Jack watched Ned narrowly to see if the news had any effect upon him but Ned simply nodded his head in a business-like way and remarked:
“Very well, sir.”
At this juncture there came a shrill whistle on one of the speaking tubes leading to the helmsman’s wheel.
“Hullo, there’s Tom calling from the stern,” cried Jack, “wonder what’s up now.”
He placed the tube to his ear and then gave an exclamation of concern.
“Oh, that’s too bad.”
“What’s the trouble?” asked Ned.
“Why, Tom has an attack of air-sickness. It’s pretty bad while it lasts, but fortunately it is soon over. I’m going to call him in to lie down in the cabin a while. Can you leave your motors and stand watch astern, Ned?”
“Certainly. They’re all right for half an hour, anyhow. The current’s fine.” The boy glanced at the indicator, which showed a strong, steady supply of “juice.” Jack hailed Tom through the speaking tube and ordered him to come in at once and lie down. He then hailed Heiny, who by this time had gotten over his first scare, and told him to get some hot coffee ready.