"He has certainly solved the science of under-water navigation," answered the Secretary of the Navy.
A model of a warship was now placed in the basin, at one end. Then the model of the submarine craft was set in motion to place a torpedo under the warship's keel. The work was performed with great accuracy and it was shown how easily the warship could be destroyed and how quickly the other boat could get away without being discovered.
"Good! It is perfect!" cried the Secretary of the Navy. "But how about air for your crew while under water?"
Oscar then went into the details of his scheme for storing air and for manufacturing it as well. Everybody listened with close attention.
"How much will your craft cost to build?" was the next question asked.
"Two hundred thousand dollars," was the answer. "For into that construction must go the best of everything."
Those who had witnessed the exhibition consulted together for a few minutes.
"How long will she take to build?"
"Give me that sum and I will build her in three months; give me a hundred thousand dollars more and I will have her ready for service in two months."
"You shall have your answer to-morrow noon," said the Secretary of the Navy.