And so the submarine continued on its course beneath the sea for the rest of the night, running slowly.
At eight o'clock in the morning, Lord Hastings decided to go to the surface for a look around. He stopped for a moment, however, just below the surface, with the periscope protruding slightly above the water and took in his surroundings.
In the distance he made out a coast line, which, according to his calculations, should be the coast of Belgium.
"We should not be more than an hour's run from Ostend," he told the lads. "We'll continue on the surface."
The submarine was brought clear of the water and continued on her way.
But there was to be no need of the submarine putting into Ostend. Half an hour after the vessel had been brought to the surface, Frank, who was alone for the moment upon the bridge, made out a second submarine approaching. Quickly he summoned Lord Hastings and Jack.
"Well," said Lord Hastings, "here is where we have to do some tall talking, as the Americans would say. He's headed directly for us."
It was true. The submarines were approaching each other rapidly.
The enemy slowed down, and in response to Lord Hastings, the captured vessel did likewise. A voice from a figure on the bridge of the second vessel came across the water.
"Who are you?"