“I should say not!” put in Harry. “Think of your head instead!”
“And the mines at the harbor entrance,” added Frank.
“All right!” submissively agreed Jimmie. “I’ll keep quiet!”
The wind had risen to such an extent that walking on the narrow planking was not only uncertain but extremely dangerous. Mackinder solved the problem by dropping to all fours. The boys followed suit.
Directly, they gained the submarine, the hatch was placed quietly in position for prompt closing and the lines which held the boat were let go.
Owing to the movement of the boats caused by the roughened surface of the harbor creakings and groanings of the fenders had served to drown any noise the party had made in crossing the narrow bridge of planks.
Jimmie held the wheel as Ned gave the signal for casting off the lines. A touch of Harry’s hand on the lever started the engines. The submarine began to move. Suddenly a loud splash alongside attracted the attention of all. Frank came scuttling down the ladder.
“Now I’ve done it!” he gasped. “I forgot to shove the plank back onto the next boat and it fell into the water as we started!”
“Wonder if the guard has heard it!” speculated Ned. “Let me up!”
Under protests from his companions the lad mounted the iron ladder and thrust his head through the hatch.