I've dined with four of the officers. They're under sealed
orders, and the crew believes that they're going to escort out half
a dozen commerce destroyers. But I have the truth. That's their
objective," Horridge repeated, touching once more the spot upon the
map, "and they are waiting just for one thing."
Sir Henry smiled thoughtfully.
"I know what they're waiting for," he said. "Perhaps if they'd a
Herr Horridge to send over here for it, they'd have got it before
now. As it is--well, I'm not sure," he went on. "It seems a pity
to disappoint them, doesn't it? I'd love to give them a run for
their money."
Horridge smiled faintly. He knew a good deal about his companion.
"They're spoiling for it, sir," he admitted. Sir Henry spoke down
a telephone and a few minutes later Ensol reappeared.
"Find Mr. Horridge a comfortable room," his chief directed, "and
one of our confidential typists. You can make out your report at
your leisure," he went on. "Come in and see me when it's all
finished."
"Certainly, sir," Horridge replied, rising.
Sir Henry held out his hand. He looked with something like wonder
at the nerve-shattered man who had risen to his feet with a certain
air of briskness.
"Horridge," he said, "I wish I had your pluck."
"I don't know any one in the service from whom you need borrow any,
sir," was the quiet reply.
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