CHAPTER XVIII
THE RETURN OF JOHN DENE
"It's very strange," murmured Sir Lyster Grayne, as he raised his eyes from an official-looking document. "What are the official figures for the last six weeks, Heyworth?" he enquired.
"Seven certainties and two doubtful," was the reply.
"About normal, then?"
Admiral Heyworth nodded.
"Then why the devil should the Hun get the wind up?" demanded Sir Bridgman, a look of puzzlement taking the place of the usual smile in his eyes. "What does the I.D. say?"
"That during the last four weeks thirty-seven U-boats have failed to return to their bases as they should have done," replied Admiral Heyworth, referring to a buff-coloured paper before him.
"That leaves twenty-eight in the air," said Sir Bridgman, more to himself than to the others.