - -<p class="titlepage"><span class="smaller"><i>By</i></span><br /> -CAPT. V. T. SHERMAN</p> - -<p class="center smaller">Author of<br /> -BOY SCOUTS WITH JOFFRE;<br /> -SCOUTING THE BALKANS IN<br /> -A MOTOR BOAT; CAPTURING A<br /> -SPY; THE RUNAWAY BALLOON;<br /> -A LOST PATROL, ETC.</p> - -<div class="figcenter" style="width: 150px;"> -<img src="images/titlepage.jpg" width="150" height="150" alt="" /> -</div> - -<p class="titlepage">Chicago<br /> -M. A. DONOHUE & CO.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_2" id="Page_2">[2]</a></span></p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_3" id="Page_3">[3]</a></span></p> - -<div class="ad"> - -<p class="center larger"><span class="larger">Boy Scout Series</span><br /> -And Nature Adventure</p> - -<p class="center">Written by that Great Writer for Boys</p> - -<p class="center"><b>CAPT. V. T. SHERMAN</b></p> - -<p class="center"><b>TEN TITLES</b> <span class="spacer"> </span> <b>TWELVE MO. CLOTH</b></p> - -<p>This series of books embraces a variety of interesting -and instructive stories of the kind that are so much sought -after and so eagerly devoured by the youth of this country. -Every live, red-blooded boy and girl in the land will want -to read each book in this series. They are endorsed by -Scout Masters, Educaters and Trainers of the youth, and -are written along the lines that inculcate and exemplify the -ideals and principals of the universally accredited</p> - -<p class="center"><b>BOY SCOUT MOVEMENT</b></p> - -<p>The books average from 256 to 320 pages of large, clear -type, printed on a superior quality of book paper, are -bound in genuine binders’ cloth, stamped from unique, -appropriate dies in two colors, and each book is wrapped -in an attractive, multicolored jacket printed from a special -and appropriately drawn design.</p> - -<p class="center"><b>LIST PRICE, 40c PER VOLUME</b></p> - -<ul> -<li> 1—Boy Scouts with Joffre; or, In the Trenches in Belgium</li> -<li> 2—The War Zone of the Kaiser; or, Boy Scouts in the North Sea</li> -<li> 3—Scouting the Balkans in a Motor Boat; or, An Escape from the Dardanelles</li> -<li> 4—Capturing a Spy; or, A New Peril</li> -<li> 5—The Runaway Balloon; or, The Beseiged Scouts</li> -<li> 6—A Lost Patrol; or, Scout Tactics to the Front</li> -<li> 7—The Boy Scout Signal; or, The Camp on the Cliff</li> -<li> 8—An interrupted Wig Wag; or, A Boy Scout Trick</li> -<li> 9—The Call of the Beaver Patrol; or, A Break in the Glacier</li> -<li>10—The Perils of an Air-ship; or, Boy Scouts in the Sky</li> -</ul> - -<p class="titlepage smaller">Copyright 1913, M. A. Donohue & Co.</p> - -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_4" id="Page_4">[4]</a></span></p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_5" id="Page_5">[5]</a></span></p> - -<h2>CONTENTS</h2> - -<table summary="Contents"> - <tr> - <td class="tdr smaller"><i>Chapter</i></td> - <td></td> - <td class="tdpg smaller"><i>Page</i></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">I—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">A Package Vanishes</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_I">7</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">II—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">Difficulties and Danger</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_II">18</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">III—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">The Man with the Scar</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_III">30</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">IV—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">The Lena Knobloch</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_IV">42</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">V—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">Two Mysterious Changes</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_V">54</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">VI—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">A Difficult Departure</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_VI">65</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">VII—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">A Warning from the Sea</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_VII">76</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">VIII—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">More About the “U-13”</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_VIII">87</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">IX—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">A Strange Visit</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_IX">98</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">X—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">Shipwreck and Rescue</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_X">109</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">XI—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">A Fleet of Submarines</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_XI">120</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">XII—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">A New “U-13” Appears</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_XII">131</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">XIII—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">A Threatening Situation</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_XIII">142</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">XIV—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">Helped by an Enemy</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_XIV">153</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">XV—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">Mistaken Identity</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_XV">165</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">XVI—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">A Strange Discovery</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_XVI">176</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">XVII—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">Alone and Helpless</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_XVII">187</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">XVIII—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">Help from a Stranger</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_XVIII">198</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">XIX—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">Mackinder Again</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_XIX">209</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">XX—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">A Mysterious Craft</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_XX">221</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">XXI—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">A Mystery Explained</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXI">232</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">XXII—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">More Mystery</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXII">240</a></td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td class="tdr">XXIII—</td> - <td><span class="smcap">The Mystery of the “U-13”</span></td> - <td class="tdpg"><a href="#CHAPTER_XXIII">246</a></td> - </tr> -</table> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_6" id="Page_6">[6]</a></span></p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_7" id="Page_7">[7]</a></span></p> - -<h1>Boy Scouts in the North Sea;<br /> -<span class="smaller">or,</span><br /> -The Mystery of “U-13”</h1> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_I">CHAPTER I<br /> -<span class="smaller">A PACKAGE VANISHES</span></h2> - -<p>“Good night!” exclaimed a lad of about -eighteen peering from the window in a railway -coach. “This train’s running on a regular -lake!”</p> - -<p>“What’s that, Jimmie?” asked a companion -approaching the first speaker. “Are -we on a ferry? I still feel the wheels hit the -rail joints.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes, now and again we crawl along a -rail’s length or two,” admitted the boy, “but -it’s mighty slow work! I’m getting tired!”</p> - -<p>“What place is this, anyway?” inquired a -third boy coming to the window. “It looks as -if we’re going out into the ocean!”</p> - -<p>“We can’t be headed for Holland at this -rate!”</p> - -<p>“We surely are!” assured the one addressed -as Jimmie. “I’ll bet I can tell you what that<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_8" id="Page_8">[8]</a></span> -is! The Belgians cut their dikes and flooded -the country to drive out the Germans. My -dream book says that’s it!”</p> - -<p>A general laugh greeted this assertion. -Moving about in the limits of the none too -commodious compartment of a European railway -carriage four boys dressed in the well-known -khaki uniforms of the Boy Scouts of -America endeavored to observe the scenery -through the windows.</p> - -<p>To those of our readers who have followed -the adventures of this group of boys as related -in the previous volumes of this series no -introduction is necessary. However, for the -benefit of those who have not been so fortunate, -a word of explanation may not be out -of place at this time. The lads had very recently -been engaged in a man hunt that led -through parts of France and Belgium. They -had visited the trenches of both the French -and German forces and had several times -faced death.</p> - -<p>Just now they were practically prisoners, -having been accorded passage from the German -lines to a neutral port in Holland, where -they expected to take ship for their home town -of New York.</p> - -<p>Ned Nestor, a fine, manly lad, was the -Leader of the Wolf Patrol of New York City,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_9" id="Page_9">[9]</a></span> -Boy Scouts of America. He had been often -selected for difficult work by the Chief of the -United States Secret Service because of his -aptitude for the work. His coolness and -sound judgment had carried himself and his -companions through many difficulties. It was -a mission of this character upon which the -boys had recently engaged and from which -they were now returning.</p> - -<p>Jimmie McGraw, freckle-faced and red-headed, -was a member of the Wolf Patrol of -which Ned was leader. He was an ardent -adherent of Ned’s. Brought up a newsboy -on the Bowery of New York the boy had come -under the observation of the older lad, who -had found him indeed worthy of all the care -which had been bestowed.</p> - -<p>Jack Bosworth, the son of a prominent corporation -attorney, and Harry Stevens, whose -father was a well-known automobile manufacturer, -were the other members of the group. -These latter two were members of the Black -Bear Patrol of New York. All the lads appeared -to be about eighteen years old. Their -tidy uniforms, their well-knit frames and their -alert attitudes bespoke the constant training -of their leader.</p> - -<p>As they looked from the windows of the -car in which they now found themselves they<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_10" id="Page_10">[10]</a></span> -discovered that the situation was even as Jimmie -had stated. The country was flooded with -water released from the dikes.</p> - -<p>“Tell you what,” declared Jack Bosworth, -after a prolonged inspection of the landscape, -if it may be so called, “this is some wet!”</p> - -<p>“You win the argument,” announced Jimmie, -wrinkling his freckled nose at his companion. -“I always said you were the wise little -fox!”</p> - -<p>Jack’s answer to this pleasantry was an -attempt to box the younger lad’s ears. Jimmie’s -resentment of the procedure drew the -others into a friendly scuffle that terminated -only when the contestants paused for breath.</p> - -<p>“I wish they’d hurry up and let us get onto -dry land again!” said Jimmie, when he next -found himself able to draw a long breath.</p> - -<p>“You won’t find much dry land when it -rains like it’s going to right now!” stated -Harry, pointing out of the window. “Watch -it come down!”</p> - -<p>“I hope they don’t get to the border while it -rains like this,” answered Ned, with an involuntary -shiver. “I don’t fancy standing out -in such a drizzle as this appears to be. We’d -be wet through in no time!”</p> - -<p>“Why, do they make us get out?” queried -Harry.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_11" id="Page_11">[11]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Yes, I understand from what the officer -said back there at the old castle that we’ll be -searched body, boots and baggage.”</p> - -<p>“And what if they find something they don’t -like?”</p> - -<p>“Perhaps they’ll put us in jail for a few -months or until the war has ceased,” replied -Ned. “I’m sure I don’t know what they’ll -do.”</p> - -<p>“Br-r-rh!” shivered Jimmie. “I wouldn’t -turn our old friend The Rat out into a rain -like this! That would be cruelty to animals!”</p> - -<p>“Small chance anyone’ll have to turn him -out now!” spoke up Jack. “That dynamite -fixed him so he won’t be turned out for some -time!”</p> - -<p>“Don’t speak of it, boys,” protested Ned. -“I see him yet!”</p> - -<p>“Let’s change the subject,” proposed -Jimmie, out of consideration for his chum’s -feelings. “I think I see some land. Can -we be coming to the border I wonder? I -hope we are and that we can soon be starting -home!”</p> - -<p>“Train’s slackening speed,” announced -Harry. “They’re stopping!”</p> - -<p>It was even as the boy had said. With many -a bump and groan of grinding brakes the train -crawled to a standstill beside a hut built upon<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_12" id="Page_12">[12]</a></span> -a rise of ground. Here was stationed a force -of soldiers detailed to the work of searching -and examining all who attempted to pass from -Belgium to Holland. Those who were not certified -as refugees or in other ways vested with -proper authority to pass were promptly rejected -and turned back.</p> - -<p>A guard came running along the foot board -opening doors. He shouted instructions to -the inmates of the carriages, who promptly -began scrambling out of the uncomfortable -cars. All baggage was placed along the track -to facilitate examination. The train itself was -searched.</p> - -<p>Gesticulating and conversing rapidly two -soldiers approached the little group of Boy -Scouts. Apparently an argument of some sort -was in progress, but the boys could not determine -the nature of it.</p> - -<p>One of the men pointed to the uniforms and -to the medals upon the sleeves of the boys’ -jackets. Gradually his companion seemed to -be convinced by the flow of words. At length -he nodded his head, as if surrendering his last -doubts. The two men fell to examining the -luggage.</p> - -<p>“Go as far as you like, Old Scout!” scorned -Jimmie, as he observed the rough manner in -which his belongings were being tossed about.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_13" id="Page_13">[13]</a></span> -“I’ll bet I’d punch your dome a little, though, -if you could talk English!”</p> - -<p>“Ah, ha!” cried one of the soldiers, tapping -his comrade on the shoulder, as if his argument -had been conclusively supported. “Anglaise!”</p> - -<p>A torrent of words from the other seemed to -meet a receptive ear. The first speaker nodded -energetically. His satisfaction was all too evident. -From his appearance he was expecting -nothing short of a medal.</p> - -<p>“Judging from their motions,” Jimmie remarked, -“these two fellows are about to fight -a duel. I’ll bet on the shorter one!”</p> - -<p>“Not much!” declared Harry. “They’re -merely telling one another what a nice day it -was yesterday and how fine the weather’ll be -when it clears up. They are using the sign -language, that’s all!”</p> - -<p>“Don’t you kid yourself!” protested Jimmie, -uneasily. “I smell Old Man Trouble -coming around the corner right now!”</p> - -<p>“Go on, Jimmie!” scorned Jack. “You’re -dreaming again!”</p> - -<p>“I know I am!” replied the younger lad. -“Last night I dreamed of eating salt mackerel -and my dream book says that means trouble!”</p> - -<p>“Here they come now!” cautioned Ned. -“Hush a minute, boys!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_14" id="Page_14">[14]</a></span></p> - -<p>Addressing the boys in German the soldier -was evidently asking some question which demanded -an answer. Ned as spokesman shook -his head. The other soldier spoke rapidly in -the French language.</p> - -<p>“Excuse me, gentlemen,” Ned said, lifting -a protesting hand, “we cannot understand the -language you are using. We speak only English!”</p> - -<p>“Ah, ha! Anglaise!” cried the soldier, gesticulating.</p> - -<p>“There, you put your foot in it!” declared -Jimmie. “Why didn’t you say: ‘Come across -with some good old United States, Bo’?”</p> - -<p>“They probably don’t understand your -slang, Jimmie!” replied Ned.</p> - -<p>“So-o-o,” exclaimed one of the men in poor -English, “you speak English, do you? And -from what part of England do you come?”</p> - -<p>“We are not from England at all,” explained -Ned, “but from the United States. -We are being sent home by the kindness of a -German officer, who has been most considerate. -See, here are our passports!”</p> - -<p>“Bah!” scornfully protested the man. -“Passports are most easily forged. And information -may be carried still more easily!”</p> - -<p>“But I assure you,” continued Ned, “we -are speaking the truth!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_15" id="Page_15">[15]</a></span></p> - -<p>“So say all spies!” replied the other. “We -shall see for ourselves just what information -you have in your possessions!”</p> - -<p>“Go as far as you like,” replied Ned, somewhat -nettled at the soldier’s insolence. “You -won’t find a thing that shouldn’t be there!”</p> - -<p>One of the men was already bending over -the bags containing such articles as the boys -had deemed necessary for their trip. Without -regard for the owners’ rights he was -rapidly taking out every piece separately. -After carefully examining it he threw the -article on the ground. He was evidently annoyed -at not finding something incriminating.</p> - -<p>Submitting to the search with poorly concealed -dislike of the man and his methods, the -boys waited with what patience they could -muster until the ordeal should be ended. Ned -endeavored to distract their thoughts by commenting -on the others, who were meeting similar -treatment.</p> - -<p>He was interrupted by an exclamation of -delight from the searcher.</p> - -<p>“Ah!” cried that worthy, standing upright. -“Nothing contraband! Nothing to be concealed! -No information! These are not -spies!”</p> - -<p>He held in his hand a flat packet wrapped -in heavy oiled silk, tied with many wrappings<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_16" id="Page_16">[16]</a></span> -of stout twine and sealed carefully -with wax.</p> - -<p>“Gather your possessions quickly and follow -me!” commanded the soldier triumphantly, -drawing a revolver. “We shall visit -the commander!”</p> - -<p>“What is that thing and where did it come -from?” questioned Ned.</p> - -<p>“Search me!” declared Jimmie, excitedly. -“Maybe this gink had it up his little sleeve -and dropped it in there at the right minute!”</p> - -<p>“He looks equal to it!” stated Jack stoutly. -“He’s a villain!”</p> - -<p>“Better be careful what you say!” cautioned -Ned. “We are not out of the woods, and these -fellows understand English pretty well!”</p> - -<p>“I wish I had my automatic and about ten -yards start!” stormed Jimmie, gathering up -wearing apparel and jamming it into his kit. -“I could beat that slow-footed camel in a -straightaway without half trying!”</p> - -<p>“Better wait and see it out,” advised Ned, -replacing his own belongings. “It’s only a -mistake and can surely be explained.”</p> - -<p>“Maybe we can be examined and go ahead -on this same train,” offered Jack consolingly. -“Anyhow, we won’t gain anything by arguing -with these fellows. They have no sense of -humor and don’t want one!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_17" id="Page_17">[17]</a></span></p> - -<p>Following their two captors the lads trudged -down the track toward the hut. Carefully -they picked their way between groups of -genuine refugees rearranging their meagre -possessions in the coaches.</p> - -<p>In a short time the boys were duly presented -before a gray-haired officer seated at a -table placed against the wall of the hut. It -was darker in the room than out of doors. A -single oil lamp served to dispel the gathering -gloom of the early twilight.</p> - -<p>Reporting volubly in German, with many -gesticulations, the soldier presented the four -boys. At the conclusion of his recital he laid -the parcel upon the table. Drawing himself -to his full height and assuming a tragic air -he surveyed his captives with complacency.</p> - -<p>“Look at that mark!” whispered Jimmie -hoarsely. “What is it?”</p> - -<p>“It says ‘U-13’ as plainly as the freckles on -your nose,” replied Harry, who stood nearest -the table. “I don’t know what it means!”</p> - -<p>A challenge from the sentry at the door -drew the attention of those within the hut. -For a moment every eye turned toward the -entrance.</p> - -<p>Ever on the alert, Jimmie saw a hand thrust -through the open window. It seized the package -and noiselessly disappeared.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_18" id="Page_18">[18]</a></span></p> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_II">CHAPTER II<br /> -<span class="smaller">DIFFICULTIES AND DANGERS</span></h2> - -<p>Finding that the disturbance had been -caused by the approach of one of the refugees -who demanded an audience with the commander, -but who had quickly been satisfied by -the explanation of the sentry, the officer again -gave his attention to the group before him.</p> - -<p>“Proceed!” he ordered. “You may speak -English for the benefit of these young gentlemen. -Let us have the story, now!”</p> - -<p>“Myself and my comrade searched the baggage -of these fellows,” began the soldier, directing -a contemptuous glance at the boys. -“When we reached the kit of that one there,” -here he pointed at Ned, “we discovered what -seemed to us to be suspicious goods. Here -it is—!”</p> - -<p>A gasp of astonishment terminated the -triumphant recital.</p> - -<p>“Go on!” ordered the officer without emotion.</p> - -<p>“But a moment ago the package was lying -on your table!” almost shouted the soldier. -“Now it is gone!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_19" id="Page_19">[19]</a></span></p> - -<p>“So I perceive!” replied the officer. “If -you have evidence, please produce it. Otherwise -I shall examine the passports of the -young gentlemen, and if they are found correct -I shall permit them to depart.”</p> - -<p>He reached out a hand for the passports, -which were quickly presented. After a minute -scrutiny and careful comparison of descriptions -he returned them to the lads. Again he -turned to the soldier.</p> - -<p>“Have you any evidence of their guilt?” he -inquired.</p> - -<p>“I believe they have stolen the package!” -stormed the soldier.</p> - -<p>“Search them!” commanded the officer. -“With respect!” he added.</p> - -<p>During the hasty but thorough search of the -lads’ clothing Jimmie grinned maliciously into -he faces of the soldiers. His delight knew no -rounds. Their discomfiture upon failing to -find the package was exceeded only by the delight -of the lad, who prudently held his own -counsel.</p> - -<p>“There must have been a mistake!” at -length declared the officer impatiently. “We -cannot delay the train longer. Permit them to -proceed!”</p> - -<p>“But I swear I discovered in their luggage a -suspicious parcel!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_20" id="Page_20">[20]</a></span></p> - -<p>“It is not here! The young gentlemen do -not seem to have it! In the face of their apparently -correct passports and this courteous -request from their friend, von Moltke, I am -not justified in holding them longer! Young -men, you may resume your journey!”</p> - -<p>Thanking the officer in grateful acknowledgment -of his courtesy the lads again found -their compartment. Scarcely had they regained -their former position before the train -again began to move.</p> - -<p>“Now, Ned,” began Harry, as the wheels -once more clicked over the rail joints, “produce! -Let’s have the secret!”</p> - -<p>“Produce nothing!” declared Ned. “I have -nothing to produce!”</p> - -<p>“The package, man, the mysterious package -of contraband spy literature!” demanded -Harry in a serious tone. “What secrets are -you carrying out of this country to help the -English?”</p> - -<p>“I tell you I have nothing at all! I don’t -know what that package contained, nor do I -know where it came from!”</p> - -<p>“That’s all right, too!” declared Jack. “But -where did it go to so suddenly? That’s the -interesting part! What did you do with it?”</p> - -<p>“Honestly, boys,” protested Ned, “I -haven’t got it. I saw that fellow fish it out of<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_21" id="Page_21">[21]</a></span> -my kit. I saw him put it on the table. When -I turned back after glancing at the door the -package was gone!”</p> - -<p>“We know that!” continued Harry. “Now, -who took it?”</p> - -<p>“I’d give a good deal to know that myself!” -declared Ned.</p> - -<p>“Just how much would you give?” queried -Jimmie from his seat in a corner from whence -he had been listening. “I’d like to make a -stake!”</p> - -<p>“Jimmie pinched it!” cried Harry, pouncing -upon his comrade.</p> - -<p>“Deliver that package!” shouted Jack, going -to the assistance of his chum. “Search -him, Ned!” he continued, as Jimmie was -dragged to his feet. “Go through him carefully -while we hold him.”</p> - -<p>“Go as far as you like,” grinned Jimmie -teasingly. “It’s not here!”</p> - -<p>“Where is it, Jimmie?” questioned Ned, -seriously, “let’s have it!”</p> - -<p>“I tell you I haven’t got it!” declared Jimmie, -still grinning. “But I saw it when it -disappeared and I know where it went!”</p> - -<p>“Hurry up!” shouted Jack, impatiently. -“Say something!”</p> - -<p>“It went out of the window of the shanty!” -declared Jimmie.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_22" id="Page_22">[22]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Aw, go on!” scorned Harry. “Just -jumped up and flew away!”</p> - -<p>With a laugh Jimmie then related what he -had seen at the moment when all the other -occupants of the hut had been giving their -attention to the disturbance at the front door. -The tale astonished his chums.</p> - -<p>“I saw the hand as plainly as I see my -own!” declared Jimmie, holding his hand up -to the light of the single oil lamp. “It was -the hand of a gentleman, I should say. I mean -by that, it was soft and well kept—not hard -and calloused. The peculiar mark by which I -shall know it again if I see it was a scar extending -clear across the back. I somehow -connected that scar with a saber or sword cut. -It was an ugly wound.”</p> - -<p>“Did you see anything of the man?” asked -Ned, eagerly.</p> - -<p>“No, I wasn’t turned far enough and -didn’t dare move,” replied Jimmie. “All at -once I seemed to comprehend that the thief -was saving us a lot of troublesome delay, and -I just let him make his getaway without raising -a holler! I thought he was helping us as -well as himself!”</p> - -<p>“I think we ought to vote Jimmie a credit -mark!” declared Ned.</p> - -<p>“He certainly exercised wonderful self-control<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_23" id="Page_23">[23]</a></span> -in not making a noise at a critical time,” -added Jack. “I wonder, now, if the chap at -the door made the disturbance to assist the -other fellow in grabbing the parcel. It would -almost seem as if they were working together!”</p> - -<p>“It does seem like that!” stated Ned, -thoughtfully. “But what puzzles me most is -the fact that the package was in our baggage!”</p> - -<p>“I wonder what on earth could have been -in the old ‘U-13’!”</p> - -<p>But ponder and speculate as they might the -lads were unable to arrive at a solution of the -mysterious presence and disappearance of the -package bearing the curious mark. Weary -with the exertion of attempting to solve the -problem the boys at length composed themselves -for sleep.</p> - -<p>Mile after mile the train bumped jerkily -along the uneven track. Occasionally a guard -opened the door to scrutinize the compartment, -but upon finding the little party at rest -he again proceeded to his duties.</p> - -<p>Gradually the train drew away from the -inundated section. To the southward, whence -they had come, the boys were leaving the scene -of the mighty conflict, the like of which history -had never seen. Behind them were the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_24" id="Page_24">[24]</a></span> -trenches filled with soldiers—some happy and -gay even in the presence of death, others disheartened -and downcast. There, too, they -were leaving the great cannon with their roaring, -screaming shells, the vicious crack of -rifles and the wasp-like singing of bullets.</p> - -<p>Before them in fancy they saw a great ship -upon which they would take passage to the -peace and quietness of their own country. -Their dreams were filled with scenes of New -York and their beloved club room, hung with -trophies of the prowess of the members of -their patrol.</p> - -<p>At Amsterdam they would embark speedily -and after a week or ten days of ocean travel -would see again the Goddess of Liberty holding -up to the world a beacon to guide their -ships into a haven of peace and plenty.</p> - -<p>Could the boys have pierced the veil and -looked upon the scenes through which they -were soon to pass their rest that night might -not have been so tranquil, their dreams would -perhaps have been less pleasant.</p> - -<p>Thanks to the consideration extended them -at the instance of their friend, von Moltke, -the German officer in whose charge they had -been placed during the last exciting scenes of -their stay in the war zone, the lads had been -accorded the privilege of a whole compartment.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_25" id="Page_25">[25]</a></span> -Due to this fact they found room in -which to stretch out as they slept. This exceptional -advantage was fully appreciated.</p> - -<p>Toward morning the boys were awakened -by the bustle surrounding the arrival of the -train at Utrecht. At this point another passenger -was thrust unceremoniously into the -compartment. After performing this duty -the guard hastened away to perform similar -services for others.</p> - -<p>“Good morning, gentlemen,” said the newcomer -pleasantly.</p> - -<p>“Top of the morning to you!” smiled Jimmie, -rising and endeavoring to smooth out the -wrinkles in his uniform. “How’s the weather -outside?”</p> - -<p>“Clearing rapidly, but there’s promise of -some wind,” replied the newcomer. “May I -ask how far you are going?”</p> - -<p>“New York!” declared Jimmie with a grin. -“That is,” he added, “if this old ark holds -together until we get to Amsterdam and we -can find a ship there. It would be just our -luck to find the last canal boat gone!”</p> - -<p>“Been having tough luck?” inquired the -other solicitously.</p> - -<p>“Rotten!” stated the boy. “How far do -you go?” he asked.</p> - -<p>“Amsterdam is my present destination,”<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_26" id="Page_26">[26]</a></span> -was the reply. “My name’s Mackinder—Robert -Mackinder, and I’m trying to get out of -this forsaken country, don’t you know. I’m -in hopes I’ll be able to find some craft destined -to a point where I’ll be able to get home.”</p> - -<p>Introductions of the four lads followed. -Mackinder proved himself an entertaining -talker. Listening to his tales of adventure -in various lands the boys were soon at ease. -The man apparently had traveled over the -whole world for he seemed familiar with all -lands.</p> - -<p>“I say,” declared Jimmie, as their new -found friend concluded a tale of privation -through which he had passed in South Africa, -“that story of starvation reminds me that I -am hungry. I haven’t eaten in a week!”</p> - -<p>“Jimmie, Jimmie!” cautioned Ned. “Get -down to recent dates!”</p> - -<p>“Well, it feels that way, anyhow,” persisted -the boy.</p> - -<p>“Can you tell us where we’ll be able to find -a lunch counter?” asked Ned. “We have -nothing in our kits except some hard tack.”</p> - -<p>“There is no place short of Amsterdam -where one can get anything like a decent -meal,” replied Mackinder. “There I can -show you the way to a restaurant that is all -right. It is not far from the docks.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_27" id="Page_27">[27]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Then we’ll get one good, solid, square -meal!” shouted Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“And after breakfast,” put in Harry, “we’ll -go aboard the steamer and let ’em sail as soon -as they like! What shall we eat?”</p> - -<p>“I want a limburger cheese sandwich,” announced -Jimmie. “I’d like it to be on rye -bread with plenty of mustard. Then with a -couple of cups of real old Dutch coffee I guess -I’d last until noon.”</p> - -<p>“By noon we’ll be out on the North Sea, I -hope,” stated Harry.</p> - -<p>“You don’t get onto the North Sea direct -from Amsterdam!” scorned Jack. “You have -to go through some sort of lake or bay first!”</p> - -<p>“Leave it to Mr. Mackinder here!” protested -Harry.</p> - -<p>“Your friend is right, Harry,” smiled -Mackinder, thus appealed to. “Amsterdam -is on the Zuider Zee. If we get a vessel at -that place we will pass northward through -that water, thence between some of the Friesian -Islands into the North Sea. From that -point it is but a short distance to my destination. -Any port in England will be suitable -for my purpose.”</p> - -<p>“Nix on England for mine!” declared Jimmie. -“I’m for the little old United States -every time. We are neutral there without<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_28" id="Page_28">[28]</a></span> -having to think about it. I’m about done with -war. I’ve seen enough!”</p> - -<p>“Too much is plenty, as the Dutchman -says,” put in Harry. “But about this Amsterdam -place, now. Do you know the town, -Mr. Mackinder?”</p> - -<p>“Indeed I do!” was the reply. “I have -been there many times.”</p> - -<p>“Then perhaps you’d be good enough to -give us a little help. You see, we’re strangers -there and since we’ve lost our airship we’re -almost helpless. We’re not accustomed to -finding our way about where the inhabitants -don’t speak English. Besides, we’re not provided -with a map.”</p> - -<p>“I shall be delighted to help you in any way -possible,” continued the man. “I think that -if you follow me you’ll have little trouble.”</p> - -<p>The lads gladly availed themselves of this -offer, and shortly after their arrival at the -city they found themselves in a room plainly -but comfortably furnished. From their windows -they could see the shipping in the harbor. -Before them a busy street teemed with -traffic.</p> - -<p>Watching the strange sights below, the boys -were startled to hear:</p> - -<p>“I’ll trouble you now for the ‘U-13’ package!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_29" id="Page_29">[29]</a></span></p> - -<p>Wheeling quickly they were frightened to -observe that Mackinder had them covered -with a revolver. His look was stern and determined.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_30" id="Page_30">[30]</a></span></p> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_III">CHAPTER III<br /> -<span class="smaller">THE MAN WITH THE SCAR</span></h2> - -<p>“What package is it you want?” inquired -Ned in amazement as he saw that Mackinder -evidently intended to enforce his demand at -all costs.</p> - -<p>“I shall countenance no delay!” spoke the -man sharply. “You may step to your luggage -there and produce that package instantly. If -you refuse I shall summon assistance and -will be taken forcibly.”</p> - -<p>“You have the wrong pig by the ear this -time, partner!” put in Jimmie. “Just put up -your little cannon. It won’t do you any good -here.”</p> - -<p>“Enough!” snapped Mackinder. “You will -gain nothing by attempting such methods. I -am not to be balked by trivialities!”</p> - -<p>“Well, Boss,” smiled Jimmie, “we haven’t -got any ‘U-13’ package and we haven’t got -any of those other things, either!”</p> - -<p>“I warn you,” went on Mackinder in a -menacing tone, “it has become known to the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_31" id="Page_31">[31]</a></span> -authorities that you have this package. I have -been commissioned to secure it. If you surrender -it before leaving this country you will -lose nothing. If you refuse it will be taken -by force. In that case you need not expect to -receive any degree of clemency in the matter!”</p> - -<p>“Mr. Mackinder,” began Ned with dignity, -“we don’t understand what you mean. If you -intend to infer that we have some mysterious -package that we should not have you are not -fair to us. Perhaps you would like to examine -our luggage and be sure it is not there.”</p> - -<p>“Very well,” stated Mackinder grimly. “If -you insist.”</p> - -<p>Keeping the revolver leveled in the direction -of the group the man stepped to the side -of the room. He grasped the old-fashioned -bell-pull. In answer to his summons steps -were heard approaching the door.</p> - -<p>“Ah, there you are, Norton,” sighed -Mackinder in a relieved tone as a man in uniform -appeared. “Just keep an eye on these -chaps, will you. I’m going through their luggage. -Look sharp, now!”</p> - -<p>From Norton’s appearance the boys judged -that the task was much to his liking. He fingered -a wicked looking revolver, as if anticipating -trouble and hoping that would come<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_32" id="Page_32">[32]</a></span> -quickly. His manner was that of an eager -hunting dog scenting game and only waiting -a command to attack.</p> - -<p>Thinking it best to offer no resistance and -understanding that arguments would not avail -under the present circumstances Ned seated -himself in a convenient chair. He began to -divert the minds of his comrades by talking -of the shipping and the traffic which they -could see.</p> - -<p>Hastily Mackinder tossed the luggage about -in his efforts to locate the article he sought. -Finally he turned to Ned.</p> - -<p>“Where have you concealed it?” he asked, -with some display of anger.</p> - -<p>“Concealed what?” asked Ned impatiently. -“I tell you, Mr. Mackinder, I don’t like the -idea of your holding us up in this manner -without apparent authority. You are imposing -on good nature!”</p> - -<p>“Perhaps I have been a little hasty,” stated -Mackinder, “but I have been commissioned -to secure a certain package which is alleged to -contain information vital to two countries. It -may possibly concern more. You are said to -have had possession of this package at the -time you left the castle in Flanders. Where -is it now?”</p> - -<p>“Do you mean the flat package the soldier<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_33" id="Page_33">[33]</a></span> -found in our baggage at the frontier where -we were searched?” inquired Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“No doubt it is the same one,” stated -Mackinder.</p> - -<p>“Then,” declared the boy, pointing at -Mackinder’s hand, “I have every reason to -believe that you know more about the whereabouts -of that package than do we. I recognize -that peculiar scar on your hand!”</p> - -<p>Quick glances of inquiry were directed by -the boys at the hand toward which Jimmie -was pointing. It bore a scar running clear -across the back—an ugly, jagged scar that -they had heard Jimmie describe.</p> - -<p>“What did you mean by coming here and -trying to throw a bluff into us about the package -still being in our kits when you yourself -took it from the table in the hut?” demanded -Jimmie aggressively.</p> - -<p>“You’re mistaken, boys, I don’t know what -you’re talking about!”</p> - -<p>“Then you’ve got a mighty poor memory!” -declared the lad.</p> - -<p>“Mr. Mackinder,” Ned said in a low tone -vibrant with indignation, “if you’ve quite satisfied -yourself that we have not got the package -you seem to be seeking we’ll excuse you. -We don’t want your company any more, and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_34" id="Page_34">[34]</a></span> -we shall try to proceed upon our journey -alone.”</p> - -<p>“But, see here, boys—” Mackinder attempted -to explain.</p> - -<p>“Not another word!” cried Ned rising. -“There is the door and you are at liberty to -use it quickly. You are welcome to the package!”</p> - -<p>“You will find out later on,” Mackinder -said, as he started to leave the room in company -with Norton, “that I’ve been trying to -help you out of mighty suspicious circumstances. -You are ungrateful!”</p> - -<p>“Good-bye!” called out Jimmie. “Don’t -slam the door!”</p> - -<p>For a moment the boys gazed at one another -in amazement after the two men had left the -room. They were excited and puzzled.</p> - -<p>“Well, this is a stunner!” declared Ned at -length.</p> - -<p>“Who is this Mackinder, who is Norton, -what is in this ‘U-13’ package that he wants, -how did it get into our baggage, why was it -put there, where are we going, when do we -eat?” demanded Jimmie in a breath.</p> - -<p>“That’s the way to talk, Jimmie!” cried -Harry, laughing in spite of the situation that -the boys all felt to be a serious one.</p> - -<p>“The last question is the most important!”<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_35" id="Page_35">[35]</a></span> -stated Jack. “I’m in favor of the eats part -and that without further delay.”</p> - -<p>“Come on, boys,” suggested Ned. “Let’s -eat first and talk things over afterward. I’m -nearly famished myself, and Jimmie is hungry, -too!”</p> - -<p>In a short time the lads were seated in a -quaint restaurant ordering strange dishes. -They were hungry, as only healthy, active -boys can be. The food was well cooked and -appetizing. They ate heartily.</p> - -<p>“Now, I’m in favor of getting to the docks -as quick as possible,” announced Jimmie, -pushing his plate away. “Let’s get our passage -settled.”</p> - -<p>All were in favor of this arrangement. -After paying for their breakfast the lads set -out in search of a ship upon which they might -secure passage to the United States. But they -were not to secure this easily.</p> - -<p>Extended inquiry during the forenoon -elicited the information that there was no vessel -clearing from the port of Amsterdam for -any place in America. Although they made -every effort to find a steamer which would -afford them the accommodations they sought -none was found.</p> - -<p>Inquiry at the railway station disclosed the -fact that their airship, the Grey Eagle, now<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_36" id="Page_36">[36]</a></span> -dismantled and packed in boxes, was at the -freight sheds waiting a claimant. Until they -could find a vessel to carry it home the boys -preferred to let it remain in its present location.</p> - -<p>After dinner they continued their inquiries -for a vessel. At length they learned of a full-rigged -three-masted ship that was to clear in -a few days for New York. Regretting even -this short delay the lads decided to attempt to -secure passage, although the journey would -be a long one.</p> - -<p>Ned secured the services of a boatman, who -offered to row them out to the ship, which lay -at anchor in the harbor. The man charged -them what the boys considered an extraordinary -price for the service, but explained -that the weather was unfavorable and that at -any moment a storm might break. To this -the boys could but agree. A glance at the sky -convinced them that a storm of rather unusual -violence was gathering.</p> - -<p>“Take him up, anyhow, Ned!” urged Harry. -“We want to get home!”</p> - -<p>“All right, then, here goes!” declared Ned, -stepping aboard the waterman’s craft. “Pull -away, my friend, we’re all aboard.”</p> - -<p>In a short time the man was threading his -way amongst the shipping in the harbor.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_37" id="Page_37">[37]</a></span> -From their position so low upon the water the -masts and spars of the vessels looked to be of -extraordinary height to the boys, who viewed -every object with keen interest.</p> - -<p>A hail from the boatman was answered by -a man from the deck of the ship. He thrust -his head over the rail inquiringly.</p> - -<p>“Where’s your captain?” asked Ned, as the -man appeared.</p> - -<p>“What do you want of the captain?” asked -the man in a surly voice.</p> - -<p>“We want to talk with him,” replied Ned. -“We’ll explain to him.”</p> - -<p>“He’s busy now and don’t want to be disturbed. -Tell me what you want and I’ll give -him your message. Maybe he’ll see you!”</p> - -<p>“We want to arrange passage on your ship -to the United States.”</p> - -<p>“I’ll see what he’s got to say,” replied the -man, moving away.</p> - -<p>While he was gone the boys examined the -vessel closely. Jimmie pronounced the vessel -very much to his liking. He admired the lines -and pointed with pride to the modeling of the -stern.</p> - -<p>“Hello!” the boy cried excitedly, his arm -extended still in the act of indicating the ship, -“there goes our friend Mackinder in a -launch!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_38" id="Page_38">[38]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Where?” asked Ned eagerly, turning -about in his seat.</p> - -<p>“Right astern of us!” replied Jimmie. “I -wonder what he was doing aboard this ship. -He seems to be in a hurry to get ashore.”</p> - -<p>“Maybe he wasn’t on this ship at all,” was -Harry’s objection. “He might have been out -on the harbor for a pleasure ride.”</p> - -<p>“Sure, he’s just the chap to take a pleasure -ride on the harbor with a storm brewing! I’ve -got a picture of that chap joy-riding!”</p> - -<p>“I hope he doesn’t see us,” declared Jack. -“He might have enough influence with the -captain to prevent our securing passage on -this ship.”</p> - -<p>The conversation was interrupted by the -advent of the captain, who looked over the rail -at the little craft riding alongside.</p> - -<p>“What do you want?” he inquired in a business-like -tone.</p> - -<p>“We want to arrange passage on your ship -to New York, Captain,” stated Ned respectfully. -“We understand you are to sail soon. -We are citizens of the United States homeward -bound. Can you help us out?”</p> - -<p>“Not this trip!” decided the captain instantly.</p> - -<p>“We are able to pay well for our accommodations,” -continued the boy. “It is rather important<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_39" id="Page_39">[39]</a></span> -that we get home as quickly as possible.”</p> - -<p>“Possibly,” returned the captain shortly.</p> - -<p>Nonplussed, Ned was at a loss to find words -with which to urge his request further. The -captain’s distant manner gave him no encouragement.</p> - -<p>“We’ll not be the slightest trouble, Captain,” -the lad presently continued. “We understand -you’ll be loaded in a few days and -will sail for New York direct. Cannot you -arrange to accommodate us?”</p> - -<p>“This isn’t a passenger vessel,” stated the -captain.</p> - -<p>“Well, then, couldn’t we sign articles and -work our way over? We’d be willing to pay -whatever you think is right for that privilege.”</p> - -<p>“You want to get me into trouble with the -authorities, don’t you?” replied the other, preparing -to move away.</p> - -<p>“But, Captain, just think a moment. There -must be some way in which you can arrange -it. Don’t leave us in a foreign country!”</p> - -<p>“You seem to have done pretty well in foreign -countries as it is! If you can pull off the -stunts you have just done I guess you’ll get -over to New York all right—if that’s where -you want to go!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_40" id="Page_40">[40]</a></span></p> - -<p>“What do you mean? I don’t understand -you!”</p> - -<p>“Oh, you don’t, eh? Well, to put it plainly, -this is a peaceable, neutral ship doing honest -trading. I carry freight, not spies!”</p> - -<p>With these words the captain disappeared. -The boys gasped in astonishment at the words -and looked at each other speechless.</p> - -<p>Ned motioned to the boatman to return to -the dock. His puzzled frown showed plainly -that the boy was at a loss to understand the -situation.</p> - -<p>“I’ve got it!” almost shouted Jimmie, as -the lads were once more on land. “I know -what the answer is! I’ve been reading my little -dream book!”</p> - -<p>“All right, wise man, let’s have it! Don’t -keep it bottled up!”</p> - -<p>“Mackinder!” declared Jimmie impressively.</p> - -<p>“You don’t mean to say that he beat us to -the ship and managed to get the captain to -refuse us passage on his vessel?” asked Ned.</p> - -<p>“I believe I’m right at that!” maintained -Jimmie, stoutly.</p> - -<p>“Then the only thing we can do is to try to -find some coasting vessel to carry us out of the -Zuider Zee into the North Sea and make a -port in England. We can then go overland to<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_41" id="Page_41">[41]</a></span> -Liverpool and get a ship from there home. -Suppose we try that?” offered Ned.</p> - -<p>The boys were passing along a covered dock -at the moment. As they turned a corner they -saw Mackinder standing near. A smile of -triumph lighted his face.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_42" id="Page_42">[42]</a></span></p> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_IV">CHAPTER IV<br /> -<span class="smaller">THE LENA KNOBLOCH</span></h2> - -<p>“What did I tell you?” inquired Jimmie, as -the boys passed the man. “There he stands -with his arms folded and grins like a cream -stealing cat! I wish I had a half a brick! -We’ll have to watch out for him!”</p> - -<p>“It surely looks as if you were right, Jimmie!” -assented Ned.</p> - -<p>“But what gets me,” put in Harry, “is why -he should be after us! What have we done? -He seems to have information that we’re criminals!”</p> - -<p>“It looks mighty strange that he should -have stolen the package out of that hut and -then continue to insist that we have it,” remarked -Ned. “Are you sure he’s the same -fellow, Jimmie?”</p> - -<p>“It’s the very same hand,” declared the lad, -“and that hand is a dead give away! I wonder -he didn’t wear a glove or bandage!”</p> - -<p>“Maybe he didn’t have time when he got -the package,” explained Jack. “Can anyone -tell me how the thing got into our kits?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_43" id="Page_43">[43]</a></span></p> - -<p>This question was unanswerable by any of -the lads. Puzzling over the strange adventures -they had recently encountered the lads -proceeded to their hotel, where they spent -some time in freshening both themselves and -their uniforms and in rearranging their baggage.</p> - -<p>At supper time they were tired and very -hungry. At the first opportunity they proceeded -to the restaurant where they had formerly -eaten.</p> - -<p>Jimmie’s spirits revived as food was set before -them. In a moment he was laughing and -chatting away without a care in the world. -His good humor was infectious. Soon all four -boys were in a merry mood.</p> - -<p>“I wish we could get a civilized paper,” declared -Jack at length. “I’d really like to see -what’s going on in the world.”</p> - -<p>“Maybe we can get one at the desk. Or possibly -the cashier can tell us where they will -have English papers for sale,” suggested -Harry.</p> - -<p>“Here comes a man who looks as if he were -a native,” spoke up Jimmie. “I’ll bet he can -tell us a whole lot of things we want to -know!”</p> - -<p>The boys glanced up to observe a man approaching -their table. He was evidently a seafaring<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_44" id="Page_44">[44]</a></span> -man. His dress and manner betokened -the deep sea mariner. A decided air of the -ocean marked him to the boys’ eyes.</p> - -<p>“Goot efening, Chentlemen!” the stranger -said as he approached.</p> - -<p>“Howdy!” replied Jimmie, with a wave of -his hand. “What’ll you have?”</p> - -<p>“Vell,” replied the visitor, “schnapps vas -goot, but you couldn’t get ’em here. Dis isn’t -no blace for dot! No, sir!”</p> - -<p>“I wasn’t inviting you to have a drink,” -snapped Jimmie somewhat confusedly, “I -meant to ask you what’s on your mind.”</p> - -<p>“So-o-o-o!” exclaimed the newcomer with -a long drawn expression of surprise. His -shaggy eyebrows raised as he extended his -chin and shrugged his shoulders, pantomiming -an apology. “So, dot’s it, eh?”</p> - -<p>“Sure thing!” answered Jimmie, regaining -his composure in a measure but with his face -still flushed. “We want to know what you’re -after.”</p> - -<p>“Vell,” went on the visitor, “my name’s -Captain Johannes von Kluck. Don’d forgot -dot ‘Captain’ part, eider. Und I haf learned -dot you chentlemans vas lookin’ for a fine, fast -ship. Und I have chust dot!”</p> - -<p>As he made this announcement Captain von -Kluck smiled a wide look of friendship at the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_45" id="Page_45">[45]</a></span> -entire party. It was a wonderful smile, beginning -at the tiny wrinkles surrounding the -corners of his eyes. From there it spread all -over his face, gradually distorting the features -until, as Jimmie afterward declared, the -boys were forced to smile in spite of themselves.</p> - -<p>“And where does your fine ship go, Captain -von Kluck?” asked Ned.</p> - -<p>“Chust vherefer you vant to go!” declared -the captain solemnly. “Me, I am a goot navigator, -und mine mate he is, too, a goot von!”</p> - -<p>“We want to go to New York,” continued -Ned. “If you can arrange to furnish us passage -to that port, we’ll pay you well.”</p> - -<p>To this the captain answered by spreading -his hands and shrugging his shoulders until -they nearly reached his ears. Over his beaming -face spread a look of despair. He slowly -shook his head.</p> - -<p>“To New York I cannot go!” he answered -dolefully. “Bud I vill put you ashore in England, -und from dere you can easy get a ship!”</p> - -<p>“Well, that’s better than nothing at all!” -admitted Ned.</p> - -<p>“Sure!” declared Jimmie. “Anything to -get out of this place!”</p> - -<p>“When can you be ready to sail, Captain?” -inquired Ned.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_46" id="Page_46">[46]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Who, me?” questioned the captain in a -tone of surprise.</p> - -<p>“Nobody else but you, your crew and we -boys!” laughed Ned.</p> - -<p>“Sure! Dot’s all ridt!” nodded von Kluck. -“Vhell, I’m ready now. Yet I haf some -cheeses on board to put, und some odder -tings!”</p> - -<p>“Can you accommodate the boxes containing -our airship?” asked Jimmie. “We have -the Grey Eagle over here at the railroad station -and don’t want to leave it behind us when -we leave the country.”</p> - -<p>“Maybe it vould on de schip go!” consented -von Kluck.</p> - -<p>“Hurrah!” exultantly cried the lads. -“That’s fine!”</p> - -<p>“How big is your ship, Captain?” asked -Ned, “and what’s her name?”</p> - -<p>“Mine schip is der Lena Knobloch!” smiled -the captain. “Dot’s vot you English beoples -call garlic. Und id vas a goot schip alreaty!”</p> - -<p>“Well, then,” suggested Ned, “suppose the -captain takes supper here as our guest. Two -of us will remain with him to arrange details -while the other two hasten away and get a -truck to take the boxes to the dock. Can you -give us directions for reaching the vessel, Captain?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_47" id="Page_47">[47]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Sure,” assented the captain, seating himself. -“Und I know a man vot vould haul your -goots, too. I get him,” he added.</p> - -<p>“In that case, we’ll all go over together,” -proposed Jack. “I don’t like the idea of separating -while we’re in a strange town.”</p> - -<p>“Perhaps the captain can tell us where we -can get some English papers,” ventured Jimmie. -“We’d like to get the latest news.”</p> - -<p>Wheeling in his chair the captain bawled -out an order in Dutch. A waiter came bustling -up with an air of deference. Evidently he -knew the captain and understood that no delay -would be tolerated.</p> - -<p>A few words were rapidly spoken, whereupon -the waiter hastened away to return presently -with several newspapers. These were -spread upon the table before the boys, who -began a perusal of their contents.</p> - -<p>“Gee whiz!” exclaimed Jimmie, glancing at -the headlines of the paper which had fallen -to his lot. “Listen to this—three vessels sunk -in the mouth of the Mersey river by a German -submarine identified as the ‘U-13.’ Then -there’s been two vessels sunk at the mouth -of the Thames!”</p> - -<p>“What sunk them?” inquired Harry.</p> - -<p>“It says here that they were sunk by a German -submarine. In each case the diver has<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_48" id="Page_48">[48]</a></span> -been identified as the ‘U-13’ by the crews of -the ill-fated vessels. Now, that’s going -some!”</p> - -<p>“Let’s see,” pondered Harry, “the Thames -is the river leading to London, while the -Mersey is the river leading to Liverpool.”</p> - -<p>“Right you are, Old Scout, go to the head -of the class!”</p> - -<p>“Hush, Jimmie, no nonsense!” cautioned -Ned.</p> - -<p>“What I was thinking about,” continued -Harry, “is the distance a boat would have to -travel to get from one place to the other. It -must be all of seven hundred miles around -Land’s End. A boat would have to be speedy -to cover that distance so quickly!”</p> - -<p>“How quickly?” demanded Jimmie. “The -paper says the three ships were sunk at the -Mersey on Wednesday morning. Those at the -Thames, or rather ‘off Margate,’ as the article -states, were sunk Thursday afternoon. That -wouldn’t be such an impossible feat after -all!”</p> - -<p>“Twenty miles an hour sustained speed for -about twenty-eight hours is running along at -a pretty good clip, just the same!”</p> - -<p>“Well, the vessel did it!” declared Jimmie. -“The paper says that about six o’clock -Wednesday morning the Wanderer, a vessel<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_49" id="Page_49">[49]</a></span> -laden with foodstuffs from Australia, was -hailed by the crew of a submarine. They were -permitted to take to the small boats and then -the Wanderer was torpedoed, going down at -once. The submarine was positively identified -as the ‘U-13.’ Then the other paragraph -says that at about eight o’clock on Thursday -evening the steamer Adventure from Buenos -Ayres with a cargo of flour for London was -treated in the same manner off Margate by -the ‘U-13’!”</p> - -<p>“Isn’t it a little strange that the submarine -should have attacked a peaceful merchant vessel?” -inquired Jack. “That isn’t war!”</p> - -<p>“Evidently it is the intention to blockade -all English ports and shut off the food supply -of the nation,” ventured Ned. “You see the -article relates that all the ships were loaded -with food and destined to English ports. It -must be a blockade movement!”</p> - -<p>“Here’s an account,” announced Harry, -“that says a steamer was hailed by a submarine -a few miles off the Lizard Head. It -escaped by its superior speed, but only by a -narrow margin, for the submarine launched -a torpedo that barely missed striking the after -portion of the ship!”</p> - -<p>“Maybe it was the same little old ‘U-13,’” -suggested Jimmie.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_50" id="Page_50">[50]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Oh, you ‘U-13’!” laughed Jack. “You’re -some boat, all right!”</p> - -<p>“Say!” shouted Jimmie, jumping quickly -to his feet. The boy glanced about the group -with startled looks. “What about that ‘U-13’ -package? Do you suppose it was intended for -the submarine?”</p> - -<p>The boys exchanged puzzled looks. Perplexity -was expressed in every face. A look -of worry began to appear on Ned’s countenance.</p> - -<p>“I wonder who Mackinder is and what he -has to do with that package,” the lad said -presently. “Boys, we’re surely stumbling -into a mess of something. We’ll have to be -careful!”</p> - -<p>“Captain,” demanded Jimmie, turning to -von Kluck, “what do you know about this -‘U-13’ business? What is the ‘U-13’?”</p> - -<p>Leaning back in his chair the captain drew -a long breath. He filled a great pipe from a -capacious pouch. Gravely he packed the tobacco -into the immense bowl, accompanying -the procedure with sundry shakes of his head. -Not until the pipe was drawing freely did he -reply.</p> - -<p>“Ach, id vas vot der Deutsch say it ‘Unterseeboot’! -You English say it submarine! -Und dot liddle schip goes ‘Boom’! und down<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_51" id="Page_51">[51]</a></span> -goes der big schips under der vasser! Und -dey stay, too!” he concluded.</p> - -<p>“Yes, we know that,” assented Jimmie, -punctuating his statement with a poke at the -paragraph he had just read, “but who owns -it?”</p> - -<p>“Vhell, der Chermans dey claim to haf a -big share in id!”</p> - -<p>“Then if we start out for England in this -Lena Knobloch of yours how do we know that -the ‘U-13’ won’t come along and take a poke -at us just out of pure spite?” questioned the -lad.</p> - -<p>“Vhell, maybe she vill,” agreed von Kluck, -between puffs. “Bud if you vhas like me, you -iss willing to took a chance. I go, und das -Lena goes, und by und by maybe we make -blenty money und go ashore to shtay.”</p> - -<p>“You take it easy, I must say!” returned -Jimmie, somewhat amused.</p> - -<p>“Are you going out just the same, Captain?” -inquired Jack.</p> - -<p>“Sure!” proclaimed the captain, in no uncertain -tones.</p> - -<p>“Then let’s be getting that truck and take -the Grey Eagle boxes aboard the Lena Knobloch!” -cried Jack. “The sooner it’s over the -easier I’ll feel. I’m beginning to get nervous -about all this ‘U-13’ business!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_52" id="Page_52">[52]</a></span></p> - -<p>After paying their bill the boys set out in -company with the captain to find the trucker. -That individual put up a strong protest at taking -out his horses at the unseemly hour, but -a piece of coin slipped into his hand at the -opportune moment by Ned soon changed his -mind.</p> - -<p>Another piece of money changing hands at -the proper moment secured the consent of the -official in charge of the freight sheds to the delivery -of the boxes containing the precious -Grey Eagle.</p> - -<p>Making the affair a pleasure jaunt the lads -lost no time in loading the cases aboard the -truck. Merrily they set off for the dock.</p> - -<p>Upon arriving in the vicinity of his vessel -the captain shed his jovial air like an overcoat. -He bawled out orders to his crew, emphasizing -his commands with sundry fistic punctuations. -The men evidently knew with whom they had -to deal, for they fell to the work with a will.</p> - -<p>The boys turned back to the hotel to secure -their hand baggage.</p> - -<p>A small cart drawn by two huge dogs was -approaching. In the vehicle were some milk -cans. The figure of a woman guided the -strange team.</p> - -<p>“This is rather early for the milklady!” -laughed Jimmie.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_53" id="Page_53">[53]</a></span></p> - -<p>“That’s no woman!” declared Jack. “Look -at that walk!”</p> - -<p>“That’s Mackinder!” Jimmie cried. “See -the scar on his hand!”</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_54" id="Page_54">[54]</a></span></p> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_V">CHAPTER V<br /> -<span class="smaller">TWO MYSTERIOUS CHANGES</span></h2> - -<p>“Hey, you!” shouted Jimmie, dashing -across the street in the direction of the queer -outfit. “Come here! I want to see you!”</p> - -<p>The pseudo milk vendor gave a quick glance -at the approaching boy. A street lamp cast a -flickering glare upon the automatic which Jimmie -had drawn from his pocket. Without -waiting to explain or ask questions the person -addressed deserted the dog team instantly.</p> - -<p>With but a single look over its shoulder the -figure darted toward a building at the head of -the quay. Boots clattered on the pavement, -while the long stride clearly indicated to the -boys that Jimmie and Jack had been correct -in their surmise that the garb of a woman milk -vendor had been assumed as a disguise.</p> - -<p>Although Jimmie’s speed was great, the -lad’s sprint was not sufficient to permit him to -overtake his quarry.</p> - -<p>“He’ll never make it!” declared Jack, tugging -away at his own automatic and preparing -to follow his comrade.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_55" id="Page_55">[55]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Come on, fellows, let’s get a move on!” -suggested Harry. “That fellow will just -about get into a corner somewhere and knock -Jimmie over the head. He’s capable of worse -than that, I believe!”</p> - -<p>All three lads hastened after the fleeing figure -of their red-headed chum and the one -whom he was pursuing.</p> - -<p>An open door in the building indicated that -the race had turned in that direction. Producing -an electric searchlight Ned urged caution. -Directly the lads heard the sound of a -falling body. This was at once followed by -an exclamation of surprise and disgust. They -recognized the tones as those of their companion.</p> - -<p>“Are you there, Jimmie?” called Ned, -swinging the beam from his searchlight about -the interior, lighting up a collection of merchandise -piled in the warehouse. Jimmie was -nowhere to be seen.</p> - -<p>“Where could he have gone so suddenly?” -queried Harry.</p> - -<p>“Maybe Mackinder hit him over the head!” -ventured Jack.</p> - -<p>“Mackinder better be careful how he monkeys -with this crew!” was Harry’s belligerent -comment. “Maybe that guy’ll get all that’s -coming to him and get it right in the neck!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_56" id="Page_56">[56]</a></span></p> - -<p>For a moment the boys stood listening intently -for some indication of the presence of -their comrade. Once Ned thought he heard a -soft footfall. He put out his hand to touch -Jack on the arm.</p> - -<p>“Ss-s-sh!” he hissed. “What was that?”</p> - -<p>“Rat, maybe!” suggested Jack. “Turn -your searchlight this way a minute. I want -to see where this passage leads.”</p> - -<p>Ned swung the searchlight in the direction -indicated. Its lance of flame pierced the -gloom, revealing tiers of boxes and piles of -bags and bales heaped up in orderly array. -Sufficient space had been left between the -heaps of merchandise to provide passageway.</p> - -<p>“Come on,” cried Jack, “we’re losing time -standing here!”</p> - -<p>Scarcely had the boy uttered the words ere -an object came hurtling through the air. It -struck the searchlight fairly upon the lens. -There was a quick cry of distress from Ned, -a rattle of broken glass, the tinkle of the falling -searchlight. For a moment complete -silence reigned. The next instant there was a -rush of a heavy body.</p> - -<p>Taken by surprise the boys were not prepared -for the onslaught. They went down -like ten pins. Harry received a blow on the -jaw that nearly put him out for the count.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_57" id="Page_57">[57]</a></span> -Jack declared afterwards that his stomach -would never cease aching from the punch that -landed there.</p> - -<p>Ned had been bringing up the rear of the -little party, hence suffered least. He felt -about quickly for the searchlight as he lay on -the floor. Before he could recover it the boys -heard the outer door slam and knew that someone -had passed out of the building after the -sudden attack. Who it might have been they -could only conjecture.</p> - -<p>“Oh, my poor jaw!” groaned Harry. “I’m -knocked out!”</p> - -<p>“No, you’re not!” protested Ned. “That -only shook you up!”</p> - -<p>“Sure!” agreed Jack. “Shook us all up so -we’ll get a little more ‘pep’. Let’s hurry up -and follow that guy!”</p> - -<p>“Wait a minute,” objected Ned. “We want -to find Jimmie first!”</p> - -<p>“Right-O!” agreed Harry. “I think my jaw -is better now. Where are we going, anyway? -Do you suppose that was Jimmie that floored -us just now? Maybe he thought Mackinder -had pals coming in!”</p> - -<p>“I don’t believe it,” stated Ned. “Jimmie -must have known that Mackinder was alone -with the milk wagon. He also knew that we -would follow him here. Possibly the lad is<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_58" id="Page_58">[58]</a></span> -farther along in the warehouse, lost amongst -this merchandise. That must have been -Mackinder!”</p> - -<p>“You’re right, Ned!” declared Jack. “He -probably misled Jimmie in here and then -dashed out as we came in!”</p> - -<p>“But where is Jimmie now?” queried -Harry. “I don’t hear him!”</p> - -<p>“Oh, Jimmie!” called Ned in a loud tone.</p> - -<p>To this hail there was no answer. Complete -silence reigned.</p> - -<p>“That’s mighty funny!” puzzled Harry. -“Get your searchlight and let’s hunt him up. -He can’t have gotten far away.”</p> - -<p>A short search by all three boys resulted in -the recovery of the searchlight. Beyond the -damaged lens the instrument had suffered no -injury. It was still serviceable and cast a -strong beam of light.</p> - -<p>By its aid the lads followed the passage, -stepping rapidly forward. They were becoming -alarmed over the failure of their chum to -respond to their calls. All feared that -Mackinder might have done the lad harm. -Momentarily their anxiety increased.</p> - -<p>“Here’s a side passage!” declared Harry, -who brought up the rear of the little procession. -“Where does this go?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_59" id="Page_59">[59]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Wait a minute with that searchlight, -Ned!” called Jack, who followed Ned closely. -“Throw it back here a minute for Harry!”</p> - -<p>Before the light could be brought into service -Harry had taken a step into the passage -he had just discovered. A sharp cry of surprise -brought Jack and Ned to his side in an -instant.</p> - -<p>The lads saw Harry bending over the form -of their missing chum. Jimmie lay in a heap, -blocking the passageway.</p> - -<p>Fearful that their first suspicions had been -correct, the boys scarcely dared investigate. -Jack began growling out uncomplimentary -remarks concerning Mackinder. Ned quickly -forced his way to Harry’s side.</p> - -<p>“Here, let me see him!” Ned cried, throwing -the flame of his searchlight on the recumbent -form. “Why, he’s all huddled up!”</p> - -<p>“All in a bunch!” agreed Harry. “I wonder -if he’s hurt!”</p> - -<p>“Roll him over,” directed Ned. “Let’s get -him out of here!”</p> - -<p>“Why, he’s tied!” cried Harry, in a startled -voice.</p> - -<p>“Tied?” questioned Jack, pushing forward. -“Who tied him?”</p> - -<p>“And gagged!” went on Harry, his voice<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_60" id="Page_60">[60]</a></span> -vibrating with indignation. “Mackinder will -pay for this!” the lad continued. “We’ll get -him!”</p> - -<p>Without the loss of a moment Harry was -swiftly relieving Jimmie of the object which -prevented speech. A small block of wood had -been forced between Jimmie’s teeth. This had -been secured in place by tying a handkerchief -over his face. The gag had been extremely -effective, even though it was uncomfortable -and crude.</p> - -<p>As the gag was removed Jimmie wagged his -jaw a few times to relieve the strained muscles. -He nodded his appreciation.</p> - -<p>“How are you feeling, Jimmie?” was Ned’s -solicitous inquiry.</p> - -<p>“All right,” replied the lad. “Untie my -hands, will you?”</p> - -<p>“Gee, but you’re an artist, Jimmie!” cried -Jack. “We’ll get you a job as ‘Tricko, The -Handcuff King’! I want to say right now,” -the boy went on in mock seriousness, “there -are very few people who can tie themselves up -so completely and so quickly as this job has -been done!”</p> - -<p>“You win the argument!” decided Jimmie, -ironically. “If I get my tutor where I can lay -hands on him I’ll show him a trick or two that<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_61" id="Page_61">[61]</a></span> -wasn’t in the first chapter. He’s in for some -instruction all right!”</p> - -<p>“What happened, Jimmie?” asked Ned, -carefully passing his knife through the bonds -that confined the other’s hands and feet.</p> - -<p>“Well, when I came slamming along into -the warehouse I was only a few feet behind -the milk maid!” began Jimmie. “I at once -crept in on tiptoe, because I reasoned that he -would be slugging along, making considerable -noise. I didn’t know that there were goods -in here.</p> - -<p>“I couldn’t see him anywhere. From that I -concluded that he had either stopped or had -taken to tiptoeing, too. I had my ‘gat’ ready -and started in. I felt along the bales and -boxes a ways. Just as I heard you fellows -come into the door something tripped me and -down I went.</p> - -<p>“Before I could say a word he had shoved -that thing into my mouth, pulled a handkerchief -out of my pocket, tied it around my face -and then tied my hands together under my -knees. Say,” the lad continued earnestly, -“that guy never got his knowledge out of a -correspondence course! He’s been there and -helped skin ’em! He’s smooth!”</p> - -<p>“Where’s your automatic?” asked Harry.</p> - -<p>“I don’t know,” replied Jimmie. “Let’s<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_62" id="Page_62">[62]</a></span> -have the bug a minute. I’m sure I heard it -fall, but I can’t say whether Mackinder got -it or not!”</p> - -<p>“Mackinder?” questioned Ned. “How do -you know it was he?”</p> - -<p>“Because as he was tying my hands together -I had a chance to feel of the back of -his right hand. I could feel the scar as plainly -as could be. It was the same scar I saw before -he started to run and the same scar I -saw when the ‘U-13’ package was pinched!”</p> - -<p>“I’d like to take a poke at him just for -luck!” declared Jack.</p> - -<p>“I don’t know about that,” stated Jimmie. -“I can’t help but admire a fellow as capable -as he is. He tied me up so quickly and cleverly -and yet so effectively. I’d like to take -lessons of him!”</p> - -<p>“Here’s your gun!” joyously announced -Harry. “And here’s the milkmaid’s dress he -shed in here after he trussed you up.”</p> - -<p>“Now, then,” began Ned, as the party was -again complete and ready for action, “let’s get -out of here and get our baggage.”</p> - -<p>“Let’s get Mackinder first,” proposed Jack.</p> - -<p>“I vote ‘No’ on that question, Mr. Chairman!” -declared Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“Why?” questioned Jack, with surprise. -“What’s the matter?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_63" id="Page_63">[63]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Well, there are several matters!” declared -Jimmie. “I don’t feel that we’d gain anything -by chasing him. The ‘U-13’ package is -not in our possession and he knows it. Besides, -he’s a clever guy and we might get the -worst of it if we step out of our way to go after -him.”</p> - -<p>“I agree with Jimmie,” announced Ned. -“Let’s get aboard the Lena Garlic and get -started on our way as soon as possible.”</p> - -<p>“You mean Lena Knobloch!” corrected -Harry.</p> - -<p>“It’s the same thing!” declared Ned. -“Knobloch means garlic!”</p> - -<p>“All right, then, let’s get going!” agreed -Jack.</p> - -<p>The boys lost little time in proceeding to -their hotel, where they went directly to their -room. Here a scene of confusion awaited -them. Their possessions lay scattered around -in disorder.</p> - -<p>“Well, Great Frozen Hot Boxes!” cried -Jimmie. “What’s this?”</p> - -<p>“Mackinder and Norton again, I’ll bet my -head!” said Jack.</p> - -<p>“Weren’t satisfied with their first search,” -agreed Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“Came back here and went through everything. -Then I’ll bet Mackinder grabbed that<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_64" id="Page_64">[64]</a></span> -milk cart and dogs, slipped on an old lady’s -dress and chased down to the dock to see if -he could stop us!” put in Jack. “When he -found we were armed he just cut it and ran -away!”</p> - -<p>“Boys, we will do well to pack up and get -aboard that vessel as quickly as possible!” declared -Ned. “Through a mistake we’re under -suspicion, and it won’t pay us to remain here -another minute!”</p> - -<p>Replacing their belongings in the bags with -skill and despatch the lads were soon ready. -They at once proceeded to the dock.</p> - -<p>Tramping aboard they proceeded to the -cabin at the after end of the vessel. Entering -they discovered Captain von Kluck seated at -the little table. Before him was a bottle and -a glass.</p> - -<p>“Well, Captain,” began Ned, “we’re here -and ready to go!”</p> - -<p>“So-o-o?” queried von Kluck. “Vhell, if -you’re reatty to go, vhy go! But you don’d go -on dis schip. Vhe don’d carry bassengers!”</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_65" id="Page_65">[65]</a></span></p> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_VI">CHAPTER VI<br /> -<span class="smaller">A DIFFICULT DEPARTURE</span></h2> - -<p>Astounded at the statement of the captain, -whom they had begun to regard as a friend -but whose present manner indicated anything -but friendship, the boys glanced at each other -in some degree of alarm.</p> - -<p>“Just what do you mean by that, Captain?” -inquired Ned. “I thought it was understood -that we were to have passage on your boat!”</p> - -<p>“Vhell, den I forgot dot vhe don’d carry -bassengers!”</p> - -<p>“And I suppose it took Mackinder to refresh -your memory!” snapped Jimmie, stepping -forward with an outward thrust of his -chin.</p> - -<p>At the mention of Mackinder’s name the -captain gave a quick start. His glance at Jimmie -was one of uneasiness and alarm.</p> - -<p>“Vot do you know about Mackinter?” he -inquired.</p> - -<p>“I know this,” stated Jimmie, angrily. -“He’s a fake and if you know when you’re -well off you’ll let go your lines right now!”</p> - -<p>“Yes, Captain,” added Ned, “we found<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_66" id="Page_66">[66]</a></span> -Mackinder trying to detain us because he fancies -we have done something wrong or because -he thinks we have something he wants. Who -he may be we don’t know!”</p> - -<p>“I know!” stated the captain, stoutly. “I -know dot feller is a officer in der British army, -und vhen he says shtay, den I shtay!”</p> - -<p>“An officer in the British army!” gasped -Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“I think I see now why he wants that package!” -declared Ned. “He thinks that we are -bringing some instructions or something to -the submarine named ‘U-13’ and he’s trying -to intercept the despatches!”</p> - -<p>“Well, he’s welcome to the ‘U-13’ package -as far as we’re concerned!” maintained Jimmie. -“What we want is to get home to the -little old U. S. A., and that right quick. So, -Captain, we’ll go now, if you please!”</p> - -<p>“No!” decided the captain bluntly. “Vhe -don’d go!”</p> - -<p>“But you may listen to reason!” said Jimmie, -drawing his automatic. “I don’t like to -hold you up, but you’re going to get out of -town right now and we’re going with you!”</p> - -<p>“Put dot gun oop!” cried the captain, starting -from his seat.</p> - -<p>“I will on one condition!” declared the boy. -“If you get under way at once without any<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_67" id="Page_67">[67]</a></span> -more monkey business I’ll keep it in my -pocket. If you don’t I’ll use it! We are neutral -and we’re going to remain neutral if we -have to fight to do so!”</p> - -<p>“Vhell, I guess dere’s no real goot reason -vhy vhe shouldn’t go, anyhow!” decided the -captain. “Mackinter don’d got no license to -shtop us. Aber he don’d like id, he couldt -lump id!”</p> - -<p>“Now you’re talking sense!” declared Jimmie. -“But, remember! No tricks, or we’ll -feel like starting something ourselves!”</p> - -<p>“All right!” consented von Kluck, secretly -anxious to help the boys. “Chust come along -und make me leaf port. Dot let’s me ouid!”</p> - -<p>Upon von Kluck’s appearing at the companionway -the crew immediately assumed an air -of attention. Some were grouped about the -capstan, where they were watching the sky -and speculating on the character of the approaching -storm. Others were occupied at -various duties about the vessel. Every man -seemed to stand in fear of the captain.</p> - -<p>Bawling out a hoarse order, von Kluck at -once assumed command of the deck. Lines -were thrown down from the belaying pins. A -group of men tailed onto the halyards, hoisting -the foresail, staysail and jib.</p> - -<p>The Lena Knobloch was a schooner-rigged<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_68" id="Page_68">[68]</a></span> -vessel with two masts. The boys noted with a -considerable degree of satisfaction that she -was built along clipper lines, vastly different -from the round-bowed type of vessel commonly -seen in those waters.</p> - -<p>Under jib, staysail and foresail the vessel -swung around as the dock lines were let go. -Gathering speed with the force of a favorable -wind the little vessel plunged ahead. Von -Kluck was evidently planning on leaving the -harbor without the use of a tug—a somewhat -difficult, if not dangerous, experiment.</p> - -<p>Urged by the vociferous driving of the mate -men were already hauling on the halyards of -the mainsail. With the added press of sail the -Lena Knobloch heeled over until her lee rail -was nearly awash.</p> - -<p>A strong wind was coming out of the northwest, -favoring the maneuver of von Kluck, but -kicking up considerable commotion on the -harbor. Waves were running so high as to -make navigation of small craft exceedingly -difficult if not dangerous.</p> - -<p>Carrying full staysail, jib, foresail and -mainsail the schooner plunged into the waves, -sending cascades of water over her forecastle -with every leap. She was loaded deeply and -the boys could see that she would prove to be -what the sailors term a “wet ship.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_69" id="Page_69">[69]</a></span></p> - -<p>Every moment the speed was increasing. -The mate had trimmed the sheets to the exact -point for greatest efficiency.</p> - -<p>Suddenly all hands were startled by a hail -from a point on the starboard bow. They saw -a small motor boat riding dizzily upon the -crest of a wave one moment to be dropped out -of sight in the trough the next.</p> - -<p>“Ahoy, the Knobloch!” came a cry.</p> - -<p>“Ahoy, the launch!” bawled out the mate in -a voice of thunder. “What do you want? -Stand off or we’ll run you down!”</p> - -<p>“We want those passengers of yours!” was -the reply.</p> - -<p>“All right, come on and get ’em!” yelled the -mate above the noise of singing wind in the -rigging. “We can’t stop now!”</p> - -<p>“If you don’t heave to I’ll fire!” was the -answer.</p> - -<p>“Good night!” cried Jimmie from a position -near the lee rail, where he could look out beneath -the main boom. “That’s Mackinder!”</p> - -<p>A revolver shot sounded amidst the tumult -of rushing waters and singing rigging. The -echo was quickly bitten off by the rising wind. -The shot sounded dully above the humming -and roaring.</p> - -<p>Before Ned could detain him Jimmie fired. -Faintly the boys heard a crash aboard the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_70" id="Page_70">[70]</a></span> -motor boat. The green starboard sidelight of -the launch disappeared. Urged on by the -tremendous press of wind in her sails the -Lena Knobloch was fast dropping the launch -astern.</p> - -<p>No other shots were fired at the schooner. -Scrambling from his position at the starboard -rail Jimmie made his way aft to a point beside -the helmsman. Here he peered eagerly into -the darkness astern.</p> - -<p>“I can’t see them at all!” he announced, -turning presently to his companions, who were -grouped about the little skylight.</p> - -<p>“Perhaps we’ve shaken them off for -keeps!” ventured Jack. “Did you see who -that was with Mackinder?”</p> - -<p>“I thought,” said Harry, “that it was his -pal, Norton!”</p> - -<p>“Well, they’re safely out of reach now!” -declared Ned. “I’m glad of it, too! If we -can hold on at this gait we’ll soon reach a port -in England, where we can transship the Grey -Eagle and get home.”</p> - -<p>“I only hope the real ‘U-13’ doesn’t come -along and demand that package from us!” -laughed Harry. “They might take a notion to -send us to the bottom if we don’t deliver it -on demand!”</p> - -<p>“Let us hope they’re busy on the west coast<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_71" id="Page_71">[71]</a></span> -of England by this time!” suggested Jack. “I -don’t want any more ‘U-13’ in mine!”</p> - -<p>“Vhat’s dot about der ‘U-13’?” inquired -von Kluck, coming up to the little group. “Is -id der ‘U-13’ dot you’re skipping?”</p> - -<p>In a few words Ned related the important -details of their experience with the ‘U-13’ -package and with Mackinder.</p> - -<p>“And so,” the boy concluded, “we were just -hoping that the real ‘U-13’ wouldn’t show up -and claim the package that we haven’t got!”</p> - -<p>“No danger!” reassured von Kluck. “Dis -vindt keeps dose fellers under vasser deep! -Dey like rough vedder not at all!”</p> - -<p>“Hurrah!” joyfully cried Jimmie. “Blow, -winds; blow hard!” the lad continued, stretching -his hands to windward in an appealing -attitude. “Blow hard enough to keep the submarines -submarooned!”</p> - -<p>A laugh went round as the boys listened to -Jimmie’s coined word. They were all heartily -in sympathy with the expressed wish that the -wind would blow hard enough to keep the submarines -from the surface.</p> - -<p>“But, den,” continued von Kluck, with a -frown that wrinkled his heavy brows, “dot’s -not all. Dere’s mines floatin’ round der Nord -Sea dot dem verdom Deutsches blanted. Maybe -vhe hit one of dem und if vhe do—”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_72" id="Page_72">[72]</a></span></p> - -<p>Here the captain shrugged his shoulders, -spreading his hands palm upward, and extending -them with a final toss aloft to indicate the -hopelessness of a situation such as he intimated -might befall them.</p> - -<p>“Can’t we dodge a mine?” queried Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“Sure, if vhe can see id!” declared von -Kluck.</p> - -<p>“That’s the trouble,” explained Ned. -“These mines float deep and before a ship can -know of its danger—Bang!”</p> - -<p>“Well, Ned,” announced Jimmie with a -grin, as he wrinkled his freckled nose, “I’ll -tell you what I’ll do. I’ll bet you my old hat -that if we do hit a mine and get blown up I -go higher than you do!”</p> - -<p>“All right,” agreed Ned, laughing in spite -of the seriousness of the situation. “We’ll -ask von Kluck to be the judge.”</p> - -<p>“Von Kluck don’t seem to be very much -worried over the prospect of hitting a mine!” -declared Jimmie. “I guess we’re all right!”</p> - -<p>“Und now,” announced the captain, “come -to der cabin und eat!”</p> - -<p>The boys needed no second invitation. -They were soon seated about the little table, -where they found great slabs of cheese set out -on a plate. Loaves of hard, black bread were<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_73" id="Page_73">[73]</a></span> -placed upon the table by the steward, who -withdrew to presently reappear bearing a -great pot of steaming coffee. Von Kluck refreshed -himself with a glass of his beloved -“schnapps,” then fell to heartily upon the -bread and cheese, motioning to the boys to do -likewise.</p> - -<p>With considerable relish the lads made a -good lunch off the bread and cheese and coffee. -Hard and dark, but possessing considerable -nutriment, the bread was not at all unpleasant -to the taste. It had been plentifully -seasoned with small seeds, which lent an appetizing -flavor.</p> - -<p>Shortly after finishing their lunch the boys -again gained the deck, to find the mate actively -driving the men in their various duties. The -wind still came out of the northwest with a -stinging snap. Ned declared that he could -feel rain approaching.</p> - -<p>“Feels to me more like snow!” stated Jimmie, -sniffing to windward. “We’ll be getting -outside the Friesian Islands soon and then -we’ll find out what’s coming. We’re somewhat -protected here.”</p> - -<p>“How long will it be before we pass into -the North Sea, Captain von Kluck?” asked -Ned of the captain, who approached.</p> - -<p>“Vhe might make id by morning,” stated<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_74" id="Page_74">[74]</a></span> -the captain. “I vish I make a swift voyage -dis time. If Mackinter gets news to England -ahead of me, maybe he makes droubles by das -Lena Knobloch.”</p> - -<p>“So you’re carrying all the canvas you -dare?” asked Harry.</p> - -<p>“Chust now, yes! Maybe vhen vhe come -about und head up into der vindt vhe get oop -der tops’ls und put oop under vun chib. I -reach off a goot vays und leaf Amsterdam und -der vest coast of der Zuider Zee, den I make -vun straight reach und run ouid by Eijerlandsche -Gut.”</p> - -<p>“Then I’m going below to try for a little -sleep!” declared Jimmie. “I’m not needed on -deck and this wind is too cold for comfort!”</p> - -<p>“I’ll go with you and keep you company,” -volunteered Jack.</p> - -<p>“We’ll all go,” added Harry. “Come on, -Ned.”</p> - -<p>Clinging to hand rails the lads scrambled -below. The deck leaned at an angle that made -walking almost impossible. Every plunge -sent shivers through the little vessel. Tons -of water broke over the bows and dashed along -the planks to rush hissing through the scuppers.</p> - -<p>In the cabin a lamp swung wildly from a -beam overhead, throwing weird, dancing<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_75" id="Page_75">[75]</a></span> -shadows on the bulkheads. Here the noises -of the wind were hushed. Only a moaning -from the taut rigging reached the ears of the -four lads. But the cabin was full of eerie -sounds of creaking timbers and straining -planks. For some time the boys lay on lockers -listening to the confusion of noises. -Presently they fell asleep.</p> - -<p>They were wakened by the sound of tramping -feet on deck, and knew that some -maneuver was about to be executed. Coils of -rigging were flung on deck. The stentorian -voice of the mate bawled out orders.</p> - -<p>“Stand by to come about!” roared von -Kluck over their heads.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_76" id="Page_76">[76]</a></span></p> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_VII">CHAPTER VII<br /> -<span class="smaller">A WARNING FROM THE SEA</span></h2> - -<p>Springing from their resting places the four -boys staggered up the unsteady companionway. -As they gained the deck they were assailed -by terrific gusts of wind carrying sleet -and snow. During their stay below the -weather had turned colder, bringing fitful -dashes of sleet out of the north. The schooner -presently rode easier.</p> - -<p>A hoarse order from forward was followed -by a clanking of the cable through the hawse -pipes. The sails rattled with great slapping -noises as the Lena Knobloch rode to her -anchor.</p> - -<p>Men were instantly aloft securing the -lighter topsails. With a run the foresail and -mainsail were lowered and furled. The staysail -and jib had but a moment before been -lowered as the schooner was headed into the -wind. Under bare poles they rode on gentler -swells.</p> - -<p>“Where are we?” asked Harry, throwing -up an arm to protect his face. “Have we -reached England yet? Where is the captain?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_77" id="Page_77">[77]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Vhell, how do you like id now?” roared -the voice of von Kluck almost at Harry’s -elbow. “Vhat you tink of dis for some -shtorm?”</p> - -<p>“This is fierce!” replied the lad, bracing -himself against the wind. “Where are we -now, Captain von Kluck?”</p> - -<p>“Under der lee of one of der Friesian -Islands,” replied the captain. “I see some -rocks aheadt und dere is a big shteamer in -drouble oop to vindvard. I hope she makes id -into safety, bud I don’d know!”</p> - -<p>Shaking his head doubtfully the captain -went away forward. Presently he returned, -still shaking his head. The crew except the -captain and the mate were gathered forward -round the capstan.</p> - -<p>“Dere’s rocks dere—lots of dem!” announced -von Kluck. “Dot wessel looks like -she’s lost her rutter, und if she gets off dem -rocks dot captain needs a medal. I tink he’s a -goner, sure!”</p> - -<p>It did, indeed, appear as if von Kluck was -right. A big cargo steamer, now dimly discernible -to the boys, was rolling in the trough -of a heavy sea, urged on by a vicious wind -from the northwest. Her range lights showed -clearly at the mast heads. A gleam of red -indicated that the vessel was showing her port<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_78" id="Page_78">[78]</a></span> -side. With every roll great masses of water -boarded the weather rail, sweeping the decks -of every movable object.</p> - -<p>“Look!” cried the mate, excitedly pointing -toward the steamer.</p> - -<p>There was no need of explanation. A great -mass of rock directly in the path upon which -the steamer was drifting sent gigantic columns -of water into the air with every wave. -Although the eastern sky showed a tinge of -gray the blackness upon the water was intense. -It was lightened momentarily by the -white smother of spray and foam cast upward -as wave after wave broke upon the black and -threatening menace lying immediately before -the apparently doomed vessel.</p> - -<p>“Py golly, he’s all right!” yelled von Kluck -in a moment. “He’s lost dot rutter und he’s -backing on his enchines! He’ll make id!”</p> - -<p>Surely enough the steamer’s captain was -executing the very maneuver at which von -Kluck had guessed. By backing on his engines -he succeeded in drawing the vessel so -far to one side of the dangerous rock that it -was passed. Only a margin extremely narrow -intervened.</p> - -<p>But the danger had not passed. Another -rock threatened to tear to pieces the all but -helpless vessel. With straining eyes and beating<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_79" id="Page_79">[79]</a></span> -hearts the lads watched anxiously as this -danger was also cleared.</p> - -<p>They clung to the weather shrouds in spite -of the whip-like sting of sleet and spray, -watching the struggle against wind, wave and -rock.</p> - -<p>At length the vessel won through the dangerous -places. It was now so close that the -boys could make out the details of the rigging. -Ned procured a pair of binoculars and spelled -out the name.</p> - -<p>“That steamer is the Anne of Melbourne,” -he announced. “I wonder if it isn’t an Australian -vessel. They have had a hard time -of it.”</p> - -<p>“She’s close to us now,” cried Harry. “I -wonder what they’ll do.”</p> - -<p>“If they’re wise they’ll let go an anchor and -ride it out,” answered Jimmie. “If I had -sense enough to bring a vessel through a tight -place like that I’d get a hook overboard as -soon as I could.”</p> - -<p>“That’s just what they are doing!” announced -Ned. “There’s a group of men at -the forward end preparing to get the anchor -over.”</p> - -<p>Directly the boys heard the rattle of the -cable in the steamer’s hawse pipes, followed -instantly by a great splash at the bow that<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_80" id="Page_80">[80]</a></span> -told as plainly as words that the ground tackle -was out.</p> - -<p>Still feeling the heave of waves surging -around the head of the island the steamer -slowly swung to her cable. The range lights -shifted their position. The red side light disappeared.</p> - -<p>“She’s safe now!” cried Ned, in a tone of -relief. “I’m glad they made it all right. I -wonder how they got crippled.”</p> - -<p>“Let me take the glasses a minute, Ned,” -requested Harry.</p> - -<p>“Can you see what’s the matter with her?” -queried Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“Yes,” replied the boy, with the glasses to -his eye. “Von Kluck was right. It looks as -if the rudder stock is twisted and bent badly -out of shape. As the stern lifts I can see the -blades of the propeller all right, but the rudder -seems to be missing.”</p> - -<p>“The Anne of Melbourne,” mused Ned. “I -wonder now what that vessel is doing away -off up here. If they had a cargo destined for -an English port they should have been much -farther south.”</p> - -<p>“You don’t suppose the captain lost his -reckoning and got this far out of his course, -do you?” suggested Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“I don’t know,” replied Ned. Then turning<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_81" id="Page_81">[81]</a></span> -to Captain von Kluck the lad continued: -“Captain, what do you think about it?”</p> - -<p>“Mit der var doing so many tings, I don’d -know what to tink!”</p> - -<p>“I can see men moving about on deck now, -apparently clearing up the recent damage,” -stated Harry. “And I see a Boy Scout, too!”</p> - -<p>“No!” objected Jimmie. “Don’t say that! -I don’t want any more Boy Scouts mixed up -in this! It isn’t fair!”</p> - -<p>“Just the same, he’s there!” laughed Harry.</p> - -<p>“Well, then,” stated Jimmie, with a sigh -of resignation, “we are in for another siege -of it. I never knew it to fail! Just as quickly -as we get going somewhere and a Boy Scout -shows up there’s trouble ahead and lots of it! -Why can’t they stay home?”</p> - -<p>“Now, Jimmie,” cautioned Ned, “you know -we’ve never in all our adventures found a Boy -Scout that really brought us ill luck. Sometimes -they’ve caused us a lot of trouble, but -usually they help!”</p> - -<p>“That’s true, too, but I wish we could get -home to the little old U. S. A. without mixing -up in this ‘U-13’ business with the Boy -Scouts!”</p> - -<p>“Maybe it’ll come out all right after all,” -soothed Ned.</p> - -<p>“Maybe,” reluctantly agreed Jimmie. “I<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_82" id="Page_82">[82]</a></span> -say, Harry,” he continued, “let me take those -glasses. I want to see what that fellow’s -like.”</p> - -<p>Long and eagerly the lad peered through -the binoculars.</p> - -<p>“I see him!” he cried, presently. “He’s going -up the foreshrouds! I’ll bet he’s working -his passage on that steamer!”</p> - -<p>“What’s he doing on the foreshrouds?” -asked Ned.</p> - -<p>“It looks as if something had fouled at the -fore top,” replied Jimmie. “He’s going up -to clear it, I guess. Oh, look!” the boy -shouted. “He’s falling! He’s broken one of -the ratlines and is falling!”</p> - -<p>“I see him!” cried Ned. “I can see him!”</p> - -<p>“Oh, good!” exclaimed Jimmie, the next -moment. “He hit the shrouds and the steamer -rolled at the right minute, throwing him clear -of the deck. See that splash in the water?”</p> - -<p>“I see it!” answered the others, together.</p> - -<p>“Are they trying to help him?” asked -Harry.</p> - -<p>“Yes, they are,” stated Jimmie. “They’ve -thrown him a ring buoy!”</p> - -<p>“Can you see him now?” asked Ned.</p> - -<p>“Yes, and he’s swimming. There must be a -current in here that’s dragging him away from -the steamer. The buoy fell short and he’s<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_83" id="Page_83">[83]</a></span> -swimming directly away from the steamer. -He’s coming towards us!”</p> - -<p>Intently the lad watched the one in the -water. He swam a good stroke resting easily, -even though somewhat impeded by his clothing.</p> - -<p>Now and again as the crest of a wave approached -the swimmer his head was submerged, -only to reappear again in the yeasty -froth following the racing monster. Eagerly -his progress was noted by all on board the -schooner. They were at a loss to understand -why he had left his own vessel to swim toward -a strange craft.</p> - -<p>Presently, however, as he approached the -Lena Knobloch the lad’s strokes became more -feeble. He was evidently tiring rapidly.</p> - -<p>“Captain, what do you say to getting a boat -over?” asked Ned.</p> - -<p>“Vhait!” grunted von Kluck. “Id’s lots of -vork to do id!”</p> - -<p>“But the lad may need help!” urged Ned, -eagerly.</p> - -<p>“Vhell, if he needs id, I put him ofer. Nod -before!”</p> - -<p>Jimmie ran forward into the very eyes of -the schooner. In his hands he grasped a ring -buoy, to which was attached a goodly length -of line. This he coiled ready to heave the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_84" id="Page_84">[84]</a></span> -buoy to the one in the water as soon as he -should come within reach.</p> - -<p>Just as Jimmie was measuring with his eye -the distance separating the swimmer from his -goal and preparing for a mighty throw of the -buoy he noted that the other’s stroke was fast -weakening.</p> - -<p>With a jerk the Wolf unfastened and kicked -loose a shoe. In an instant the other followed. -A rapid movement loosened his jacket. A -backward twist of his shoulders helped him -slip from the garment.</p> - -<p>One look over the rail showed that the swimmer -was losing control of his muscles. Both -hands went up into the air only to disappear -beneath the crest of an oncoming wave. The -boy stayed under.</p> - -<p>“Stand by to get me, boys!” shouted Jimmie.</p> - -<p>A splash told that he had gone overboard. -His companions crowded eagerly to the rail, -watching for his reappearance. In a moment -they were relieved to see his red head come up -close to the spot where the other had sunk. -Emptying his lungs of the pent up air with a -loud “Whoosh!” the boy instantly refilled -them to plunge again under water.</p> - -<p>To the intense satisfaction of those on board -the schooner he again came quickly to the surface,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_85" id="Page_85">[85]</a></span> -this time dragging by the hair the boy -to whose rescue he had gone. Swimming on -his back, using but one hand, Jimmie slowly -brought the other lad to a position where he -could reach the buoy flung to him by Ned’s -strong arm.</p> - -<p>Harry had already made a bowline in a bight -at the end of a line. This he passed over the -side to Jimmie, who succeeded without difficulty -in getting the loop over the shoulders of -the rescued lad.</p> - -<p>Soon both were on deck, where they received -the attentions of all hands. Captain -von Kluck insisted upon giving the newcomer -a draught of “schnapps” to assist in the reviving -process. As the fiery liquor burned its -way down his throat the lad coughed violently.</p> - -<p>Choking and spitting the lad clawed at his -burning mouth and throat. Evidently he -thought the cure worse than the disease.</p> - -<p>“Let’s get into the cabin,” suggested Jimmie. -“I’m freezing!”</p> - -<p>“Sure enough!” cried Ned. “How thoughtless -of us! Captain,” he added, “can you have -the steward bring us some coffee?”</p> - -<p>Roaring for the steward to perform this -service, the captain picked up the nearly -drowned lad in his strong arms. He deposited -the boy on a locker in the cabin, then stood<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_86" id="Page_86">[86]</a></span> -aside to permit his passengers to administer -such assistance as they might.</p> - -<p>Ned stepped forward to begin operations. -With a cry he bent over the boy. Wonderingly -the others crowded forward.</p> - -<p>“Frank!” cried Ned, seizing the lad by the -shoulders. “Frank! Speak to me! Frank, -how did you get here?”</p> - -<p>“Who is it?” asked Jimmie, elbowing his -way into the group to a position where he -could see the recumbent figure. “Why,” continued -the boy in a tone of amazement, “if it -ain’t old Frank Shaw of New York!”</p> - -<p>A cup of steaming coffee at this moment -brought by the steward was offered to the -newcomer, who drank eagerly. He glanced -about the group with a faint smile in answer -to their puzzled looks.</p> - -<p>“Look out for the ‘U-13’, boys!” he said.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_87" id="Page_87">[87]</a></span></p> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_VIII">CHAPTER VIII<br /> -<span class="smaller">MORE ABOUT THE “U-13”</span></h2> - -<p>“Frank Shaw!” cried Jimmie, crowding -close to the lad lying on the locker. “What’s -that you’re saying about the ‘U-13’?”</p> - -<p>“I say ‘Look out for it,’ that’s all!”</p> - -<p>“No, it isn’t all!” protested the boy. “Take -another drink of this coffee and then brace -up and tell us what you know! How did you -get here and what and who and where and -why is this ‘U-13’?”</p> - -<p>Frank smiled as he struggled to a sitting -posture.</p> - -<p>“If you’ll rub the cramp out of that leg, -boys, I’ll ‘fess up’ everything,” he began. -“That leg feels as if some one were trying to -pull some teeth out of it by the roots. A -cramp is fierce.”</p> - -<p>Two lads began massaging the offending -member.</p> - -<p>“If I’d known it was you swimming to us, -I’d have lowered a boat myself and come to -your assistance!” declared Jimmie.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_88" id="Page_88">[88]</a></span></p> - -<p>“And if I’d known you were on board this -schooner,” replied Frank, “I’d have left that -ship long before I did!”</p> - -<p>“Why, what’s the matter on that ship, -Frank?” asked Ned.</p> - -<p>“Oh, nothing, only it’s one of these ‘workhouses’ -just exactly like we have read of. -The captain is a hard nut and the mates are -both of the ‘bucko’ type. There isn’t a man -aboard who hasn’t got a mark from one or -the other of the mates. They’re a tough -crowd!”</p> - -<p>“I’ll bet you didn’t just fall overboard, -then!” shrewdly guessed Jimmie. “You -missed your footing purposely! You know -you did!”</p> - -<p>“How do you know?” grinned Frank, nursing -his cramped leg.</p> - -<p>“I was watching through the binoculars,” -answered Jimmie. “But go ahead and tell us -something. We’re dying from curiosity!”</p> - -<p>“Well,” began Frank, “you know I wasn’t -quite satisfied to be left behind when you four -lads left in chase of the fellow who had stolen -the Panama plans. I wanted to go along in -the Grey Eagle.”</p> - -<p>“We know that, and we’re sorry we didn’t -take you!” cried Ned.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_89" id="Page_89">[89]</a></span></p> - -<p>“I went to see Mr. Bosworth about following -you,” continued young Shaw. “He was -opposed to that plan, but you know I usually -get my own way somehow. I put together a -kit and started out. I had little difficulty in -securing passage on a ship loaded with miscellaneous -cargo for England. The vessel was -a British tramp—a ‘bucko’ ship.</p> - -<p>“We got close to Land’s End after a rather -uneventful voyage across the Atlantic. I was -dreaming of getting ashore in a short time -and then hiking across the channel into France -to hunt you up.</p> - -<p>“One fine morning we were all startled to -hear a hail from the lookout informing the -deck that a submarine was approaching. We -hove to at the command of the submarine people. -They commanded our captain to get his -crew into the boats as quickly as possible, for -in five minutes they intended torpedoing the -ship. They wouldn’t take ‘No’ for an answer.”</p> - -<p>“That was going some, I must say!” put in -Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“You needn’t be told, of course,” went on -Frank, “that we lost little time making preparations. -One of the sailors disputed my right -to take my kit into the small boat. I objected -and he cracked me on the jaw. When I recovered<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_90" id="Page_90">[90]</a></span> -I was alone on the vessel. The boats -were at some little distance away, with the -crew pulling like racers.</p> - -<p>“For a moment I was quite desperate, not -knowing how to escape. I thought of trying -to signal the submarine, but could see the vessel -just launching a torpedo. Seemingly the -whole after end of the ship was shattered by -the explosion. As soon as I could I tried to -signal the enemy, but they were just turning -about to leave the spot.</p> - -<p>“Maybe I didn’t hustle about some. The -ship was already filling rapidly. The stern -was settling fast. All the boats were gone. I -could see nothing to serve as a float. Desperately -I seized a capstan bar and knocked -the wedges and battens off a hatch cover. -Then I got a small piece of line. I passed it -through a ring bolt and made fast. I figured -that when the ship went down the cover would -float free for a raft on which I could keep up. -Before I was fully ready the compressed air -blew the cover off with a ‘boom’. It landed -close to the rail.</p> - -<p>“Just as the hull took a last slant I jumped -overboard. After swimming quite a distance -away I saw the ship go down. I turned back. -There was my hatch cover floating just as I -expected.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_91" id="Page_91">[91]</a></span></p> - -<p>Here Frank paused to extend his hand for -another cup of coffee.</p> - -<p>“You’re the wise little Scout!” declared -Jimmie, admiringly.</p> - -<p>“Sure!” agreed Frank. “Then,” he continued, -“I floated around for the rest of the -day on that hatch cover. Toward evening I -saw a smoke off to the southwest. It was just -out of the glare of the sun. When it got -nearer I knew it was a steamer bound for -England or some nearby place. It was the -Anne of Melbourne. So here I am!”</p> - -<p>“But what about this ‘U-13’?” inquired -Harry, eagerly.</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes, I nearly forgot,” said Frank. -“The submarine that torpedoed the ship was -marked ‘U-13’ on the side!”</p> - -<p>“They’ve been doing a lot of that, according -to the newspapers!” stated Ned. “But -why do you warn us to look out for her?” he -asked.</p> - -<p>“When I told the captain of the Anne of -my experience,” went on Frank, “he decided -to head north, intending to go to the westward -of Ireland, around between Scotland and the -Shetland Island into the North Sea, in the -hopes of dodging the submarine, which seemed -to be working the waters of the English Channel. -Yesterday morning we were hailed by a<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_92" id="Page_92">[92]</a></span> -submarine. I could see that it was the same -old ‘U-13’!”</p> - -<p>“How did it get way up here?” questioned -Ned, incredulously.</p> - -<p>“Search me!” replied Frank. “They ordered -us to heave to, but that captain is a daredevil. -He cracked on all steam full speed -ahead, declaring that if they took him they’d -have to catch him.</p> - -<p>“The submarine launched a torpedo at us, -but it only smashed our rudder. We had good -headway on. That, of course, put us in a -mighty bad fix, as the submarine could then -have easily sent a torpedo into us, but for some -unknown reason they turned and left us.</p> - -<p>“The captain was nearly crazy when he discovered -what damage had been done. The -vessel had been bad enough before, but it became -ten times worse. I got a crack or two -with a rope’s end that sting yet!”</p> - -<p>“How could they navigate?” asked Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“They couldn’t!” answered Frank. “We -just lay in the trough of the seas and let the -old tub roll. They even put preventer stays -on the masts and on the boilers to keep them -from rolling out of the crazy old wagon. You -never saw such a place as that ship was!”</p> - -<p>“And then when the captain got her under -the lee of this land and you saw this schooner<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_93" id="Page_93">[93]</a></span> -you just concluded that you’d jump the -ship?”</p> - -<p>“Exactly!” agreed Frank. “I had lost my -kit when the sailing vessel went down, so I -left nothing on the steamer.”</p> - -<p>“I’m awful glad you got here safely,” stated -Ned, grasping Frank’s hand in a hearty clasp -that spoke eloquently of the friendship between -the two boys. “But you’re too late to -help capture the Panama Canal plan thief. -He’s out of his misery quite a while ago!”</p> - -<p>“But he’s just in time to get mixed up in -this ‘U-13’ business!” urged Jimmie. “He’s -right in the midst of the excitement!”</p> - -<p>“But since you don’t want any more Boy -Scouts along we’ll pitch Frank overboard -again!” declared Harry, with mock gravity.</p> - -<p>“Aw, you go on!” scorned Jimmie. “I -didn’t know it was Frank!”</p> - -<p>Laughing at Jimmie’s confusion the boys -related to their chum the salient points of -their experience up to the time of their -strange meeting. Frank was greatly puzzled -over the circumstances of the strange package, -for the presence of which in their kits the boys -could not account.</p> - -<p>For some time the lads remained in the -cabin, drying the uniforms of the swimmers<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_94" id="Page_94">[94]</a></span> -and exchanging experiences. It was the -opinion of all that they would be adopting a -wise course to return at once to New York.</p> - -<p>Captain von Kluck was greatly interested -in his strange passengers. He listened eagerly -to Frank’s account of the doings of the strange -submarine. At the conclusion of the recital -he paced the deck nervously.</p> - -<p>Not until midafternoon did the wind decrease -sufficiently to permit the Lena Knobloch -to venture forth from her position of -shelter.</p> - -<p>Through the binoculars the boys made long -examinations of the steamer lying to windward -of their position. They determined that -preparations were being made to send a boat’s -crew to some port for assistance in towing the -crippled vessel to a harbor.</p> - -<p>At one bell, or half past four o’clock, Captain -von Kluck came from his cabin. He -stepped to the rail, sniffing at the wind. Presently -he turned to join the mate in his walk -across the deck.</p> - -<p>For some minutes the two conversed in low -tones. Directly the mate stepped forward, -bawling out orders to his men.</p> - -<p>At once all was commotion on the Knobloch’s -decks. Men tumbled eagerly about, -hauling a line here, letting go another there,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_95" id="Page_95">[95]</a></span> -until they had set the double reefed mainsail, -foresail and a mere rag of jib.</p> - -<p>When this had been accomplished all hands -seized capstan bars. To the tune of a Dutch -sailors’ “chanty” the links of the cable slowly -clanked inboard. With a lurch the Lena -Knobloch swung as the anchor broke ground. -Like a storm driven bird she was off in the -wings of a northwester, lying far over even -under the greatly reduced sail.</p> - -<p>“Where to now, Captain?” asked Ned as -von Kluck stepped along the deck with head -bent forward. By his manner of nervous intentness -Ned guessed that the captain was -carrying a load on his mind.</p> - -<p>Von Kluck’s only response was a growl as -he passed the boys.</p> - -<p>“Captain’s grouchy!” declared Jimmie. -“Leave him alone, Ned!”</p> - -<p>“Sure, don’t bother him!” added Frank. -“He’s worried enough!”</p> - -<p>“Just the same, I don’t like his looks!” -stated Ned with some degree of apprehension. -“He seems to have soured after hearing about -the ‘U-13.’ Didn’t you fellows notice how he -listened to Frank’s story?”</p> - -<p>“Sure we did,” Jimmie replied, “but then, -it’s only natural that he should be worried -over the possibility of losing his vessel!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_96" id="Page_96">[96]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Well, his getting under way in this -weather shows that he intends to be square -and land us in an English port as he agreed!”</p> - -<p>“I guess von Kluck is a pretty good sort of -a chap, after all!” ventured Harry. “He has -tried to treat us as right as he could!”</p> - -<p>“I think you’re right. We can’t blame him -for feeling somewhat worried under the circumstances. -We’d be grouchy, too!”</p> - -<p>Under a port helm the Lena Knobloch -swung to starboard leaping forward into the -waves as if glad to again be battling with the -sea.</p> - -<p>Ned and his companions felt that they could -be of no service in handling the schooner. -They, therefore, retired to the shelter of the -cabin, where they were protected from the -stinging blasts of sleet and snow that came -screaming out of the northwest.</p> - -<p>Scarcely had the schooner won clear of the -jagged ledges when the full force of the tumbling -waves was felt. It seemed to the boys -that the stern of the little vessel was hurled -to an unbelievable height only to drop so far -they feared nothing could save them.</p> - -<p>But Captain von Kluck and his mate were -expert navigators. They had sailed the ocean -since large enough to handle a line. They<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_97" id="Page_97">[97]</a></span> -knew the Lena Knobloch’s ability to withstand -the buffeting of the elements.</p> - -<p>As night drew on the boys expected to witness -a cessation of the storm. Their prediction -was fulfilled. Gradually the gale blew -itself out, leaving but a strong sailing breeze, -although the water still continued rough. -Captain von Kluck took advantage of this -change to shake out the reefs in his canvas -and to spread more sail.</p> - -<p>Just as the moon showed in the east between -masses of cloud the lookout reported a -ship in sight off the port bow. In a short time -the two vessels had approached within about -two miles of each other.</p> - -<p>“They’re apparently heaving to!” cried -Ned who had been using the binoculars. “It -looks as if they’re getting the boats over!”</p> - -<p>From the waist of the other vessel the boys -saw a great cloud of dark smoke appear. The -small boats had scarcely gone a ship’s length -away from the scene. The crew were rowing -with the greatest haste.</p> - -<p>“I see the conning tower of a submarine!” -cried Ned.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_98" id="Page_98">[98]</a></span></p> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_IX">CHAPTER IX<br /> -<span class="smaller">A STRANGE VISIT</span></h2> - -<p>Clearly visible to the members of the crew -on the Lena Knobloch the great cloud of -smoke slowly spread over the vessel.</p> - -<p>Directly a sullen “Boom” reached their -ears. As the smoke spread away the lads -could see a great rent in the side through -which water was rushing. Already the ship -was listing heavily.</p> - -<p>Two small boats were being pulled away -from the vicinity by the crew of the doomed -vessel. The small craft were handled in a -seamanlike manner. They made good progress -in spite of the still heavy sea.</p> - -<p>“By golly!” ejaculated Von Kluck, drawing -a long breath. “Maybe vhe get id next, -vhat? Dere ain’d no vay of tellin’!”</p> - -<p>“Why do you think that, Captain?” questioned -Ned.</p> - -<p>“Dot verdom ‘U-13’!” grunted Von Kluck. -“Vhe’ll pe lucky,”—here his excitement -grew so intense that he delivered himself of -several great sailor’s oaths—“if vhe make a -port in England alretty!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_99" id="Page_99">[99]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Keep a sharp lookout, boys,” said Ned. -“Maybe we can get a sight of the ‘U-13’ if it’s -still in this neighborhood.”</p> - -<p>Scarcely had the boy uttered the words before -the lookout hailed the deck. His voice -vibrated with excitement and fear.</p> - -<p>“Vot is, aloft, dere?” roared Von Kluck.</p> - -<p>Excitedly jabbering in his intense emotion -the lookout frantically pointed in the direction -of the sinking ship. Without waiting for -orders he came sliding down the halliards. -As he landed on deck he turned an ashen face -toward the captain. Again he pointed seaward.</p> - -<p>“The ‘U-13’!” he gasped in an agony of -terror.</p> - -<p>A glance in the direction indicated showed -the boys an object like a spar buoy apparently -standing upright in the water. The next -moment a swell rolled over something beneath -the upright object.</p> - -<p>The next wave disclosed a long, rounded -steel hull. In the center the conning tower -showed plainly. A moment later the outlines -of the dreaded submarine were distinguishable -as the craft was propelled to the surface. -Each wave broke clear over the arched back -of this terror of the seas leaving the black hull -gleaming in the faint light. Only the upper<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_100" id="Page_100">[100]</a></span> -portion of the conning tower escaped a ducking.</p> - -<p>Presently the hatch was opened. A man in -uniform stepped out onto the narrow confines -of the small deck. His attention was directed -toward the schooner. After what seemed to -the boys to be an almost endless examination -of their vessel the man turned to address a -remark to some one evidently close to the -hatch but out of their vision.</p> - -<p>“What is he saying?” Ned asked von -Kluck.</p> - -<p>“He iss telling dot odder feller dot vhe iss -das Lena Knobloch!”</p> - -<p>“What next, I wonder?” speculated Jimmie -aloud.</p> - -<p>“Next?” almost screamed von Kluck. -“Next, vhe iss ordered to get by our boats -into und row far enough avhay so dey couldt -blow up us!”</p> - -<p>In his intense agitation the captain began -pacing up and down the deck. The submarine -drew close alongside the schooner easily -keeping pace with the sailing vessel at the -rate they were progressing.</p> - -<p>“Von Kluck is certainly worked up about -it,” remarked Harry as he noted the captain’s -distracted manner. “He’s almost bughouse!”</p> - -<p>“Well, so would you be, too, if all you had<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_101" id="Page_101">[101]</a></span> -were about to be sent to the bottom of the -ocean!” declared Ned. “It’s tough luck!”</p> - -<p>“Maybe we’d better be getting our kits in -shape,” suggested Jack moving toward the -cabin. “I don’t want to leave everything!”</p> - -<p>“I had to leave everything,” put in Frank, -“when they sunk the ship I was on. I felt -lucky to get away with my life!”</p> - -<p>“Let’s make a try for it, anyway,” continued -Jack.</p> - -<p>“Wait a minute!” cried Ned, “let’s see -what they’re going to do. The man is going -below again! Why don’t he hail us?”</p> - -<p>Strangely enough the officer was descending -the hatchway without speaking a word to -those on board the schooner.</p> - -<p>This procedure puzzled von Kluck, but did -not serve to reduce in any degree the excitement -under which he was laboring.</p> - -<p>“Lay aft a couble of handts und make reaty -der boats!” he shouted. “Come on, hurry -oop! Lifely, now, men!”</p> - -<p>In obedience to this command two members -of the crew sprang towards the stern of the -schooner to make preparations for launching -the boat lashed at the stern. Two others -frantically loosened the lashings of the upturned -boat lying amidships.</p> - -<p>A clanking sound indicating that the hatchway<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_102" id="Page_102">[102]</a></span> -of the “U-13” had been closed attracted -the attention of the boys in that direction.</p> - -<p>“What are they going to do now?” questioned -Jimmie eagerly.</p> - -<p>“I fancy they are going to pull away a little -so as to launch a torpedo at us,” stated Ned. -“It don’t look as if they’re going to be kind -enough to let us get off the vessel before they -blow it up!”</p> - -<p>“Then it isn’t the same crew I met!” declared -Frank firmly. “They treated the men -fine! While I must admit that I don’t admire -their way of sinking merchant ships, I will -have to say that they gave the people a chance -to get out of danger!”</p> - -<p>“Well, is it the same submarine you saw?” -asked Ned.</p> - -<p>“It looks exactly like it. Besides,” the -boy continued, “I see the figures ‘U-13’ -painted on the side of this one, too. I believe -it is the very same vessel. Maybe they won’t -sink us!”</p> - -<p>With hatch closed the submarine was preparing -to execute some maneuver. Gathering -speed the craft plunged ahead quickly -leaving the schooner alone. Scarcely had the -bow of the sailing vessel been passed ere the -submarine was so far beneath the water as to -show only the periscope. In a moment there<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_103" id="Page_103">[103]</a></span> -was but a swirl to indicate where that had -been. Presently it, too, disappeared. The -“U-13” was gone.</p> - -<p>For some time the boys stood at the rail -eagerly scanning the water to discover evidence -of the submarine’s return. Their -search was fruitless. Nothing was found to -indicate the presence of their late visitor. -The waves rose and fell without hint of its -location.</p> - -<p>“Oh, Captain von Kluck!” Ned called. -“They have gone!”</p> - -<p>“Vhat?” asked the captain in a tone expressing -doubt.</p> - -<p>“Yes,” continued the boy. “They have -slipped back into the ocean again and have -left us. Possibly they think we’re too small -for them to waste a torpedo on. Torpedoes -cost a lot of money, you know!”</p> - -<p>“Vhell, dot’s lucky!” answered the captain, -much relieved.</p> - -<p>“Sure is!” assented Jimmie, throwing out -his chest. “You see, Captain, we’re mascots -for you. We’ve brought you good luck!”</p> - -<p>Joining in the laugh that greeted this remark -the captain ordered the men who had -been at work upon the boats to cease their -operations. A hand was again posted aloft to -act as lookout.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_104" id="Page_104">[104]</a></span></p> - -<p>After a short consultation between von -Kluck and the mate it was decided to proceed -on the course traveled by the steamer from -which Frank Shaw had recently escaped. -They intended to pass between the Shetland -islands and the coast of Scotland in an attempt -to make a port on the west side of -England, believing that there would be less -danger in this procedure. Accordingly all -sail possible was made.</p> - -<p>As if understanding the necessity for haste -the vessel leaned far over under the press of -canvas and sprang forward with increased -speed.</p> - -<p>“We ought to make the west coast of England -in a short time, Captain, at this rate,” -said Ned as he noted with satisfaction the rate -at which the Lena Knobloch was traveling -through the water.</p> - -<p>“I don’d know!” declared von Kluck. -“Dere’s nasty vedder oop dere!” he added, -pointing to the western sky. “I don’d like -id!”</p> - -<p>“It can’t very well blow hard enough to -stop us, can it?”</p> - -<p>“Don’d you tink it can’t blow hard in dese -vatters! Ask me—I know!” replied the captain -sagely wagging his head.</p> - -<p>With eager looks the boys watched the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_105" id="Page_105">[105]</a></span> -gathering clouds to westward. The captain’s -prediction seemed about to be verified.</p> - -<p>An uncommonly strong puff of wind struck -the schooner heeling her far over to starboard. -The blast bore a chill as of ice.</p> - -<p>“Oh, boys,” cried Jimmie turning his head -away from the biting blast, “look up to windward -and see how smooth the ocean is getting!”</p> - -<p>“That’s wind coming!” shouted Ned.</p> - -<p>An order was roared out by von Kluck. -Men sprang to the lines. The sails were -stowed with a speed that seemed scarcely credible. -Heeling round on a port helm the Lena -Knobloch turned from the approaching blast.</p> - -<p>Leaving only the shortened jib von Kluck -and the mate stood on the after deck peering -anxiously at the violent disturbance overtaking -the little vessel. Now and again the mate -glanced apprehensively at the schooner’s -masts or along the decks.</p> - -<p>With a shriek the storm struck. For a -moment the very weight of wind seemed to -settle the schooner farther into the water. -The next instant they were tearing along with -the speed of a race horse.</p> - -<p>Flattened by the pressure of the wind the -waves no longer gave her motion. By reason -of her being headed directly away from the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_106" id="Page_106">[106]</a></span> -blast the schooner rode on an even keel. -Every line, every shroud hummed like the -strings of a gigantic harp. The noise was -terrific.</p> - -<p>A glance at the compass in the binnacle -showed Ned that they were headed nearly -northeast. They were fast leaving England -astern.</p> - -<p>Conversation was almost impossible in the -howling gale that tore and fretted at the vessel. -Yet Ned managed to shout to the captain:</p> - -<p>“How much sea room have we got in this -direction?”</p> - -<p>A shrug of the shoulders indicated the captain’s -doubt. He accompanied this movement -with a wagging of the head.</p> - -<p>“Vhe’ll get into der lee of somedings bretty -soon,” he replied.</p> - -<p>“I surely hope so!” declared Ned, cupping -his hands to carry his voice to the other’s ear. -“I’d hate to hit anything at this rate!”</p> - -<p>Nodding an acknowledgment to this assertion -the captain by signs indicated to the mate -that he desired a hand sent aloft as lookout.</p> - -<p>In a short time it seemed to the boys that the -terrific force of the gale had somewhat spent -itself. Waves began to toss the vessel at an -alarming rate. Each mountain of water appeared<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_107" id="Page_107">[107]</a></span> -about to board the schooner at the -stern, threatening to crush the craft by its -weight.</p> - -<p>Anxious for the safety of the vessel and for -their own welfare the lads, nevertheless, understood -that they could do little good on deck. -They, therefore, made their way into the cabin, -where they sat on lockers.</p> - -<p>Here the noises of the tempest were somewhat -stilled, but the creaking and groaning of -the timbers was far more noticeable. It -seemed to the lads that the vessel was being -torn asunder by every billow.</p> - -<p>“I wonder what weather the old ‘U-13’ is -making of it about now?” said Frank, as the -boys grouped themselves about the little table.</p> - -<p>“She’s in smoother water than this, I’ll venture -to say,” put in Jimmie, clutching the edge -of the table in an effort to support himself.</p> - -<p>“If they are not in better water than this,” -remarked Harry, “they’re getting shaken up -some! I’d like to be under water right now!”</p> - -<p>“Why, Harry,” spoke up Ned, “you -shouldn’t say that!”</p> - -<p>“I mean in a tight little submarine!” explained -Harry.</p> - -<p>“I wish we had the Sea Lion over here!” -cried Jimmie. “We could have more fun than -we had when we tried to rescue the papers<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_108" id="Page_108">[108]</a></span> -out of that ship in the Gulf of Tong King with -Moore and his nosey son butting in!”</p> - -<p>“That was sure some fine boat!” declared -Ned. “Just as easy to ride in as a rocking -chair. And it was always smooth and—”</p> - -<p>The boy’s speech was cut short by a violent -roll of the vessel. All the lads were thrown -in a heap to the cabin floor. Directly the -schooner righted herself, but began pitching -with a violent motion. From the sounds the -boys knew that the captain had hove to, bringing -the vessel into the wind. Apparently he -intended riding out the storm.</p> - -<p>Waves were breaking over the bows, falling -with tremendous blows upon the forward deck. -The scuppers were not able to release the -flood.</p> - -<p>Suddenly a terrific crash sounded directly -beneath the cabin floor. The stern seemed to -lift bodily into the air. A shudder ran through -the fabric. Again the boys fell to the deck.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_109" id="Page_109">[109]</a></span></p> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_X">CHAPTER X<br /> -<span class="smaller">SHIPWRECK AND RESCUE</span></h2> - -<p>Above the noises of the tempest and the -straining timbers sounded cries from the deck -that told of confusion amongst the crew. Von -Kluck’s hoarse voice was bawling out orders -mixed with great sea oaths. He was driving -the men to some duty.</p> - -<p>The tramping of feet above the boys sounded -for a moment, then ceased. Judging from the -sounds they thought the men had gathered in -the waist of the vessel. Puzzled, they looked -at each other in fear.</p> - -<p>“What’s up?” inquired Jimmie, attempting -to rise to his feet.</p> - -<p>Ned steadied himself at the table as he tried -to peer out of the little skylight overhead. He -could see nothing.</p> - -<p>“We just about struck something!” declared -Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“Maybe we hit another vessel,” ventured -Harry.</p> - -<p>“Or a rock, perhaps,” continued Jack. “We -surely struck something solid. I hope we -don’t hit it again like that first crack!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_110" id="Page_110">[110]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Look here, boys!” cried Ned in alarm. -“The motion of this ship is much less than it -was a minute ago! Notice it?”</p> - -<p>“It surely is!” agreed Jack. “Is the wind -going down?”</p> - -<p>“We are getting into some sort of shelter,” -guessed Harry. “Probably von Kluck has -navigated the schooner behind a breakwater.”</p> - -<p>“Boys, the ship is sinking!” shouted Ned. -“See the water coming into this cabin! We’ve -struck a floating mine!”</p> - -<p>In alarm the boys sprang to their feet. As -Ned had said, the motion was lessening -rapidly. They found little difficulty now in -keeping their footing without support. With -one accord they made a break for the companionway, -crowding out in a body.</p> - -<p>The sight that met their gaze brought consternation -to every heart. The schooner lay -head to the wind. The mainsail had been set -with a double reef, to help keep the vessel in -that position. The seas seemed alarmingly -higher than when they had been last on deck.</p> - -<p>This was due, of course, to the difference in -perspective, owing to the fact that they were -fast settling into the water.</p> - -<p>Above the stern clung traces of heavy, black -smoke. A disagreeable odor pervaded the -atmosphere in spite of the strong wind.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_111" id="Page_111">[111]</a></span></p> - -<p>“There goes von Kluck and the crew!” -shouted Harry, pointing to leeward. “They’re -scared to death. That mine settled them!”</p> - -<p>A short distance away the boys could see -the larger of the two boats that had been carried -by the schooner. In it were the members -of the crew, accompanied by the captain and -the mate.</p> - -<p>Tossed about by the angry waters the little -shell seemed about to be engulfed at any moment. -However, skillful hands were at the -oars. Rising and falling, now on top of a -wave, now out of sight, the boat soon put considerable -distance between the two parties.</p> - -<p>“Well, Great Frozen Hot Boxes!” exclaimed -Jimmie in disgust. “What do you -know about that? They’ve gone and left us!”</p> - -<p>“And the ship is settling fast!” cried Ned, -in alarm. “We’d better get busy if we don’t -want to go down with it!”</p> - -<p>“What can we do?” asked Harry. “The -boat’s gone!”</p> - -<p>“Suppose we try to patch up the leak,” suggested -Jimmie. “Maybe we could keep the old -tub afloat until the storm dies down!”</p> - -<p>“No chance!” decided Ned. “Von Kluck -and his crew would have done that if they -could. We’d better get busy!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_112" id="Page_112">[112]</a></span></p> - -<p>“What’s the matter with using the small -boat at the stern?”</p> - -<p>“That’s a good idea unless it is broken too -badly. Let’s have a look at it anyway,” replied -Ned, hastening toward the stern.</p> - -<p>A brief examination of the small boat indicated -that it would be more seaworthy than -the hull upon which they were standing. No -time was lost in preparations for launching -the craft.</p> - -<p>“When folks get shipwrecked,” suggested -Jimmie, “don’t they take water and food with -them if they have it?”</p> - -<p>“They surely do, little man!” cried Ned. -“Hustle about and see what you can get. Try -to find something in which to carry fresh -water.”</p> - -<p>Jimmie dashed back into the cabin to raid -the pantry. There he found the water gaining -rapidly. It was almost knee deep.</p> - -<p>Splashing his way about with the aid of the -swinging lamp the boy found several loaves -of the hard, black bread with which the vessel -was provisioned. These he wrapped in an oilskin -coat from the captain’s room. He tucked -the parcel under one arm. With his free hand -he seized a huge piece of the captain’s beloved -cheese.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_113" id="Page_113">[113]</a></span></p> - -<p>Hastening quickly to the deck he deposited -his burden in the boat. Another trip to the -cabin failed to locate any vessel in which fresh -water could be carried. The boy then dashed -forward to the galley.</p> - -<p>There he found a huge kettle used by the -cook for boiling beef. This Jimmie filled with -water from the barrel on deck. The cover of -the kettle was provided with a clever device -for fastening it in place. This Jimmie secured, -then staggered toward the stern with his -burden.</p> - -<p>Working with desperate speed the four boys -had succeeded in launching the small boat. It -now hung bobbing about to a short length of -painter under the schooner’s stern. It was not -far below the taffrail.</p> - -<p>Ned and Harry made a hurried trip to the -cabin to secure the kits, returning just as Jimmie -succeeded in placing his kettle of water -aboard.</p> - -<p>“Hurry up, Ned,” cautioned Jack. “The -little wagon is just about to say ‘Goodby’! -We’ll have to go some to escape the suction!”</p> - -<p>“All aboard!” replied Ned, tossing his kit -into the boat.</p> - -<p>Harry pitched the luggage he was carrying -to waiting hands. Both boys then watched for -an opportune moment when the small boat<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_114" id="Page_114">[114]</a></span> -swung close to the sinking stern. A quick leap -carried them safely aboard.</p> - -<p>“Oh, I forgot!” cried Ned. “I was going to -bring the compass!”</p> - -<p>“Never mind the compass now, Ned!” cried -Jimmie, seizing an oar.</p> - -<p>“No,” put in Frank, “we don’t know where -we are at anyhow, and the compass wouldn’t -be of any use to us in such a case as this!”</p> - -<p>“Goodby, Lena Garlic!” shouted Jimmie a -moment later as he pulled manfully at the oar. -“Goodby and good luck!”</p> - -<p>The others turned to see the schooner now -with decks awash. A loud detonation marked -the blowing off of the hatches by the compressed -air in the hold. That incident seemed -to mark the passage of the vessel.</p> - -<p>Gradually settling by the stern the schooner -quietly slipped backward, settling deeper and -deeper, until a large wave overwhelmed the -craft, leaving only the masts projecting above -water. In another instant these, too, had disappeared, -leaving but a few floating pieces of -wreckage to mark the spot where the boys had -only a short time before been standing.</p> - -<p>“And goodby, Grey Eagle!” almost sobbed -Ned. “No more flying in that little airship! -I wish we could have saved the machine!”</p> - -<p>This seemed to be the sentiment of all, but<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_115" id="Page_115">[115]</a></span> -they knew that their sturdy aeroplane was -now gone forever.</p> - -<p>“The Germans needn’t think we’ll ever -trouble them again in that airship!” declared -Jimmie. “We can’t be pinched for that!”</p> - -<p>For a moment the disappointment of their -recent experiences sat heavily on all the lads. -At length, however, Ned roused himself and -tried to cheer his comrades. He knew that -nothing could be gained by bemoaning the fate -that had happened to them.</p> - -<p>“We can’t be far from land,” the lad stated -presently. “Von Kluck and his crew seemed -to be heading the same way we are. They evidently -knew about where they were and have -made for the nearest port.”</p> - -<p>“Let’s keep right on after them, then,” suggested -Frank.</p> - -<p>“Second the motion!” panted Jimmie, -straining at his oar. “But this is hot work! -Wish I had a drink of water!”</p> - -<p>“You’ll have to go slow on the water, boys,” -cautioned Ned. “That kettle holds only about -three gallons, and we can’t drink sea water.”</p> - -<p>“Let me take the oar a while, Jimmie,” volunteered -Harry. “I guess you’ve worked -about hard enough, anyway. You rest a bit.”</p> - -<p>Cautiously the boys changed places. What -with their kits, the bundle of bread and the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_116" id="Page_116">[116]</a></span> -cheese the little boat was carrying all that -could be conveniently stowed. They were glad -that no more had remained to accompany -them. Soon all had settled themselves quite -comfortably.</p> - -<p>“Now,” spoke up Jack, presently, “all -we’ve got to do is to let this wind blow us -along. We’ll just keep the boat straightened -into the seas and take it easy. We can’t do a -thing to help matters.”</p> - -<p>“Right you are, Scout!” agreed Jimmie. “I -think it’s getting gray over there,” the lad -continued, pointing toward the east. “Morning -will be along shortly and we can see what -time it is.”</p> - -<p>“Maybe we’ll meet some ship that will pick -us up,” ventured Harry, hopefully. “There -are plenty of vessels in these parts.”</p> - -<p>“I see a smoke astern of us now, I think!” -declared Frank. “It seems to be from a vessel -low in the water.”</p> - -<p>“Let me take a look,” cried Ned, standing -and balancing himself by clinging to Jimmie’s -shoulder. “Yes, I can see it, too! It seems to -be overhauling us quite rapidly,” he added. -“Maybe they’ll help us!”</p> - -<p>Ceasing their efforts to propel the boat the -boys handled the oars only enough to keep -their tiny craft properly riding the seas.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_117" id="Page_117">[117]</a></span></p> - -<p>“It looks to me like a tug!” stated Jimmie, -presently.</p> - -<p>“A tug wouldn’t come smashing along at -that rate!” objected Ned.</p> - -<p>“Well, then, what can it be?” queried the -other. “It is too low in the water for a battleship -and no freight steamer ever made such -good time as they are clipping off! They’re -coming up fast!”</p> - -<p>The boys were not long left in doubt. -Rapidly overhauling them the strange vessel -did, indeed, seem to be at first glance a tug -tearing along through the waves at a great -rate. The bow was lost in a smother of foam -and spray. But a tiny speck of deck house -was visible. The stacks were low. Great billows -of black smoke vomited forth from the -short funnels came drifting down the wind.</p> - -<p>In a short time the vessel approached near -enough so that the boys could distinguish a -small gun mounted at the bow.</p> - -<p>“I know what that ship is!” announced Jimmie, -directly. “That’s what they call a torpedo -boat destroyer or despatch boat!”</p> - -<p>“I believe you’re right, Jimmie,” decided -Ned. “They certainly have got the speed!” -he added admiringly as the craft approached.</p> - -<p>“Get ready to hail ’em!” cried Frank. “Get -out a flag!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_118" id="Page_118">[118]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Haven’t got a flag aboard this wagon!” -scorned Jimmie. “What do you think this is—a -dreadnaught with full equipment?”</p> - -<p>“Then take off your shirt and wave that at -’em!”</p> - -<p>“Just the idea!” agreed Jimmie, proceeding -to follow the advice.</p> - -<p>Bracing himself against a thwart amidships -Jimmie waved the improvised distress signal. -His efforts were not unavailing.</p> - -<p>“They see you, Jimmie!” shouted Jack, -presently. “There’s a man on the bridge looking -at you with glasses. They’re shifting the -helm!”</p> - -<p>“I can see two or three men standing on -the bridge!” announced Ned. “They are examining -us pretty closely. Wonder who they -are?”</p> - -<p>The boys were not long left in doubt. Way -was checked on the stranger. As the vessel -drew close to the small boat a churning of -foam at the stern told the lads that the engines -were reversed in an effort to stop. Presently -the stranger ranged alongside. A line was -flung to the boys. They were towed beside -the other under bare steerageway.</p> - -<p>Fending their craft off the larger vessel Ned -explained their plight to an officer. They -were invited aboard the steamer. Their boat<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_119" id="Page_119">[119]</a></span> -was hoisted aboard, where it was carefully -stowed.</p> - -<p>The lads found themselves upon the steel -deck of a peculiarly long and narrow vessel. -Guns were mounted forward and aft. Only a -cursory examination was necessary to determine -that they were quick firers.</p> - -<p>“Now, boys,” said the officer who had invited -them aboard, “I shall ask you to step to -the cabin. The commander will hear your -story.”</p> - -<p>As the boys entered the cabin in response to -the other’s request they saw a familiar face. -Beside the commander seated at the table was -none other than their one time acquaintance, -Mackinder.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_120" id="Page_120">[120]</a></span></p> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_XI">CHAPTER XI<br /> -<span class="smaller">A FLEET OF SUBMARINES</span></h2> - -<p>Upon seeing Mackinder’s face, Ned halted -in amazement.</p> - -<p>A smile spread over the other’s countenance -as he noted Ned’s look of wonder. But beneath -the appearance of amused indifference -the lad’s quick eye detected a look of care. He -was not the same Mackinder.</p> - -<p>For a brief moment nothing was said. Then -the officer saluted the commander, who recognized -the act. The boys were presented.</p> - -<p>“So, my friends,” the commander began, -“you were adrift on the North Sea in an open -boat? Have you suffered greatly?”</p> - -<p>“No, thank you,” replied Ned, acting as -spokesman. “We have not been adrift very -long. The vessel on which we were riding -struck something which we took to be a floating -mine. The crew got away quickly in one -of the boats, while we left a little later in another.”</p> - -<p>The shrewd eyes of the commander narrowed -perceptibly.</p> - -<p>“And what was the name and rig of the -vessel?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_121" id="Page_121">[121]</a></span></p> - -<p>“The Lena Knobloch, a schooner, of Amsterdam,” -replied Ned.</p> - -<p>“And the name of her captain?” continued -the commander.</p> - -<p>“Von Kluck,” the boy answered.</p> - -<p>“Ah, a Hollander! I believe he is a peaceful -trader in small cargoes. He is what the -English call a ‘tramp’ of the sea.”</p> - -<p>“May I ask what boat this is and where you -are bound?” asked Ned. “We would like to -get to the United States, you know,” he added.</p> - -<p>“Yes,” smiled the commander. “But you -are far from that country now and we think -your company delightful. This vessel is the -Sturmvogel, a destroyer of the German navy. -We have been doing some small tasks upon the -high seas and are returning to a base of supplies.”</p> - -<p>“Can you put us in touch with some means -whereby we can secure passage on a vessel -leaving for the United States?” asked Ned.</p> - -<p>“I am afraid that is impossible for the present,” -slowly replied the other, with apparent -reluctance. “We like your company, you see. -We also are favored with the presence of one -of your countrymen,” here he indicated -Mackinder, “who has consented to pay us a -brief visit.”</p> - -<p>“Pardon me, sir!” stated Mackinder, half<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_122" id="Page_122">[122]</a></span> -rising. “These are <i>not</i> countryman of mine! -I must disclaim that honor!”</p> - -<p>“So-o-o?” drawled the other. “Then you -do not know them?”</p> - -<p>“No!” stated Mackinder positively. “They -are strangers to me!”</p> - -<p>“Then you did not mean what you said a -few moments ago?”</p> - -<p>“I was mistaken!” replied the other, briefly.</p> - -<p>“As you please,” responded the commander -with a wave of his hand. “Perhaps I misunderstood -your statements concerning them!”</p> - -<p>An order was given to the officer who had -conducted the boys to the cabin. The German -language was used. Saluting the officer approached -Mackinder. Without a word that -gentleman rose and stepped from the room.</p> - -<p>As Mackinder was conducted from the -apartment the commander motioned the boys -to seats about the table. He smiled at them -kindly.</p> - -<p>“Do you know what von Kluck’s cargo consisted -of?” he asked.</p> - -<p>“Mostly cheeses,” replied Ned. “Also an -airship!” he added.</p> - -<p>“An airship?” was the questioning response. -“An airship?”</p> - -<p>Ned smiled a trifle regretfully as he related -briefly the adventures of the four lads with<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_123" id="Page_123">[123]</a></span> -those who have read the previous volume of -this series are already familiar. He concluded -by saying:</p> - -<p>“We were trying to get ourselves and the -airship back to the United States, when this -man Mackinder seemed bound to delay us on -some flimsy pretext. Unfortunately our Grey -Eagle went down with the schooner.”</p> - -<p>“Yes. And now you are headed directly -away from your desired destination. For you, -at least, the situation is unfortunate!”</p> - -<p>“We think we are lucky to be afloat!” declared -Ned.</p> - -<p>“Yes. You are indeed fortunate in that respect. -But I wish to make some inquiries,” -went on the commander.</p> - -<p>“We shall be pleased to give you any information -possible,” answered the lad heartily. -“We highly appreciate your kindness to us!”</p> - -<p>“Perhaps my act of picking you up was not -altogether prompted by such a noble sentiment,” -smiled the other. “I want some information.”</p> - -<p>“I hope we can help you out,” replied the -boy.</p> - -<p>“What I want to know is this: What did -you do with the package?”</p> - -<p>“What package?” puzzled Ned, unable to -grasp the other’s meaning.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_124" id="Page_124">[124]</a></span></p> - -<p>“The package so much desired by your -friend Mackinder!”</p> - -<p>Instantly the boys comprehended the statement. -They were unable to understand how -this man should know anything of the mysterious -package unless Mackinder had told -him. They glanced at each other in apprehension.</p> - -<p>“Haven’t we got clear of that thing yet?” -spoke up Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“If you please, sir,” said Ned, “we don’t -really know anything about the package. A -package was found in our baggage when we -were searched at the border between Belgium -and Holland. It was stolen by some person -whom we believe to be this man Mackinder, -who has since been trying to get us to deliver -it to him, although we have not had it.”</p> - -<p>“I presume that you understand him to be -an officer in the British army?” inquired the -commander kindly.</p> - -<p>“We heard so from von Kluck,” replied the -boy.</p> - -<p>“Do you know what was in the package?”</p> - -<p>“No. We had not seen it until the time it -was taken from our kits by the soldiers who -were searching them. All we know is that it -was marked ‘U-13’ on the outside. We have -seen it but that once.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_125" id="Page_125">[125]</a></span></p> - -<p>“I cannot understand why Mackinder -should be trying to take the package out of -the possession of his own countrymen!”</p> - -<p>“But I beg to say that we are not countrymen -of his!” declared Ned. “We are citizens -of the United States. Here are our passports!”</p> - -<p>“I beg your pardon!” apologized the commander. -“Circumstances seemed to indicate -that you were Englishmen. The mistake is -mine!”</p> - -<p>“I admit that the mistake was natural,” -said Ned. “But can you tell me if there is any -connection between the package marked -‘U-13’ and the submarine vessel of the same -name? If there is, why should Mackinder, -an Englishman, have anything to do with the -package?”</p> - -<p>A smile greeted this query. Clearly the -officer was amused.</p> - -<p>“If, as I suspect,” he stated presently, “the -package contained information valuable for -the ‘U-13’ do you not understand why Mackinder -would be glad to get possession of it? -The ‘U-13’ is a German craft!”</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes,” cried Ned. “And the two countries -are at war!”</p> - -<p>“And you will also understand why, under -the circumstances, we must feel honored by<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_126" id="Page_126">[126]</a></span> -your presence, as well as that of Mackinder, -for a little time. Just now we should hate to -see you go!”</p> - -<p>“Then we are going to be prisoners?” asked -Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“Oh, no! Nothing so harsh as that!” reassured -the other. “We will call it simply -guests for the time being. That sounds better!”</p> - -<p>“Would you mind telling us what Mackinder -had to say about us?” inquired Ned. “We -would like very much to know that!”</p> - -<p>“Consider,” temporized the officer, “how -little time there has been since we first sighted -you for conversation of any sort!”</p> - -<p>“Yes,” agreed the lad, “but he has told you -something!”</p> - -<p>“Nothing of importance!” declared the -other, rising to indicate that the interview was -at an end. “You will be given quarters forward, -where you will receive every consideration -until we reach our destination.”</p> - -<p>“Where are you bound, Captain?” asked -Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“Our destination just now is a lonely island -in the North Sea,” answered the other. “It is -heavily guarded, so you will be in no danger.”</p> - -<p>“Does Mackinder go ashore, too?” Jimmie -continued.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_127" id="Page_127">[127]</a></span></p> - -<p>“That has not been decided yet,” replied the -commander. He touched a button, summoning -an orderly. “Take these young gentlemen -forward and see that they want no comfort. -They are our guests!” he ordered.</p> - -<p>In a few minutes the boys were seated at a -table in the forecastle, where they were provided -with a great profusion of well-cooked -food from the sailors’ mess. With sharpened -appetites they fell to eagerly.</p> - -<p>Since none of the members of the crew with -whom they came in contact seemed able to -speak English the boys were forced to content -themselves with speculating on their destination.</p> - -<p>They knew that the torpedo boat destroyer -had been headed nearly northeast when it -overhauled and picked them up. They also -knew that in this direction lay the entrance -to the river Elbe and the Kiel ship canal, but -whether the boat was making for some port -in that vicinity they were unable to learn.</p> - -<p>Keenly as the lads regretted their lack of -definite information they were not inclined to -become despondent. They found it possible -by using signs to carry on a sort of desultory -conversation with the members of the crew, -who had gathered out of curiosity in their -vicinity.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_128" id="Page_128">[128]</a></span></p> - -<p>At length Frank jumped from his seat with -an exclamation.</p> - -<p>“I’ll bet I know where we’re going!” he announced, -gleefully.</p> - -<p>“So do I!” stated Jimmie in a nonchalant -manner.</p> - -<p>“Where?” asked Frank, somewhat crestfallen. -“Aw, you don’t either!” he declared, -after searching his comrade’s face intently.</p> - -<p>“All right,” admitted Jimmie, laughing. “I -just wanted to take some of that overconfidence -out of your system, that’s all!”</p> - -<p>“Where do you think we are bound for, -Frank?” inquired Ned.</p> - -<p>Frank placed a finger on his lips, glancing -about to make sure that no one was close -enough to overhear his whispered words.</p> - -<p>“Helgoland!” he said, cautiously.</p> - -<p>Instantly the others jumped to their feet, -slapping Frank’s shoulders, shaking his hands -and otherwise showing their appreciation of -his shrewdness. Their enthusiasm could -scarcely be restrained.</p> - -<p>“Sherlock Shaw, The Scout Sleuth!” -shouted Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“Frank, you’re the real, old-fashioned -guesser!” declared Jack.</p> - -<p>“How did you do it, Frank?” asked Harry, -admiringly.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_129" id="Page_129">[129]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Well, the commander said we were destined -for a lonely island in the North Sea that -was heavily guarded. I guess Helgoland fits -that description right enough. Besides, as I -remember the geography of these parts, that’s -about the first land we’d strike going on this -course.”</p> - -<p>“But I understand that is a sort of naval -base,” put in Harry. “Isn’t that the island -where the Germans are fitting out so many -of their Zeppelins? Seems to me I read something -about that in a paper.”</p> - -<p>“That’s the very place!” put in Ned. “The -paper said it was a lonely, rocky island, difficult -of approach and quite well fortified.”</p> - -<p>“And book agents, canvassers, peddlers and -rag men are not allowed there at all!” asserted -Jimmie, gravely.</p> - -<p>“Take his pie away!” shouted Jack. “He’s -raving again!”</p> - -<p>“And you have to deliver all goods in the -rear,” added Jimmie, as Jack reached for the -plate containing the lad’s breakfast.</p> - -<p>“Hurry up, let’s finish this food and get out -on deck, where we will be able to see something,” -suggested Harry. “This is interesting!”</p> - -<p>Directly the boys were standing in the lee -of a deck house eagerly scanning the horizon<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_130" id="Page_130">[130]</a></span> -for some sign of the island where they expected -to be landed as prisoners of war.</p> - -<p>The gale gave no hint of abating. Indeed, -the motion of the waves was much more noticeable. -Jack attributed this partly to the -build of the craft, whose lines were sharper -than those of the Lena Knobloch. The sharp -prow cut the water like a knife, while the slender, -tapering stern slipped through the seas -without making a roller of large proportions.</p> - -<p>Presently, just as Jack declared he could -see a blue smudge in the distance, indicating -the presence of land, the lads were joined by -Mackinder. He glanced at the group without -speaking.</p> - -<p>Speedily the vessel approached the object -that had been sighted.</p> - -<p>An officer drew near. He conducted Mackinder -toward the stern.</p> - -<p>As the craft slowed slightly to enter a harbor -Jimmie grasped Ned’s arm. He pointed -eagerly toward several large objects on land.</p> - -<p>“There is a whole flock of Zeppelins,” he -declared. “And as I live,” he continued, “I -see a bunch of submarines at that dock over -there!”</p> - -<p>“There must be a dozen or more!” gasped -Frank, in amazement.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_131" id="Page_131">[131]</a></span></p> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_XII">CHAPTER XII<br /> -<span class="smaller">A NEW “U-13” APPEARS</span></h2> - -<p>Eagerly the lads gazed at the strange sights -before them. On their right rose several huge -buildings; evidently workshops. On the left -they could see a field devoted to the erection -and testing of several gigantic dirigibles. -Everywhere they saw bustling activity on the -part of the numerous workmen. Sentries -paced about with arms in readiness.</p> - -<p>“That fleet of submarines looks to me as if -Germany were preparing to destroy every ship -in the world!” stated Jack presently, as the -destroyer on which they stood passed the undersea -craft.</p> - -<p>“The workmen seem to be fitting out some -of the divers, too!” ventured Jimmie. “See -them carrying packages aboard that outside -one!”</p> - -<p>“Maybe the grocer is coming to deliver the -goods in the rear!” laughed Ned. “Those -packages look like groceries in disguise!”</p> - -<p>“I’ll bet Mackinder would like to see those -submarines!” Harry said. “He’d give his -eyes almost for one good long look at them!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_132" id="Page_132">[132]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Mackinder won’t see enough to carry any -news back home from this place!” declared -Frank. “Didn’t you see the officer take him -below?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, I did! I also saw the black look he -gave us as he was being taken away from this -deck house. He likes us a lot—nit!”</p> - -<p>“I believe the commander of this craft is -favorably disposed toward us,” put in Ned. -“He probably realizes that we want to be neutral -and that our presence in this neighborhood -is due to our misfortune and not to our -fault. I do wish, though,” the lad added, “that -we could leave!”</p> - -<p>“How much would you give to get away?” -questioned Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“I’d give a good deal!” replied Ned. “I -don’t like the idea of remaining on this island -a prisoner for any length of time!”</p> - -<p>“Well, if you’ll make it worth while,” Jimmie -offered, “I’ll take you along as a passenger. -You must behave, though!”</p> - -<p>“Ah!” smiled Ned, thinking Jimmie was indulging -in another of his jokes. “May I ask -when your ship leaves?”</p> - -<p>“I’m thinking of leaving about midnight or -a little after,” stated Jimmie, gravely. “It -will depend somewhat on the wind and -weather. If it comes on to blow and the sea is<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_133" id="Page_133">[133]</a></span> -rough I believe we’ll get out on time. However, -if this breeze should die away, we may -not go!”</p> - -<p>“You’re rather reversing the order of -things,” commented Ned. “Most captains -want clear weather and smooth seas for their -departure!”</p> - -<p>“Well, if it remains stormy, as it has every -prospect of doing and you want a swift ride, -you just keep watch of your uncle!”</p> - -<p>“Thanks!” laughed Ned. “You may surely -count on me!”</p> - -<p>“May we go along, too, Jimmie?” asked -Harry.</p> - -<p>“Sure, you may all go!” answered the lad. -“But I warn you right now,” he added, “that -you’ll have to work your passage!”</p> - -<p>“That suits me!” returned Harry, greatly -amused at carrying on what he considered as -a pleasant joke to while away the time.</p> - -<p>But to Jimmie, at least, the matter was not -by any means to be regarded as anything but -a serious proposition. The lad had quickly -formulated a plan of escape. The very daring -of his intended action was its best guarantee of -success. Failure meant disaster, but Jimmie -was prepared to risk all in the attempt.</p> - -<p>For a time the lad said no more. His tightly -shut jaws showed the determination that possessed<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_134" id="Page_134">[134]</a></span> -him. The others became absorbed in -observing and discussing the monster Zeppelin -dirigibles, hence they said nothing more -upon the subject. There was much to attract -their attention.</p> - -<p>Directly they were summoned before the -commander. As they entered the cabin the -Sturmvogel drew up alongside a dock.</p> - -<p>“Young men,” the officer began as the lads -entered the cabin, “I regret keenly the circumstances -that seem to make it necessary for us -to detain you. I understand how anxious you -must be to reach your homes, but it is not possible -to permit you to depart at this time. You -will be given every consideration during your -stay at this place.”</p> - -<p>“Can’t we go with you when you leave -here?” asked Frank.</p> - -<p>“No, that is impossible!” the other replied, -shaking his head.</p> - -<p>“Then maybe some other vessel will call and -we can get passage on it? We are not particular -about the class of accommodations!”</p> - -<p>“You forget that for some distance in every -direction the sea is mined. No vessels approach -this island unless they know the channels.”</p> - -<p>“Then I guess we’ll have to be contented,” -sighed the lad.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_135" id="Page_135">[135]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Is Mackinder going to remain here also?” -questioned Ned.</p> - -<p>“I am very sure of it!” smiled the commander. -“I believe that several members of -the guard are quite prepared to insist upon his -staying here until the knowledge he now possesses -would be of no use to his own country. -Yes,” he added, “Mackinder will remain!”</p> - -<p>“I hope matters will be arranged so that we -shall soon be able to leave for home,” stated -Ned. “We are not anxious to leave good company, -but we would like to get away from the -scene of so much trouble. We want to remain -strictly neutral, and think the best place for -that is at home!”</p> - -<p>“I haven’t a doubt of your neutrality!” declared -the officer heartily. “You may be assured -that I shall do everything to help you. -I believe I can arrange so that certain privileges -will be granted. It will not be necessary, -I am sure, to confine you to one of the buildings.”</p> - -<p>“Thank you!” replied Ned, gratefully. -“You are most kind.”</p> - -<p>“And now, if you please, we will go ashore -to meet the officer in charge of this place,” -stated the other. “You will like him, I’m -sure.”</p> - -<p>Congratulating themselves on the kindness<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_136" id="Page_136">[136]</a></span> -shown in their behalf the boys prepared to -leave the Sturmvogel. They collected the kits -of the four who had left Amsterdam on the -Lena Knobloch. As they gained the dock they -found the small boat in which they had left -the schooner. It was evidently being preserved -as evidence of the circumstance of the -rescue.</p> - -<p>Already the work of provisioning and fitting -the vessel was in progress. The wireless had -been busily used during the last few hours of -their voyage to the end that just the supplies -needed were waiting at the wharf. A huge -coal barge fitted with a “whirlie” had drawn -up alongside. Great buckets of coal were -pouring into the bunkers, while porters carried -all sorts of stores and supplies aboard. -Cases of ammunition were being hoisted -aboard and stowed in their proper compartments.</p> - -<p>Stepping along the dock, dodging wagons -loaded with fresh provisions and stores, the -boys kept pace with their friend, the commander.</p> - -<p>Presently they reached one of the buildings -given over to the use of offices. Here they -were admitted into a room, where they found -the officer in command of the island.</p> - -<p>A short conversation in German served to<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_137" id="Page_137">[137]</a></span> -inform this gentleman of the situation so far -as the commander of the destroyer could report. -At the end of the recital the boys were -addressed by the one they had been brought -to visit, who had been introduced as General -Gruenwold.</p> - -<p>“I understand that you young gentlemen -lost an airship when the schooner sank?” he -inquired of Ned, motioning the boys to chairs.</p> - -<p>“Yes, sir!” replied Ned. “It was, of course, -a complete loss.”</p> - -<p>“Then you understand machinery pretty -well?”</p> - -<p>“We have always thought so,” was the modest -reply.</p> - -<p>“And electricity?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, sir. We understand wireless, also.”</p> - -<p>“Then I am fortunate. Perhaps you would -consent to assist us in some difficult technical -tasks we have on hand.”</p> - -<p>“We shall be glad to do what we may to -reimburse you for our keep if you will be good -enough to assist us to return to the United -States!”</p> - -<p>“Let us discuss that at another time, if you -please,” replied Gruenwold. “Just now we -are short of practical electricians. If you will -offer your services in that direction we shall -be very grateful. You may be sure that we<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_138" id="Page_138">[138]</a></span> -shall not be forgetful when it is possible to -reciprocate.”</p> - -<p>“Thank you,” replied Ned in acknowledgment -of the indirect promise. “Now, if you -will show us what you want done we shall be -most happy to proceed. I believe we have -nothing else to do.”</p> - -<p>“Here are some plans,” stated the other, -opening a cabinet at one side of the room. “In -these compartments are plans of certain vessels. -You will observe on these sheets marked -‘elek.’ complete diagrams of the plan of wiring. -Take this one, for instance. Do you -think you could understand what is meant by -these tracings?”</p> - -<p>Ned studied the diagram for a few moments. -The other boys leaned over his shoulder. Presently, -after conferring with his friends, the -lad announced that he understood the drawings -perfectly, even though he was unable to -read the explanations which were in the German -language.</p> - -<p>A smile lighted the face of Gruenwold as -this statement was made. Evidently the need -for completing the work was urgent.</p> - -<p>“In that case, we will ask you to accompany -this orderly on board the vessel and proceed -with the work. I will write an order directing -the ones in charge of the vessel to admit you<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_139" id="Page_139">[139]</a></span> -and render such aid as may be necessary. -Later I will send a man who can speak -English.”</p> - -<p>While the general was writing the necessary -order to the ones in charge of the vessel -to which he had referred the boys were busy -communicating with each other by means of -the mute language, in which they were quite -adept. By supreme efforts they were able to -suppress the excitement under which they -were laboring.</p> - -<p>“What a piece of luck!” rapidly signalled -Jimmie to Ned.</p> - -<p>“Keep cool!” cautioned Ned in reply. -“Don’t give it away!”</p> - -<p>“Insist that we stay together on the job,” -returned Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“You may be sure I shall do that!” came the -answer instantly.</p> - -<p>“I hope the storm increases!” was Jack’s -contribution.</p> - -<p>“Now, gentlemen,” announced the general, -“if you are ready to proceed you may accompany -this man. He will direct you to the -work.”</p> - -<p>Ned bowed in acknowledgment and the -party turned to accompany the orderly, who -appeared in answer to the summons of his -superior.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_140" id="Page_140">[140]</a></span></p> - -<p>They were led away from the dock at which -the Sturmvogel lay. In a short time they had -traversed a goodly distance toward the mouth -of the harbor. Their destination proved to be -the building adjacent to the group of submarine -vessels. By inquiries both direct and -indirect Ned and his companions decided that -the orderly was unable to comprehend -English, but for the sake of absolute safety -they continued to use the sign language -largely in their conversation as they proceeded.</p> - -<p>In a short time they had been admitted to -the outermost craft, which lay moored to its -fellows. Communication had been established -between the vessels by means of a row of -planks laid from deck to deck.</p> - -<p>Once inside the submarine the boys made -a hurried yet thorough examination of every -part, taking a complete inventory of the exact -state of affairs. Frank and Jimmie managed -to overhaul the stores. Harry and Jack looked -over the mechanical equipment. Ned, with the -plans in his hands, went carefully over every -detail of the electric system.</p> - -<p>“I say, fellows,” announced Ned at length, -as all the lads met beneath the hatch, “this -wagon is nearly complete. It looks a lot like -the ‘U-13’!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_141" id="Page_141">[141]</a></span></p> - -<p>“That’s what it does!” agreed Jimmie. -“What more is needed?”</p> - -<p>“A few pieces of wire and about an hour’s -work for me.”</p> - -<p>“Frank and I have found enough food to -last a couple of months if we can count hard-tack, -sausage, and the supply of canned -goods.”</p> - -<p>“Jack and I,” announced Harry, “have -found the engines and pumps apparently -ready for duty in a moment. My idea is that -they are trying to get this vessel ready for a -cruise at the first possible moment.”</p> - -<p>“It looks as if they are expecting a crew -from some place and want the boat ready for -duty as soon as the crew arrives!” stated Ned.</p> - -<p>Further conversation was cut short by the -arrival of the orderly.</p> - -<p>“Essen?” he inquired, pointing at his mouth -and rubbing his belt.</p> - -<p>“Don’t say it twice!” cried Jimmie. “We -heard you the first time!”</p> - -<p>The boys prepared to follow the orderly, -who evidently intended to escort them to the -mess hall, where they would secure dinner.</p> - -<p>As they turned toward the iron ladder leading -to the hatch Jimmie, who had followed -close upon the orderly’s heels, cried out:</p> - -<p>“Hello, Mackinder, where you from?”</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_142" id="Page_142">[142]</a></span></p> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_XIII">CHAPTER XIII<br /> -<span class="smaller">A THREATENING SITUATION</span></h2> - -<p>“Who’s there, Jimmie?” asked Ned, pressing -forward.</p> - -<p>“Nobody now,” answered the other. “I -thought I saw our friend Mackinder looking -down the hatchway, but possibly I was mistaken. -At any rate he’s gone now and we’d -better hurry on for dinner.”</p> - -<p>“Mackinder’s a prisoner here,” stated Ned, -positively.</p> - -<p>“Maybe he broke loose,” suggested Harry.</p> - -<p>“All right, I’m going up to the deck and -look about,” said Ned.</p> - -<p>As the boys reached the narrow confines of -the small deck at the top of the conning tower -they saw a figure hastening along the foot -planks that led from vessel to vessel. The -fleeing person was now almost at the building -on the wharf. In a moment the shelter of this -structure had been gained. The figure dodged -out of sight.</p> - -<p>“Now, that’s a funny thing to do!” mused -Ned. “I wonder just what the fellow wanted. -Are you sure it was Mackinder, Jimmie?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_143" id="Page_143">[143]</a></span></p> - -<p>“No, I’m not,” admitted the lad. “Of -course, the face was in shadow as he looked -down the hatch. I’m not positive, but thought -it was he.”</p> - -<p>“Well, let’s not bother about it any more,” -said Ned, apparently dismissing the subject. -“We’re too hungry for any more mysteries!”</p> - -<p>As only hungry boys can the five attacked -the ample dinner provided for them. The -dishes were strange but appetizing. Jimmie -declared that he intended to remain in that -location for some time in order to become acquainted -with the chef. He said that he would -be the envy of the entire Wolf Patrol if he -could cook in German style.</p> - -<p>After dinner the boys gathered in the lee -of a small building, where they would be protected -from the chilling blasts. Puffy squalls, -bearing dashes of snow, sleet or rain, came -threshing out of the west. It appeared to the -lads that the weather was growing decidedly -worse.</p> - -<p>In spite of the inclement weather a number -of the hardy workmen were indulging in out -of door sports during their rest hour.</p> - -<p>For some time the lads watched the games -as the hardy men relaxed their work-tensed -muscles. The sullen booming of surf on the -rocky coast constantly sounded in their ears.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_144" id="Page_144">[144]</a></span></p> - -<p>“There goes our late rescuer!” announced -Jimmie presently.</p> - -<p>“Where?” asked Frank. “Whom do you -mean?”</p> - -<p>“The Sturmvogel!” answered Jimmie, -pointing toward the harbor, where could be -seen the speedy destroyer slipping quietly out -to sea.</p> - -<p>“Here’s hoping you have a good voyage, -friend!” said Frank.</p> - -<p>“Yes,” added Jimmie, “we’ll see you a little -later!”</p> - -<p>“That reminds me,” put in Ned, “we might -as well get back to the ‘U-13’ and begin work. -There’s no use delaying the game!”</p> - -<p>“That’s right,” agreed Harry. “These fellows -are probably in a hurry for that submarine. -We might as well be decent.”</p> - -<p>“Wait a minute,” suggested Jimmie. -“You’ve given me an idea! Your mention of -the name of a certain undersea craft started a -train of thought in my alleged brain. Take it -easy for a moment!”</p> - -<p>“Yes,” cried Jack, in mock sympathy, -“stand back! Give him air! If Jimmie is -really going to think, let’s give him lots of -room!”</p> - -<p>“Aw, you go on!” scorned Jimmie. “I’ve<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_145" id="Page_145">[145]</a></span> -got a right to think if I want to, haven’t I? I -guess that’s my privilege!”</p> - -<p>“Not unless you have a union card!” protested -Jack, laughing.</p> - -<p>“That’s all right,” retorted Jimmie with a -grin as he wrinkled a freckled nose at the -other. “I was going to think about a scab, -anyhow, so I don’t need a card. Besides, this -is on overtime!”</p> - -<p>“All right, you win!” declared Jack, submissively. -“Go ahead!”</p> - -<p>“If you’ll promise to never, never tell, I’ll -let you in on the scheme!” whispered Jimmie, -glancing about to make sure that no strangers -were within earshot. “Do you solemnly -promise?”</p> - -<p>“I do!” answered the boys in chorus, anxious -to receive the news.</p> - -<p>“Then here it is: If we could paint the -name ‘U-13’ on that tub there’s nothing to -prevent our getting away in it!”</p> - -<p>“Hush, Jimmie!” cautioned Ned, in a -startled tone.</p> - -<p>“Hush nothing!” declared the other boldly. -“It’s now or never! The destroyer’s gone—everything’s -gone that could chase us. Mackinder’s -loose on this island. He’ll make us -trouble if we stay. If we go now we are safe<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_146" id="Page_146">[146]</a></span> -from pursuit until another German boat comes -in unless they flash the news by wireless. In -that case, we have an even chance of getting -away. If we don’t go now tell me when we can -get home?”</p> - -<p>“I guess you’re right, Jimmie, but how are -you going to work it?”</p> - -<p>“Simply putter along this afternoon,” explained -the lad, “fixing the wiring and so on. -If necessary, rip out some and replace it. We -can get in one another’s way enough to kill a -lot of time. After supper we’ll manage to slip -back to the submarine, paint ‘U-13’ on the -side, every man to his post, let go lines easy -and skedaddle for the open sea.”</p> - -<p>“It sounds easy enough,” assented Harry.</p> - -<p>“Yes, unless you happen to get caught!” -agreed Ned.</p> - -<p>“What is there to catch us?” asked Jimmie, -bristling at this hint of opposition. “The -guards are all wise to the fact that the channel -is mined. They will be sleepy and lazy. They -know that the torpedoes are not aboard yet -and believe it impossible for the submarine to -leave without a crew. The weather looks as -if it were going to be rough. What more can -you want? It looks to me as if we’d never -have another chance like it!”</p> - -<p>“Right you are, Mr. Wolf!” declared Frank.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_147" id="Page_147">[147]</a></span> -“I, for one, am willing to take a chance. I’ll -go with you to the limit!”</p> - -<p>“Here, too!” heartily agreed Ned. “How -about it, boys?”</p> - -<p>Eagerly the others signified their willingness -to undertake the task suggested. They -felt no compunction over the seizure of the -boat.</p> - -<p>“Now, we’ll have to do some tall thinking -before night comes!” stated Jimmie. “Each -of us’ll have his station and we must know -just what to do at the proper time. I had this -in mind ever since we came up the harbor past -those boats. I noticed particularly the buoys -marking the safe channel leading into this -harbor.”</p> - -<p>“Good for you!” cried Ned, administering -an affectionate slap upon Jimmie’s shoulder. -“I knew you had something up your sleeve!”</p> - -<p>“So did I!” added Jack. “I couldn’t guess -what it was, though!”</p> - -<p>“It was my arm!” declared Jimmie, with -mock gravity. “Now, let’s go back to this -‘Untervasserbootschiff’ and stall around a -while.”</p> - -<p>“Correct!” cried Harry. “We’ll rehearse -for this evening. We shall depend on Jimmie -to be the pilot, though!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_148" id="Page_148">[148]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Leave it to me!” declared the younger lad. -“I know where the buoys are! I have them -all located in my head!”</p> - -<p>“But we must be mighty careful,” declared -Ned. “We don’t know how much English -these fellows understand. They must not suspect!”</p> - -<p>“Mum’s the word!” put in Frank. “Everybody -mum!”</p> - -<p>First visiting the warehouse at the wharf, -where they procured a quantity of supplies, -such as might be needed to carry out the work -which they were supposed to be doing, the lads -proceeded aboard the submarine.</p> - -<p>Upon their arrival they found a painter at -work inscribing the vessel with identifying -marks. He had proceeded so far as to place -“U-1—” on each side of the vessel. Jimmie -joyfully declared that fortune was playing -into their hands in this respect, and that if -something would compel the man to quit -work for a while the disguise could be quickly -made.</p> - -<p>At Ned’s request Harry began fitting wires -from the storage batteries to the motors used -for propelling the vessel. The boys were -startled to hear him utter an exclamation of -dismay. They found upon inquiry that he -had endeavored to strip the insulation from a<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_149" id="Page_149">[149]</a></span> -wire by using his pocket knife and had cut a -finger badly.</p> - -<p>“Pooh, pooh!” stated Jimmie, upon discovering -the wound. “Don’t make so much fuss -over a little thing like that. We’ll soon have -you fixed up. Here, just hold the wound -closed with your other hand while I hunt up -some bandages. You’ll be all right in a minute!”</p> - -<p>But Harry declared that the wound pained -excessively. He refused to treat the matter -lightly, but gathered up the tools with which -he had been working. These he deposited in -a canvas bag in which they had been brought -aboard the vessel.</p> - -<p>Presently Jimmie located a first aid kit -among the stores. He was not long in cleansing -and bandaging the wound.</p> - -<p>“There you are!” he stated. “Just as good -as new! Now go lie down for a little while. -I’ll finish this job if I know enough.”</p> - -<p>Chatting together in a somewhat nervous -manner the boys anxiously awaited the approach -of evening. As the time wore on their -restlessness increased. Again and again they -carefully went over each detail of their proposed -plan for escape in the submarine.</p> - -<p>It was decided that Jimmie should take the -wheel while Harry stood watch at the engines.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_150" id="Page_150">[150]</a></span> -The others were assigned to various other -duties at favorable positions. Nothing remained -except to wait for night.</p> - -<p>A short time before darkness settled an orderly -visited the craft. He was able to converse -slightly in English.</p> - -<p>“How are you getting along, boys?” he -asked, as he stepped down the iron ladder. -“Can we put the torpedoes aboard tomorrow?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, I think you will be able to place the -torpedoes after tomorrow morning,” replied -Ned. “We will have our work all done then.”</p> - -<p>“That is good!” was the other’s comment. -“Where is Mackinder?” was his next question. -“He will have to come ashore now!” he -added.</p> - -<p>“Mackinder?” was Ned’s startled response. -“He’s not here.”</p> - -<p>“But he was here!” firmly declared the orderly. -“He was seen by one of the sentries -to come aboard this vessel, and has not since -been noticed going ashore, although a close -watch has been kept!”</p> - -<p>“We haven’t seen him at all!” stated Ned, -just as firmly.</p> - -<p>“We shall have to search the vessel!” -affirmed the orderly. “You will please remain -aboard for a short time.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_151" id="Page_151">[151]</a></span></p> - -<p>Quickly ascending the ladder the man summoned -another soldier from the shore. Together -the two made a hasty examination of -the boat.</p> - -<p>Unable to discover any trace of the missing -prisoner they shook their heads as if greatly -puzzled. Now and again they glanced at the -boys, exchanging at the same time comments -in German.</p> - -<p>“Come with us,” finally said the first visitor.</p> - -<p>Obediently the lads followed ashore. They -were conducted to the office building, where -they were shown into the presence of General -Gruenwold at once. In a few words the orderly -stated the case.</p> - -<p>“This looks serious, boys,” commented the -General. “Can you not explain the whereabouts -of Mackinder? He is a prisoner, you -know!”</p> - -<p>“We know nothing of the man!” declared -Ned, earnestly. “We don’t like him and -surely would not think of assisting him to -escape!”</p> - -<p>“If you please, sir,” began the orderly, “it -is the opinion of my comrade and myself that -the boys have done away with Mackinder!”</p> - -<p>“What!” almost shouted Gruenwold, rising -from his chair.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_152" id="Page_152">[152]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Yes, sir,” continued the man. “There was -found in the boat much blood. A hammer in -their tool kit was also blood-stained. We -think they possibly made away with him and -might have dropped his body into the harbor -very quietly without being seen from shore!”</p> - -<p>“This is serious, indeed!” gasped Gruenwold. -“We shall investigate this in the morning. -Meanwhile, search the vessel again. The -boys will be put in the guardhouse until tomorrow.”</p> - -<p>Protests on the part of the lads were unavailing. -Gruenwold was determined in his decision. -Ned’s explanation of the presence of -the blood in the vessel was listened to, but -without influencing the general.</p> - -<p>Directly the lads found themselves in a -room used for the accommodation of such -prisoners as might need confinement for a -time. The island boasted no regular prison, -but a house not far from the water had been -utilized for the purpose. A guard paced a -beat in the vicinity.</p> - -<p>Disappointed and angry at the turn of -affairs the lads made but a poor supper of the -food that was brought to them. Presently, -they composed themselves to sleep on the floor.</p> - -<p>A tapping at the window attracted their attention.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_153" id="Page_153">[153]</a></span></p> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_XIV">CHAPTER XIV<br /> -<span class="smaller">HELPED BY AN ENEMY</span></h2> - -<p>“What’s that?” inquired Ned, startled at -the unexpected sound.</p> - -<p>“Loose board, I guess,” replied Jimmie, -rather disgruntled at the turn affairs had -taken. “The wind’s ripping everything -loose!”</p> - -<p>Again the tapping was repeated in an insistent -manner.</p> - -<p>“I’m going to see what’s going on here!” -declared Ned, rising from his position. “Some -one is trying to communicate with us!”</p> - -<p>“Some bloomin’ Dutchman’s tryin’ to ask -us whether we want sausage with our pancakes -for breakfast!” growled Jimmie. “Let -’em alone!”</p> - -<p>Disregarding this statement the older lad -proceeded toward the window, where fitful -gusts of sleet beat. Outside the darkness covered -everything. Only an occasional point of -light indicated a sentry hut.</p> - -<p>“Who’s there?” demanded Ned in a low -tone.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_154" id="Page_154">[154]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Sh-h-h!” came a hiss from the darkness. -“Open the window!”</p> - -<p>Ned fumbled a moment at the fastening. -Presently he found the catch sliding the sash -back in its channel. An exclamation escaped -him as he did so. The face of the visitor was -none other than that of their missing acquaintance, -Mackinder. Ned was astounded.</p> - -<p>“Thought you were dead!” he cried in -amazement.</p> - -<p>“Hush!” cautioned the other. “Not so -loud. Now, if you lads want to get out of here -this is your time. Everybody’s busy or -asleep!”</p> - -<p>“How do you know we want to get out of -here?” demanded Jimmie in a low tone as he -approached the opening.</p> - -<p>“Don’t you suppose I have eyes? I saw -what you were up to!”</p> - -<p>“Oh, you did, eh? Then what do you want -us to do?”</p> - -<p>“If you want to get away from this place -according to your plan, now is the time to take -action,” replied Mackinder in a whisper. “If -you prefer to wait until tomorrow and stand -trial for an offense of which you are innocent -I cannot offer any objection of course.”</p> - -<p>“Ned, I think we’d better make our getaway -while the going’s good!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_155" id="Page_155">[155]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Second the motion!” declared Harry, who -had softly approached the window. “Let’s -make a noise like a drum!”</p> - -<p>“I’m with you!” stated Frank, raising a -foot to the window sill.</p> - -<p>“Easy there!” cautioned Jimmie. “Mind -your step!”</p> - -<p>Frank was through the window in an instant. -He landed on the earth with Mackinder’s -assistance without noise. Quickly the -others followed. Ned took the precaution to -slide the window shut.</p> - -<p>Cautiously the little group of six made their -way in the direction of the wharf where the -submarines were moored. Mackinder took the -lead as if familiar with the ground. Once he -paused, extending a warning hand to Jimmie, -who was directly behind him. The lad performed -a similar service for those in the rear. -A sentry was approaching.</p> - -<p>Mackinder sank upon the ground. Although -the night was too dark for the lads to see this -action they were close enough to be aware of -the movement. Instantly all followed suit.</p> - -<p>In a moment they breathed more freely. The -sentry had passed within a few paces of their -position. Evidently his feeling of security in -the isolation of the island had made him somewhat<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_156" id="Page_156">[156]</a></span> -negligent of his duties. He proceeded -against the storm with head bent low.</p> - -<p>Again Mackinder rose to his feet. Cautiously -he crept forward.</p> - -<p>On tiptoe the party gained the shelter of the -warehouse.</p> - -<p>“Gee!” declared Jimmie as the edge of the -wharf was gained, “I clean forgot my kit! -What shall we do?”</p> - -<p>“Hush!” warned Ned. “Don’t even dare -think of your kit!”</p> - -<p>“I should say not!” put in Harry. “Think -of your head instead!”</p> - -<p>“And the mines at the harbor entrance,” -added Frank.</p> - -<p>“All right!” submissively agreed Jimmie. -“I’ll keep quiet!”</p> - -<p>The wind had risen to such an extent that -walking on the narrow planking was not only -uncertain but extremely dangerous. Mackinder -solved the problem by dropping to all -fours. The boys followed suit.</p> - -<p>Directly, they gained the submarine, the -hatch was placed quietly in position for -prompt closing and the lines which held the -boat were let go.</p> - -<p>Owing to the movement of the boats caused -by the roughened surface of the harbor creakings<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_157" id="Page_157">[157]</a></span> -and groanings of the fenders had served -to drown any noise the party had made in -crossing the narrow bridge of planks.</p> - -<p>Jimmie held the wheel as Ned gave the signal -for casting off the lines. A touch of Harry’s -hand on the lever started the engines. The -submarine began to move. Suddenly a loud -splash alongside attracted the attention of all. -Frank came scuttling down the ladder.</p> - -<p>“Now I’ve done it!” he gasped. “I forgot -to shove the plank back onto the next boat -and it fell into the water as we started!”</p> - -<p>“Wonder if the guard has heard it!” speculated -Ned. “Let me up!”</p> - -<p>Under protests from his companions the lad -mounted the iron ladder and thrust his head -through the hatch.</p> - -<p>“I hear someone running along the dock!” -he announced presently. “I’ll bet they have -heard that noise! I see a light!” he added.</p> - -<p>“What are they doing?” inquired Jimmie, -holding the boat directly in the center of the -channel as he peered anxiously ahead.</p> - -<p>“A fellow with a lantern is running out -along the planks,” replied Ned. “They’ve got -to the outside boat now. Now they’re turning -back.”</p> - -<p>“Better get that hatch closed so we can<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_158" id="Page_158">[158]</a></span> -dive,” admonished Jimmie. “This is our time -for getting out of sight in a hurry!”</p> - -<p>“There goes their searchlight!” shouted -Frank, who had crowded up the ladder close -beside Ned. “They’re going to spot us in a -hurry!”</p> - -<p>“Ah,” cried Ned as a sullen roar came to -their ears. “They’re taking a chance shot at -us from that cannon on the hill. Let’s dive!”</p> - -<p>Quickly the two boys adjusted the hatch. -As they signaled to their companions that this -task was completed Harry and Jack turned -the deflecting rudders. The half-manned submarine -slowly began to descend.</p> - -<p>“Get some water into the tanks quick, -Harry!” called Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“Pump’s going right now!” declared the -other. “We’re going down!”</p> - -<p>“Take a look through the periscope, Ned,” -requested the pilot, “and let me know what -you can make out. Can you see any buoys -ahead?”</p> - -<p>“Try to see if they’ve located us with their -searchlight,” suggested Mackinder. “Maybe -they are getting our range with that gun!”</p> - -<p>“Never mind about that searchlight,” -snapped Jimmie. “I want to find out what’s<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_159" id="Page_159">[159]</a></span> -ahead, not what’s behind us. We’ll run this -boat!”</p> - -<p>“I simply wanted to know,” objected Mackinder -somewhat ruffled at the lad’s peremptory -manner. “No objection, is there?”</p> - -<p>“All the objection in the world!” declared -Jimmie. “You’re quite welcome aboard as a -passenger, but we’ll navigate the vessel, -please!”</p> - -<p>Scarcely knowing whether to be amused or -defiant at this attitude Mackinder chose the -wiser course and refrained from further comment.</p> - -<p>Although the boys could not be sure that the -persons on the island were making efforts to -hinder their escape they felt the better course -was to remain beneath the surface until well -out of the harbor.</p> - -<p>Directly Jimmie called the attention of his -comrades to an object in the water at no great -distance ahead. The rays of the searchlight -with which the submarine was provided indistinctly -revealed a huge bulk slightly above the -level at which they were traveling.</p> - -<p>“What is that, a ship?” asked Harry wonderingly.</p> - -<p>“I’ll bet a cookie that’s a mine!” declared -Jimmie positively. “I’m going to give it a<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_160" id="Page_160">[160]</a></span> -little more leeway, anyhow. It pays to be -safe!”</p> - -<p>Ned was working the periscope in an effort -to locate the buoys as directed by Jimmie. -Occasionally he turned the glass toward the -group of buildings they had just left.</p> - -<p>“They’re shooting at us, I guess!” he stated -presently. “I can see the flash of that cannon. -It seems to be pointed this way!”</p> - -<p>“Let ’em shoot, they can’t see anything but -the periscope and they’d have an awful time -hitting that!” boasted Jimmie.</p> - -<p>Scarcely had the lad spoken before the vessel -was shaken by the force of a mighty concussion. -A gigantic wave tossed the craft up -and forward with a heave that threw the boys -off their feet.</p> - -<p>“What was that?” gasped Jimmie glancing -at his companions with a terrified face. “Has -one of the fuel tanks blown up?”</p> - -<p>“Nothing doing!” replied Harry. “I think -that cannon hit the mine we just passed. I’m -glad we were no closer!”</p> - -<p>“We’ll soon be out of their range!” stated -Jimmie. “Shut up your periscope and we’ll -go deeper. Give us a little more speed, -Harry!”</p> - -<p>In an hour Jimmie declared that they<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_161" id="Page_161">[161]</a></span> -should be out of sight of the island altogether. -The engines had been working at full speed -ahead. Harry nursed the machinery constantly, -knowing that it was new and would, -therefore, require considerable care. Their -urgent need for speed induced the lads to -crowd the machinery to the limit, and Harry -was gratified to note that every part responded -properly to its task.</p> - -<p>“Well, Mackinder,” stated Ned as the tension -on their nerves began to relax with the -increasing distance traveled, “we’re surely -grateful to you for suggesting that we get -away as you did!”</p> - -<p>“My motive was largely a selfish one, I must -confess,” returned Mackinder. “I wanted very -badly to get away from that island.”</p> - -<p>“How did they ever get hold of you, anyhow?” -questioned Jack.</p> - -<p>“I left Amsterdam the same evening you -did. After the Lena Knobloch went past us -as she did I knew there was little use trying -to delay you. Therefore, my aide and myself -left at once on a train for Rotterdam. There -we found a fishing boat which we thought -would answer our purpose. We induced the -captain to take us aboard, intending to cross -to England. After traveling some distance the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_162" id="Page_162">[162]</a></span> -storm overtook us. We were blown far out of -our course. The vessel was badly battered. -The crew left in a panic, leaving me on board. -Just in time the German destroyer came along -and took me off. That’s it in a nutshell.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, and then when you discovered us in -our little boat you went and told the captain -of the destroyer a lot of nonsense, didn’t you?” -questioned Jimmie in a somewhat aggressive -manner. “Why did you do it?”</p> - -<p>“I only told him that you had at one time a -package that belonged to me. I wanted -the package badly. I thought he would assist -me.”</p> - -<p>“That wasn’t a very nice way to go about -it,” declared Jimmie with emphasis. “After -searching our baggage twice, and after we had -told you how the package was in our kits -without our knowledge, also that it had been -stolen away from our possession, why didn’t -you believe us?”</p> - -<p>“There is an old saying that all is fair in -love and war!” replied Mackinder. “You -know that my country and Germany are at -war. As an officer in the British army, it is -my duty to do everything possible to assist -my country. I believe that package contains -information that my country could use. That<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_163" id="Page_163">[163]</a></span> -is my justification for my acts, and I hope you -boys are fair-minded enough to hold no resentment.”</p> - -<p>“I’m just fair-minded enough to be neutral,” -declared Jimmie, “if I have to fight for -the right to remain that way. I’m just a little -sore at you for supposing that four boys who -are citizens of a neutral country would be carrying -information around for another country -at war!”</p> - -<p>“I’m sorry you feel that way,” said Mackinder. -“I assure you there was nothing personal -in my acts. I simply tried to do my -best!”</p> - -<p>“Well, you did a lot, at that!” returned the -lad.</p> - -<p>“All right, folks, let’s drop the subject,” -spoke up Ned. “I feel that the air in here is -getting bad. Suppose we go to the surface.”</p> - -<p>“Right you are,” agreed Harry. “Let’s rise -and fill the tanks!”</p> - -<p>Jimmie, in compliance with this wish, -steered the craft upward.</p> - -<p>At the surface the boys found the water -much smoother than they had expected would -be the case. Jimmie declared that he intended -painting the balance of the name “U-13” on -the vessel while the other lads were occupied<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_164" id="Page_164">[164]</a></span> -in airing out the vessel and refilling the compressed -air tanks.</p> - -<p>Slung in a boatswain’s chair over the sloping -deck the lad soon completed this task. -Feeling a considerable degree of elation at the -success of his undertaking Jimmie returned -with his brush and paint.</p> - -<p>“If you’re ready now we’ll dive again and -proceed!”</p> - -<p>“Wait a minute, Mackinder’s still on deck!” -stated Jack.</p> - -<p>“He wasn’t there when I came below!” protested -Jimmie.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_165" id="Page_165">[165]</a></span></p> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_XV">CHAPTER XV<br /> -<span class="smaller">MISTAKEN IDENTITY</span></h2> - -<p>Ned looked at Jimmie in astonishment. He -could scarcely credit his senses. He began ascending -the iron ladder leading to the deck.</p> - -<p>Eagerly the lad glanced about the upper -portion of the submarine which now showed -black and gleaming above the surface of the -water.</p> - -<p>“Harry,” he called down the hatchway, -“didn’t Mackinder say he was coming on deck -to see if he could be of service to Jimmie?”</p> - -<p>“He certainly did!” answered Harry. -“Then we went on working at the pumps. I -was busy with the starboard pump, because it -wasn’t working just as it should. I saw him -start up the ladder!”</p> - -<p>“And I saw him when he was about half -way up!” put in Jack.</p> - -<p>“I’m equally certain he didn’t return, but -it may be well enough to stop a minute to -search the interior. Perhaps he came back.”</p> - -<p>In a moment all five boys were busily going -over every corner of the craft. From stem to<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_166" id="Page_166">[166]</a></span> -stern they ransacked every place where it -would have been at all possible for their guest -to have hidden.</p> - -<p>At length they met in the space directly -below the hatchway.</p> - -<p>“Find anything?” queried Ned glancing -about the group.</p> - -<p>“Not a hint of anything at all resembling an -Englishman!” stated Jimmie. “Perhaps it -would be a good idea to put an ad. in the -paper.”</p> - -<p>“Yes,” scorned Jack. “Like this: ‘Lost—one -perfectly good Englishman. Finder please -return to the “U-13” and receive reward’!”</p> - -<p>“Sure!” agreed Jimmie. “Have them -charge it, please!”</p> - -<p>“Hush this nonsense, boys!” cried Ned. -“This may be serious!”</p> - -<p>“Well, where is he?” protested Jimmie. -“We haven’t got him!”</p> - -<p>“Maybe he fell overboard!” suggested Ned. -“Let’s have a look.”</p> - -<p>Again the lad mounted the ladder. As he -reached the small deck he peered anxiously -about the vessel seeking what he hoped he -might not find.</p> - -<p>The others came crowding after their chum, -filling the space.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_167" id="Page_167">[167]</a></span></p> - -<p>“There he goes!” cried Jimmie pointing -away to the north.</p> - -<p>“Where?” inquired Ned looking in the direction -indicated. “Oh, I see him,” the lad -went on. “He’s swimming a good stroke, -too!”</p> - -<p>“Is he crazy or just disgusted with the company -on board the ‘U-13’?”</p> - -<p>“Perhaps he thinks he’ll be picked up by -that boat!” stated Jimmie again directing the -attention of his comrades to a small fishing -craft. “They seem to be heading a course -that will reach Mackinder.”</p> - -<p>“He was wise enough to take one of the -life preservers,” said Harry indicating a space -from which a buoy was missing.</p> - -<p>“Sure enough!” agreed Ned. “He’s no fool -at any rate!”</p> - -<p>“Let’s wait a while to see if they pick him -up,” suggested Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“If they don’t get him, we’ll chase over -there and take him aboard again. What do -you say?” asked Ned of the others.</p> - -<p>There was no dissenting voice raised to this -suggestion. Eagerly the lads watched the -boat momentarily drawing nearer the -swimmer.</p> - -<p>In a short time the boat rounded to, losing -her way in the water. A sharp skiff was<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_168" id="Page_168">[168]</a></span> -quickly launched over the side. Into this -tumbled two men. They soon covered the distance -between their vessel and the swimmer. -Without difficulty they succeeded in assisting -Mackinder into the skiff, then put quickly -back to the sailing vessel.</p> - -<p>“Ah, he’s safe at any rate!” gladly stated -Ned. “Now we can go on and finish our voyage -in peace! I’m glad he’s gone!”</p> - -<p>“So am I!” declared Jimmie. “He’s a -good fellow as one might say, but he’s too -awfully stuck on getting some information -for that bloomin’ Hinglish Harmy, don’t you -know!”</p> - -<p>“That’s hardly fair, Jimmie!” laughed Ned. -“He didn’t drop his ‘H’s’ and he did only -what he considered his duty.”</p> - -<p>“He will probably get that fisherman to set -him ashore on English soil as soon as possible,” -conjectured Jack. “Suppose we follow -them.”</p> - -<p>“What for?” asked Harry. “Why should -we chase after those chaps?”</p> - -<p>“Unless we do something of the sort, we’ll -have to go at it blindly!” urged Jack. “We -don’t really know where we are!”</p> - -<p>“That’s so,” admitted Harry reluctantly. -“We haven’t a chart nor a course. We don’t -know how far we are from anywhere at all!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_169" id="Page_169">[169]</a></span></p> - -<p>“We might keep on steering just as we -started,” stated Frank. “I believe southeast -was the course we used coming away from -Helgoland.”</p> - -<p>“That course would surely bring us up -somewhere,” put in Ned, “but it would be -much better if we could find out exactly where -we are. Then we could steer a course with -intelligence.”</p> - -<p>“Aw, what do we need of a chart?” scorned -Jimmie. “We know that England lies to the -southwest of us. It’s big enough so we can’t -miss it. If we blunder into the coast we can -just cruise along a ways until we come to some -place or other and then head in.”</p> - -<p>“That’s a good idea, too,” agreed Frank. -“When we get to a port we can turn the submarine -over to the English authorities as a -prize of war. They’ll probably be glad enough -to get the machine.”</p> - -<p>“Then we’ll head for the little old U. S. A.!” -cried Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“You’re right we will. When we get there, -we’ll chase ourselves out to Long Island. The -first thing I’ll do will be to get the factory -started on another engine like the Grey -Eagle’s!” declared Harry.</p> - -<p>“Good enough! Now let’s be ‘wenting’!” -added Jimmie.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_170" id="Page_170">[170]</a></span></p> - -<p>“But, boys,” objected Ned, “this hit or -miss fashion of navigating is not correct. -Something may happen to change our course. -If we don’t know what we are doing, we might -get into lots of trouble!”</p> - -<p>“Maybe you’re right, Ned!” assented Frank. -“What shall we do?”</p> - -<p>“I think we’d better cruise carefully along -on the surface until we see a ship. We can -ask them for our latitude and longitude. From -that we’ll be able to lay a course to any point.”</p> - -<p>“Maybe they’ll give us a chart, too!” put -in Harry.</p> - -<p>“All right, then, here goes!” shouted -Jimmie preparing to slide down the ladder. -“Somebody’ll have to keep on deck.”</p> - -<p>Harry at once followed Jimmie into the -interior. The engines responded to his touch. -The new “U-13” sprang forward half submerged.</p> - -<p>“We’ve got plenty of gas in the tanks, -Harry,” stated Jimmie to his chum as the -latter moved about the interior looking after -the machinery. “We’re making only about -fifteen miles now by this log.”</p> - -<p>“I’ll give them another touch,” responded -Harry. “The sooner we get there, the quicker -we’ll arrive, so here goes!”</p> - -<p>The increased speed of the engines urged<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_171" id="Page_171">[171]</a></span> -the submarine ahead at a goodly rate. Jimmie -presently declared that the log indicator -showed a good twenty-five miles an hour. -Those on the little deck above the conning -tower found the increased speed uncomfortable -by reason of the dashing spray, but all -felt that this was not unendurable.</p> - -<p>“Sail, ho!” Ned presently called down the -hatchway.</p> - -<p>“Where away?” asked Harry, looking up at -his comrade.</p> - -<p>“Almost dead ahead!” replied Ned. “We’re -overhauling them fast. It looks to be a three -masted ship as nearly as I can make out!”</p> - -<p>“Hold your course, Jimmie!” directed Jack. -“We’ll come up close enough to hail them in -a little while just as we are heading!”</p> - -<p>In a few minutes the ship was so close that -all could make out the details of her rigging. -It was a large three masted square-rigged -vessel evidently in ballast for the hull was -high out of water.</p> - -<p>“I believe they see us!” announced Frank, -using a pair of binoculars he had found -among the fittings of the submarine.</p> - -<p>“Can you make out the flag at the peak?” -asked Jack.</p> - -<p>“Yes, I think so. I believe it is the British -flag.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_172" id="Page_172">[172]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Then, they’ll be glad to help us out, especially -if they find that we intend to turn the -‘U-13’ over to their government!”</p> - -<p>“I don’t know about that!” doubted Frank. -“I see men running aloft. It looks as if they’re -rigging out studding sail booms on the main -yards. And I see others on the topsail yards,” -declared the boy.</p> - -<p>“Why, in that case, they’re trying to get -away from us!”</p> - -<p>“It certainly looks that way. Now I can -see men setting the studding sails on the -booms. They are putting on every rag the -old hooker will carry!” cried the lad excitedly.</p> - -<p>“I know why,” stated Harry. “They think -we’re a German submarine chasing them and -they’re trying to get away!”</p> - -<p>“Let’s run up a white flag, then,” urged -Ned. “They ought to know what that means. -They’ll stop for that!”</p> - -<p>In response to this suggestion the lads -quickly overhauled the flag locker finding just -what they sought. The white flag was at once -brought to the deck where it was bent on to -the halliards. It fluttered gaily at the top of -the short flagstaff. Some difficulty was experienced -in securing the staff because of an -improperly fitting socket.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_173" id="Page_173">[173]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Do they seem to be making any change?” -inquired Harry presently.</p> - -<p>“Yes,” answered Ned. “They’re crowding -on more sail!”</p> - -<p>“Then we might as well give it up!” stated -the other. “They’ll never stop for us. Our -only hope is to dive and come up close to some -vessel so they can’t get away before we ask -the questions.”</p> - -<p>“Maybe that would be a good idea,” admitted -Ned. “Anyhow, we’ll have to take down -this flag. The signal staff don’t fit!”</p> - -<p>Disappointed because their efforts had been -unavailing, the lads regretfully folded the flag. -It was restored to its proper place.</p> - -<p>Harry, however, continued to urge the engines -forward in the hope of eventually overhauling -the ship. This seemed to be within -the range of possibilities, but the boys all knew -the maxim concerning a stern chase, and were -somewhat discouraged. Knowing that their -intentions were of the best, they felt slightly -aggrieved that the other did not stop.</p> - -<p>“I see a smoke away ahead of the ship!” announced -Frank after a few moments. “I can’t -tell which way they are headed, though!”</p> - -<p>“At this rate of traveling, we’ll soon find -out!” declared Jack.</p> - -<p>Evidently the smoke had been discovered<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_174" id="Page_174">[174]</a></span> -by those aboard the sailing vessel, for the -course was altered slightly in that direction.</p> - -<p>This change was noted by the boys. Jimmie -shifted the helm slightly in order to keep -the submarine directly in the track of the ship.</p> - -<p>“I wonder what that other vessel can be,” -puzzled Ned. “Let me take the glasses a moment, -Frank. I wish we were higher in the -water,” he added, “then we could get a better -range of vision.”</p> - -<p>Long and earnestly the boy inspected the -strange vessel. Presently he returned the -glasses to Frank with a sigh.</p> - -<p>“What is it?” asked Jack with keen interest.</p> - -<p>“I believe it is a warship of some sort!” replied -Ned.</p> - -<p>“Then they’ll capture us and take us to port -mighty quick!”</p> - -<p>“I guess they’ll capture us all right!” put -in Frank. “I can see the sailing vessel making -signals. They’ve got a string of flags flying -from the foretopmast head. I don’t know -what they mean, but they’re calls for help, -or I’ll miss my guess! They are something -like the U. S. flags!”</p> - -<p>Those on board the steamer had evidently -seen the string of flags or else by the peculiar -actions of the sailing vessel guessed that something<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_175" id="Page_175">[175]</a></span> -was wrong, for the boys saw that their -course was at once altered. From the clouds -of dense black smoke pouring from the funnels -they knew that the stokers were being -urged to their best efforts.</p> - -<p>In a short space of time the combined speeds -of the two vessels brought them close together. -As the other approached, Harry shut off the -power of the engines, checking them to little -more than steerageway.</p> - -<p>As the steamer passed the ship Ned could -see that some communication had been made -between the two. The steamer came quickly on.</p> - -<p>“Pass me up that white flag again, Harry,” -requested Ned. “I think they’re coming up -to speak to us, and I’d just as soon have that -handy. Maybe these fellows might misunderstand -our motives, too!”</p> - -<p>“I wish now I hadn’t painted that ‘U-13’ -quite so plainly on the sides!” grumbled Jimmie. -“I’ll bet they’ve seen that!”</p> - -<p>“Of course, they’ve seen it, but if we show -a white flag they won’t do anything to us. -They’ll let us ask questions!”</p> - -<p>In answer to this statement, a shot echoed -across the water. A ball striking the crest of -a wave sent a cloud of spray over the “U-13.”</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_176" id="Page_176">[176]</a></span></p> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_XVI">CHAPTER XVI<br /> -<span class="smaller">A STRANGE DISCOVERY</span></h2> - -<p>“Get down that hatchway!” ordered Ned, -wiping the spray from his face. “Those fellows -see the name ‘U-13’!”</p> - -<p>“Won’t they observe the white flag if we -put it up?” asked Jack.</p> - -<p>“I don’t believe they will!” Ned stated. -“Better get below!”</p> - -<p>As if to emphasize the boy’s opinion another -report echoed over the space of water separating -the battleship from the new “U-13.”</p> - -<p>This time the shell had been aimed a trifle -too high. It went directly over the lads on the -diminutive deck. Instinctively they all ducked -their heads as the missile screamed wickedly -in its useless flight.</p> - -<p>If anything was needed to decide the matter, -this last offering seemed to serve the purpose. -All three lads hastened down the ladder -without further parley. Ned lingered a -moment to close the hatch.</p> - -<p>“Hang onto your hats!” cried Jimmie the -next instant.</p> - -<p>“Let’s get down quick!” urged Jack.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_177" id="Page_177">[177]</a></span> -“Those fellows up there seem to mean business. -My stars!” he added breathlessly, “that -last one was certainly a beauty! They are getting -the range, too!”</p> - -<p>Already Harry had started the pumps, filling -the ballast tanks with water to assist the -“U-13” in the evolution of the dive. The rudders -were deflected to their extreme range. -With decks inclined to an alarming angle, the -submarine fled toward the bottom like a hunted -creature. Until the gauges showed a -depth of twelve fathoms, Jimmie held the levers -in position. Then he brought the craft to -an even keel.</p> - -<p>“It’s plain to be seen that we’ll not get much -help from any ship on the North Sea!” declared -Jack at length, as the ballast tanks were -found to trim the vessel. “They’re scared of -us, I believe!”</p> - -<p>“They haven’t any reason to be scared of -us!” stoutly protested Jimmie. “We have -never done a thing to them. We’re absolutely -neutral!”</p> - -<p>“It seems to be one thing to be neutral,” -laughed Ned, “and quite another thing to convince -other folks of the fact!”</p> - -<p>“They might at least have given us a chance -to explain!” grumbled Jimmie. “We had a -white flag flying for them to see!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_178" id="Page_178">[178]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Yes,” argued Ned, “but did you stop to -think that we were showing ourselves in a -bad light? Remember the newspaper accounts -of all the damage done by a submarine? I’m -not surprised they ran away.”</p> - -<p>“And then we come along in a submarine! -Of course, we couldn’t expect them to wait for -a German undersea craft to come popping out -of the ocean and waltz up alongside so they -could say: ‘Good morning, Mr. Dutchman! -Won’t you please accept this fine ship?’” -added Jack.</p> - -<p>“Well, I’m it!” declared Jimmie, joining in -the laugh that followed Jack’s facetious remark. -“The joke’s on me, all right! If I -hadn’t painted that figure ‘three’ in the name, -we would have been on our way to England -by this time! Oh, well,” the boy added, “we’ll -get to England before long, anyhow, so I -should worry!”</p> - -<p>“It all shows, boys,” spoke up Ned, “that -we’ve got to be mighty careful about our appearance -and the company we keep. We have -gotten into this scrape largely because we were -found in possession of goods we had no business -to have. This last incident came about -because we pretended to be something we were -not!”</p> - -<p>“I think that ought to be a good lesson to<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_179" id="Page_179">[179]</a></span> -us,” stated Jimmie. “It will be for me, I -know! I’m sure I’ll take it to heart!”</p> - -<p>“I’m mighty glad we’re away from that inquisitive -gunboat!” put in Frank. “Now, -what’s the next thing for us to do?”</p> - -<p>“I move that we keep below the surface -for a while. If we hold on a general southeasterly -course, as has been suggested, we -can’t fail to bring up somewhere on the English -coast.”</p> - -<p>“That sounds like the most reasonable -plan,” agreed Frank. “I propose that we put -on speed and hurry along. Let’s get somewhere!”</p> - -<p>“Here we go!” cried Harry, increasing the -speed with a touch on the levers. “Let’s keep -a sharp lookout, though!”</p> - -<p>About half past three o’clock the boys decided -to rise to the surface for the necessary -airing of the vessel and storing of another supply -of fresh air in the tanks provided for that -purpose.</p> - -<p>In furtherance of this plan, the rudders were -shifted while Harry slowed the engines. Directly -the craft ascended. The gauges indicated -a depth of about eight fathoms when -Jimmie, who was at the helm, requested that -the rudders be again deflected.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_180" id="Page_180">[180]</a></span></p> - -<p>“What’s the matter?” questioned Ned, stepping -forward.</p> - -<p>“I can see the light reflected down through -the water, and there’s a big shadow up there!” -declared Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“What do you think it can be?” asked Ned -wonderingly.</p> - -<p>“Probably it’s a big vessel of some sort. It -may be a war ship, or it may be only a cargo -carrier. In either event I don’t want to get -tangled up in the propellers. Let’s sheer off -a bit.”</p> - -<p>“All right,” agreed Ned. “I’ll go to the -periscope. Maybe I can find out something -as we rise slowly to the surface.”</p> - -<p>Cautiously creeping nearer the surface, the -lads put the periscope into action. By its -aid Ned made out that the craft was an armed -vessel. The new “U-13” lay just submerged -about a ship’s length to starboard of the -stranger. They maintained about the same -speed.</p> - -<p>Ned declared that he could make out the -British flag at the stern of the other vessel. -He stated that he could also notice a number -of people aboard the steamer.</p> - -<p>“Can you see what they look like?” asked -Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“They are regular sailors and marines,” answered<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_181" id="Page_181">[181]</a></span> -Ned. “Why,” went on the lad excitedly, -“that looks like Mackinder at the rail!”</p> - -<p>Curiously the others crowded about the object -glass of the periscope. Each declared in -turn that they recognized Mackinder.</p> - -<p>“Now, I wonder what he’s doing aboard that -vessel!” mused Jack.</p> - -<p>“Quite likely this ship met the fishing boat -and took him off so as to save the other the -trouble of going clear back to England!”</p> - -<p>“No doubt that’s it,” agreed Jack. “But -look!” he continued, “he’s discovered us! See -him pointing toward us!”</p> - -<p>“Better get ready to dive, then,” cautioned -Harry. “If he’s able, he’ll get them to shoot -at us. If they hit the ‘U-13’ it’ll be a long way -to Tipperary for us! We don’t know how -thick this armor is!”</p> - -<p>“Down we go!” shouted Jimmie, seizing the -wheel. “Lively, now!”</p> - -<p>Even as the boy spoke, a muffled roar was -distinctly heard by the lads in the submarine. -A crash that reverberated through every portion -of the vessel told that they had been hit -by a projectile.</p> - -<p>With a quick, startled glance at his companions, -Ned hastened aft to examine the possible -damage. He could discover no leak.</p> - -<p>“I guess we’re lucky, after all!” he stated<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_182" id="Page_182">[182]</a></span> -presently. “We’re not taking in water, so I’m -sure they didn’t do very much damage.”</p> - -<p>“It might have been more serious, though!” -commented Jack.</p> - -<p>“Maybe the shot just carried away some -of the light work like railings and so on around -the deck. I don’t think the shot struck the -hull, or we’d have heard more racket,” went -on Ned.</p> - -<p>“Let’s keep below the surface for a while. -Maybe we can get away from those fellows -far enough to be out of their sight while we -change air. They’re not the least bit sociable!”</p> - -<p>“Full speed ahead, Harry!” cried Frank. -“Let’s hurry on!”</p> - -<p>“Better take it easy,” cautioned Jimmie. -“We may not be out of the woods yet. Let’s -just go along slowly for a while.”</p> - -<p>“Aw, go on!” scorned Frank. “What’s -there out here to bother?”</p> - -<p>“Sure!” chimed in Jack. “We’re away out -in the North Sea where we can find nothing -but warships and sailing vessels and such!”</p> - -<p>“Maybe we might run into the real ‘U-13’,” -countered Jimmie. “Then, what would you do -if you should meet that fellow?”</p> - -<p>“Why, put on steam and run away from -him, of course!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_183" id="Page_183">[183]</a></span></p> - -<p>“All right, go ahead if you want to,” submitted -Jimmie unwillingly, “but I don’t think -it wise. It’s taking considerable risk!”</p> - -<p>Since the majority seemed to be in favor of -more speed, the engines were again urged to -greater effort. Suddenly all were startled by -a cry from Jimmie. The boat swerved sharply -to starboard, rolling until the deck was at -an acute angle. Harry reached for the levers, -prepared to stand by the engines for orders -from the pilot.</p> - -<p>Directly Jimmie rang a stop bell. The vessel -came again to an even keel. The boys were -once more able to stand upright.</p> - -<p>“What’s the matter, Jimmie?” cried Ned, as -he scrambled to his feet. “Is it a whale, or did -you nearly have a collision?”</p> - -<p>“Collision is exactly the word!” declared -the other. “I saw the masts of a ship standing -right in our path. I got this little craft turned -just in time! That’s what we get for blundering -along so fast!”</p> - -<p>“What kind of a ship is it?” asked Frank, -peering from one porthole after another. “Are -you sure it was the mast of a vessel?”</p> - -<p>“Why, certainly, I am sure!” was Jimmie’s -decisive answer. “Don’t I know a ship’s -masts? I surely do!” the lad answered his -own question.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_184" id="Page_184">[184]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Let’s swing around and see what it was,” -proposed Frank.</p> - -<p>“All right, turn the deflecting rudders and -down we go!”</p> - -<p>Swinging in a broad circle, the submarine -was directed downward to a level equal with -that of the hull of the ship, whose masts had -so nearly proven disastrous to the boys. As -the craft sank deeper the crew watched with -a great deal of curiosity from the thick glasses -over the portholes. Carefully they studied -every detail of rig.</p> - -<p>Although the sunshine penetrated to some -distance below the surface, they found that -at the depth where the hull lay a semi-twilight -prevailed. The upper portions of the masts -had been clearly visible, but the decks lay -in a haze that prevented their seeing well.</p> - -<p>“Looks like the ship is almost new!” stated -Frank.</p> - -<p>“Possibly it has been sunk only a short -time,” ventured Jack.</p> - -<p>“Can you make out what ship it is?” asked -Ned.</p> - -<p>“Wait a minute until we pass the stern -again,” said Frank.</p> - -<p>“I can see it!” declared Harry in a moment. -“It’s the Wanderer of Sydney! That -will be an Australian vessel!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_185" id="Page_185">[185]</a></span></p> - -<p>“And that great gap in the port side indicates -that the sinking was the work of our -namesake!” stated Ned. “This is another victim -of the German ‘U-13’. Probably it is only -one of many!”</p> - -<p>“No wonder the other fellows don’t seem -inclined to be any too sociable!” said Jack. -“They really cannot be blamed!”</p> - -<p>“Right you are, Jack,” responded Ned. -“When anyone hits at the pocketbook we’re -apt to consider everybody under suspicion.”</p> - -<p>“Let’s get closer and examine the damage -done by the torpedo,” suggested Frank. “I’d -like to observe the effects of the attack.”</p> - -<p>Shortly the misnamed “U-13” was creeping -alongside the hull of the sunken vessel. Jimmie -handled the wheel dexterously, ever alert -for possible danger. Harry stood by the engines, -ready at a moment’s notice to assist in -executing any maneuver desired.</p> - -<p>“Looks as if the whole side of the ship had -been torn away,” stated Ned, as the submarine -crept slowly past the jagged wound.</p> - -<p>“Those torpedoes surely are powerful,” -agreed Frank. “I hope everybody got away -from the ship before the explosion took place.”</p> - -<p>“They probably gave the crew plenty of -time to escape if this is the work of the -‘U-13’,” commented Ned. “You say they gave<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_186" id="Page_186">[186]</a></span> -the crew on your vessel ample time to get -safely away?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, but the men let themselves become -panic-stricken. They lost their heads and consumed -a good deal of time. Besides that, they -forgot they were civilized. One of them hit -me an awful clip.”</p> - -<p>“And pretty nearly left you on board to be -drowned!”</p> - -<p>“These fellows did the same thing!” announced -Jack, peering out.</p> - -<p>“Did what?” queried Ned, wondering what -the other meant.</p> - -<p>“Left a man aboard when the ship sank,” -stated Jack, pointing through the little port -hole. “There he is, walking about!”</p> - -<p>Clearly the boys saw a figure apparently -crossing the deck.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_187" id="Page_187">[187]</a></span></p> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_XVII">CHAPTER XVII<br /> -<span class="smaller">ALONE AND HELPLESS</span></h2> - -<p>“Good night!” almost shrieked Frank. -“That’s uncanny! Whoever heard of a man -walking about at the bottom of the ocean?”</p> - -<p>“Where did he come from, Jack?” asked -Ned.</p> - -<p>“I saw that figure come out of the companionway,” -stated Jack. “I thought I was mistaken -at first, because of the dim light. I -looked again as you boys were talking. Then -I saw that it was the figure of a man, apparently. -He seems to be carrying something in -his arms!”</p> - -<p>“There he goes over the side of the vessel!” -whispered Harry in an awestruck voice. -“What sort of deal is this, anyway?”</p> - -<p>“Did you notice the knapsack thing he was -wearing on his back?” asked Frank. “If I -was superstitious, I’d say it was the ghost of -a soldier who had been drowned and was seeking -his way back home!”</p> - -<p>“We don’t take any stock in that ghost business!” -declared Ned stoutly. “Some things<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_188" id="Page_188">[188]</a></span> -may look supernatural because we don’t understand -them, but there’s always an explanation -if we seek it!”</p> - -<p>“What is your explanation of this thing, -Ned?” questioned Jack.</p> - -<p>“Probably some mass of seaweed or some -other substance got caught in a current and -lodged against the cabin on the Wanderer. -When we circled about the wreck we set up -counter currents that may have released this -mass. It then floated along in the current to -finally sink on the other side of this submerged -hull. That’s all there is to it!”</p> - -<p>“I wonder what sort of a current is bringing -the bloomin’ thing back again!” announced -Jack as Ned concluded his explanation. “It’s -moving its lower edges most remarkably like a -man walking!”</p> - -<p>Ned’s look of bewilderment increased. -Clearly the boy was puzzled. Even he, himself, -was not quite satisfied with the explanation -of the strange sight which had greeted the -boys.</p> - -<p>Slowly forging ahead, the submarine passed -toward the stern of the Wanderer, shutting -the strange figure out of sight.</p> - -<p>“Turn around the stern again, Jimmie,” requested -Ned. “Go easy on the engines, and -we’ll have a look from a new angle. This is<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_189" id="Page_189">[189]</a></span> -getting rather spooky, I must say. I want to -examine into it!”</p> - -<p>Again the false “U-13” rounded the stern -of the wreck. Slowly the craft nosed along -the port side to a point abreast the mizzen -chains. Directly at a signal from the pilot, -Harry shut off power altogether.</p> - -<p>The strange magnetism that seems to exist -in all objects at sea slowly drew the submarine -toward the ship. Its drift had been sufficient -to bring the vessel to a point abreast the main -rigging before it stopped.</p> - -<p>By this time the craft had approached close -to the wreck. A very slight jar told the boys -that their vessel had touched the other. Eagerly -all watched from the portholes, now but -a short space above the level of the rail across -which they looked. Directly all was still. At -this depth no movement of water was discernible.</p> - -<p>Feeling awed by the strangeness of the situation, -the boys refrained from speech. They -watched for the reappearance of the strange -figure.</p> - -<p>Soon Jimmie hissed a warning. He reached -out a hand to turn the switch controlling the -lights. The boat lay in utter darkness.</p> - -<p>A figure stepped out of the Wanderer’s companionway.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_190" id="Page_190">[190]</a></span></p> - -<p>It appeared to be that of a person of medium -build. The boys could now see that it was -clothed in what seemed to be a diver’s suit. -The helmet, however, was not connected to any -air pipe. Neither was there a line leading -upward to indicate the presence of assistance. -A hump on the shoulders, giving the impression -of a knapsack, afforded much wonderment -and increased the mysterious look of the newcomer.</p> - -<p>“Sh-h-h!” warned Ned in a sibilant hiss, as -the figure came directly toward their position. -“Keep quiet!” he whispered.</p> - -<p>A few steps carried the stranger to the rail. -The boys saw him give a start of amazement -as he prepared to go over the side of the ship. -Clearly the strange diver was surprised to see -the craft in that position. He stepped back -a pace, then came gingerly forward.</p> - -<p>Evidently the man was astonished to observe -the “U-13”. He climbed slowly into the -main shrouds. From that position he surveyed -the craft more completely. Again he -returned to the deck.</p> - -<p>During this examination the lads had remained -quietly at their posts, not caring to -make their presence known until they were -sure of the identity of the other. They still -remained with their faces at the portholes,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_191" id="Page_191">[191]</a></span> -where they observed, so far as possible, every -move of the stranger.</p> - -<p>Directly they observed the diver pick up -the burden he had brought from the cabin. He -hastened to the rail of the wreck. In a moment -he had clambered overboard, letting himself -down by means of a line secured to a belaying -pin at the mainmast.</p> - -<p>“That’s funny!” observed Ned, as the other -disappeared from view. “What do you suppose -made him scuttle out of sight so hurriedly?”</p> - -<p>“Maybe he, like the warship, saw our name—‘U-13’—on -the side of the vessel!” ventured -Jimmie. “They all run away from that!”</p> - -<p>“It surely doesn’t make us many friends!” -declared Ned.</p> - -<p>“You’re right!” answered the other. “It’s -the original killjoy!”</p> - -<p>“Let’s dive a little deeper,” suggested Jack. -“Perhaps we can find out where this new -chap is going with those bundles.”</p> - -<p>“Perhaps we’ll find out how he got here!” -added Frank.</p> - -<p>“And while you fellows are ‘perhapsing’,” -put in Jimmie, “I’ll say that perhaps we’d better -stick out! Perhaps he doesn’t want us nosing -around his property, and perhaps he’ll -touch off a bomb!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_192" id="Page_192">[192]</a></span></p> - -<p>“What’s the matter with you lately?” inquired -Frank. “You’re getting to be a regular -little ‘fraid-cat’! You never used to be -so timid about sticking your nose into other -people’s business!”</p> - -<p>“I’m not afraid to go looking into things -now, only I’ve got a hunch that we’d better -not do it, that’s all!” answered the lad. “Just -because I happen to want to leave a fellow -alone is no sign I’m a ‘fraid-cat’. If you lads -want to go anywhere, you tell me the name of -the place. I’m game to stick with you until -they turn out the lights!”</p> - -<p>“Spoken like a man, Jimmie!” declared -Frank. “That sounds like the old Jimmie -we used to know. Now, let’s go down a -ways.”</p> - -<p>Harry sprang to the levers. A few shifts -of the control brought the storage batteries to -work operating the pumps. With the additional -water admitted by this process, the false -“U-13” sank until far below the level of the -rail of the wreck. Still deeper and deeper it -settled.</p> - -<p>Presently the boys at the port holes could -discover the bends of the sides, indicating that -they were nearly to the ocean floor. In another -moment a slight bump told them that the -craft rested on bottom.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_193" id="Page_193">[193]</a></span></p> - -<p>“I saw a flash of light just now!” stated -Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“Where did it come from?” asked Ned, -stepping forward.</p> - -<p>“Just ahead of us on this side of the ship. -The shadow lies heavily there, so I can’t make -out what’s located in that place!”</p> - -<p>The boys had not long to wait, however, to -discover the cause of the flash which Jimmie -had seen. Almost following the boy’s words -came a dazzling beam of light, piercing the -dark shadow like an arrow. For a moment -the boys were blinded as the searchlight’s -flame played on the forward part of their vessel.</p> - -<p>Presently the light shifted. It was turned -against the side of the sunken Wanderer. Up -and down the light traveled, revealing the -rugged sides of the hull, with its covering of -barnacles below what had been the water line. -Outward the beam went, showing nothing but -ocean floor. Fishes were illuminated and dazzled -by the strong ray.</p> - -<p>Finally the light returned to the false -“U-13”, where it settled for a moment. Directly -the light was turned off.</p> - -<p>Jimmie had been shading his eyes with a -protecting hand. He was, therefore, not so<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_194" id="Page_194">[194]</a></span> -much blinded by the glare as the others had -been.</p> - -<p>“There they go!” he cried, as the light -was removed from the port hole through which -it had been shining. “They’re rising!”</p> - -<p>“Who can it be, I wonder?” questioned Ned.</p> - -<p>“I’ll never tell you!” declared Jimmie. “Oh, -yes, I will, too!” he amended his statement. -“If you want to know, it’s the ‘U-13’!”</p> - -<p>“The ‘U-13’?” questioned the lads in chorus.</p> - -<p>“The ‘U-13’!” positively stated Jimmie. -“Here,” he cried, turning a switch leading to -the searchlight. “Take a look!”</p> - -<p>The powerful storage batteries on the vessel -occupied by the boys generated a ray of light -that pierced the darkness of the undersea -world with ease. Sharply outlined in the circle -of flame the lads clearly saw the form of a -submarine vessel similar in many respects to -their own. There was the same sharp prow, -the same tapering stern with conning tower, -keel, port lights, and every essential feature -of the vessel upon which they were located.</p> - -<p>Outlined upon the side, in letters fully the -same size as those upon their own vessel, the -lads saw distinctly the mark “U-13.”</p> - -<p>“What do you know about that?” gasped -Frank. “That’s fierce!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_195" id="Page_195">[195]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Is it the same vessel you saw off Land’s -End, Frank?” asked Ned.</p> - -<p>“I’m sure I can’t say,” returned the other. -“I think it is! Of course, we’re somewhat below -it. Besides the difference in perspective -from this angle the water has a great deal to -do with changing the appearance of everything. -The general outlines appear similar, -however.”</p> - -<p>“Then we’re in a ticklish position!” declared -Ned. “Suppose those fellows take it -into their head to torpedo us?”</p> - -<p>“If they do,” stated Frank decisively, -“they’ll play havoc!”</p> - -<p>“They’re going over the wreck!” stated -Jimmie in a whisper.</p> - -<p>“Let’s rise a little and see which way they -head for,” proposed Frank. “We can then go -in the opposite direction for a while.”</p> - -<p>“I think we’d better slide right along to -the southwest,” stated Jimmie. “I know I’m -meeting a good deal of opposition, but I’ve a -hunch that we’ll be better off if we get right -away from this spot!”</p> - -<p>“Been reading that dream book again, little -man?” asked Ned, with a laugh. “Sorry, -Jimmie, but the majority seems to be against -you!”</p> - -<p>“All right, Boss!” returned Jimmie with<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_196" id="Page_196">[196]</a></span> -a smile. “I’m game to stick with the bunch! -You’ll find me right here smiling all the -while!”</p> - -<p>“Jimmie,” gravely stated Ned, “I wish we -could all get some of that sunny disposition -of yours. We need a lot of your optimism.”</p> - -<p>“Thanks!” was Jimmie’s reply, delivered -with an excess of politeness. “Now, I’m at -the wheel, Captain. Where to, sir?”</p> - -<p>“Let’s rise first and see what the other is -doing!”</p> - -<p>“Ding, ding!” cried Jimmie. “Touch up -the mule, Harry!”</p> - -<p>Harry’s manipulations of the levers brought -the false “U-13” rapidly to a level with the -Wanderer’s deck. Through the port lights -the boys could see the other submarine across -the sunken ship. It seemed to be gradually -descending toward the bottom.</p> - -<p>“Let’s follow them and see where they go!” -proposed Jack.</p> - -<p>“At your service, sir!” cried Jimmie, saluting. -“We’ll proceed to proceed!” he added -with a grin. “Here goes after the real -‘U-13’!”</p> - -<p>“Go ahead slowly, Harry,” cautioned Ned. -“We don’t want to overtake them yet. We’re -in the shadow here, so they probably won’t<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_197" id="Page_197">[197]</a></span> -see us if we hang back a little. Just give -the wheel a little kick.”</p> - -<p>Slowly the vessel carried the boys over the -sunken Australian. They were passing between -the main and mizzen rigging at a level -slightly lower than that of the main yard.</p> - -<p>“What’s that just ahead of us?” queried -Jack, at the porthole.</p> - -<p>“I don’t see anything,” replied Ned. -“What and where is it?”</p> - -<p>“Right here,” declared Jack, pointing. -“No, you’re too late! I thought it looked like -a snake in the water at first, but I see it was -only a piece of rope hanging from the rigging. -It’s all right!”</p> - -<p>“Possibly it has been hanging down all the -time but the current caused by the passage of -the other vessel swung it outward,” ventured -Ned. “It will no doubt slip past in a moment!”</p> - -<p>But this prediction was not fulfilled. With -a sudden lurch, the stern of the false “U-13” -rose, tilting the deck sharply forward.</p> - -<p>With a groan the propellers stopped.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_198" id="Page_198">[198]</a></span></p> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_XVIII">CHAPTER XVIII<br /> -<span class="smaller">HELP FROM A STRANGER</span></h2> - -<p>Harry uttered a sharp cry as he stumbled -forward along the steep incline of the floor. It -seemed as if some huge power had grasped -the stern of the craft, raising it until the vessel -tilted forward at an angle which rendered -walking impossible.</p> - -<p>All the boys were thrown toward the forward -end of the vessel, where Jimmie was located. -Ned and Jack lost their footing. They -rolled awkwardly to the forward bulkhead. -Harry and Frank managed to remain upright -by hurriedly grasping at parts of the machinery -or at stanchions. Their progress was undignified -as well as sudden.</p> - -<p>“What’s up?” sharply questioned Jimmie, -regaining his feet.</p> - -<p>“The stern’s up!” facetiously replied Jack, -also struggling to a standing position. “Is -anybody hurt?” the boy continued.</p> - -<p>A brief examination disclosed the fact that -beyond a few minor bruises none of the boys -had been seriously injured. Their first care<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_199" id="Page_199">[199]</a></span> -was for each other. All were glad to find no -one badly hurt.</p> - -<p>“What on earth can have happened to us?” -asked Ned, peering from a port light on the -starboard side. “Did we collide with something?”</p> - -<p>“I don’t believe we did,” returned Harry. -“There wasn’t any bump as if we’d run into -another object. We just stopped!”</p> - -<p>“And then the stern went up into the air -and stayed there!” put in Jack. “Something’s -got us by the stern and won’t let go!”</p> - -<p>“I think I know what it is!” announced -Frank. “What is it they call these fishermen -with a big net dragging around?”</p> - -<p>“Fishermen!” answered Jimmie, with a -grin.</p> - -<p>“Stop your nonsense!” ordered Frank, administering -a friendly punch to his red-headed -comrade. “I mean the fellows with a big drag -net!”</p> - -<p>“Trawlers is the word you want, Frank!” -said Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“That’s it!” agreed Frank. “I’ll bet we’re -tangled in one of their nets. Maybe we can’t -get loose again, either,” he added.</p> - -<p>“Don’t you believe it!” scorned Jimmie. “If -it was a fisherman had hold of us, we’d be -yanked around pretty lively. I think it is<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_200" id="Page_200">[200]</a></span> -that rope we saw hanging in front of the port -light!”</p> - -<p>“I believe you’re right, Jimmie!” Ned put -in as he gazed through the heavy glass on the -port side. “I can see that we’re swinging -close to the mainmast. There is no motion -to the boat, so that makes me think your solution -is about right. Now to get loose!”</p> - -<p>“Yes, I agree with you!” stated Harry. -“But how? If your assumption is correct, -we’ve got a big piece of line wound around -the outboard end of the shaft. It is probably -more or less tangled up in the propeller -also. We can’t turn the engines over!”</p> - -<p>“Maybe we could throw out the clutch and -turn the shaft backwards enough to unwind -the line!” suggested Frank.</p> - -<p>“I’m in favor of rising to the surface if the -slack of line will permit,” offered Jack. “We -could then open the hatchway. It would be -easy enough from there to clear the line from -the screw.”</p> - -<p>“That’s probably the best way out of it,” -commented Ned. “Suppose we try that. -Harry, can we rise as Jack suggests?”</p> - -<p>“I don’t know,” came Harry’s hesitating -reply. “I’ll try!”</p> - -<p>Accordingly the boy clambered from his position -near the forward bulkhead to the compartment<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_201" id="Page_201">[201]</a></span> -amidships, where the pumps were -located. A shift of valves followed by a touch -on the levers connecting the storage batteries -with the electric pumps started the process of -emptying the ballast tanks.</p> - -<p>Almost instantly the forward end of the -craft began to rise. Very shortly the deck was -in a level position. Then, as Harry continued -to empty the water ballast, Frank and Ned, -assisted by Jimmie and Jack, threw the clutch -on the propeller shaft out of contact in order -to permit the tail shaft to turn without moving -the engines.</p> - -<p>They then endeavored to turn the portion -of the shaft which projected through the stern -bearing in the back up motion to free the -propeller. They hoped thus to release the -rope which they believed to be wound around -the outboard portion of the shaft.</p> - -<p>Strive as they might, however, the shaft -stubbornly refused to move. Their utmost -efforts were unavailing.</p> - -<p>At length, out of breath and exhausted, Ned -sank back upon a locker. He looked at his -companions with a curious expression.</p> - -<p>“What’s the matter, Ned?” inquired Jack -anxiously. “Are you ill?”</p> - -<p>“I feel badly, boys,” replied Ned. “Unless -we can devise some means to free that<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_202" id="Page_202">[202]</a></span> -line from the shaft, we are in a pretty tight -fix!”</p> - -<p>“How near the surface can you bring the -boat, Harry?” asked Frank.</p> - -<p>“The gauges show that we’re about two and -a half fathoms down at present,” replied -Harry. “I have pumped a lot more water out -than would ordinarily be required to bring us -to the surface.”</p> - -<p>“Then we must be held by that line!” declared -Ned.</p> - -<p>“Let’s try some other maneuver with the -ship before we give up!” put in Jack. “We’re -not half though our experiments yet!”</p> - -<p>“All right, what’ll you try?” asked Ned in -a despairing tone.</p> - -<p>“I don’t know,” was the answer. “But we’re -going to do something to help get us out of -this fix. How would it do to fill the tanks -to sink us as far as we can go? Then we could -empty them in a hurry, which would make -the boat rise swiftly. The jounce would perhaps -break the line and let us up so we could -get some fresh air.”</p> - -<p>“If we don’t get some fresh air pretty soon, -we’ll have to do something desperate. The -reserve tank is nearly exhausted!”</p> - -<p>In compliance with Jack’s suggestion, the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_203" id="Page_203">[203]</a></span> -ballast tanks were again filled. Gradually the -“U-13” descended to the bottom. As the -deck began to tilt forward, as it had done -when the craft was first stopped, Harry threw -into operation every pump that could be used -to empty the water from the ballast tanks. The -boat rose rapidly.</p> - -<p>With a jerk that nearly threw the boys off -their feet, the “U-13” came to a rest. The -gauges still showed the same depth as before.</p> - -<p>Ned’s face turned ashen as he sank upon a -locker. The others gathered around him, expressing -sympathy. The boy was clearly distressed.</p> - -<p>“Never mind, Ned!” spoke up Frank. -“We’re coming out all right! The only trouble -is that we haven’t tried the right thing yet!”</p> - -<p>“But I can’t seem to think of a thing to do -in this case,” protested the other. “I’m all -out of ideas! I’m sorry that we tried to follow -that other submarine. I wish we had taken -Jimmie’s advice!”</p> - -<p>“Never mind that now, Ned. We’re close -to the surface. If it becomes necessary, I will -volunteer to be shot out of the torpedo tube. -I can rise to the surface, swim about until -I get my wind again, and then dive and cut -the rope. That will release the whole ship!”</p> - -<p>“Jimmie, that’s awfully good of you to offer<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_204" id="Page_204">[204]</a></span> -that, but I feel that I should be the one to -do it,” was Ned’s reply.</p> - -<p>“No, sir!” declared Jimmie promptly. -“You’re in no condition to attempt anything -like that. You’re worried, and your heart action -is not right just now. My mind is a blank, -and my heart is as sound as a bullet! I’m -just the one for the job!”</p> - -<p>As if the matter were understood, Jimmie -began divesting himself of his clothing. He -deposited his jacket on the locker beside Ned.</p> - -<p>“Harry,” he said, turning to his chum, -“will you see that the torpedo tube is connected -up and in working order? You might -try a discharge for practice. We can spare -a little of this air!”</p> - -<p>By the time Jimmie had stripped and secured -a knife to a belt about his waist, Harry -pronounced the tube ready for operation.</p> - -<p>“Now, fellows,” said Jimmie, shaking hands -with his chums, “there’s about one chance in -a million that I won’t get through this all -right. If you are not up to the surface in five -minutes, you may know that I’ve failed. Then -you’d better send out another lad!”</p> - -<p>“Me next!” shouted Jack, beginning to remove -his shoes.</p> - -<p>Harry was peering from the heavy glass -protecting the forward porthole. As Jimmie<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_205" id="Page_205">[205]</a></span> -stepped forward to enter the torpedo tube, -Harry held up a warning hand. He turned -an anxious face to his friends.</p> - -<p>“There’s something outside here!” he announced -in an anxious tone. “I saw it once, -but didn’t get a clear view!”</p> - -<p>“What did it look like?” asked Jimmie. -“Is it alive?”</p> - -<p>“I’m not sure, but I think it’s another submarine!”</p> - -<p>“Probably the real ‘U-13’ come up to look -us over. Never mind those fellows. I’m going -ahead and cut this wagon loose!”</p> - -<p>“Wait a minute!” cried Ned. “I see the -craft over here to starboard. It’s a peculiar -vessel, too! I think I see a man!”</p> - -<p>“I see him, too!” declared Frank from a -porthole a short distance aft. “Do you suppose -he’s trying to get us to descend again?”</p> - -<p>“Maybe that’s it! Let’s try it, anyway!” -offered Harry.</p> - -<p>“Go ahead!” agreed Ned in a tone that -showed he was again taking heart. “Let’s act -on the suggestion. We can try our scheme -later!”</p> - -<p>Harry’s hand had already found the levers. -In a moment the ballast tanks were being filled -with water. Gradually the vessel sank.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_206" id="Page_206">[206]</a></span></p> - -<p>As the light grew more dim at the increased -depth, Jimmie declared he could see the other -vessel descending at about the same speed.</p> - -<p>Presently the two craft were at the limit of -their travel. The visitor rested on the deck -of the Wanderer, while the ‘U-13,’ in which -the boys were imprisoned, hung again at an -angle from the line.</p> - -<p>Directly the lads saw the figure that had -formerly attracted their attention. It was -climbing the main shrouds of the wrecked -ship. When the man reached a position level -with their craft he began making signs and -motions. In his hand he flourished a knife.</p> - -<p>“Looks rather bad for us!” commented -Jack.</p> - -<p>“Don’t you get him?” asked Jimmie impatiently. -“He understands our predicament -and intends to help us! He motioned out that -he is going to climb the rigging until he can -find the rope. Then he’ll slide down it until -he lands on our stern. If we’ll agree not to -start the engines while he’s there, he’ll cut -the rope. But we must be ready at the ballast -tanks to let the vessel settle slowly to the -deck of the ship, so he can get off and clear -the line from the propeller!”</p> - -<p>“I don’t believe it!” stated Jack. “I think -he meant to cut the line as soon as he gets to<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_207" id="Page_207">[207]</a></span> -it and let us settle down slowly. What would -be the sense of his riding around the ocean -seated on the stern of a disabled submarine? -He’s got too much sense for that!”</p> - -<p>“Maybe you’re right!” admitted Jimmie. -“Let’s float the boat on an even keel and see. -I’m going to dress again!”</p> - -<p>Even as the lad hastened to put on his -clothes the boys felt a sudden dip made by the -submarine. Gradually they descended.</p> - -<p>“Hurrah, he did it!” exultantly cried Ned. -“Now, where has he gone? I do hope he’ll free -the propeller wheel at once!”</p> - -<p>“We could rise to the surface even if the -propeller is stuck!” declared Harry. “I can -pump the ballast all out of the tanks!”</p> - -<p>“But if we do that we’ll have to dive overboard -to clear the wheel!” protested Frank. -“I know that water is good and cold!”</p> - -<p>“Wait a minute, boys, and see what the -fellow does,” cautioned Ned. “Maybe he -wants to help us, so it wouldn’t be nice to run -away!”</p> - -<p>“Here he is, now!” cried Jack from his -position near a porthole. “He’s looking -through the glass, and making motions -again!”</p> - -<p>“I know what he wants!” declared Harry. -“He’s making motions for us to unscrew a<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_208" id="Page_208">[208]</a></span> -pipe! He wants us to let in a lot of the -ocean!”</p> - -<p>“Wait a minute, Harry!” put in Ned. “He’s -walking toward his own boat. Let’s see what -he’s going to do!”</p> - -<p>In a short time their rescuer had reached -the side of his own vessel. He stepped into -an open door in the side and disappeared.</p> - -<p>“An air lock!” cried Ned. “Did you see -that, boys?”</p> - -<p>“Just like the little old Sea Lion we used -in the China Sea!”</p> - -<p>“Here he comes again with a line!” announced -Harry. “Now what?”</p> - -<p>The boys heard a hammering and thumping -near one of the sea cocks.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_209" id="Page_209">[209]</a></span></p> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_XIX">CHAPTER XIX<br /> -<span class="smaller">MACKINDER AGAIN</span></h2> - -<p>Even as the five boys glanced at each other -with startled and wondering looks, the thumping -ceased abruptly. In a short space it was -resumed. Instinctively the boys gathered -near the spot.</p> - -<p>While they stood there trying to determine -the cause for the strange procedure, the noise -ceased. They heard a tapping at one of the -portholes. Jimmie rushed across the compartment -to investigate.</p> - -<p>“Hey, fellows, come over here a minute!” he -called out.</p> - -<p>“What have you found now?” questioned -Ned, obeying the request.</p> - -<p>“Here’s this chap, and he’s making all sorts -of signals!”</p> - -<p>“That’s funny!” puzzled Ned. “Can you -make out what he wants?”</p> - -<p>“He’s making his hands go in the strangest -way! I’m sure I can’t interpret such motions -unless he wants us to turn around while he -places a bomb or something close enough to -blow us out of the water.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_210" id="Page_210">[210]</a></span></p> - -<p>“I know what he wants!” shouted Harry, -who had been closely observing the stranger’s -repetition of the strange motions. “He wants -us to open the valve leading from that sea -cock where he has been working!”</p> - -<p>“Fine business!” scorned Jimmie. “Open -up the sea cock and let the ocean come running -all over our nice carpets! I guess not!”</p> - -<p>“I’m going to try it, anyway!” declared -Harry. “If a little water does come in, the -pumps will take care of it before it becomes -dangerous. At least, it’s well worth trying!”</p> - -<p>“Go ahead, then, but don’t blame me if -anything happens!”</p> - -<p>Harry moved to the vicinity of the spot -where the stranger had been occupied but -a few moments before. Jimmie was at the -porthole.</p> - -<p>A turn of the valve resulted in a sudden -short inrush of water.</p> - -<p>This ceased abruptly, bringing forth an exultant -cry from Harry, while the other boys -crowded around, speculating on the cause.</p> - -<p>“I’ve got it!” cried Harry, dancing about -the compartment. “I know what he’s going -to do. Go to the porthole, Jimmie, and see -where our friend is now. Tell me just what -he’s doing. I’m going to stand guard over<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_211" id="Page_211">[211]</a></span> -this valve here for a while in case something -happens.”</p> - -<p>“He’s going back into his little cage!” -stated Jimmie from his position. “He’s just -shutting the outer door.”</p> - -<p>“Stand by to see something happen now, -boys!” announced Harry.</p> - -<p>“What’s going to happen, Harry?” asked -Jack.</p> - -<p>Before Harry could answer, a sputter of -water and air was observed at the open valve. -A small quantity of water was blown out of -the pipe. Following this came a rush of -sweet, pure air that was very grateful to the -boys after they had been using the vitiated atmosphere -of their craft.</p> - -<p>In fact, the lads were much nearer the complete -exhaustion of their supply of usable atmosphere -than they really comprehended.</p> - -<p>“Um-m-m!” exclaimed Jimmie, inhaling -great draughts of the incoming current. -“Smell that, will you? It’s just like a posy -bed!”</p> - -<p>“That’s quite remarkable!” declared Ned, -as he, too, sniffed the new atmosphere. “It -does really seem to carry the odor of flowers!”</p> - -<p>“Maybe it’s a sort of gas that he’s unloading -on us to render us unconscious, so he can -capture the whole outfit!” conjectured Jack.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_212" id="Page_212">[212]</a></span></p> - -<p>“I don’t believe it!” protested Ned. “I’m -quite convinced that this is pure air. He -seems to have quite a lot of it stored up!”</p> - -<p>“Let’s pump out some of this foul air and -change with the new!”</p> - -<p>“Go ahead!” consented Ned. “It’s a good -move, I’m sure!”</p> - -<p>In a short time the boys began to feel the -effects of the inflow of vitalized atmosphere. -They were livelier, with less depression.</p> - -<p>Directly their attention was attracted to the -porthole again by a tapping. The stranger -was once more trying to convey some information -by signs. He repeated the motions -of a short time before.</p> - -<p>“I got you!” cried Harry, holding up a hand -as a sign of understanding. “He wants us -to shut the valve off. Perhaps he’s given us -all the nice fresh air that he feels it possible to -spare!”</p> - -<p>“Shut the valve, then,” directed Ned.</p> - -<p>“What’s next?” spoke up Jimmie, listening -to a slight hammering outside of the hull. -“He’s disconnecting the pipe now!”</p> - -<p>“Better wait a bit and see what he wants -us to do,” cautioned Ned. “Maybe he’s going -to cut the line out of our propeller.”</p> - -<p>The lad’s prediction was correct. In a very -few moments they could hear the stranger<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_213" id="Page_213">[213]</a></span> -working away at the encumbering line which -held their propeller in a vise-like grip.</p> - -<p>Not many minutes passed before the -stranger again appeared at the porthole. -Making a few signals easily comprehended by -all, he repaired to his own craft, entering and -closing the door of the air lock.</p> - -<p>Almost immediately the other craft began -to ascend perpendicularly.</p> - -<p>“Guess we may as well make a mooch!” -stated Jimmie, as he watched the other submarine -rise out of their range of vision. -“We’re done here!”</p> - -<p>“All right, let’s get going!” agreed Harry, -stepping toward the levers and preparing to -start the motors at the pilot’s command.</p> - -<p>At once Jimmie sprang to the wheel. He -gave a pull at the bell cord, jangling out a -“go ahead” signal to Harry. As the latter -touched the levers a startling crash at the -stern of the craft was heard.</p> - -<p>The motors spun the shaft around futilely -without making headway.</p> - -<p>With blanched faces the lads glanced about -the craft. Harry’s hand instinctively sought -the levers again to turn off the current.</p> - -<p>“What’s the matter?” called Jimmie from -his position.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_214" id="Page_214">[214]</a></span></p> - -<p>“I don’t know!” declared Harry. “It -sounded as if that fellow had tied a can to us -and we’d set it going! What did he do?”</p> - -<p>“Let’s pump the ballast out and rise -straight to the surface,” suggested Ned. “I -noticed that he did that. Maybe there’s a -reason!”</p> - -<p>Harry lost no time in acting on this suggestion. -The electric pumps were not long in -emptying the ballast tanks. With this weight -removed, the boat quickly shot upward to the -surface.</p> - -<p>As the conning tower portholes rose above -the surface, the boys noticed that the afternoon -was far spent. Darkness already was -gathering.</p> - -<p>Ned was working frantically at the clamps -securing the hatch cover. With a cry of delight -he swung the cover out of position, admitting -a cool breeze. The wind had died -down, leaving the surface of the ocean comparatively -smooth. Sufficient breeze was moving, -however, to serve the purpose of airing -out the interior of the craft without putting -the great fans into commission. All the boys -came to the tiny deck.</p> - -<p>Lying but a few fathoms from their port -side they discerned the other submarine. -Clearly distinguishable on the sides were the<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_215" id="Page_215">[215]</a></span> -great letters “U-13” painted in almost exact -duplicate of those on their own boat.</p> - -<p>“What do you know about that?” was Jimmie’s -surprised exclamation. “If that fellow -isn’t a dead ringer for this ship, I’m a Dutchman!”</p> - -<p>“He surely does look a whole lot like us!” -agreed Ned.</p> - -<p>“I say, Frank,” put in Harry eagerly, “is -that the fellow that sank the ship you were -on? Can you identify it now?”</p> - -<p>Frank shook his head hesitatingly before -he answered slowly: “Boys, I hate to say it, -but it looks as like the other as two peas. I -would not like to make an affidavit, but I’m -willing to say that it bears a most remarkable -resemblance to that other one, if it is ‘other’!”</p> - -<p>“Then, I guess we’re done for!” despaired -Jack. “If that’s a German craft, we may as -well hoist the white flag now and surrender!”</p> - -<p>“Think they’ll take us back to Germany?” -asked Ned quizzically.</p> - -<p>“I’m sure of it!” declared the boy. “And -we won’t stand much show, either, when they -find that we’ve stolen this ship away from -Helgoland!”</p> - -<p>“Goodness!” exclaimed Ned suddenly. “I -declare I’d actually forgotten that we were on<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_216" id="Page_216">[216]</a></span> -board a stolen submarine. That does make -it look rather dubious for us. We are in a -pretty mess!” he added.</p> - -<p>“Here comes someone now!” announced -Jimmie. “Watch the hatch!”</p> - -<p>A movement of the hatch cover on the other -vessel indicated that someone was about to appear -on deck. Slowly a figure stepped forth.</p> - -<p>The stranger was of medium build, and wore -a suit of blue with a round hat to match. He -was carefully dressed. After taking a long -survey of the group on the deck of the false -“U-13,” he waved a hand in welcome.</p> - -<p>“He wants us to come over and pay him a -visit!” stated Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“Why don’t you accept, then?” inquired -Ned. “We’re into it now and may as well -be sociable. Being balky won’t help matters -any!”</p> - -<p>“I would if we had a boat,” announced the -other.</p> - -<p>“Maybe the real ‘U-13’ there has a boat -they’d spare,” suggested Jack. “Why don’t -you hail and ask him if he won’t send a boat?”</p> - -<p>“Hail him yourself if you want to! Maybe -he don’t talk English!”</p> - -<p>“Try him on United States then!” laughed -Jack. “I would!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_217" id="Page_217">[217]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Help yourself!” said Jimmie, leaning back -against the rail.</p> - -<p>“Ahoy the submarine!” shouted Jack in response -to this suggestion. “We haven’t a -boat or we’d come over. Can you send a boat -to us?”</p> - -<p>Waving an arm as if comprehending the -lad’s statement and inquiry the figure on -the other vessel clambered quickly to the after -deck. After a moment’s fumbling at what appeared -to be a lock, he lifted a cover. In a -short time the boys saw him drag from its -place a small, light, steel boat.</p> - -<p>This was at once launched over the side. -Running out upon a light iron ladder the man -dropped into the rowboat. He sculled the -small craft quickly over the intervening distance -and was soon alongside.</p> - -<p>“Come aboard, sir,” invited Ned, reaching -out a hand to assist.</p> - -<p>“Good night!” ejaculated Jimmie. “How -did you ever get here so quickly, Mackinder? -We thought you were aboard that warship!”</p> - -<p>“I’ve been here a long time!” laughed the -other, looking at the lad.</p> - -<p>“You’ve made a quick trip, all right!” returned -Jimmie.</p> - -<p>The others crowded forward with eager,<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_218" id="Page_218">[218]</a></span> -questioning looks. Upon the face of each was -to be seen amazement, wonder and perplexity.</p> - -<p>“Come aboard, Mackinder,” invited Ned. -“We’d like to hear an explanation of the -strange goings on hereabouts. Can you help -us?”</p> - -<p>“First, I’d like to hear your explanations,” -stated the newcomer. “But before you start -your story, please tell me why you call me -Mackinder.”</p> - -<p>“Isn’t that your name?” asked Jimmie. -“Tell us that!”</p> - -<p>“Yes, that’s my name, you know!” replied -the stranger, smilingly. “But how did you -happen to know it? I’m rather puzzled, you -know!”</p> - -<p>“Why, you told us yourself on the train -running into Amsterdam!” stated Jimmie, -with rising indignation. “Then we called you -by that name while you were trying to delay -our start. Also Captain von Kluck used that -name when he referred to you. I guess it’s -your name all right!”</p> - -<p>“I don’t deny that!” stated the newcomer. -“What puzzles me is how you chaps know it -so quickly, don’t you know.”</p> - -<p>“It don’t make much difference how we -know the name so quickly,” went on Jimmie.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_219" id="Page_219">[219]</a></span> -“We’d know you anywhere we saw you. We’d -especially recognize that hand with the scar! -That’s a dead giveaway!”</p> - -<p>The newcomer glanced quickly at his right -hand, which Jimmie had indicated. As he -brought it up to view, the boys could see -a jagged scar running clear across the back. -They had seen such a scar before.</p> - -<p>With an accusing finger pointing at the disfigurement, -Jimmie snapped out in crisp accents -that indicated plainly his excitement:</p> - -<p>“That’s the same hand that tied and gagged -me in the warehouse in Amsterdam, and the -same hand that I saw shoved into the window -of the frontier hut to get the ‘U-13’ package. -Deny it if you can!”</p> - -<p>“I am not going to deny anything, you -know!” returned the other coolly. “You seem -so positive about it there’s little use denying!”</p> - -<p>“You bet there’s no use denying anything -like that!” declared Jimmie with some heat. -“You can’t deny that you tried to sic the -German torpedo boat destroyer onto us, either. -You can’t deny that you sneaked away from -this very submarine when I was painting the -name on the bow. You’d better not try to -deny that you showed us to the British gunboat -a while ago and got them to fire at us. If<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_220" id="Page_220">[220]</a></span> -you start denying anything,” the boy went on, -“I’m going to deny that I’m neutral!”</p> - -<p>With a laugh the newcomer threw back his -head in amused fashion.</p> - -<p>“Have your own way about it, you know,” -he replied, “but I’m going to tell you one -thing. I’m not Mackinder!”</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_221" id="Page_221">[221]</a></span></p> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_XX">CHAPTER XX<br /> -<span class="smaller">A MYSTERIOUS CRAFT</span></h2> - -<p>The surprise of the lads at this declaration -of their visitor was profound. They stared at -the stranger who bore such a striking resemblance -to Mackinder and who had just declared -that he was not that person. Speechless -at the apparent untruth, they could only -stare.</p> - -<p>Seeing their looks of astonishment at his -declaration, the man laughed loudly, apparently -enjoying hugely the joke that the boys -could not see. Supporting himself against the -rail, he gave vent to peals of merriment at the -expense of the five young lads.</p> - -<p>“So you don’t believe me, eh?” he inquired -at length, controlling himself with an effort. -“I can’t blame you, don’t you know!”</p> - -<p>“Say, Mackinder, you ought to be in vaudeville!” -declared Jimmie in reply. “For a -lightning change artist, you’re decidedly it!”</p> - -<p>“Thank you!” acknowledged Mackinder, -choosing to accept the boy’s words as a compliment. -“You’re almost too kind, don’t you -know!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_222" id="Page_222">[222]</a></span></p> - -<p>“And then,” the boy went on, “as a monologue -artist, you’d certainly have them all -backed off the boards. I know a place in New -York where you could draw down your two -fifty per without half trying!”</p> - -<p>“An engagement, do you mean?” queried -the man, with interest.</p> - -<p>“Just that!” stated Jimmie. “And then, -there’s another place up the Hudson a ways -where you ought to be making little ones out -of big ones. They give a fellow a long engagement -there and supply costumes!”</p> - -<p>“All of which means that you’re spoofing -me a bit, don’t you know!” returned their visitor -without resentment. He was apparently -enjoying the situation hugely, and meant to -make the most of it.</p> - -<p>Seeing that his words failed to arouse or -draw out the other, Jimmie turned disgustedly -away to lean over the rail.</p> - -<p>Ned began to question their guest, but was -interrupted by Jimmie, who announced that -he saw a steamer’s smoke on the horizon.</p> - -<p>“This water is quite thickly sprinkled with -vessels of all sorts,” said the alleged Mackinder. -“Perhaps we’d better get out, you -know!”</p> - -<p>“What do you make that vessel out to be?” -asked Ned.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_223" id="Page_223">[223]</a></span></p> - -<p>“It doesn’t make any difference what it is,” -replied the other, “we shall be better off if -they don’t find us! We don’t need them!”</p> - -<p>“Very well,” put in Jimmie, “then we’ll -get up steam on this wagon and slide along. -I’m going to say this to you, though, that -Mackinder or no Mackinder, we’re very grateful -for your help. If we get an opportunity -to reciprocate, we’ll be only too glad to do it!”</p> - -<p>With this, the boy turned and offered his -hand to the man. It was grasped with a hearty -grip that conveyed a sense of friendliness.</p> - -<p>“You can help me right now,” was the response. -“Come aboard my vessel and give -me a hand on a little project I have under -way.”</p> - -<p>“I don’t think we’d better do that right -now,” stated Jimmie. “You see, we’re neutral, -and we don’t want to take sides either -way!”</p> - -<p>“So am I neutral! I care nothing for this -awful war except to see it stop. I shall do -nothing for either side, so rest easy on that -score. But your propellor is broken by having -that line jammed in it. You cannot navigate -your vessel, and would better come aboard -mine!”</p> - -<p>Doubting this statement, Jimmie clambered<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_224" id="Page_224">[224]</a></span> -into the small boat and sculled toward the -stern of the false “U-13”. There he could look -into the water to a depth sufficient to confirm -the other’s statement.</p> - -<p>“It’s no use, boys,” he declared, returning -to the conning tower. “The blades of the propellor -are damaged beyond use. We might as -well go!”</p> - -<p>Securing a line to the bow of the false “U-13” -the man proposed to tow it to a safe place -where it could be anchored to await repairs. -Two trips were necessary to transfer the boys -to the craft which had been of such signal service -in their hour of extreme need.</p> - -<p>Led by their recent guest, who was now -their host, the lads descended into the interior -of the vessel. Here a strange sight met their -gaze. In cages canaries were twittering gaily -while all about the bulkheads had been fastened -pots of plants, some of which were in -bloom.</p> - -<p>“Now I understand why the air you so kindly -pumped into our vessel had the odor of -flowers and growing things!” declared Ned as -he turned to their host. “You have things -fixed pretty cozy here!”</p> - -<p>“Just a touch now and again to make it look -home-like!” said the man. “I prefer the sight -of a flower to that of a cold steel bulkhead.<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_225" id="Page_225">[225]</a></span> -Besides, it’s more healthful to have a few -plants about.”</p> - -<p>Harry was lost in admiration of the machinery -which he declared to be far superior -to that of the vessel they had lately abandoned.</p> - -<p>With a touch their strange host sent the -craft forward at a good speed. He explained -to the lads a gyroscope arrangement by which -he controlled the steering gear that kept the -vessel on any chosen course and at any desired -depth after once being adjusted.</p> - -<p>“And now, if you please, Mr. Mackinder,” -questioned Jimmie at length, “will you be so -good as to tell us what your mission may be?”</p> - -<p>“Certainly!” replied the other frankly. “I -see the steamer is not following us so I will -take plenty of time to give you details.”</p> - -<p>“Thanks!” drily responded the lad. “We’ll -appreciate it!”</p> - -<p>With a laugh the man seated himself on a -locker and motioned the lads to do likewise. -They listened intently as he proceeded:</p> - -<p>“You perhaps all realize that the possession -of wealth is the desire of almost every -human being. I am not different from the -rest in that respect at least. Owing to some -family trouble which I shall not at this time<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_226" id="Page_226">[226]</a></span> -detail, I was not given the advantages that -accrue ordinarily to heirs. I think you will -understand what I mean?”</p> - -<p>“You were left out in the cold when they -passed the dough?” asked Jimmie with a -knowing look. “Just shoved one side?”</p> - -<p>“That’s about it!” replied the man. “But I -resolved to get some money, nevertheless. I -had a fertile imagination, some education and -a very small amount of money. I did not want -to take so cheap a way as to rob or cheat my -fellow men. I was not shrewd enough to enter -the business world. Therefore, I turned my -attention to lost or buried treasure.”</p> - -<p>Jimmie delivered a broad wink toward Ned. -It was not lost by their observant entertainer, -who laughed much to the boy’s confusion.</p> - -<p>“Amongst other inventions that were in -my brain was an instrument for detecting the -presence of gold similar to the instrument -called a compass. In this instance electricity -had nothing to do with its action.</p> - -<p>“To make a long story short, you know, I -finally succeeded in perfecting the arrangement. -It was an amusing circumstance that -I had a very hard struggle preserving my last -gold piece with which to test the device,” he -went on with a laugh at the recollection of his -trials.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_227" id="Page_227">[227]</a></span></p> - -<p>“At last, I thought I had my instrument -perfected. I next needed only something on -which to practice. With my precious treasure -carefully guarded I succeeded in reaching the -Gulf of Mexico, where it is said so much pirate -gold has been buried. Wonderful to relate, I -actually located and recovered a small amount. -It was not large but helped me to fit out a vessel -in which to make other cruises.”</p> - -<p>“And it really worked?” inquired Jimmie -in a tone of unbelief.</p> - -<p>“How well I shall presently demonstrate, -you know,” was the reply. “But I found that -the crew was tricky. They helped me get a -treasure aboard then calmly turned pirates -themselves and ran away with the treasure. -For nearly a year I had hard luck. Then I -succeeded in locating a large sum of gold that -had been buried by a man’s grandfather.</p> - -<p>“My past experiences had taught me that -I could not trust anyone. Therefore I determined -to prosecute my search in other channels.</p> - -<p>“Piece by piece in different shops I had -this vessel constructed after my own designs. -The pieces were assembled in a part of the -Gulf of Mexico little frequented. There I -tried out the undersea boat, named it the -‘U-13’—the ‘U’ standing for Undersea and<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_228" id="Page_228">[228]</a></span> -the ‘13’ in defiance of the popular superstition. -But I found a new difficulty.</p> - -<p>“The instrument, although working perfectly -on land, was not reliable under the -ocean, for as you know there is a large -amount of suspended gold in sea water. That -made the instrument unreliable.”</p> - -<p>“What did you want to go under water for, -anyway?” asked Ned.</p> - -<p>“Gold!” was the curt reply. “So I had to -construct another device that would neutralize -the local attraction of the sea water just -on the same principle that the mariner has the -two iron balls near his compass to overcome -the local attraction on his vessel.</p> - -<p>“Then I was prepared to pursue my quest -for treasure undisturbed. My first venture -was the recovery of a large sum from a sunken -ship in Havana harbor. This provided me sufficient -funds so that I put stores aboard and -came across to seek for the vessels of the -Spanish Armada.”</p> - -<p>“How did you get across the Atlantic?” -asked Jimmie incredulously.</p> - -<p>“In this vessel!” was the reply. “And most -of the way under water, too, you know! I -didn’t want anyone to see me!”</p> - -<p>“But you had to come up once in a while -to get air!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_229" id="Page_229">[229]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Oh, no! Here is a contrivance,” indicating -a huge box-like affair, “with which I separate -the oxygen from the hydrogen by electricity. -Water, as you know, is composed of -two gases—oxygen and hydrogen. Two atoms -of hydrogen combined with one atom of oxygen -and make a tiny bit of water. By the -aid of this special device I segregate the two -gases, use the oxygen and discharge the hydrogen -overboard.”</p> - -<p>“I’m going to take my hat off to you!” declared -Jimmie. “But you had to have some -means to prevent discomfort from the storage -batteries!”</p> - -<p>“Not with these!” smiled the other. “I’m -using, without permission, of course, a new -storage battery that does away with the lead-sulphuric -acid type of battery. The inventor -is a man whose name is familiar to you all. -He uses a nickel, iron oxide and steel combination -in a solution of potash. This battery, -instead of causing inflammation or even proving -deadly as is the case with the old type, -is actually a benefit to a person. It is exactly -opposite in its effect to the old style.”</p> - -<p>“And you manage to make a cruise of days -and days under water?”</p> - -<p>“Surely!” smiled their host. “There’s -nothing to prevent it!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_230" id="Page_230">[230]</a></span></p> - -<p>“That’s going some!” declared Jimmie. -“But I don’t believe you managed to dig up a -lot of gold from the bottom of the ocean!”</p> - -<p>“What is there to hinder?” questioned the -other.</p> - -<p>“Everything!” declared Jimmie. “In the -first place there is all the water about. Then, -too, it would be easier to take this instrument -into the regions where gold is usually discovered -on land. You could prospect with it in -almost the positive knowledge that you would -locate a vein. Digging then would be easy.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, but I don’t like to dig!” laughed the -other. “Perhaps I’m too lazy to do that sort -of thing!”</p> - -<p>“There’s something queer here that I don’t -quite get,” stated Jimmie. “Can’t you explain -a little more in detail?”</p> - -<p>“Why, certainly, I’ll be glad to elucidate!” -was the answer. “You have in mind the securing -of free gold in nuggets and dust. I go -about it in quite another way. My purpose is -to recover the minted coins that have been -placed aboard ships. When the ships sink, no -diver yet has been able to reach those in deep -water. Therefore, most of the gold that has -been carried to the bottom in sunken vessels -is forever lost. I intend to recover a great -deal of it!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_231" id="Page_231">[231]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Then when you know approximately -where the vessel was wrecked or sunk,” put -in Ned, “you go to that neighborhood. Your -instrument indicates the presence of gold and -you follow its directions until the exact spot -is reached. Then you step out and carry the -money aboard your own craft. Is that the correct -explanation?”</p> - -<p>“You have it exactly. And I have done -pretty well so far!”</p> - -<p>“I don’t believe it!” declared Jimmie flatly. -“The whole thing sounds mighty fishy—not -meaning any disrespect,” he added addressing -the man who sat leaning back against a bulkhead.</p> - -<p>“But I assure you that what I have said is -absolutely true!”</p> - -<p>“I’m from Missouri!” stated Jimmie in a -tone of doubt.</p> - -<p>Their host stepped to a locker which he -opened.</p> - -<p>“Great Frozen Hot Boxes!” cried Jimmie.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_232" id="Page_232">[232]</a></span></p> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_XXI">CHAPTER XXI<br /> -<span class="smaller">A MYSTERY EXPLAINED</span></h2> - -<p>“Why, boys, look at this!” cried Jimmie, -his voice rising to a shriek then trailing off into -a whisper. “Did you ever see the like?”</p> - -<p>“Let’s see!” put in Frank, crowding forward. -“What is it?”</p> - -<p>Eagerly the boys gathered around the open -compartment. They heard distinctly the tinkle -of coins as Jimmie seized a handful and let -them slip one by one back into place. Again -and again the boy dived his hands into the -yellow mass of metal. He raised handfuls of -coin to look at them a moment, then let them -drop from his grasp.</p> - -<p>“Good Night!” he ejaculated at length, -turning a round-eyed face to the man who -stood smiling beside the group. “Why, you -must have enough here to buy a farm and -build a fence clear around it!”</p> - -<p>“Quite likely I have!” declared the other -quietly. “But there are two or three other -wrecked vessels that I wish to visit before I -stop. I have the exact locations charted and -have examined the interiors.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_233" id="Page_233">[233]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Why didn’t you take the gold away with -you, then?”</p> - -<p>“For the very simple reason that I found -one pair of hands not enough to perform the -task. I could have taken the gold away from -the sunken wrecks, but the matter of getting -it ashore was another thing!”</p> - -<p>“Why, what’s to prevent?” asked Ned wonderingly.</p> - -<p>“Several things!” declared the other. “In -the first place the peculiar phase of human nature -that makes every man mad when he sees -a lot of money would operate against my plan -of taking the gold ashore. Who could I hire -to move the heavy stuff with any assurance -of their honesty if they once found out what -might be in the packages?”</p> - -<p>“That’s so!” admitted Ned thoughtfully. -“Human nature is crooked!”</p> - -<p>“My plan has been to find some one who -needs the money and who would work on a -percentage basis—share and share alike. We -can then get the money ashore, negotiate the -older coins that possess more than their face -value, bank the current coins and be prepared -to use the wealth exactly as we see fit. So -long as it remains under water it is safe.”</p> - -<p>“But I can’t understand how you get it -aboard!” declared Jimmie.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_234" id="Page_234">[234]</a></span></p> - -<p>“I have a tank of compressed air fixed to -the back of a special diving suit,” explained -the man. “There’s also a search light and a -small storage battery provided. In this suit I -step out through the air lock onto the wreck. -The rest is easy. I return with the load of -gold the same way I went out. The submarine -is anchored. The whole thing is simple!”</p> - -<p>“Sure enough!” exclaimed Jimmie. “Why -didn’t I remember our arrangement on the Sea -Lion? And then, too, we saw you walking -about on the decks of the Wanderer! I guess -I’m going daffy!”</p> - -<p>“What do you say, boys, will you join the -expedition?”</p> - -<p>“We don’t stand much chance of getting -home right away,” stated Ned. “I guess we -might as well—” what he would say was cut -short by the sound of a cannon shot booming -through the gathering darkness.</p> - -<p>“What’s that?” inquired Jack anxiously, -jumping to his feet.</p> - -<p>“I’ll bet it’s that bloomin’ steamer we -saw!” cried Jimmie. “That must be another -of those gun boats and they’re chasing us!”</p> - -<p>“I’ll go up to the deck and see!” offered -Ned.</p> - -<p>“Be careful, don’t let them get you!” -warned Jack.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_235" id="Page_235">[235]</a></span></p> - -<p>“I’ll watch out for that,” laughed Ned, -mounting the iron ladder.</p> - -<p>Directly the little group at the foot of the -ladder were startled to hear their companion’s -voice. A note of anxiety vibrated through his -words.</p> - -<p>“Boys,” Ned cried, “there’s a gunboat out -there, and I think I see another submarine. -It looks to be like the ‘U-13’ for all the world. -What shall we do?”</p> - -<p>“Here,” urged Jimmie, “take the glasses -and have a good look. If it is that Dutchman, -I’m for beating it out of here mighty quick!”</p> - -<p>For a tense moment Ned gazed through the -glasses at the strange vessels. At length he -lowered the binoculars and turned toward his -companions. With a shake of his head and a -quick indrawing of breath, he said:</p> - -<p>“It’s the ‘U-13’ as sure as can be!”</p> - -<p>“Let’s go!” was Jimmie’s only comment as -he turned toward the switchboard with outstretched -hand.</p> - -<p>“I’m with you!” declared Ned, quickly descending -the ladder to join the group. “Go -ahead slow, though. Don’t break the hawser, -or we’d lose the other vessel.”</p> - -<p>“Perhaps we would do better to abandon -your vessel,” Mackinder suggested as he prepared<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_236" id="Page_236">[236]</a></span> -to go on deck. “Let me have the glasses, -if you please. I’ll look them over.”</p> - -<p>Jimmie paused, with his hand on the starting -switch.</p> - -<p>Suddenly all were startled by a cry from -their host.</p> - -<p>“Go ahead! go ahead!” he shouted down -the hatchway. “That other fellow has -launched a torpedo at us!”</p> - -<p>“Let go the line, then!” urged Ned. “We’ll -have to run for it! Full speed, Jimmie!” he -added.</p> - -<p>Mackinder was casting off the hawser with -rapid motions. Jimmie, in response to Ned’s -command, threw the switch over. The “U-13” -began to gather headway.</p> - -<p>All were startled to hear the report of a -cannon shot. This was followed almost instantly -by a shriek from the man on deck.</p> - -<p>“Mackinder’s hit!” gasped Ned, turning a -blanched face to his chums. “What shall we -do?”</p> - -<p>As if in answer to his query, the voice of -Mackinder reached the ears of the lads.</p> - -<p>“Bring an axe!” he shouted. “I’m fast in -the bight!”</p> - -<p>Wrenching an axe from its pocket on the -bulkhead, Ned sprang up the ladder at his -best speed. On deck he found Mackinder<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_237" id="Page_237">[237]</a></span> -caught in a bight of the hawser by which the -other vessel had been towed. His leg was -jammed against the fairleader. Only one -glance was required to show the boy that serious -injury had been done.</p> - -<p>Without waiting for words, the lad stepped -to the side of the fallen man. Swinging his -axe quickly, he struck at the taut bond of hemp. -A shower of sparks followed the ringing thud -of the axe upon the steel deck.</p> - -<p>Mackinder dropped back upon the deck, -limp and helpless, as the singing of the parted -line told of his release.</p> - -<p>With tender solicitude the boys mounted the -ladder to assist their injured friend to the room -below. Scarcely had the boys gained the deck -when they were startled by a terrific explosion. -As Ned afterward declared, it seemed as if -they had been caught in a volcano of water.</p> - -<p>“What has happened?” queried Jack, releasing -his hold upon Mackinder.</p> - -<p>A flood of sea water descending upon the -little deck prevented an answer to his question. -In a moment the lads were able to look about.</p> - -<p>“Where’s our ‘U-13’?” asked Harry.</p> - -<p>“Gone!” stated Ned, his voice trembling. -“I’ll bet that German torpedoed it! I’m glad -we are on this ‘U-13’!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_238" id="Page_238">[238]</a></span></p> - -<p>Echoing this sentiment, the lads hastily proceeded -to lower Mackinder through the hatchway. -This done, the injured man was deposited -on a couch, the hatch was closed, and Ned -began first-aid ministrations.</p> - -<p>“What course shall I hold?” asked Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“Better head on a southwest course,” stated -Ned, briefly glancing up from his work over -Mackinder’s leg.</p> - -<p>“I can do that all right,” responded Jimmie. -“The gunboat and the submarine can fight it -out alone.”</p> - -<p>“We’ve got a clear field, Jimmie, so shove -the little wagon along for all she’s worth,” put -in Jack.</p> - -<p>Mackinder had been exercising wonderful -command of himself, but in spite of his best -efforts a groan now and again escaped. The -injured leg was proving a painful matter.</p> - -<p>“We’ll do all we can for you, Mackinder,” -Ned offered, “but we need better skill than is -available here. Would it not be best to make -at once for some port where we can secure the -services of a surgeon?”</p> - -<p>Mackinder’s only reply was a nod. His -teeth were closed tightly to suppress the cry -of anguish from his hurt.</p> - -<p>“Keep on the surface, boys,” urged Ned as -he went about making the man comfortable<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_239" id="Page_239">[239]</a></span> -with such simple means as were at hand. “I -believe we are not far from the coast.”</p> - -<p>Surrendering the wheel to Frank, and with -Jack at the engines, Jimmie insisted upon -mounting to the deck again to look about them.</p> - -<p>Cool and sweet the air gushed down the little -open hatchway upon the injured man. Under -its influence and aided by the ministrations of -Ned, the proprietor of the third “U-13” rapidly -gained control of himself.</p> - -<p>“Head west southwest,” he instructed Ned. -“We’ll be mighty apt to find the mouth of the -Thames on that course. There are many places -I’d rather go, but you are right—we must -have a surgeon!”</p> - -<p>Giving the course to Harry, Ned proceeded -to do everything in his power to ease the hurt -of their friend.</p> - -<p>“On deck, there!” announced Jimmie presently, -his face at the hatchway.</p> - -<p>“Hello!” answered Ned. “What is it?”</p> - -<p>“I see a light about a point off the port -bow!”</p> - -<p>“What do you make it out to be?”</p> - -<p>“I think it is a lighthouse!” declared -Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“Margate!” murmured Mackinder. “We -are safe enough now, but be careful about the -money, boys!”</p> - -<p>“Sail ho!” rang out Jimmie’s voice again.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_240" id="Page_240">[240]</a></span></p> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_XXII">CHAPTER XXII<br /> -<span class="smaller">MORE MYSTERY</span></h2> - -<p>“What do you see now, Jimmie?” asked -Ned anxiously, stepping to the foot of the -ladder.</p> - -<p>“There’s a small steamer coming up rapidly -from the starboard side,” replied the lookout.</p> - -<p>“Perhaps we’d better dive again,” suggested -Ned.</p> - -<p>“Aw, go on!” protested Jimmie. “What’s -the use of diving every time anything comes -along? We’re neutral!”</p> - -<p>“We are, yes,” agreed Ned, “but this ‘U-13’ -name is not neutral, and if the steamer is an -English vessel they’ll probably not stop to ask -questions.”</p> - -<p>“Why not swing a white light at ’em, then?”</p> - -<p>“That’s a good idea, too!” agreed Ned. “If -they seem to be heading toward us, just get a -white flag going.”</p> - -<p>“They are not showing any light at all,” -announced Jimmie. “They’re just sneaking -along like an express train.”</p> - -<p>“Let us know at once if anything happens,” -Ned responded, turning back to his patient.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_241" id="Page_241">[241]</a></span></p> - -<p>The boys had not long to wait.</p> - -<p>Out of the gathering darkness Jimmie saw -a burst of flame which lighted up a portion -of the approaching steamer. A bright flash in -a wave some distance in advance of the “U-13” -next attracted his attention. The sharp roar -of a cannon came to the ears of all.</p> - -<p>“Are they shooting at us?” asked Ned, again -approaching the ladder.</p> - -<p>“Don’t know!” Jimmie replied briefly. “I -saw the flash and heard the noise. There was -a splash some distance ahead of us in the water. -Maybe they can’t aim straight.”</p> - -<p>Ned mounted the rungs of the ladder without -further delay. He closed his eyes as he -did so, the better to accommodate his vision to -the change from the light below to the darkness -outside. In a moment he was peering in -the direction indicated by Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“Can you make her out?”</p> - -<p>“Yes,” replied Ned. “I can just see a sort -of thick place in the darkness. My eyes will -be all right soon.”</p> - -<p>“I don’t believe they were shooting at us at -all!” commented Jimmie, musingly. “They -can’t see us!”</p> - -<p>As if to disprove this statement, another -flash lighted up the forward portion of the -other vessel.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_242" id="Page_242">[242]</a></span></p> - -<p>Ned grasped Jimmie’s arm and pointed -straight ahead.</p> - -<p>Skipping from wave to wave, throwing up a -fountain of spray from each, the shot from the -steamer plowed its way across the path of the -“U-13,” passing so close that the boys were -struck by the flying drops of water.</p> - -<p>“That means that we are to stop!” declared -Ned. “Next time they’ll shoot <i>at</i> us!”</p> - -<p>“And hit us, too!” excitedly put in the other.</p> - -<p>Without waiting for orders from Ned, the -lad leaned over the coaming of the little hatch.</p> - -<p>“Shut her off, Jack!” he cried. “Back on -your engines. That guy thinks we are Germans!”</p> - -<p>Jack at once complied with the request, and -soon the “U-13” was gently rolling in the -trough of the sea.</p> - -<p>Frank sprang from the wheel to the ladder, -mounting to the deck just as a beam of -flame from a powerful searchlight aboard the -steamer swept the “U-13” from end to end.</p> - -<p>In the glare of the light the three boys stood -plainly visible. They could not, however, distinguish -the details of the other vessel because -of the flaming eye regarding them with unwinking -stare.</p> - -<p>For a few moments they stood close to each<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_243" id="Page_243">[243]</a></span> -other, uncertain what to do. At length a voice -hailed them.</p> - -<p>“Submarine, ahoy! What vessel is that?”</p> - -<p>“Shall I tell them our name?” asked Ned -anxiously.</p> - -<p>“No,” urged Jimmie. “Don’t say ‘U-13’!”</p> - -<p>“They’ve seen it on the side, anyhow!” -scorned Frank.</p> - -<p>“Don’t let them think we’re Germans. Don’t -you see they’re English?” queried Jimmie.</p> - -<p>“It doesn’t signify they’re English, even if -they do speak the language,” returned Ned. -“Can’t you answer?”</p> - -<p>“Ahoy, there!” came an impatient voice.</p> - -<p>“Steamer, ahoy!” replied Ned. “We’re a -peaceful submarine manned by neutral non-combatants!”</p> - -<p>“A likely yarn, indeed!” laughed the -stranger. “Stand by to receive a boat. I shall -send an officer aboard to investigate.”</p> - -<p>“All right, Captain,” consented Ned. “Glad -to meet you!”</p> - -<p>Still standing under the unwinking eye of -the searchlight, the little group waited expectantly -for the arrival of the boarding party.</p> - -<p>A splash of oars preceded the boat which -soon shot out of the darkness.</p> - -<p>In another moment an officer in uniform had -mounted the little deck. Wonderingly he<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_244" id="Page_244">[244]</a></span> -glanced about the group, now augmented by -the arrival of Jack and Harry.</p> - -<p>“Where is your commander?” he inquired -somewhat stiffly, addressing no one in particular.</p> - -<p>Indicating Ned, the boys silently waited.</p> - -<p>“Are you in charge of this vessel?” asked -the officer, with just a trace of amusement.</p> - -<p>“I am and I am not,” replied Ned, with -dignity.</p> - -<p>“That’s very enlightening, I’m sure,” returned -the other. “But time is short, and I -must see the person who is in charge, and that -at once.”</p> - -<p>“The owner is lying in the cabin with a -broken leg which he received as we were escaping -from a German submarine,” explained -Ned. “We boys are trying to get to some port -where we can secure the services of a surgeon.”</p> - -<p>“Oh,” exclaimed the officer, “escaping from -a German?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, sir. They torpedoed another submarine -that we were towing, and in casting off -the towing line the gentleman below was caught -in the line. His leg is badly broken.”</p> - -<p>“Who is this other person?”</p> - -<p>“He gave us the name of Mackinder.”</p> - -<p>A frown settled over the face of their questioner. -Stepping forward, with flashing eyes<span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_245" id="Page_245">[245]</a></span> -he addressed Ned in a low voice vibrant with -emotion.</p> - -<p>“Now, if you have all the lies out of your -system,” he gritted, “we’ll listen to the real -story.”</p> - -<p>“That is the real story!” protested Ned. -“Step below, if you don’t believe me, and you -may see for yourself.”</p> - -<p>“We have already seen enough to discredit -such a wild yarn as that!” declared the other. -“Too many of our brave sailors have been -killed and set adrift by the ‘U-13.’ Besides, -the man you mention is certainly not in the -cabin. I can swear to that. Now, will you -tell me the truth?”</p> - -<p>“I say, Mister,” put in Jimmie, “suppose -you go fifty-fifty with us. Who are you, and -what right have you to stop us?”</p> - -<p>A short laugh was the man’s only answer. -He turned to hail the vessel from which he -had just come.</p> - -<hr /> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_246" id="Page_246">[246]</a></span></p> - -<h2 id="CHAPTER_XXIII">CHAPTER XXIII<br /> -<span class="smaller">THE MYSTERY OF THE “U-13”</span></h2> - -<p>“Ahoy!” his hail rang out over the waters. -“Send another boat aboard us. I will transfer -the crew of this vessel!”</p> - -<p>“Yes, you will!” scornfully replied Jimmie. -“You’ll do a lot, you will. We have something -to say about that!”</p> - -<p>“I am more astonished than I can say,” the -officer replied as he gazed at the lad. “I had -supposed that Boy Scouts would not under any -circumstances lend themselves to a project of -an unworthy character.”</p> - -<p>“Well, who has done all that?” bristled -Jimmie, wrinkling a freckled nose at the man. -“You’re taking a lot for granted, I must say! -Who are you, anyhow?”</p> - -<p>“You’ll find out quickly enough!” was the -answer.</p> - -<p>Turning at the sound of approaching oars, -the officer quickly issued a few short commands.</p> - -<p>In obedience to his orders, the boys were -required to enter the small boat without even -an opportunity of going below.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_247" id="Page_247">[247]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Dodson,” ordered the officer, “take a -couple of men and search the vessel for others. -We were informed there were but five, but -they may have confederates.”</p> - -<p>Wonderingly the lads sat in the boat as they -were rowed across the intervening distance to -the steamer. Scarcely had they set foot on -deck before a line was passed to the submarine -and the vessel was under way, towing their -recent habitation.</p> - -<p>An orderly conducted the lads directly to -the cabin, where they were greeted by an officer -seated at the head of a table. He arose as they -entered and extended a hand to each.</p> - -<p>Motioning to seats, the officer again busied -himself with some papers on the table. For -some time the boys glanced expectantly at each -other, waiting for the officer to open the anticipated -conversation.</p> - -<p>Impatiently the boys waited, listening to the -regular throbbing of the steamer’s propellors -that told they were again under way.</p> - -<p>At length the silence was broken by the arrival -of an orderly. Saluting, he reported -briefly to the officer. A nod dismissed him.</p> - -<p>“Boys,” began the officer in a kindly tone, -“we find ourselves rather puzzled by some mysterious -circumstances which we hope you can -explain. Will you assist us?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_248" id="Page_248">[248]</a></span></p> - -<p>“I assume from the looks of things aboard -that you are English,” answered Ned. “Am I -correct?”</p> - -<p>“You are. This is a scout vessel doing patrol -duty along the coast. In common with others, -we have been on the sharp lookout for a submarine -named ‘U-13,’ which has been doing -considerable damage to our shipping. We capture -it without difficulty, to find it manned by -Boy Scouts instead of Germans, as we had -expected. Can you explain that?”</p> - -<p>“Yes!” laughed Ned. “That is easy. The -boat you have captured is owned by a private -individual named Mackinder, who has been -amusing himself in a perfectly innocent pastime. -He, like ourselves, is neutral, but unfortunately -has gotten into rather compromising -situations.”</p> - -<p>“Mackinder?” repeated the officer, wonderingly.</p> - -<p>“Yes, sir,” continued Ned. “He rescued us -from our disabled submarine. He is now -aboard his vessel with a broken leg.”</p> - -<p>“We had him brought aboard this vessel, -and find that his leg is really broken,” explained -the officer. “But,” he continued, -“you have not quite explained your presence -on a submarine.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_249" id="Page_249">[249]</a></span></p> - -<p>“That is easy—” began Ned. He was interrupted -by a sign from the officer.</p> - -<p>“Just a moment,” the other said. “We will -have Mackinder in here, and perhaps he can -explain a little of the mystery himself.”</p> - -<p>At a command from the man two orderlies -approached. In a few moments the boys observed -four sailors bearing a mattress upon -which lay their late host.</p> - -<p>At the same moment a group approached -from the after part of the cabin. Glancing -from one group to the other, the boys rose to -their feet with exclamations of surprise.</p> - -<p>“Well, Great Frozen Hot Boxes!” cried -Jimmie. “How did you get here, Mackinder?”</p> - -<p>A man from the small group behind the officer -stepped forward, smiling.</p> - -<p>“I was picked up by the fishing boat you -probably saw when I swam away from the submarine -you captured. They transferred me -to this craft. We have since been looking for -you.”</p> - -<p>“Well, I’m glad to see you, anyway,” returned -the lad. “But you couldn’t prevent -our leaving Holland, even if you did try good -and hard. Have you found that package yet?”</p> - -<p>The smile quickly faded from the face of the -other.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_250" id="Page_250">[250]</a></span></p> - -<p>“No, I haven’t,” he answered in a low voice. -“I find that you boys have gotten me into a -lot of trouble, too.”</p> - -<p>“Trouble?” puzzled Ned. “How have we -done that?”</p> - -<p>“By secreting that package,” explained -Mackinder. “You see, I was detailed to duty -on the Holland frontier. When I saw that -package, and knew that you had recently come -from the German lines, I assumed, of course, -that it contained information for the German -submarine that has been causing so much havoc -amongst the English shipping. Without waiting -for orders, I tried to follow you and gain -possession of the object. Now it seems I am -disobeying regulations by absenting myself -from my post of duty without leave. Further, -I was seen aboard or coming from a German -vessel. Hence circumstances look bad for me. -I’m due for a court martial as soon as we land -at Margate, which must be close aboard by -now.”</p> - -<p>All were startled to hear a groan escape the -man lying upon the mattress. He had raised -himself upon one elbow.</p> - -<p>“Oh, Robert!” he cried. “Not that!”</p> - -<p>“Tom!” gasped Mackinder. Soon the two -men were shaking hands at a great rate, tears -in their eyes.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_251" id="Page_251">[251]</a></span></p> - -<p>“Boys,” Mackinder announced at length, -“I must introduce my brother Tom.”</p> - -<p>“We have had the pleasure of meeting the -gentleman,” stated Ned. “In fact, we owe our -lives to his kindness.”</p> - -<p>“But, see here,” demanded Jimmie, stepping -forward, “this needs an explanation. -Which one of you fellows was at the little cabin -on the Holland border?”</p> - -<p>Tom Mackinder smiled, in spite of the pain -of his crushed leg. He turned his glance -toward his brother, whose hand he held.</p> - -<p>“We both were there, Jimmie,” he said. “I -took the package from the window. You see,” -he continued, “it contained plans of my submarine, -with which you are familiar. I tried -to sell the plans to Germany, but found they -had beaten me. So upon my return trip I -slipped the package into your baggage, thinking -to escape search and detention at the border. -I have it here now.”</p> - -<p>As he ceased speaking he drew from his -pocket the same flat package the boys had seen -before.</p> - -<p>“Hurrah!” cried Jimmie. “Now we can -explain how your brother came to be captured -by the Germans, and how under his direction -we stole the other ‘U-13’ and escaped from -Helgoland.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum"><a name="Page_252" id="Page_252">[252]</a></span></p> - -<p>“If what you say is true, young man,” put -in the officer, “the anticipated court martial -may never convene.”</p> - -<p>“We can prove it!” protested Jimmie -vigorously.</p> - -<p>“Then we have solved the Mystery of the -‘U-13’!” declared the officer, with evident -relief.</p> - -<p>“And now we’ll head for the little old U.S.A. -and peaceful neutrality!” was Jimmie’s joyful -comment.</p> - -<p>“But you’ll first arrange to care for your -share of the cargo aboard my boat,” interposed -the injured Mackinder.</p> - -<p>He would not entertain any of the objections -raised by the boys, but insisted that they share -in the treasure which had been recovered from -the ocean’s grasp.</p> - -<p>A few days later as the boys watched the -chalk cliffs of Dover slip away into the eastern -horizon Jimmie turned from the rail of the -steamer upon which they had taken passage.</p> - -<p>“Good by, England, and good by the Mackinders,” -he said. “I’m glad we are out of -the war zone at last and that we solved the -Mystery of the ‘U-13’.”</p> - -<p class="titlepage">THE END</p> - -<hr /> - -<div class="ad"> - -<p class="center">Boys! Own a Man’s<br /> -<span class="larger">Billiard Table</span></p> - -<p class="center">Soon Paid at 10c a Day</p> - -<p>Our handsomely illustrated billiard book—sent FREE to every -boy—reveals the rousing sport thousands of boys are enjoying <i>right -at home</i>. How their parents praise billiards and <i>pay to play</i> till the -table is paid for. How any room, attic, basement or loft gives plenty -of space for a real Brunswick Carom or Pocket Table—now made in -sizes from 2½×5 feet to 4½×9 feet, regulation.</p> - -<div class="figcenter" style="width: 500px;"> -<img src="images/billiardtable.jpg" width="500" height="200" alt="" /> -<p class="center">“BABY GRAND”</p> -<p class="center smaller">Combination Carom and Pocket Style</p> -</div> - -<p class="titlepage">Superb Brunswick<br /> -<span class="larger">“Baby Grand”</span></p> - -<p class="center">“Grand,” “Convertibles” and “Quick Demountables”</p> - -<p>Made of rare and beautiful -woods. Not toys—but scientific -tables, with accurate angles, ever-level -bed—life! speed! lightning-action!</p> - -<p>Yet our prices are low—due -to mammoth output—now $27 -upward.</p> - -<p>You can pay monthly as you -play—terms as low as 10c a day.</p> - -<p>Our famous book—“Billiards—The -Home Magnet”—shows -these tables in actual colors; gives -prices, terms, etc. The coupon -brings it—send today!</p> - -<p class="center"><b>Playing Outfit Free</b></p> - -<p>Balls, Cues, Cue Clamps, Tips, -Brush, Cover, Rack, Markers, -Spirit Level, expert book on -“How to Play,” etc., all included -without extra cost.</p> - -<p class="center"><b>30 Days’ FREE Trial<br /> -Then 10c a Day</b></p> - -<p>Our plan lets you try any -Brunswick <i>right in your own -home 30 days FREE</i>.</p> - -<div class="coupon"> - -<div class="reverso"> - -<p class="center">Mail This For Billiard Book FREE</p> - -</div> - -<p class="center">The Brunswick-Balke-Collender Co.<br /> -Dept. 33Z, 623-633 S. Wabash Av. Chicago</p> - -<p class="center">Send postpaid, free, color book—<br /> -<b>“Billiards—The Home Magnet”</b><br /> -and tell about your Home Trial.</p> - -<p><i>Name</i>............................</p> - -<p><i>Address</i>.............................................................</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<hr /> - -<div class="ad"> - -<p class="center larger">BOYS’ COPYRIGHTED BOOKS</p> - -<p>Printed from large, clear type on a superior quality of paper, -embellished with original illustrations by eminent artists, and bound -in a superior quality of book binders’ cloth, ornamented with illustrated -covers, stamped in colors from unique and appropriate dies, -each book wrapped in a glazed paper wrapper printed in colors.</p> - -<p class="center">MOTOR BOAT BOYS SERIES</p> - -<p class="center">By Louis Arundel</p> - -<ul> -<li>1.—The Motor Club’s Cruise Down the Mississippi; or, The Dash for Dixie.</li> -<li>2.—The Motor Club on the St. Lawrence River; or, Adventures Among the Thousand Islands.</li> -<li>3.—The Motor Club on the Great Lakes; or, Exploring the Mystic Isle of Mackinac.</li> -<li>4.—Motor Boat Boys Among the Florida Keys; or, The Struggle for the Leadership.</li> -<li>5.—Motor Boat Boys Down the Coast; or, Through Storm and Stress.</li> -<li>6.—Motor Boat Boys’ River Chase.</li> -</ul> - -<p class="center">THE BIRD BOYS SERIES</p> - -<p class="center">By John Luther Langworthy</p> - -<ul> -<li>1.—The Bird Boys; or, The Young Sky Pilots’ First Air Voyage.</li> -<li>2.—The Bird Boys on the Wing; or, Aeroplane Chums in the Tropics.</li> -<li>3.—The Bird Boys Among the Clouds; or, Young Aviators in a Wreck.</li> -<li>4.—Bird Boys’ Flight; or, A Hydroplane Round-up.</li> -<li>5.—Bird Boys’ Aeroplane Wonder; or, Young Aviators on a Cattle Ranch.</li> -</ul> - -<p class="center">CANOE AND CAMPFIRE SERIES</p> - -<p class="center">By St. George Rathborne</p> - -<ul> -<li>1.—Canoe Mates in Canada; or, Three Boys Afloat on the Saskatchewan.</li> -<li>2.—Young Fur Takers; or, Traps and Trails in the Wilderness.</li> -<li>3.—The House Boat Boys; or, Drifting Down to the Sunny South.</li> -<li>4.—Chums in Dixie; or, The Strange Cruise in the Motor Boat.</li> -<li>5.—Camp Mates in Michigan; or, With Pack and Paddle in the Pine Woods.</li> -<li>6.—Rocky Mountain Boys; or, Camping in the Big Game Country.</li> -</ul> - -<p class="center">For sale by all booksellers, or sent postpaid on receipt of 50 cents.</p> - -<p class="center">M. A. DONOHUE & CO.<br /> -701-733 So. Dearborn Street, Chicago</p> - -</div> - -<hr /> - -<div class="ad"> - -<p class="center larger">BOYS’ COPYRIGHTED BOOKS</p> - -<p>The most attractive and highest class list of copyrighted books -for boys ever printed. In this list will be found the works of W. -Bert Foster, Capt. Ralph Bonehill, Arthur M. Winfield, etc.</p> - -<p>Printed from large clear type, illustrated, bound in a superior -quality of cloth.</p> - -<p class="center">THE CLINT WEBB SERIES</p> - -<p class="center">By W. Bert Foster</p> - -<ul> -<li>1.—Swept Out to Sea; or, Clint Webb Among the Whalers.</li> -<li>2.—The Frozen Ship; or, Clint Webb Among the Sealers.</li> -<li>3.—From Sea to Sea; or, Clint Webb on the Windjammer.</li> -<li>4.—The Sea Express; or, Clint Webb and the Sea Tramp.</li> -</ul> - -<p class="center">THE YOUNG SPORTSMAN’S SERIES</p> - -<p class="center">By Capt. Ralph Bonehill</p> - -<ul> -<li>Rival Cyclists; or, Fun and Adventures on the Wheel.</li> -<li>Young Oarsmen of Lake View; or, The Mystery of Hermit Island.</li> -<li>Leo the Circus Boy; or, Life Under the Great White Canvas.</li> -</ul> - -<p class="center">SEA AND LAND SERIES</p> - -<p class="center">Four Boys’ Books by Favorite Authors</p> - -<table summary="Books"> - <tr> - <td>Oscar the Naval Cadet</td> - <td>Capt. Ralph Bonehill</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>Blue Water Rovers</td> - <td>Victor St. Clare</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>A Royal Smuggler</td> - <td>William Dalton</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>A Boy Crusoe</td> - <td>Allen Erie</td> - </tr> -</table> - -<p class="center">ADVENTURE AND JUNGLE SERIES</p> - -<p class="center">A large, well printed, attractive edition.</p> - -<table summary="Books"> - <tr> - <td>Guy in the Jungle</td> - <td>Wm. Murray Grayden</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>Casket of Diamonds</td> - <td>Oliver Optic</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>The Boy Railroader</td> - <td>Matthew White, Jr.</td> - </tr> - <tr> - <td>Treasure of South Lake Farm</td> - <td>W. Bert Foster</td> - </tr> -</table> - -<p class="center">YOUNG HUNTERS SERIES</p> - -<p class="center">By Capt. Ralph Bonehill</p> - -<ul> -<li>Gun and Sled; or, The Young Hunters of Snow Top Island.</li> -<li>Young Hunters in Porto Rico; or, The Search for a Lost Treasure.</li> -<li>Two Young Crusoes; by C. W. Phillips.</li> -<li>Through Apache Land; or, Ned in the Mountains; by Lieut. R. H. Tayne.</li> -</ul> - -<p class="center">BRIGHT AND BOLD SERIES</p> - -<p class="center">By Arthur M. Winfield</p> - -<ul> -<li>Poor but Plucky; or, The Mystery of a Flood.</li> -<li>School Days of Fred Harley; or, Rivals for All Honors.</li> -<li>By Pluck, not Luck; or, Dan Granbury’s Struggle to Rise.</li> -<li>The Missing Tin Box; or, Hal Carson’s Remarkable City Adventure.</li> -</ul> - -<p class="center">COLLEGE LIBRARY FOR BOYS</p> - -<p class="center">By Archdeacon Farrar</p> - -<ul> -<li>Julian Home; or, A Tale of College Life.</li> -<li>St. Winifred’s; or, The World of School.</li> -</ul> - -<p class="center">For sale by all booksellers, or sent postpaid on receipt of 50 cents.</p> - -<p class="center">M. A. DONOHUE & CO.<br /> -701-733 So. Dearborn Street, Chicago</p> - -</div> - -<hr /> - -<div class="ad"> - -<div class="box"> - -<p class="center larger">ALWAYS <span class="smaller"><i>ASK FOR THE</i></span> DONOHUE</p> - -<p class="center">COMPLETE EDITIONS—THE BEST FOR LEAST MONEY</p> - -</div> - -<div class="box"> - -<p class="center larger"><span class="larger">WOODCRAFT</span><br /> -<i>for</i> Boy Scouts and Others</p> - -<p class="center"><i>By</i> OWEN JONES <i>and</i> MARCUS WOODMAN<br /> -<i>With a Message to Boy Scouts by</i> SIR BADEN-POWELL, -<i>Founder of the Boy Scouts’ Movement</i>.</p> - -<p>One of the essential requirements of the Boy -Scout training is a <i>Knowledge of Woodcraft</i>. -This necessitates a book embracing -all the subjects and treating on all the topics that -a thorough knowledge of <i>Woodcraft</i> implies.</p> - -<p>This book thoroughly exhausts the subject. It imparts -a comprehensive knowledge of woods from fungus -growth to the most stately monarch of the forest; -it treats of the habits and lairs of all the feathered and -furry inhabitants of the woods. Shows how to trail -wild animals; how to identify birds and beasts by -their tracks, calls, etc. Tells how to forecast the -weather, and in fact treats on every phase of nature -with which a Boy Scout or any woodman or lover of -nature should be familiar. The authorship guarantees -it’s authenticity and reliability. Indispensable to “Boy -Scouts” and others. Printed from large clear type on -superior paper.</p> - -<p class="center"><b>Embellished With Over 100 Thumb Nail -Illustrations Taken From Life</b></p> - -<p class="center">Bound in Cloth. Stamped with unique and -appropriate designs in ink.</p> - -<p class="center"><b>Price, <span class="larger">75c</span> Postpaid</b></p> - -<p class="center">M. A. DONOHUE & CO.<br /> -701-727 S. Dearborn St. CHICAGO</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<hr /> - -<div class="ad"> - -<div class="box"> - -<p class="center larger">ALWAYS <span class="smaller"><i>ASK FOR THE</i></span> DONOHUE</p> - -<p>Complete Editions and you will get the best for the least money</p> - -</div> - -<div class="box"> - -<p class="center larger"><span class="larger">Henty Series</span></p> - -<p class="center"><i>FOR BOYS</i></p> - -<p>¶ G. A. Henty was the most prolific writer of boy’s -stories of the nineteenth century. From two to -five books a year came from his facile pen. No -Christmas holidays were complete without a new -“Henty Book.” This new series comprises 45 titles. -They are printed on an extra quality of paper, from -new plates and bound in the best quality of cloth, -stamped on back and side in inks from unique and -attractive dies. 12 mo. cloth. Each book in a printed -wrapper.</p> - -<ul> -<li> 1 Among Malay Pirates</li> -<li> 2 Bonnie Prince Charlie</li> -<li> 3 Boy Knight, The</li> -<li> 4 Bravest of the Brave</li> -<li> 5 By England’s Aid</li> -<li> 6 By Pike and Dyke</li> -<li> 7 By Right of Conquest</li> -<li> 8 By Sheer Pluck</li> -<li> 9 Captain Bayley’s Heir</li> -<li>10 Cat of Bubastes</li> -<li>11 Col. Thorndyke’s Secret</li> -<li>12 Cornet of Horse, The</li> -<li>13 Dragon and the Raven</li> -<li>14 Facing Death</li> -<li>15 Final Reckoning, A</li> -<li>16 For Name and Fame</li> -<li>17 For the Temple</li> -<li>18 Friends, Though Divided</li> -<li>19 Golden Canon</li> -<li>20 In Freedom’s Cause</li> -<li>21 In the Reign of Terror</li> -<li>22 In Times of Peril</li> -<li>23 Jack Archer</li> -<li>24 Lion of St. Mark</li> -<li>25 Lion of the North</li> -<li>26 Lost Heir, The</li> -<li>27 Maori and Settler</li> -<li>28 One of the 28th</li> -<li>29 Orange and Green</li> -<li>30 Out on the Pampas</li> -<li>31 Queen’s Cup, The</li> -<li>32 Rujub, the Juggler</li> -<li>33 St. George for England</li> -<li>34 Sturdy and Strong</li> -<li>35 Through the Fray</li> -<li>36 True to the Old Flag</li> -<li>37 Under Drake’s Flag</li> -<li>38 With Clive in India</li> -<li>39 With Lee in Virginia</li> -<li>40 With Wolfe in Canada</li> -<li>41 Young Buglers, The</li> -<li>42 Young Carthaginians</li> -<li>43 Young Colonists, The</li> -<li>44 Young Franc-Tireurs</li> -<li>45 Young Midshipman</li> -</ul> - -<p>All of above titles can be procured at the store where this -book was bought, or sent to any address for 50c. postage paid, -by the publishers</p> - -<p class="center">M. A. DONOHUE & CO.,<br /> -701-727 South Dearborn Street - - CHICAGO</p> - -</div> - -</div> - -<hr /> - -<div class="ad"> - -<div class="box"> - -<p class="center larger">ALWAYS <span class="smaller"><i>ASK FOR THE</i></span> DONOHUE</p> - -<p class="center">Complete Editions and you will get the best for the least money</p> - -</div> - -<div class="box"> - -<p class="center">THRILLING, INTERESTING, INSTRUCTIVE<br /> -<span class="larger"><i>BOOKS</i></span></p> - -<p class="center larger"><i>By</i> <span class="larger">HARRY<br /> -CASTLEMON</span></p> - -<p>No boy’s library is complete unless it contains all of -the books by that charming, delightful writer of boys’ -stories of adventure, <span class="smcap">Harry Castlemon</span>. The following -are the titles, uniform in size, style and binding:</p> - -<ul> -<li> 1 Boy Trapper, The</li> -<li> 2 Frank the Young Naturalist</li> -<li> 3 Frank in the Woods</li> -<li> 4 Frank on the Lower Mississippi</li> -<li> 5 Frank on a Gunboat</li> -<li> 6 Frank Before Vicksburg</li> -<li> 7 Frank on the Prairie</li> -<li> 8 Frank at Don Carlos Ranch</li> -<li> 9 The First Capture</li> -<li>10 Struggle for a Fortune, A</li> -<li>11 Winged Arrows Medicine</li> -</ul> - -<p>All of the above books may be had at the store where -this book was bought, or will be sent postage prepaid -at 75c each, by the publishers.</p> - -<p class="center">M. A. DONOHUE & CO.,<br /> -701-727 S. Dearborn Street, CHICAGO</p> - -</div> - -<div class="box"> - -<p class="center"><i>ASK YOUR BOOKSELLER FOR</i><br /> -THE DONOHUE COMPLETE EDITIONS<br /> -and you will get the best for the least money</p> - -</div> - -</div> - - - - - - - - -<pre> - - - - - -End of Project Gutenberg's The War Zone of the Kaiser, by Capt. V. T. Sherman - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE WAR ZONE OF THE KAISER *** - -***** This file should be named 60345-h.htm or 60345-h.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: - http://www.gutenberg.org/6/0/3/4/60345/ - -Produced by David Edwards and the Online Distributed -Proofreading Team at http://www.pgdp.net - - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed. - -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United -States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. Special rules, set forth in the General Terms of Use part -of this license, apply to copying and distributing Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic works to protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm -concept and trademark. Project Gutenberg is a registered trademark, -and may not be used if you charge for the eBooks, unless you receive -specific permission. If you do not charge anything for copies of this -eBook, complying with the rules is very easy. You may use this eBook -for nearly any purpose such as creation of derivative works, reports, -performances and research. They may be modified and printed and given -away--you may do practically ANYTHING in the United States with eBooks -not protected by U.S. copyright law. Redistribution is subject to the -trademark license, especially commercial redistribution. - -START: FULL LICENSE - -THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE -PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK - -To protect the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting the free -distribution of electronic works, by using or distributing this work -(or any other work associated in any way with the phrase "Project -Gutenberg"), you agree to comply with all the terms of the Full -Project Gutenberg-tm License available with this file or online at -www.gutenberg.org/license. - -Section 1. General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic works - -1.A. By reading or using any part of this Project Gutenberg-tm -electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to -and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property -(trademark/copyright) agreement. If you do not agree to abide by all -the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or -destroy all copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in your -possession. If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a -Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work and you do not agree to be bound -by the terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the -person or entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph -1.E.8. - -1.B. "Project Gutenberg" is a registered trademark. It may only be -used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who -agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement. There are a few -things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works -even without complying with the full terms of this agreement. See -paragraph 1.C below. There are a lot of things you can do with Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic works if you follow the terms of this -agreement and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg-tm -electronic works. See paragraph 1.E below. - -1.C. The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation ("the -Foundation" or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection -of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works. Nearly all the individual -works in the collection are in the public domain in the United -States. If an individual work is unprotected by copyright law in the -United States and you are located in the United States, we do not -claim a right to prevent you from copying, distributing, performing, -displaying or creating derivative works based on the work as long as -all references to Project Gutenberg are removed. Of course, we hope -that you will support the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting -free access to electronic works by freely sharing Project Gutenberg-tm -works in compliance with the terms of this agreement for keeping the -Project Gutenberg-tm name associated with the work. You can easily -comply with the terms of this agreement by keeping this work in the -same format with its attached full Project Gutenberg-tm License when -you share it without charge with others. - -1.D. The copyright laws of the place where you are located also govern -what you can do with this work. Copyright laws in most countries are -in a constant state of change. If you are outside the United States, -check the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this -agreement before downloading, copying, displaying, performing, -distributing or creating derivative works based on this work or any -other Project Gutenberg-tm work. The Foundation makes no -representations concerning the copyright status of any work in any -country outside the United States. - -1.E. Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg: - -1.E.1. The following sentence, with active links to, or other -immediate access to, the full Project Gutenberg-tm License must appear -prominently whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg-tm work (any work -on which the phrase "Project Gutenberg" appears, or with which the -phrase "Project Gutenberg" is associated) is accessed, displayed, -performed, viewed, copied or distributed: - - This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and - most other parts of the world 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. If you are not located in the - United States, you'll have to check the laws of the country where you - are located before using this ebook. - -1.E.2. If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is -derived from texts not protected by U.S. copyright law (does not -contain a notice indicating that it is posted with permission of the -copyright holder), the work can be copied and distributed to anyone in -the United States without paying any fees or charges. If you are -redistributing or providing access to a work with the phrase "Project -Gutenberg" associated with or appearing on the work, you must comply -either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 or -obtain permission for the use of the work and the Project Gutenberg-tm -trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or 1.E.9. - -1.E.3. If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is posted -with the permission of the copyright holder, your use and distribution -must comply with both paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 and any -additional terms imposed by the copyright holder. Additional terms -will be linked to the Project Gutenberg-tm License for all works -posted with the permission of the copyright holder found at the -beginning of this work. - -1.E.4. Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg-tm -License terms from this work, or any files containing a part of this -work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg-tm. - -1.E.5. Do not copy, display, perform, distribute or redistribute this -electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without -prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with -active links or immediate access to the full terms of the Project -Gutenberg-tm License. - -1.E.6. You may convert to and distribute this work in any binary, -compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including -any word processing or hypertext form. However, if you provide access -to or distribute copies of a Project Gutenberg-tm work in a format -other than "Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other format used in the official -version posted on the official Project Gutenberg-tm web site -(www.gutenberg.org), you must, at no additional cost, fee or expense -to the user, provide a copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means -of obtaining a copy upon request, of the work in its original "Plain -Vanilla ASCII" or other form. Any alternate format must include the -full Project Gutenberg-tm License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1. - -1.E.7. Do not charge a fee for access to, viewing, displaying, -performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg-tm works -unless you comply with paragraph 1.E.8 or 1.E.9. - -1.E.8. You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing -access to or distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works -provided that - -* You pay a royalty fee of 20% of the gross profits you derive from - the use of Project Gutenberg-tm works calculated using the method - you already use to calculate your applicable taxes. The fee is owed - to the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark, but he has - agreed to donate royalties under this paragraph to the Project - Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation. Royalty payments must be paid - within 60 days following each date on which you prepare (or are - legally required to prepare) your periodic tax returns. Royalty - payments should be clearly marked as such and sent to the Project - Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the address specified in - Section 4, "Information about donations to the Project Gutenberg - Literary Archive Foundation." - -* You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies - you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he - does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg-tm - License. You must require such a user to return or destroy all - copies of the works possessed in a physical medium and discontinue - all use of and all access to other copies of Project Gutenberg-tm - works. - -* You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of - any money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the - electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days of - receipt of the work. - -* You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free - distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm works. - -1.E.9. If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic work or group of works on different terms than -are set forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing -from both the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation and The -Project Gutenberg Trademark LLC, the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm -trademark. Contact the Foundation as set forth in Section 3 below. - -1.F. - -1.F.1. Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable -effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread -works not protected by U.S. copyright law in creating the Project -Gutenberg-tm collection. Despite these efforts, Project Gutenberg-tm -electronic works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may -contain "Defects," such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate -or corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other -intellectual property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or -other medium, a computer virus, or computer codes that damage or -cannot be read by your equipment. - -1.F.2. LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the "Right -of Replacement or Refund" described in paragraph 1.F.3, the Project -Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project -Gutenberg-tm trademark, and any other party distributing a Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic work under this agreement, disclaim all -liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal -fees. YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT -LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE -PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH 1.F.3. YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE -TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE -LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR -INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH -DAMAGE. - -1.F.3. LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a -defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can -receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a -written explanation to the person you received the work from. If you -received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium -with your written explanation. The person or entity that provided you -with the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in -lieu of a refund. If you received the work electronically, the person -or entity providing it to you may choose to give you a second -opportunity to receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund. If -the second copy is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing -without further opportunities to fix the problem. - -1.F.4. Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth -in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you 'AS-IS', WITH NO -OTHER WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT -LIMITED TO WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE. - -1.F.5. Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied -warranties or the exclusion or limitation of certain types of -damages. If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement -violates the law of the state applicable to this agreement, the -agreement shall be interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or -limitation permitted by the applicable state law. The invalidity or -unenforceability of any provision of this agreement shall not void the -remaining provisions. - -1.F.6. INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the -trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone -providing copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in -accordance with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the -production, promotion and distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm -electronic works, harmless from all liability, costs and expenses, -including legal fees, that arise directly or indirectly from any of -the following which you do or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this -or any Project Gutenberg-tm work, (b) alteration, modification, or -additions or deletions to any Project Gutenberg-tm work, and (c) any -Defect you cause. - -Section 2. Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg-tm - -Project Gutenberg-tm is synonymous with the free distribution of -electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of -computers including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers. It -exists because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations -from people in all walks of life. - -Volunteers and financial support to provide volunteers with the -assistance they need are critical to reaching Project Gutenberg-tm's -goals and ensuring that the Project Gutenberg-tm collection will -remain freely available for generations to come. In 2001, the Project -Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation was created to provide a secure -and permanent future for Project Gutenberg-tm and future -generations. To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation and how your efforts and donations can help, see -Sections 3 and 4 and the Foundation information page at -www.gutenberg.org Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg -Literary Archive Foundation - -The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non profit -501(c)(3) educational corporation organized under the laws of the -state of Mississippi and granted tax exempt status by the Internal -Revenue Service. The Foundation's EIN or federal tax identification -number is 64-6221541. Contributions to the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent permitted by -U.S. federal laws and your state's laws. - -The Foundation's principal office is in Fairbanks, Alaska, with the -mailing address: PO Box 750175, Fairbanks, AK 99775, but its -volunteers and employees are scattered throughout numerous -locations. Its business office is located at 809 North 1500 West, Salt -Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887. Email contact links and up to -date contact information can be found at the Foundation's web site and -official page at www.gutenberg.org/contact - -For additional contact information: - - Dr. Gregory B. Newby - Chief Executive and Director - gbnewby@pglaf.org - -Section 4. Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg -Literary Archive Foundation - -Project Gutenberg-tm depends upon and cannot survive without wide -spread public support and donations to carry out its mission of -increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be -freely distributed in machine readable form accessible by the widest -array of equipment including outdated equipment. Many small donations -($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt -status with the IRS. - -The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating -charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United -States. Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a -considerable effort, much paperwork and many fees to meet and keep up -with these requirements. We do not solicit donations in locations -where we have not received written confirmation of compliance. To SEND -DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any particular -state visit www.gutenberg.org/donate - -While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we -have not met the solicitation requirements, we know of no prohibition -against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who -approach us with offers to donate. - -International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make -any statements concerning tax treatment of donations received from -outside the United States. U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff. - -Please check the Project Gutenberg Web pages for current donation -methods and addresses. Donations are accepted in a number of other -ways including checks, online payments and credit card donations. To -donate, please visit: www.gutenberg.org/donate - -Section 5. General Information About Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works. - -Professor Michael S. Hart was the originator of the Project -Gutenberg-tm concept of a library of electronic works that could be -freely shared with anyone. For forty years, he produced and -distributed Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks with only a loose network of -volunteer support. - -Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks are often created from several printed -editions, all of which are confirmed as not protected by copyright in -the U.S. unless a copyright notice is included. Thus, we do not -necessarily keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper -edition. - -Most people start at our Web site which has the main PG search -facility: www.gutenberg.org - -This Web site includes information about Project Gutenberg-tm, -including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to -subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks. - - - -</pre> - -</body> -</html> diff --git a/old/60345-h/images/billiardtable.jpg b/old/60345-h/images/billiardtable.jpg Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 84f77ff..0000000 --- a/old/60345-h/images/billiardtable.jpg +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/60345-h/images/cover.jpg b/old/60345-h/images/cover.jpg Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 8f8d59c..0000000 --- a/old/60345-h/images/cover.jpg +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/60345-h/images/titlepage.jpg b/old/60345-h/images/titlepage.jpg Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 1c7846b..0000000 --- a/old/60345-h/images/titlepage.jpg +++ /dev/null |
