“Upon my report,” said he, “will largely depend the acceptance or rejection of the craft when she reaches Mare Island. Don’t overlook that point. A lack of discipline will get us all into trouble, and may result in the loss of the——”
“I will attend to the discipline,” said Bob stiffly. “If the boat behaves well, you can find no fault with the way I manage her. I must ask you not to bother me with any remarks as to how the Grampus is to be run. I and my friends are not in the naval service, but we all know the submarine perfectly and understand what is expected of us.
“The cruise we are to make is one that no submarine ever made before. It is full of dangers, and unforeseen difficulties are going to bob up and will have to be dealt with. The Grampus is equal to the work, and in due time she will be delivered to the commandant at Mare Island, but I want, and will insist on having, a perfectly free hand. A friendly footing is what I desire among all on board, more than anything else.”
Bob smiled and stretched out his hand.
“Just a minute, Mr. Steele,” said Glennie, pursing up his lips. “I understood that I was to be here in an advisory capacity. From your talk I take it that you consider yourself the whole works, and that I am to play the rôle of an innocent bystander.”
“I am to manage the boat,” returned Bob firmly.
“Then,” cried Glennie, “if you get us into serious difficulties, I am to say nothing, but bear the brunt of your mistakes along with the rest of the men?”
“Do you know anything about submarines?”
“A graduate of Annapolis is equipped with all the knowledge he can possibly need in his work.”
“Theoretical knowledge,” qualified Bob. “Have you ever had any practical experience on a submarine?”