Springing out of bed, Tom took up the mouth-piece.
"Well?" he called.
"The 'Victor' is putting about, sir."
"What's her new course?"
"Going right back over the course she came out on, sir. Shall I turn and follow?"
"What else? The only thing we're living for now, Mr. Costigan, is to keep close to that steam yacht. Follow her, without further orders, even if she starts to steaming in circles. I'll be out soon."
"Very good, sir."
Tom looked slowly about him, then headed for the bath-room. He took plenty of time in the warm water, finally dressing. Mr. Costigan's watch had gone below, the third officer having left Tom's letter with Dick Davis, to be handed to Mr. Baldwin when the latter should appear. But, so far, none of the cabin party had yet turned out.
"All our people are still abed, I think, sir," smiled Davis, when the young motor boat captain appeared on deck.
"They've been worn out, by the suspense as much as by their short hours of rest," Halstead replied.