"Well," said Frank, when the two were in the room always reserved for
their use when they were in London, "Lord Hastings will be glad to see
you back again. He has been anxious, especially now that he has been
ordered again on active service. He has been wondering where he would
get a first officer."

"I guess you could, fill that place without any trouble," said Jack.

"I guess I could fill it all right, if I had to, but I would much
rather have you along," declared Frank.

"Well, I'm glad to be back, old fellow," said Jack. "I'll admit that
for a few minutes there the other night it looked as though I would
never see London again, but everything is all right at last."

There were the sounds of footsteps below. These a few moments later
ascended the stairs.

"Probably Lord Hastings," said Frank.

The lad was right and a moment later Lord Hastings stepped into the
room. His eyes fell upon Jack and he advanced with outstretched hand.

"Jack!" he exclaimed. "I certainly am glad to see you again."

They shook hands heartily.