“Then why did he do it?” questioned Frank.
“Why,” said Lord Hastings, “because, had he followed another mile, the entire British fleet might have been sent to the bottom.”
“What do you mean?” asked Jack.
“Mines,” replied Lord Hastings. “The enemy has reached the protection of his mine field.”
“I see,” said Frank, somewhat taken aback. “Of course. I should have known that the Admiral had some good reason for not following up his advantage.”
“You let your feelings get away with you sometimes,” said Lord Hastings.
“Well, I’ll promise not to do so any more,” said Frank.
“I wouldn’t make any rash promises, if I were you,” said Jack, with a smile.
“Well, I mean it,” said Frank.
“Oh, well, if you mean it, all right. Only you are liable to forget yourself if you are not careful.”