For the flags that fluttered in the breeze were the flags of Germany!
CHAPTER XI.
AT CLOSE QUARTERS.
Below, Jack and Frank were still struggling with the German officer, but Lord Hastings had no time to lend them a hand. He raised his voice in a shout, and the crew came running at his command.
“Submerge instantly!” he cried.
But already sharp eyes aboard the German cruisers had caught sight of the submarine, and even as she sank suddenly from sight a single gun roared. The aim of this particular gunner was excellent; for the periscope of the D-16 was carried away as clean as a whistle.
Lord Hastings, who had been peering through it from below, was instantly aware of what had happened, and he immediately rushed to the compartment where the searchlight was placed and turned it on. This was now the only eye the submarine had with which to look for danger ahead.
Lord Hastings again raised his voice and a sailor came running to him. The commander of the vessel turned the lookout over to him and rushed to where he had left Frank and Jack.
When Frank had gone to his friend’s assistance, he had thought that together they would have little trouble overcoming the German officer. But the latter, in spite of Jack’s strength and all that Frank could do, was giving a good account of himself.
Blow after blow he landed upon each of the lads, but none had the power behind it to put them down. Time after time the two lads had closed in on him, only to be shaken off for the German was as slippery as an eel.
But finally Jack succeeded in gaining a strangle hold on the German, and putting forth his greatest strength, bore him to the floor, where both lads piled on top of him, pinioning his arms and legs. It was at this moment that Lord Hastings appeared upon the scene and rushed forward to lend a helping hand.