The commander of the submarine looked somewhat dubious.
"Oh, I'll guarantee they won't be in the way," said Lord Hastings with a laugh, and he proceeded to relate to the astounded commander some of the things the lads had already accomplished.
Captain Nicholson arose, and took each lad by the hand.
"I shall account it an honor to have you with me,"' he said quietly.
"So be it, then," said Lord Hastings. "I shall remain here with the Sylph until you return."
Both lads thanked Lord Hastings heartily for giving them this opportunity of seeing something of under-the-sea fighting aboard a British vessel.
"How soon do you plan to start?" Lord Hastings inquired of
Captain Nicholson.
"Immediately," replied the commander of the submarine Y-3.
"And how long do you figure it will be before you can return here?"
"Not more than thirty-six hours."