The men sprang quickly to their posts at Jack’s command, and then Lord Hastings gave the order to rise slowly.
Slowly the water was forced from the tanks once more, and gradually the submarine arose, until her periscope once more protruded just above the water.
“No. 2 torpedo!” ordered Lord Hastings. “Ready?”
“Aye, aye, sir,” came the reply of the man, who stood almost at his commander’s elbow, and therefore could plainly hear the command.
For the others, further away, it would be necessary to use the signal board.
“Fire!” cried Lord Hastings.
A sharp metallic click was the only answer, and all on board stood quiet. Lord Hastings kept his eye glued to the periscope.
Then those on board saw him throw up his hand with a gesture of satisfaction, and none needed to be told that the torpedo had gone true.
Now the attention of all was given to the signal board, at Lord Hastings’ side. The men stood at their posts, as did Frank and Jack, awaiting the signal that would mean the firing of another torpedo.
There was not a sound to break the stillness other than the purr of the engine. But the stillness could only be termed such because there were no regular noises. In spite of this a voice could be heard but a few feet away, because of the heavy pressure of the water above.