platform deck of the "Spitfire."

"This is the first one of your craft we've seen," declared the major, as
Eph cast off the bow line, and the tug backed water. "Will you show us
over?"

This the submarine boys gladly did, as the Army shares with the Navy in
the defense of the country.

"You see what you have to do, Kline," said Major Woodruff, presently.
Then the older officer turned to Jack to say:

"Mr. Benson, since Mr. Farnum has been kind enough to place you and the
boat at our orders, Kline is going to remain on board, today, during the
tests. He will give Mr. Somers whatever orders are necessary in order
to make the tests most successful."

"Why not give the orders to me, sir?" Jack asked.

"Why, you see, Mr. Benson," replied the major, "I plan for you to be on
shore, out on the neck, to make certain observations regarding the work
of your craft. Those observations you will turn in to me."

"Very good, sir. The neck, I take it, is the narrow strip of land that
separates this part of the bay from the ocean?"

"Quite right, Mr. Benson."

It was to be observed that the major, like naval officers, addressed Jack
by the title of "mister," not "captain." This was because, in the