As Carl came rolling excitedly into the periscope room, Clackett reported, by tube, that he was back at his usual post.
Matt turned to Dick.
"Keep the Grampus pointed for the launch, Dick," said he. "Carl, take a coil of rope and climb to the conning-tower hatch. The moment the tower's awash, open the hatch, get out on the deck and do what you can with the rope."
Carl was bewildered. What was he to do with the rope? "I don'd know no more as a mu-el," he said to himself, but nevertheless he obeyed orders.
Matt continued to watch the periscope table and to calculate. Then, again suddenly, he whirled to the tube communicating with the tank chamber.
"Empty the tanks by compressed air, Clackett!" he called. "See how quick you can do it! Everything depends on you!"
The hiss of the air was heard ejecting the water. The submarine began to rise.
"Bring her up under the launch, Dick!" cried Matt. "Make no mistake, old chap! Under the launch, mind!"
A thrill ran through Dick Ferral's nerves. At last he understood what his old raggie was about! Had he had time, Dick would have liked to give Motor Matt a hug from sheer admiration.
"When the tanks are empty," shouted Matt to Clackett, "come up, take a coil of rope and rush for the deck."