There was a sound of a shot from the rowboat, followed by many other shots. Von Ludwig waved a hand in derision.
"You're too late," he called. "Shoot away. I don't think you will hit anything."
"But, sir," said Frank, "they will awaken every sleepy German hereabouts."
"That's so," said von Ludwig. He called to Jack: "Full speed ahead, Mr.
Templeton."
Jack gave the word and the vessel dashed ahead.
"I don't know anything about these waters, sir," exclaimed Frank, in some alarm. "There may be mines about."
"Not here," was von Ludwig's reply. "Farther on, yes. That's why I have this chart. We'll run the mine fields safely enough, barring accidents."
"What is my course, sir?" asked Frank.
"Due north until I tell you to change."
Frank said nothing further, but guided the vessel according to instructions. Behind, the rowboat had given up the chase, but now, from other parts of the harbor, from which the Bismarck was fast speeding, came sounds of confusion.