“As you know, the British home fleet is in the North Sea, bottling the Germans up in Kiel and Helgoland. There is likely to be a battle there almost any time. My yacht, the Sylph, has been converted into a scout cruiser, and has been heavily armed.
“Although the Sylph is listed as being able to make a speed of only twenty knots, nevertheless it is swifter than any of our war vessels. This unknown speed has been useful more than once. My naval rank is that of captain, and I have been ordered to the North Sea with the Sylph!”
“What!” exclaimed the two lads, and Frank continued:
“Why cannot you take us with you?”
“Just what I was about to propose,” declared Lord Hastings. “Would you like to go with me, or would you prefer to join the army?”
“The sea for me!” exclaimed Jack.
“For me, too!” declared Frank.
“Good!” replied Lord Hastings. “Then that part is settled.”
“But what will be our duties?” asked Jack.
“Well, while you will be only unofficial members of the crew, in view of the service you have done for England, I believe my influence is great enough to have you rated as midshipmen.”