CHAPTER XXI
MAKING STERN WORK OF IT
Lieutenant Whyte then unfolded, briefly, the plan of Admiral Barkham for procedure against the yacht and the submarine. To these plans Admiral Timworth quickly agreed.
"We have four large launches on the flagship," the fleet commander stated. "Three of these shall be put over the side, officered and manned and ready for instant service."
"Admiral Barkham also suggests, sir, that, during the night, the officers in command of your launches run without lights, when possible, for secrecy," Whyte continued.
"How many launches will Admiral Barkham put in service?" Admiral Timworth inquired.
"Three, sir," responded Whyte.
"Who will be the ranking officer in your fleet of launches?"
"I believe I am to be, sir," Lieutenant Whyte replied, bowing.
"Very good," nodded Admiral Timworth. "It would not be courteous, in British waters, Mr. Whyte, for me to appoint an officer who would rank yourself, so I shall ask Captain Allen to designate Ensign Darrin as ranking officer in our launch fleet. Ensign Dalzell will naturally command another of the launches. Who will command the third, Captain?"