But now the air of quiet that had been prevalent before the D-16 submerged was changed. The peaceful appearance of the French fleet, which had been lying quietly in the water, was gone.
As the three officers stepped upon the bridge, hoarse cries of command came to their ears. Battleships began to move from their moorings, and all were cleared for action.
“Great Scott!” ejaculated Frank. “What do you suppose is the matter?”
“I don’t know,” said Lord Hastings, but Jack cried:
“Look!”
Lord Hastings and Frank gazed in the direction indicated, and both cried out in alarm and amazement.
Not half a mile away a French cruiser of the first class was sinking by the head. Members of her crew were throwing themselves into the sea, and boats from other ships were standing by to pick them up.
“What do you suppose is the matter? Explosion?” asked Frank.
“Looks like it,” answered his commander. “I——”
But Jack supplied the answer.