"But——" began Detroit indignantly. "We can explain everything," said Hamerton. "We'll come out with you directly we get our clothes." With that the Sub turned his back on the representatives of the Imperial German Navy, and made a step towards the companion hatchway, with a view to making himself more presentable and better attired for the depressing atmospheric conditions. This laudable intention was nipped in the bud by a couple of bluejackets jumping out of their boat and agilely scrambling upon the Diomeda's cabin top. For an instant Jack Hamerton's eyes glinted ominously. He was within an ace of knocking the intruders overboard but, recalling that such an act might be disastrous to his comrade and himself, he controlled his feelings with a strong effort. "It's no use resisting, old man," said he to Detroit, who was beginning to follow the drift of things. "They have put us under arrest for contravening some silly regulation. We've got to go ashore in their boat. Hang it! How can a fellow stand on his dignity when he's rigged out in pink-and-white pyjamas?" "Enter the boat instantly," ordered the German officer. "Your clothes will be handed to you." The two members of the Diomeda's crew stepped into the boat. One of the officers boarded the yacht, and, accompanied by a seaman, entered the cabin. Presently the latter reappeared bearing an assortment of clothing. Detroit grabbed his trousers and felt in his pockets. "They have taken possession of my purse!" he exclaimed. "And mine too!" added the Sub, after a hasty examination. "And my pocketbook and cigarette case! Here, this won't do!" "Give way!" ordered the German officer. "Stop!" said Hamerton. "Before we go we want our purses and other personal property that have been taken from our pockets." "It is unnecessary," was the reply. "There will be no need for you to have money ashore." The oars dipped and the boat glided towards a stone pier, leaving the junior officer and two men in possession of the Diomeda.
Prev.
Back
Top