"My type of torpedo boat is going to rule the seas in naval warfare,"
declared David Pollard, his eyes a-kindle with the enthusiasm of the
sincere inventor.

"I'm sure of it," replied Jack Benson, quietly. "That's why, Mr.
Pollard, Hal and I are so anxious to get into this work. Mr. Pollard,
when your type of submarine diving torpedo boat is understood by the
United States Government you'll need some reliable and intelligent
experts. Take us in now. Let us learn the work with you. Let us
go ahead, keeping pace with the progress in Pollard torpedo boats,
and you will never be sorry you have two young fellows you can depend
upon."

"That's so, if you can come near to making as good as you promise,"
admitted the inventor, thoughtfully. "But you're pretty young."

"And that's the only fault with the Pollard submarine boat," rejoined
Jack Benson, artfully. "You've got to buck your boat against all the
older types that the Government already takes an interest in. Yet you
feel sure that you can do it. You don't believe the Pollard diving
boat is too young. Give us the same show you ask for your boat."

"Well, I've never seen any of your work--except these drawings,"
replied Mr. Pollard, indicating some sheets that lay on the table
before them.

The chums had succeeded in making the inventor's acquaintance through
the aid of the landlord. It was now eleven o'clock at night. Jack and
Hal had been in the inventor's room for the last three hours. Benson
had done most of the talking, though Hal had now and then put in some