By the time that the three craft were in the ordered formation, abreast, and well started down Chesapeake Bay, the parent vessel signaled that the designated cadets were to take charge of the handling of the submarine boats.
Jack Benson cheerfully relinquished the wheel to Cadet Midshipman Merriam, and stepped out on to the platform deck. At need, as in case of accident or misunderstanding of signals or orders, Benson was still in command. While all ran smoothly, however, Mr. Merriam enjoyed command.
Hal, being likewise relieved in the engine room, came also out on deck.
"Where's Eph?" inquired the young commander of the "Farnum."
"In the engine room," smiled Hal. "He said I could leave, if I wanted, but that he'd be hanged if he'd let Truax out of his sight while I was away."
"Eph seems to have Truax on the brain," laughed Jack.
"Well, Truax is a queer and surly one," Hal admitted. "This morning he gives one the impression of peeking over his shoulder all the time to see whether he's being watched."
"So Eph means to humor him by watching him, eh?" asked Jack.
Hal laughed quietly.
Some of the cadets who were familiar with the landmarks of Chesapeake Bay pointed out many of the localities and sights to the two submarine boys.