Carl was bewildered. What was he to do with the rope? Nevertheless, he obeyed orders.
Bob continued to watch the periscope table and to calculate. Then, again suddenly, he whirled to the tube communicating with the tank chamber.
“Empty the tanks by compressed air, Clackett!” he called. “See how quick you can do it! Everything depends on you!”
The hiss of the air was heard ejecting the water. The submarine began to rise.
“Bring her up under the launch, Dick!” cried Bob. “Make no mistake, old chap! Under the launch, mind!”
A thrill ran through Dick Ferral’s nerves. At last he understood what his friend was about! Had he had time, Dick would have liked to give Bob Steele a hug from sheer admiration.
“When the tanks are empty,” shouted Bob to Clackett, “come up, take a coil of rope and rush for the deck.”
“Aye, aye, sir!” called Clackett.
The periscope revealed a strange situation. The launch was almost upon the periscope ball. Too late those in the motor boat recognized the device. Before the boat could sheer off, the Grampus had risen under her bodily and lifted her clear of the water. The steel hull of the submarine shivered, and wild cries came from those in the motor boat.
Dick grabbed a coil of rope and leaped for the iron ladder.