Frank gave a low whistle. It was a plan after his own heart, but he was keenly sensitive to the danger that it involved.
"Very well, sir," he said quietly.
"This," declared Jack, manifesting a show of enthusiasm, "is where we have a little fun."
CHAPTER XIII.
A DESPERATE VENTURE.
There was not a sound aboard the submarine as The Hawk grated alongside. To climb aboard the silent vessel, which lay so low in the water, was a simple task. Lord Hastings went first and Frank and Jack followed in order. Behind the latter came Edwards and behind him three sailors, Allen, O'Brien and McDonald.
For a brief moment they stood silently upon the deck, each with a revolver in his hand. Then Lord Hastings led the way to the conning tower, which was open, and descended. The others were close behind him.
At the foot of the companionway Lord Hastings paused again, straining his ears for a sound. None came. He motioned the others to follow him and led the way aft.
At the extreme afterpart of the vessel he paused before a door on the port side. From within came the sound of voices.