Speeding forward in the wake of the German cruisers, which the periscope made plain, were all the German torpedo boats, except three. These lay helpless upon the surface of the sea, and it was plainly evident that they were settling rapidly.
Their crews were hurriedly getting out the small boats, and jumping overboard. The D-16 had done her work well.
Frank turned away from the periscope.
“Three notches in the table,” he said to Jack, who stood at his side.
“Right,” replied the latter briefly.
Feeling perfectly secure now, Lord Hastings ordered that the submarine be brought to the surface, and followed by Frank and Jack, he stepped out on the bridge.
They stepped out just in time to see the sinking of the Bluecher by the British cruiser Lion, and from their posts they watched the chase of the others. Frank and Jack were greatly surprised when the British admiral signalled for his ships to draw off.
“Great Scott!” exclaimed Frank. “He had them right in his hands. Why didn’t he follow ’em up?”
“It’s too deep for me,” said Jack, in some disgust.
“Come, come,” said Lord Hastings. “You must give the Admiral credit for having some sense, you know.”