"A German spy, doubtless masquerading as an American soldier, and right here on a United States transport loaded with fifteen hundred soldiers and tons of guns and ammunition."
"Yes," said Joe contemplatively, "that's the very serious part of it all—the fifteen hundred soldiers and tons of guns and ammunition."
"Sh-h-h-h!"
Slim, who was standing nearest the door, had heard footsteps. A moment later the lieutenant reappeared, accompanied by the captain of the Everett.
When the boys had been presented, the captain abruptly requested Joe to repeat every detail he had told Lieutenant Mackinson. As he did so the captain gazed compassionately upon his injuries.
"And where is the instrument that you discovered?" he asked of the lieutenant when Joe had concluded.
The young officer stepped into the battery room, returning with a small, but evidently powerful, portable wireless transmitter and receiver.
"H'm," exclaimed the captain, examining it carefully. "Of German make."
"Exactly, sir," replied Lieutenant Mackinson, "and evidently quite new—probably never used more than once or twice before."
"This is very serious business," said the captain impressively. And then, addressing Joe: "Did you get a look at the other man? Would you know him if you ever saw him again?"