Although the lads had no idea of the nature of their present mission, they had asked no questions of their commander. They knew he would tell them whatever he deemed necessary when the time was ripe; and until that time they were satisfied to await whatever might transpire.
But one thing the boys had noticed which had given them much food for thought. In the prow was mounted a small but heavy gun, and a second one of the same size loomed up formidably astern. Plainly they were there for a purpose, and Frank and Jack both realized that there was serious work ahead of them.
Lord Hastings himself had examined both guns carefully and announced that they were in first-class condition.
"All ready for use," he had said.
And now, although neither lad knew it, the time was fast approaching when they were to be greatly needed.
Several times in the course of the next hour Lord Hastings ordered Jack to see what he could pick up ahead; but each time the result had been the same. There was nothing to disturb the calm peacefulness of the night.
And then they were spared the need of another look, for there suddenly loomed up less than a hundred yards ahead a dull-glowing white light.
"To the forward gun, Mr. Templeton," ordered Lord Hastings, thus, for the first time on this mission, falling into old aboard-ship terms.
Jack sprang forward.
"Man the gun astern."