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Updated: May 18, 2025
Suddenly, in the near distance, loomed up a great gray bulk, swinging high above the submarine upon the water. It was the British battleship. And now submarine X-9 had been discovered. A heavy boom rang out, but the little craft was not damaged. Another signal came to the ears of the two boys. Men rushed upon deck and soon the submarine was prepared for action. The flagpole was taken down.
On both sides of the ship long waves formed, shimmering with light foam in the blackness of the sea. The X-9 moved westerly toward the still unsuspecting battleship. The heavens were covered with clouds. Not a star was visible. It was impossible to see more than a few feet away from the strange craft.
With a single movement he dropped the revolver into the bottom of the boat, and plunged deep into the sea himself. At the very instant the lad disappeared beneath the water there was a flash of fire above the submarine, followed by a violent explosion-fearful, terrific. The upper work of X-9 was blown high into the air and came down in splinters, scattered to the four winds of heaven.
"It was a pleasure, I am sure," was the lieutenant's reply, and they all made their way to the officer's cabin, where they prepared to retire for the night. But there was to be no sleep for any aboard the German submarine X-9 that night. As the boys were just about to tumble into their bunks, there was the sound of a sudden commotion on the vessel.
"German submarine X-9," replied Lieutenant Stein, "where, until we put into port again, you will be our prisoners." The four now clambered to the top of the submarine. Lieutenant Stein led the way to the entrance through the combined bridge and conning tower, and all went below. At the foot of the short flight of steps stood a man in captain's uniform.
"Nevertheless," said the lieutenant, "you are likely to see action aboard the X-9, for I do not believe Captain Von Cromp will return to port until he has at least tried the effect of his torpedoes, on a ship or so of your countrymen." "May he go to defeat if he tries it!" said Jack fervently. "In which case," said the lieutenant with good natured tolerance, "you would undoubtedly go with us."
Suddenly there came a shrill whistle from the little bridge of the submarine, standing high above the vessel, and covered with heavy canvass. The officer in command, Captain Von Cromp himself, dressed hi heavy oilskins, raised a hand, the signal to go ahead. A short, sharp signal to the engine room, a loud whirr of the motor, and the X-9 was speeding ahead.
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