“You mean that we may succeed in drawing the German fleet into the open?”
“Yes, sir. Of course Admiral Jellicoe must be informed of how matters stand and how they progress, so that he may act in conjunction with us.”
For fully half an hour Lord Hastings sat twirling his thumbs, turning this scheme over in his mind. Neither Frank nor Jack interrupted his meditations, both awaiting his decision anxiously.
“The only difficulty I can see in your plan,” said Lord Hastings finally, “is how we shall get word to Admiral Jellicoe without the plotters overhearing. You say Hardy is an operator?”
“Yes,” replied Frank, “but whenever we are ready to send a communication to Admiral Jellicoe that we do not wish overheard, or to any other place, it will be very simple for Lieutenant Taylor, and Hardy also, to be ordered to some duty at the far end of the vessel at that moment.”
“So it will,” said Lord Hastings, slapping his knee. “Your plan is a splendid one; and, if it works out, as I believe it will, you will have rendered England a tremendous service—one that shall never be forgotten.”
“Then you will act upon my suggestion, sir?” exclaimed Frank with great delight.
“I shall; and I want to say that I am proud to have two such youngsters with me. Why, you both have been of greater value to me than I ever believed it possible for anyone to be.”
“Thank you, sir,” said both lads in a single voice.
“You may go now,” Lord Hastings continued, “while I remain and work out the details of the plan. And remember, not a word of this to a soul. Send Lieutenant Edwards to me!”