When the submarine attacked the Portchester Castle she had let loose two torpedoes, one of which hit the mark. The other, passing under the vessel's stern, came to a standstill a couple of miles off. By sheer chance the U-boat, while in the act of shelling the shore, had bumped upon the warhead of the missile she had discharged several hours previously, with the result that she was practically blown to pieces with all her officers and crew.
Three hearty cheers from the sun-baked British seamen greeted the strafing of the craft that was directly responsible for their present precarious position. Then, having given relief to their pent-up feelings, the sturdy sailors directed their attention once more to the danger that threatened them from the landward side.
The Senussi, not knowing what had occurred, and still showing considerable reluctance to enter the region where the German shells had fallen, were "marking time". The camel-men had withdrawn behind a range of sand-hills, but the glint of spear-heads denoted pretty conclusively that the foe had not decided upon a discreet retirement.
Several times an intrepid sailor stood upon the breastwork, with the intention of drawing the enemy's fire; but even this tempting bait did not succeed. The Senussi were evidently going to tire the defenders by a period of nerve-racking inactivity.
"It's this rotten waiting for something to turn up that makes you jumpy," declared Webb to Osborne, as during the prolonged lull the Lieutenant made his way along the trench to see how his chum fared. "I don't mind so much when these beggars start a rush, but it's the suspense of expecting them."
"Like our troops on the Somme," rejoined Osborne. "It's the five minutes' wait before the whistle goes for the men to go over the top of the parapet, that is such a strain. Once they're off they don't seem to notice their surroundings. But I've rather bad news, old man. I've just reported to the skipper that one of those shells has played Old Harry with the water barricoes. Only three left—and you can guess what thirst is in this sun-baked spot."
"How long will that last?" asked the Sub.
"Ten days with the utmost economy," said the Lieutenant gravely.
"I say, Osborne——" began Webb.
"Well?"