The Chinese cruiser had stopped her powerful engines and lay motionless on the ocean, while she poured shot and shell into the city, four miles away, to the terror of the Cubans, who were fleeing in all directions.
Swiftly but silently the new Holland crept up until almost under the keel of the Celestials' warship.
Then a large torpedo was sent forth and fastened to the warship's broad bottom.
To the torpedo was attached a clock-like arrangement, and this was set at the five-minute limit.
"Now, away!" cried Captain Oscar, when the work was done. "Dross, crowd on all speed!"
And, like a thing of life, the Holland darted off in the direction where the American fleet lay, miles off.
One minute passed—two—three—four—and those on the Holland watched their watches anxiously.
"We will ascend!" cried Captain Oscar, and up shot the boat to the surface.
Four minutes and a half—three-quarters—fifty seconds—fifty-five seconds—six—seven—eight—nine——
Crash! Bang! Boom!