The three craft were leaving the coast directly behind. About three hundred yards away, abeam, steamed the “Hudson” at a nine-knot gait.
[pg 063] “The 'Pollard' is on the other side of the gunboat, isn't she?” asked Jack.
“Yes,” Hal nodded.
“Naval crew aboard her?”
“Yes; Government has taken full possession of the 'Pollard.'”
“Who's running this boat? Just you and Eph?”
“No; that new man, Truax, is on board, and at the last moment Mr. Farnum put Williamson, one of the machinists, aboard, also. You can send Williamson back from Annapolis whenever you're through with him.”
“Williamson is all right,” nodded Jack, slowly. “But how about Truax?”
“I think he's going to be a useful man,” Hal responded. “He seems familiar with our type of engines. Of course, he knows nothing about the apparatus for submerging the boat or making it dive. But he doesn't need to. Now, Jack, old fellow, we're going along all right. Why not let Eph help you back to your bunk, or one of the seats in the cabin, and have your sleep out?”
“I've had it out,” Benson declared, with a laugh. “I'm ready, now, to take my trick at the wheel.”