The leader of the strange band bent over the unconscious man and felt his head with a manner that betokened some medical skill.
"It is only a flesh wound," he said, "but the shock has made him unconscious. Carry him below, some of you. He'll soon be all right again."
Kennell was one of those who volunteered for this service. Merritt was another. As they passed the two boys, carrying their limp burden, Kennell turned to Ned:
"Well, my young sneak, they've got you collared this time," he said with a leer, "you walked into the trap like a baby taking candy."
Ned did not deign to reply to the fellow. Instead, he listened to Herr Muller who was talking excitedly.
"Of all unlucky things to happen at this time," he was saying. "We shall be within the wireless zone of the fleet at any time now, and the only man on board who understands wireless is incapacitated. It is most unfortunate."
A sudden idea came to Ned. Possibly by volunteering to act in Chance's place he might find a way out of the maze that involved them.
Acting on his impulse he stepped up to Muller.
"I understand wireless," he said; "what messages do you want taken?"
"I don't know yet," rejoined Herr Muller, looking much relieved. Then suddenly his manner changed.