It looked as if the crew were panic-stricken, or else ignorant of the proper course of safety. Certainly the yacht was in a dangerous strait.
The submarine voyagers were in a bit of a quandary. What should they do?
Humanity dictated that they go to her assistance. Prudence, however, asserted the policy of keeping away from her.
There was no means of knowing how many were in her crew. They would doubtless have to leave the schooner and would all pile aboard the Sea Diver. This would be a perilous thing for the submarine voyagers. Moreover, what would be done with them?
Frank reflected some moments, then he said, with sudden resolution:
“Humanity demands it. I cannot conscientiously refuse to give them aid.”
“That’s right,” cried Wade. “We ought not to hesitate.”
Frank stepped into the pilot-house, but even as his fingers touched the keyboard a warning cry came from Wade.
“It is too late,” he cried.