the lads found themselves aboard
the German warship, where they were immediately conducted to the cabin
of the commander.
The latter turned to the German officer for an account of what had
happened.
"So these British sailors saved you?" he said. He turned to the three.
"I must thank you in the name of the Emperor," he said, quietly. "Now,
if you will give me your paroles, I shall allow you the freedom of this
vessel."
The three friends glanced at one another and the German commander
smiled.
"I can assure you there is no possibility of escape," he said.
"In that event," said Jack, "we shall give our paroles until we reach
shore."
"That is sufficient. After that you will be in other and safe hands."
The German commander summoned a minor officer, to whom he introduced
the three friends.
"You will see that they are provided with suitable quarters," he said.
The officer saluted and motioned for Jack, Frank and Harris to follow
him. A few moments later the three found themselves installed in
comfortable quarters, where clean linen and dry outer clothing Was laid
out for them.
"You've got to give them credit," said Frank. "They do things up in
style. It seems we are to be well treated."
"No reason why we shouldn't be," declared Jack.
"Wonder where we are bound, anyhow?" said Harris.
"Don't know," said Frank. "I'll try and find out as soon as we can go
on deck--providing they allow us on deck."
"The commander said we would have the freedom of the ship," returned
Harris.
"So he did. Hurry and dress then."
Half an hour later, refreshed by a bath and food, the three made their
way on deck, where they found the young German officer who had escorted
them to their cabin. They approached him and the latter received them
cordially.
"Wonder if you would tell us where we are bound?" asked Frank, with a
smile.
"Certainly," was the reply. "Our destination is Bremen."
"Bremen, eh?" said Jack. "What will they do with us there?"
"Probably turn you over to the military authorities to take care of you
until the end of the war."
"Looks like our fighting days are over," said Harris, sadly.
The young German smiled.
"Seems to me you should be rather glad of that," he returned. "After
your defeat off Jutland you should be willing to cry for peace."
"Defeat!" exclaimed Frank. "Why, the Germans got the worst of it. You
know that."
"Oh, no we didn't," said the young officer. "The greater part
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