“We’ve only two revolvers,” muttered Dick, “and there are three rifles in that boat. What can we do?”
“Nothing with firearms. We’ve got to make a different play, Dick.”
A moment longer Bob waited, studying the approach of the launch with calculating eyes; then, suddenly, he turned.
“In with the anchors, Clackett, you and Carl,” he called. “See how quick you can get them off the bottom. Start your engine, Gaines,” he added.
The lifting of the anchors caused the Grampus to drift with the current. But only for a moment. Soon the screw took the push and Dick, under orders from Bob, headed the craft upstream and the propeller worked just fast enough to hold her steady.
“Anchor’s stowed!” called Clackett.
“Jump for the tank room, Clackett!” called Bob. “Carl, up here with you.”
As Carl came rolling excitedly into the periscope room, Clackett reported, by tube, that he was back at his usual post.
“Keep the Grampus pointed for the launch, Dick,” said Bob. “Carl, take a coil of rope and climb to the conning-tower hatch. The moment the tower’s awash, open the hatch, get out on the deck and do what you can with the rope.”