"Detained at Area Headquarters, sir," reported Captain Cumberleigh.
"All right," rejoined the C.O. drily. "As it happens, you're just in time, Major Sparrowhawk will give you your orders."
He went out, leaving the three returned officers exchanging inquiring glances.
"The light-cruiser squadron went out yesterday to give a leg-up to your pals in Q 171," explained the major. "There are U-boats knocking about off the north of the Dogger. The C.O. wants a couple of blimps to go out and get in touch with the cruisers."
"And Q 171: what of her, sir?" asked Blenkinson.
The major shook his head.
"No news has come through," he replied. "Apparently you fellows had an exciting time."
"Rather, sir," exclaimed Jefferson. "I suppose Pyecroft told you everything up to the time we lost sight of him. Plucky blighter, Pyecroft!"
"There's one point I'd like to mention, sir," remarked Cumberleigh.
"What's that?" asked Major Sparrowhawk.