“Let’s hear it, Strong,” eagerly exclaimed the officer. “If we could carry such a thing out it would be a good joke in navy circles for a long time to come.”
“All the apparatus it would need, sir, would be some line and a heavy weight.”
“A sounding lead?” asked Mr. Lockyer.
“Yes, sir. Have you any on board?” asked Ned.
“Several, and plenty of line, too. But now let’s hear your plan.”
They eagerly listened while Ned detailed his scheme to give Lieutenant-Commander Scott an unexpected visit in mid-Sound. As he unfolded it, his hearers grew more and more enthusiastic.
“Splendid. We’ll do it if you are agreeable, Mr. Lockyer,” said the officer.
“Anything that will test the capabilities of the Lockyer boat I am agreeable to—nay, anxious to see tried,” was the rejoinder.
“Very well, then. Now, lad”—to Sim, who was steering—“ring for full speed and get us ahead of that gunboat. Better run with the turret awash, so that she won’t see us if they should take a sudden fancy to have some searchlight practice.”
A perceptible increase in the speed came almost immediately following the signal. At the same time, the machinery for submerging the craft was put in operation, till the conning-tower was almost completely under water. The clamps were tightly screwed, so that in case it became necessary to make a sudden dive it could be done instantly.