“Captain,” he said, “order these men on deck ahead of you.”
The German made a move as though to refuse, but Jack’s revolver covered him and he did as commanded. The men, unarmed, filed up to the bridge.
“You next, captain,” said Lord Hastings, politely, stepping aside.
The German made a move as though to draw a revolver, and Jack was at his side in an instant.
“I’ll relieve you of your weapons,” he said quietly.
The German commander was forced to submit while the lad searched him and took his guns. Then, at another command from Lord Hastings, he followed his men on deck.
“Now,” said Lord Hastings, “you will instruct your men to lower that small boat and put off. Is this all your crew, sir?”
“Yes,” replied the German shortly.
“Good. For their sakes I hope you are telling the truth. For as soon as we are all safe, I intend to sink this vessel. Now order your men over the side.”
The German commander did as commanded, and soon the crew of the Teuton vessel were pulling away in the launch.