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Danvers, "The 'Thor' was provided with a stated number of torpedoes." "Four," nodded Captain Magowan; "just as was the case with each of the other submarine boats." "Then, if you search the 'Thor, and find but three torpedoes aboard, now " "That will be all the evidence needed." admitted Captain Magowan.
"Gentlemen," said Hycy, "I received a note from Father Magowan informing me that it was probable certain charges might be brought against me or at least some complaints made," he added, softening the expression "and I should be glad to know what they are all about, before this girl commences formally to state them; I say so in order that I may not be taken by surprise."
"Sir," replied Father Magowan, "there is nothing further on that point necessary the proof is plain and clear; and now, Bryan M'Mahon, give me your hand, for it is that of an honest man I am proud to see that you stand pure and unsullied again; and it shall be my duty to see that justice shall be rendered! you, and ample compensation made for all that you have suffered."
"Do you mean, sir, that we are charged with or suspected of firing a torpedo at a rival submarine boat?" demanded John Rhinds, heavily, in a voice vibrating with astonishment. "Some of the evidence seems to point that way," returned Captain Magowan, dryly. "Why, sir," began Rhinds, indignantly, "it's preposterous. It's " But Captain Magowan cut him short by a wave of the hand.
While the admiral communicated at once with Captain Magowan, Congressman Simms sent his card up to John C. Rhinds. The latter, all a-quiver, now, and showing a haggard face in which smiles fought for a chance, received his visitor. "Well, Rhinds," was the Congressman's greeting, "the country is all stirred up over this submarine incident out at sea.
So Jack came aboard, and took his place quietly beside Lieutenant Danvers. "Mr. Rhinds," began Captain Magowan, solemnly, "a torpedo only just barely missed striking the 'Hastings' a while ago. We have evidence that your craft was pointing nose-on to the 'Hastings, just before the torpedo appeared by the Pollard craft."
But, in the face of the evidence you have here, you will admit that it is impossible to attach any guilt to anyone aboard this craft." "Well, Mr. Benson," broke in Captain Magowan, dumfounded. "So it would seem," murmured the captain's two puzzled associates on the board. "What the deuce can it mean?" was what Lieutenant Danvers said, but he was discreet enough to say it under his breath.
In the course of a little speech after dinner Captain Magowan referred in glowing terms to the splendid work of the submarine boys on that Lightning Cruise, and their success in being first to reach the derelict and torpedo it.
"Just what it says," replied Captain Magowan, coolly. "There has been some underhanded work here!" began the old man, wrathfully. "None in the Navy Department, at all events," replied Magowan, coolly. "I will not detain you longer, Mr. Rhinds. Good morning." Captain Magowan, bowing, opened the door. A marine sentry stood on post just outside. There was no use in making a row.
"Are you going to enter both boats in to-day's race?" asked Jack, more thoughtfully. "We can't," replied the shipbuilder. "Captain Magowan told me, last night, that, since the Rhinds people and ourselves are the only makers who have more than one boat here, today's race will be confined to one craft representative of each make. So, which boat do you prefer to take out to-day, Jack?"
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