“In that case,” said Lord Hastings, “we shall be glad to accompany you.”
The Russian bowed.
“Then,” said Lord Hastings, “if we may trouble you to set us aboard our own vessel, we shall follow you at a respectable distance. Besides, I should be pleased to have you come aboard, for I can promise to show you such a submarine as it has never been your pleasure to see before.”
“I shall accept that offer with pleasure,” replied the Russian.
Calling his first officer, he ordered that a boat be lowered, into which they all stepped and were soon upon the bridge of the D-16.
Frank received his commander and his chum with unfeigned delight, for he had been greatly worried about them.
“It was all my fault,” the Russian commander said. “As your commander told me, I was thick-headed. I am sorry.”
“Say no more about it,” declared Lord Hastings. “Mistakes will happen.”
All descended below, and, the Russian commander expressing a desire to go beneath the sea, the D-16 submerged.
Then Lord Hastings conducted the Russian on a tour of inspection of the vessel, and explained its mysteries to him. The Russian was charmed, and all sat and talked long into the night.