"Hastings dead!" cried the commander of the Cumberland. "It is impossible!"
"No, sir," said Frank. "It is true."
For a moment the commander bowed his head in reverence. Then he raised his eyes and looked at the boys.
"He was my very good friend," he said simply, and motioned the boys to follow him below.
Inside the cabin of the commander of the Cumberland, the captain motioned the lads to seats.
"Now we shall see what is to be done with you," he said. "At present, because of the loss of the Sylph, you are, of course, unattached. How would you like to go with me?"
"Where to, sir?" asked Jack.
"I'll explain," replied the captain. "Until yesterday the Cumberland was one of the blockading fleet off Heligoland. You can understand, therefore, that I have already heard of you lads. I have been ordered to patrol the west coast of Africa, and, if I mistake not, there will be fighting. I have recently lost two of my midshipmen through illness. You may have their places. What do you say?"
Both lads had taken a great liking to Captain Marcus at first sight, but it was Jack who made answer for both:
"Thank you, sir. We shall be glad to go with you."