On this second passage of the canal, Lord Hastings decided to make no raid upon the enemy’s fleet cooped up within it, and accordingly the D-16, running close to the bottom, guided by Lord Hastings’ own hand, made the trip in safety, without encountering a single one of the enemy’s under-the-sea fighters. However, she did not rise immediately when she was once more in the North Sea, for these waters were mined for miles, and it was necessary for the D-16 to pass under the mined area before coming again to the surface.
But, going more swiftly now, the British submarine soon reached a zone of comparative safety and Lord Hastings gave the command to come to the surface once more. Then, followed by Frank and Jack, he stepped on to the bridge for a breath of the cool air.
“Well, I was sure we would get through safely, and we have,” said Jack, as he peered off across the water.
“And we have accomplished,” said Lord Hastings, “such a feat as was never before attempted, and one that has been rated as impossible. You lads are both deserving of the greatest praise for your coolness and bravery.”
“No more than our commander, I am sure,” replied Frank quietly. “Had it not been for you, the trip never could have been made.”
“But,” said his commander, “had it not been for you lads, the trip would never have been thought of.”
“Well,” said Frank with a laugh, “we’ll call it square all around and let it go at that.”
“Suits me,” declared Lord Hastings, also laughing.
“It seems to me,” said Jack, “that the crew is just as deserving of praise.”
“So they are,” said Lord Hastings, “and I shall see that their names are given special mention in my report to the Admiralty.”