" he ordered. "Then summon the commanders of the other vessels in
the harbor. They shall sit on a court martial here. Hurry."

Jack and Frank were led from the cabin and locked in another compartment
at the far end of the ship where they sat in silence until they were
conducted to the commander's cabin.

And as they gazed about the cabin the eyes of both opened wide in
surprise, though they made no sound.

For there, sitting with five other German officers about the table, was
none other than Lord Hastings, still wearing his German uniform. He was
sitting on the trial board.

The German commander who had captured them presided.

"Bring in the other prisoner," he commanded.

A moment later Davis was led in. The lads saw a surprised expression
flash over Lord Hastings' face as his eyes rested on Davis; but he sat
still.

Then, suddenly appearing to take a close look at Frank and Jack for the
first time, he jumped to his feet and approached them. After a careful
scrutiny, he uttered a loud exclamation and turned to the other
officers.

"Sirs," he said quietly, "you have indeed made an important capture.
These men, although apparently young, are two of the most trusted of
British spies. I know them, for I have come in close contact with them,"
and he glared at them angrily. "So, we have you at last, eh?" addressing
the boys, who shrank back in well-feigned alarm.

As for Davis, he said nothing. He had been doing a lot of thinking and
had come to the conclusion that it was better to postpone his fate by
being rescued with Frank and Jack, if possible; for he had a pretty
shrewd idea that Lord Hastings was there for some such purpose.

"So," continued Lord Hastings, eyeing the two lads angrily. "I have you,
eh. I would like to put a hole through each of you myself." He half drew
a revolver.

The German commander interfered.

"None of that, if you please, sir," he commanded sharply. "They shall
have trial; and if they are convicted, as I have no doubt they will be,
I shall bestow upon you the doubtful honor of performing the execution."

"And I shall be pleased indeed, sir," replied Lord Hastings with a leer.

The German commander turned from him in disgust.

"It is such men as you, who are a disgrace to the navy," he said
quietly.

"Sir!" exclaimed Lord Hastings, facing the German in apparent wrath,
though nothing could have pleased him better--things were working out
much better than he had dared hope.