Stepping along the dock, dodging wagons loaded with fresh provisions and stores, the boys kept pace with their friend, the commander.
Presently they reached one of the buildings given over to the use of offices. Here they were admitted into a room, where they found the officer in command of the island.
A short conversation in German served to inform this gentleman of the situation so far as the commander of the destroyer could report. At the end of the recital the boys were addressed by the one they had been brought to visit, who had been introduced as General Gruenwold.
“I understand that you young gentlemen lost an airship when the schooner sank?” he inquired of Ned, motioning the boys to chairs.
“Yes, sir!” replied Ned. “It was, of course, a complete loss.”
“Then you understand machinery pretty well?”
“We have always thought so,” was the modest reply.
“And electricity?”
“Yes, sir. We understand wireless, also.”
“Then I am fortunate. Perhaps you would consent to assist us in some difficult technical tasks we have on hand.”