Jack kept the light full upon the approaching boat. He could see several
oilskin-clad figures and that was all; and then came a hail from the
oncoming boat.

"What do you want here?"

The query was in English. Jack answered the hail.

"What are you doing here yourself?" he demanded. "We are British
officers. I command you to surrender."

"More likely German officers," was the response. "Heave to now. I'm
coming aboard you."

"If you do you'll get a warm welcome," replied Jack.

He stopped the boat and drew his own revolvers.

"Stand back!" he cried, as the other boat came closer.

In the glint of the searchlight the men aboard the other boat made out
the boys' uniforms. The boat slowed down and the men talked among
themselves.

"They wear British uniforms," said one in a low voice.

"That's no sign they are English," said another.

"Tell 'em to give the countersign," said a third.