The Americans knew nothing about the Russian fleet, but said the people at Cape Nome were daily in fear of attack.
"Well, I can't say that I blame them," said Oscar. "That gold must be a great temptation."
"Right you are," returned Andy.
For several hours the sky had been overcast, showing that a heavy storm was at hand.
It was so hot on board of the Holland XI. that the young captain hated to order the submarine craft below the surface of the ocean.
"I don't believe that storm can do us much damage," he said.
"Unless we get struck by the lightning," replied Andy.
Presently it began to rain, but this did not matter, for what little water came into the new Holland ran into the well and was promptly pumped out by the electric pump.
Oscar was tired, for he had been working hard for several hours, helping to repair some wires which had broken.
He laid down to rest, and was just in a doze when a report like a cannon close to his ears almost stunned him.