This was the work of an instant.
“How deep are we?” asked Jack.
“Quarter of a mile,” replied Lord Hastings briefly.
“Then the pressure will not be so bad for you fellows,” said Jack.
He stepped to No. 1 torpedo tube and examined it.
“All right,” he said. “The only trouble you may have is that you will not be seen when you reach the surface. However, that is the chance you will have to take. Just keep your senses, and when you reach the surface swim until you are picked up. How does the barometer read?”
“Clearing,” replied Frank, after a quick glance.
“Good! I was afraid it might be stormy above.”
He paused and looked around. All was in readiness.
“Now,” he said, “the longer you stay here the more danger. The sooner we get it over with the better. You first, Lord Hastings.”