Lord Hastings smiled a bit.
“I am not sure that she can keep it up without straining something,” he said. “But it is better to be on the move than lying still. The ice won’t part for us of its own free will, that’s sure.”
Still the D-17 plowed slowly along; and then, perhaps half a mile from the starting point, she stopped.
“Back her and try again,” was Lord Hastings’ command.
This was done and again the vessel made headway. This process was repeated time after time; and some five hours later, those upon deck made out clear water beyond, though there was a considerable expanse of ice to penetrate.
Undaunted, Lord Hastings continued to force the D-17 against the apparently impenetrable barrier; and at last the D-17 broke clear.
Lord Hastings gave a sigh of relief.
“Now for Petrograd at full speed,” he said. “We’ll have a look over the ship as we go along. There is no need stopping to do it here. Every minute may be precious. Take the wheel, Mr. Chadwick, while I make a tour of inspection.”
Frank did so, and Lord Hastings turned to Jack with this command:
“Full speed ahead, Mr. Templeton!”