"So it is," replied Jack. "I don't know where the admiral got his information, but I've got my doubts of its authenticity."
Frank's eyes were caught at that moment by the sight of a small row boat putting off from the shore. He watched it idly for a moment, and then noted that it was headed directly for the Essex.
"Hello," he said, "here comes some one to visit us."
Directly the little boat scraped alongside the now stationary destroyer and the figure in the boat indicated that he wanted to come aboard.
"Don't know what he wants," muttered Jack, "but it'll be just as well to have him up and find out."
A few moments later the occupant stood before Jack and his officers on the bridge.
"My name," he said, "is Charles Cutlip, and I live back there." He waved a hand shoreward. "I suppose you are hunting for submarines, Captain?"
Jack nodded.
"That's what we're here for," he affirmed.
"I thought so," said young Cutlip—he was a little more than a boy. "Well, Captain, maybe I can help you."