"Ah, a mobilization?"
"No, Herr Captain; I think not. The reserve fleet will be missing."
"Will the President review the fleet?"
"It is so believed, Herr Captain."
Von Fincke, who had been silently eyeing his companions, stood up.
"Would that not give us an opportunity to bottle up the fleet in the
North River by slipping down one of our biggest ocean steamers and
sinking her in the channel?"
"It might be done," but Hartzmann looked doubtful. "The Harbor Police of New York are vigilant. I fear the warping of a great steamer from her berth would attract instant attention."
"Not if properly engineered, Hartzmann." A soft tap at the door interrupted von Fincke. "Come in," he called.
"Captain von Mueller," announced the valet, and von Fincke advanced eagerly to meet the newcomer.
"Welcome, Herr Captain. I hoped that you would get my note in time."
"I found it on my return to the hotel. Hartzmann, well met." Von Mueller returned the older man's firm clasp. "It is some years…."