Slowly the gray dawn approached and the first light disclosed the two submarines well inland, but apparently in distress. One of them seemed to have been disabled, and the other was standing by as though to give aid.
Both boys watched eagerly for the development of the strategy, details of which were known to every officer on the Sylph. They had not long to wait, for the German lookouts had been quick to note the seemingly crippled condition of the submarine.
It was also evident from the movement of the German torpedo craft that they, too, had discovered the Fearless, for these swift destroyers were speedily put in motion, some heading for the submarines, while others started toward the Fearless.
Perceiving that the ruse was working, the Fearless put on full speed and turned to the northwest. The Sylph followed her example, and the two boats sped away with the Germans in full chase.
Meanwhile, the Germans were getting their first surprise. Having filled their tanks, the submarines quickly disappeared beneath the waves.
Looking backward, the boys could see what had happened.
“I hope they don’t suspect what we are doing,” said Frank.
“I should think they would,” replied Jack. “I should think anybody could see it was a ruse.”
“That is because you know all about it,” laughed his companion. “If you did not, you would do just exactly what the Germans are doing.”
The words had scarcely left his lips when there was a flash from the pursuing torpedo boats, quickly followed by others, and the shells began to fly over and about the Fearless.