"Over the side," directed Darrin, as his men, recalled, gathered near him. He followed, but went over last of all. Orders for casting off and shoving clear were instantly given.
"Keep the engines up to their best performance all the way," was Dave's order. "Boatswain's mate, watch sharp for the courses, as I may change frequently."
"Aye, aye, sir."
Heading out of North Channel, Dave drove back for Valetta, keeping about a mile off the coast.
After making a few knots, he came abreast of another British launch that lay further to seaward. With lantern signals the Englishman asked:
"Is the submarine supposed to be loose?"
"Yes," Dave had his signalman reply.
"Where?"
"I'm here to warn incoming ships against entering Grand Harbor to-night," the Englishman wound up. "Are you seeking the submarine?"