The lads found themselves upon the steel deck of a peculiarly long and narrow vessel. Guns were mounted forward and aft. Only a cursory examination was necessary to determine that they were quick firers.
“Now, boys,” said the officer who had invited them aboard, “I shall ask you to step to the cabin. The commander will hear your story.”
As the boys entered the cabin in response to the other’s request they saw a familiar face. Beside the commander seated at the table was none other than their one time acquaintance, Mackinder.
CHAPTER XI
A FLEET OF SUBMARINES
Upon seeing Mackinder’s face, Ned halted in amazement.
A smile spread over the other’s countenance as he noted Ned’s look of wonder. But beneath the appearance of amused indifference the lad’s quick eye detected a look of care. He was not the same Mackinder.
For a brief moment nothing was said. Then the officer saluted the commander, who recognized the act. The boys were presented.