Midshipman Fuller, junior officer to the Dreadnought Boys, came on the bridge. Ned turned to him.
"Mr. Fuller, what do you make of that yacht yonder?" asked Ned.
"She's a queer looking craft, sir. Looks awkward by the stern," said the midshipman.
"Just what I think. Mr. Fuller, you will take the bridge."
"You are going to board her?" demanded Herc.
"Yes, there's something wrong about her. I wouldn't dare to take a chance and let her get by."
"Bully for you," said Herc under his breath.
"Mr. Fuller, please have the boarding launch lowered with the regular crew. The bow gun may be uncovered and when I give you the order, you may fire a shot across that craft's bow. First, however, I'll signal her to heave to."
The boarding launch referred to was a small power launch carried amidships on the destroyer. The sea was rather rough for such a small craft, but she was staunch, and Ned had no fear but that she would ride the combers without difficulty.