"Then why not warn the United States, sir?" asked Frank. "There are enough American ships of war off the coast to deal effectually with all the submarines the Germans can get across."
"So I would," was Lord Hastings' reply, "but for the fact that some officials of the admiralty are opposed to it."
"Opposed?" exclaimed Jack. "And why, sir?"
"Because they labor under the delusion that such a warning would throw the people of the United States into a panic and would prevent the sending of additional troops to France."
"What a fool idea! By George!" exclaimed Frank, "what do they think the American people are made of?"
"You'll have to ask them," was Lord Hastings' answer to this question. "For my own part, I feel that it is hardly fair to keep this information from the American authorities."
"I should say it isn't fair," declared Frank.
"I agree with you," said Jack. "But just where do Frank and I come in, sir?"
"I'll make that plain to you very quickly," replied Lord Hastings.
He drew a paper from his pocket and passed it to Jack.