wishes of the admiralty majority?"

Lord Hastings shrugged his shoulders disdainfully.

"What's the difference?" he wanted to know. "Our allies must be warned."

"I agree with you, sir," declared Jack.

"And I, sir," said Frank.

"It is possible," said Lord Hastings, "that should I take the matter up
with the King or with the war ministry I might get action; but that would
take time, and I want this message delivered at the earliest possible
moment. Should I entrust it to the cables, under the circumstances, there
is nothing certain of its arrival."

"I see, sir," said Jack. "Then you may be sure that I shall deliver the
message personally to Secretary Daniels."

"It is well," said Lord Hastings. "I knew I could depend upon you boys."

"Always, sir," replied Jack simply.

"Then be off with you," said Lord Hastings, rising. "You can go aboard
your ship to-night. Here is the message I wish delivered to the American
secretary of the navy," and he passed a second paper to Jack. "The
admiralty message you are to take will probably reach you some time in the
morning, together with your sailing orders."

Lord Hastings extended his hand.