“Then we might as well give it up!” stated the other. “They’ll never stop for us. Our only hope is to dive and come up close to some vessel so they can’t get away before we ask the questions.”
“Maybe that would be a good idea,” admitted Ned. “Anyhow, we’ll have to take down this flag. The signal staff don’t fit!”
Disappointed because their efforts had been unavailing, the lads regretfully folded the flag. It was restored to its proper place.
Harry, however, continued to urge the engines forward in the hope of eventually overhauling the ship. This seemed to be within the range of possibilities, but the boys all knew the maxim concerning a stern chase, and were somewhat discouraged. Knowing that their intentions were of the best, they felt slightly aggrieved that the other did not stop.
“I see a smoke away ahead of the ship!” announced Frank after a few moments. “I can’t tell which way they are headed, though!”
“At this rate of traveling, we’ll soon find out!” declared Jack.
Evidently the smoke had been discovered by those aboard the sailing vessel, for the course was altered slightly in that direction.
This change was noted by the boys. Jimmie shifted the helm slightly in order to keep the submarine directly in the track of the ship.
“I wonder what that other vessel can be,” puzzled Ned. “Let me take the glasses a moment, Frank. I wish we were higher in the water,” he added, “then we could get a better range of vision.”
Long and earnestly the boy inspected the strange vessel. Presently he returned the glasses to Frank with a sigh.