“Professor, you might give Ned a little help,” went on the steersman. “Those planes haven’t been used lately, and they may be a trifle stiff.”
“Of course, Jerry,” and the scientist, laying aside his precious notes, went out on the main deck.
Nearer and nearer to the wreck went the Comet. Every moment the boys dared spare from the wheels and levers they peered at the steamship, rolling lazily on the swell below them.
Would she prove to be the Hassen?
“Can you make out any name?” asked Ned, standing ready with his hand on the hydroplane lever.
“Not yet,” answered the professor.
It was Bob who made the welcome discovery, and perhaps, since it was Bob’s relatives they had come to save, it was very fitting that the stout lad should have had this honor. Bob gave a cry, which caused Jerry to turn and look at him.
“What is it?” asked the tall lad.
“That steamer! She’s the Hassen, all right! I just caught a glimpse of the name under her stern as she rolled that time.”
“Are you sure?”