"None of that," he said sharply, as the commander made another move as though to draw.
The Austrian commander evidently thought better of his act, for his hands flew above his head. Jack advanced quickly and relieved him of his weapons. Then he marched him to the bridge.
"Now," said Jack calmly, "you will signal the engine-room for half-speed ahead."
The officer started to protest, but at the sight of Jack's revolver, leveled right at his head, he reconsidered and did as ordered. Jack now motioned Frank to stand guard over the Austrian commander, and himself took the wheel.
Slowly the Austrian cruiser, her head describing a wide circle, gathered speed and turned in the direction of the allied fleet. Evidently those below had no idea that anything was wrong, for not a sound reached the ears of those on deck.
Now, at Jack's command, the commander signaled the engine-room for full speed ahead, and the pace of the cruiser increased. Swiftly she dashed along in the night, but was suddenly checked in her flight by a hail from across the water:
"What ship is that?"
Jack recognized the voice of Captain Dreyfuss, and called back:
"Captured Austrian cruiser, sir. This is Templeton. What shall
I do with her?"
"Take her on to the fleet," came the reply.