“Tension indicators in position,” announced Speake.
“Dive at the rate of twelve yards to the minute, Clackett,” ordered Bob.
A hiss of air, escaping from the ballast tanks as the water came in, was heard. A tremor ran through the steel fabric, followed by a gentle downward motion. Bob kept his eyes on the manometric needles. Twenty yards, twenty-five, thirty, and forty were indicated. A pressure of ten pounds to the square centimeter was recorded.
“Plates are beginning to bend, captain,” called Speake.
This was not particularly alarming, for the baulks would settle down to their work.
“Close the bulkhead doors, Dick!” called Bob.
“Aye, aye!” returned Dick, and sounds indicated that the order was immediately carried out.
“Sixty yards,” called Clackett; “sixty-five, seventy yards——”
“Hold her so!” cried Bob.