"They're carrying out orders," said Captain Restronguet at length. "I told Devoran to dive if he saw any vessel approaching. He spotted the 'Topaze' and immediately descended. It's awkward, because the secret is bound to leak out. But after all it is rather remarkable that it didn't become common property hours ago."
"How shall we get on board the 'Aphrodite,' sir?" asked the sub.
"We'll manage it sooner or later, but there's valuable time lost. Ha, there's the 'Topaze' altering helm. She's sighted us."
A quarter of an hour later the cruiser's gig picked up the three unlucky aviators, while the aero-hydroplane was secured and towed alongside before she sank, and was hoisted on board by means of a boat's davit. Dry clothing was immediately forthcoming, and clad in borrowed garments the rescued men were taken aft to be introduced and interviewed by the Hon. Charles Sedgwyke, captain of H.M.S. "Topaze."
Realizing that it would be useless to attempt to conceal anything Captain Restronguet made a full report of all that had occurred, and requested that he and his companions might be taken back to Zanzibar, whence the "Aphrodite" might be communicated with by wireless.
"I am afraid that it is at present impossible, Captain Restronguet," said the Hon. Sedgwyke. "We are under urgent orders to proceed to Delagoa Bay, for there that villainous von Harburg has been making himself particularly objectionable. We are to meet and co-operate with the 'Pique,' and should our efforts meet with success we are to carry on to Table Bay. There is, I am afraid, no option. You must accompany us, and no doubt, your valuable experience in connection with the affair will enable us to settle with the 'Vorwartz.'"
"I would much rather settle with her myself," replied Captain Restronguet.
"That I can quite understand. I can also safely assert that Captain Restronguet will not prevent the 'Topaze' from distinguishing herself by standing aloof when he might otherwise render us good service."
Captain Restronguet bowed. "Naturally," he added. "Our interests in the business lies in the same direction."
"Anything I can do to aid you I will most willingly do," continued Captain Sedgwyke. "I might suggest that the wireless of this vessel is at your disposal, and by sending a message to the Admiralty you could have it re-transmitted through your agent to the 'Aphrodite.'"