Mackinder dropped back upon the deck, limp and helpless, as the singing of the parted line told of his release.
With tender solicitude the boys mounted the ladder to assist their injured friend to the room below. Scarcely had the boys gained the deck when they were startled by a terrific explosion. As Ned afterward declared, it seemed as if they had been caught in a volcano of water.
“What has happened?” queried Jack, releasing his hold upon Mackinder.
A flood of sea water descending upon the little deck prevented an answer to his question. In a moment the lads were able to look about.
“Where’s our ‘U-13’?” asked Harry.
“Gone!” stated Ned, his voice trembling. “I’ll bet that German torpedoed it! I’m glad we are on this ‘U-13’!”
Echoing this sentiment, the lads hastily proceeded to lower Mackinder through the hatchway. This done, the injured man was deposited on a couch, the hatch was closed, and Ned began first-aid ministrations.
“What course shall I hold?” asked Jimmie.
“Better head on a southwest course,” stated Ned, briefly glancing up from his work over Mackinder’s leg.