“The troopship fleet is going to be punctual to the minute,” Darrin remarked to his watch officer.
“And our biggest time will be ahead of us, sir, I’m thinking,” responded Lieutenant Briggs.
“In a way the big time will be welcome,” smiled Dave. “Even if we are unfortunate enough to sustain some losses the Hun will get the worst of it.”
“Why do you say that, sir?” Briggs inquired.
“Because, so far, in every encounter with naval vessels or troopships the Hun has seemed fated to get the worst of it.”
In the east a pale light appeared in the sky. This slowly deepened. Then came the early red and orange tints of what promised to be a bright day.
“There’s the troopship fleet!” cried Darrin, joyously. “The head of it anyway. We’ll soon see more of it.”
Lieutenant Briggs held his glass for a full thirty seconds on the first ships visible to the westward.
“And there goes our signal to join!” exclaimed Darrin, as bunting broke from the foremast of the leading destroyer with the fleet. “Acknowledge the signal, Mr. Briggs, and give the order for full speed ahead.”
Racing westward went six torpedo boat destroyers to meet their comrades of the Navy and of the Army.