The electric signal board aboard the submarine now flashed red:
"No. 2 torpedo!"
The man on duty there, who chanced to be a German, stood tense and expectant.
"How does she go above, sir?" asked Jack.
"Still a panic on the liner," returned Lord Hastings. "Several boats have been lowered safely, however, and are picking up those in the water. If the German will withhold his fire for ten minutes, all will be saved."
"Does he seem to be ready to fire, sir?"
"He seems to be holding off and I hope he does. However, I'm ready, and we'll beat him to it."
"I——" began Jack, and whirled about suddenly. He had caught the sound of footsteps behind him.
The lad looked into the face of Davis.
"Stand back there!" he commanded sharply.