"You have certainly seen excitement," said the President. "I am glad to have seen you. Give my regards to your father when you see him. I am glad to have met you, too, Captain," and the President shook hands with Jack. "I hope to have the pleasure of meeting you both again some day."
The lads understood by this that the interview was ended. They followed Secretary Daniels and the British ambassador back to the former's office, where the latter handed Jack a paper.
"Cable from the British Admiral, I judge," he said.
Jack read the message.
"You are right, sir," he said. "We are ordered to home waters whenever you are through with us, sir."
"I judged as much," said the Secretary, "which is the reason I had Admiral Sellings order you to report to me. You are at liberty to return whenever you please, sir. But first let me thank you for your services in the name of the American people."
"Thank you, sir," said Jack, and saluted stiffly.
The lads now took their leave. The ambassador insisted on their going home with him to dinner.
"But we should get back to our ship at once, sir," Jack demurred.
"Never mind," said the ambassador, "I'll take the responsibility of holding you over an extra day."