“What’s that, my lad?�
“I could blow that berg up by wireless!�
The commander looked at the boy as if he thought Jack had taken leave of his senses or had had the temerity to joke with his commanding officer. But Jack was never more serious in his life.
“I mean it, sir,� he said steadily.
“Explain yourself, Ready. I must confess that your statement set me aback.�
“I’ve been figuring out a method,� rejoined the boy, “of firing torpedoes, guns and mines by wireless. I think I have it perfected, but if you would permit an experiment on that big iceberg yonder, it would be a magnificent opportunity to put my theories to the test.�
“Jove, boy, I’ve half a mind to do it. To destroy that berg is certainly in the line of duty.�
“Undoubtedly, sir. If you will allow me six men and a boat and the necessary explosives I think I can guarantee to blow that berg into smithereens within an hour by a simple pressure of the key in my wireless-room.�
“It sounds incredible—yet, great guns and little fishes, lad,—I’m going to let you try. Harley!â€�
The coxswain hailed, stepped up, and saluted smartly. “Aye, aye, sir.�