The 'Hastings' may easily get an injury, from the stump of another
mast, that may tear a real hole in our plates and send us all to the
bottom."

"There's danger to be considered in any submarine game really worth
the while," assented Captain Jack Benson, coolly. "Do you feel then,
Mr. Danvers, that we should be satisfied to drive back to Dunhaven and
content ourselves with wiring the Navy Department news of the derelict
and of her present position?"

Lieutenant Danvers thoughtfully gazed at the young submarine commander's
face.

"No," he muttered, at last. "I think the best thing for a fellow like
you, Jack Benson, will be to wade in and get your revenge! And make
it as complete as you can!"

"All right, sir," nodded Jack. "Thank you. And now, we'll see how
complete a job we can make of it. Mr. Somers!"

"Aye, aye, sir," answered Eph, from below.

"Are you going to consult with your crew?" whispered Danvers.

"They're not the kind of fellows who need consulting," muttered Captain
Jack. "All they want is their orders. Mr. Somers, bring up the
sounding line."

"Aye, aye, sir."