The Submarine Boys on Duty - Life of a Diving Torpedo Boat by Victor G. Durham
page 94 of 217 (43%)
page 94 of 217 (43%)
![]() | ![]() |
|
The flag at the short pole had become wrapped around its short staff.
Jacob Farnum noted this just in time and hastily shook it out, for the band had suddenly begun to play "_The Star Spangled Banner_," and on shore the crowd was hushed, hats off and at attention. On board the submarine hats were quickly doffed, all turning with reverent gaze toward the Flag! For a long time the crowd on shore remained, staring with fascinated gaze at the craft from which wonders were expected. Presently a small boat put off from shore. Mr. Farnum and Mr. Pollard were taken off and went ashore to talk over matters with Lieutenant Jackson. The "Pollard" now sat jauntily on the water. Only the upper two feet of her oddly-shaped hull were out of water, neither the bow nor stern showing. In rough weather the platform deck would be a wet place, indeed; but now, with little wind, and the water only slightly rippling, the deck was drying rapidly under the glare of the hot summer sun. "I guess we might as well go below and get on dry clothing," hinted Grant Andrews. "Is there any such thing aboard?" queried Jack, in surprise. "Yes, thanks to Mr. Farnum's thoughtfulness. Come on; I'll show you." So the four piled below, and, in one of the state-rooms aft, Andrews pointed to a goodly store of clothing, much more than would be needed for the present, and of different sizes, even to shoes. There were also rough bath towels with which to rub down dry. |
|