In another few minutes they were close enough to see, and Larry reported to the others that a small boat was just putting off from the seaplane which was anchored to a buoy in the little harbor. Scoot took a look.
“Boy, those periscopes are wonders,” he exclaimed. “Sharp as can be. Sure, I know the ship. And there’s two naval fliers in the dinghy with two Jap soldiers rowing them to shore. A whole flock of soldiers on shore. Wonder what it’s all about.”
As March and the others had a look, Larry told them all what he thought this latest event meant.
“Seaplanes come from battleships or cruisers usually,” he said. “I think this plane might well be from some of the warships protecting the convoy headed for Truk. The Japs have got lookout posts on a lot of these little islands here—probably plenty more than usual right now. They aren’t trusting to radio, even in code, any more than we are. And they’re having a seaplane or two go out ahead of the convoy to pick up reports from their garrisons on the various islands. This is the plane’s last stop for the night. In the morning he’ll go back to his ship and make his report as to how many American patrol planes or subs have been seen in the area by these outposts.”
The others thought this over and agreed that it was a likely hypothesis. Then Scoot asked for another look at the periscope, and the others sensed that there was some excitement in his attitude. When he turned away from the ’scope he said to Larry. “Can I talk to you about an idea I’ve got?”
“Sure, come into the wardroom,” Larry said with an eager smile. “Come along, March.”
They sat down around the little table.
“Now what is it?” Larry asked.
“Here’s the idea,” Scoot said. “I know that plane—all about it. They made us study those things, though I couldn’t see the point of it at the time. It usually has two men in it. Two men went ashore. So the plane’s unattended. I’m going to swipe it!”
“Swipe it!” Larry and March exclaimed together.