BY PERCY F. WESTERMAN

image: 22_detonation.jpg

[Illustration: A terrific detonation shook the ground, and a thick cloud of smoke obscured the view of the pinnacle. In an agony of fear the natives threw themselves face downwards in the dust.]

Detaching a party of twenty men under Lieutenant Sinclair, with instructions to make a detour to the opposite side of the village, so that the savages' retreat would be cut off, Captain Brookes halted the main body till a prearranged signal was given to show that arrangements for surprise were complete.

"Now, forward, my lads!" exclaimed the captain, as the report of a rifle was heard in the distance.

At the double the seamen rushed towards the collection of hovels that formed the Patagonian village. A few of the natives showed fight, but the majority fled, yelling with terror, in the direction of the narrow defile held by Sinclair and his men.

Soon the fugitives were driven back; men, women, and children bolted to their huts, and the work of capturing the natives began.

The savages offered but little resistance as they were seized and securely bound. As for the women and children, they stoically remained with their men-folk and finding that they were not to be put to death—as they fully expected to be—the savages began to lose their sullen manner and to take a faint interest in the seamen's preparations.

On an open space in front of the village the natives were placed—the men, individually bound and roped together as an additional safeguard, sitting on the ground in a circle, with the women and children in the centre.

Meanwhile another party of seamen had carried seven tins of dynamite, each containing 16 1/2 lbs., to the base of the crag that Gerald had indicated—at a distance of a mile and a half from the village—and separated from it by the main channel of Desolation Inlet.

Gerald had detailed his volunteers for the task of guarding the prisoners, and all the preliminary preparations were now complete.

"Now for a practical test of the ZZ-rays, Mr. Tregarthen," exclaimed Captain Brookes, as he bade Gerald farewell. "It is now 10.30 a.m. At noon punctually I shall liberate the electric current from theOlive Branch, at a distance of nine sea miles from yonder crag. You will please remain here, and on no account release the prisoners till my return, which, I hope, will be at 1.30 p.m."

"Very good, sir," replied Gerald, with a salute, as the captain ordered the remainder of the landing-party to fall in.

Meanwhile the divers had been working incessantly, and the propeller was again fit for its task; the anchor was weighed, and theOlive Branchonce more glided down the waters of Desolation Inlet.

Left in charge of the prisoners Gerald had ample time to reflect upon the action he had taken. In his anxiety to save the savages from extermination he had made a somewhat hasty proposal; and now, with the execution of his plan in progress, the force of Captain Brookes' objections came home to him.

The hitherto untried ZZ-rays might prove themselves far more destructive than their inventor claimed; their radius of action might overlap the area governed by those sinister chequers on the indicator; the distance and direction of the pinnacle from theOlive Branchmight be misjudged—and then?

Tregarthen glanced at his watch. It was a quarter to twelve.

"Smith!" he called out, addressing one of the petty officers.

"Sir?"

"Pass the word for the men to take off their bandoliers, empty the magazines of their rifles, and stow the cartridges under yonder tree."

Without betraying his surprise at the unusual order the man hurried off to communicate Gerald's instructions. Implicit obedience was Smith's sheet anchor.

"There, I've taken every possible precaution," mused the young officer. "Now things must take their course."

As the minutes slowly sped the tension amongst the seamen increased. Even the savages seemed to have an inkling that something extraordinary was afoot.

Watch in hand Gerald waited till the long hand pointed at a minute to the hour.

"Look!" he shouted, pointing to the distant crag.

The natives, although they did not understand the word, followed the direction indicated, and a tense deathly silence seemed to fill the air.

Precisely at noon a terrific detonation shook the ground, and a thick cloud of dust and smoke obscured the view of the pinnacle. When the cloud had dispersed the rock had completely vanished, only a heap of boulders marking its position.

The effect upon the natives was astonishing. In an agony of fear they threw themselves face downwards in the dust, shrieking andmoaning in a most dismal manner. By a pure coincidence the rock that Gerald had selected for destruction had been regarded by the savages as the home of the tutelar god of war, and its disintegration had appalled the superstitious savages far more than any personal chastisement. They realised that the power of the white man was greater than that of the deity whom they regarded as their protector in their treacherous attacks upon harmless trading and fishing vessels that stress of weather had driven into their harbours.

Punctually at the time stated Captain Brookes returned with the rest of the landing-party.

By means of signs the savages were told that they were spared on condition that they refrained from molesting the crews of any ships that might at some future time visit Desolation Inlet. This they seemed to understand, and by gesticulations promised to conform to their captors' commands.

"Cast them adrift," ordered Captain Brookes, then turning to Gerald he continued: "Well, that's done with. There's not much doubt as to the efficacy of the ZZ-rays. But the wireless is now in working order once more, and the first message that I received is one that requires our urgent presence in the Mediterranean Sea. Until I hear further details I had better not say any more, but, rest assured, Mr. Tregarthen, that compared with our next venture, recent events are mere child's play."

(To be continued)

image: 23_aviator.jpg

[Illustration: Seated up to his waist in water was the aviator, clad in an inflated rubber suit. The engine was lost to view,the tips of the twin propellersjust projected above the surface.]

image: 12_instalment_image.png[Illustration: fifth instalment]BY PERCY F. WESTERMANAuthor of "A Lad of Grit," etc.ILLUSTRATED BY E. S. HODGSONSynopsisGERALD TREGARTHEN, sub-lieutenant of H.M.S.Calder, being on leave, sails from Poole with his old school-chum Jack Stockton on board the latter's yachtPlaymate. In mid-Channel the yacht is run down; the two friends are rescued, and find themselves on board a mysterious cruiser—theOlive Branch—commanded by Captain Brookes. Finding that Tregarthen is a British naval officer, Captain Brookes announces his intention of keeping him on board, and, after due deliberation, Gerald decides to fall in with the captain's plans, as far as his sense of loyalty will permit.Tregarthen is initiated into the secrets of theOlive Branch, including that of the deadly ZZ-rays—an irresistible charge of electricity whereby the destruction of a hostile ship can be made at will. Captain Brookes also explains that by the power at his command he hopes to make war so terrible that no nation will venture to declare war; thus universal peace will be assured. During the voyage south a German "tramp" is boarded for the recovery of some plans which had been stolen by a deserter, and for this action theOlive Branchis branded as a pirate.Hostilities break out between Chili and Peru, and Captain Brookes determines to intervene. TheOlive Branchis damaged by a mine, and while undergoing repairs is trapped by a British squadron. Captain Brookes is handicapped by a vow never to fire on a British vessel.By the aid of the Z-rays, however, theOlive Branchescapes, though not without sustaining injury. The vessel puts into a creek in the Patagonian coast for repairs. A number of blacks which are encountered at first appear friendly, but afterwards prove treacherous, and to cower them Captain Brookes utterly destroys, by means of the ZZ-rays, a huge rock regarded by the natives as the home of their god of war. Later the captain receives a message which, without disclosing particulars, he tells Tregarthen is to the utmost urgency, and involves immediate action.

image: 12_instalment_image.png[Illustration: fifth instalment]

BY PERCY F. WESTERMANAuthor of "A Lad of Grit," etc.ILLUSTRATED BY E. S. HODGSONSynopsis

GERALD TREGARTHEN, sub-lieutenant of H.M.S.Calder, being on leave, sails from Poole with his old school-chum Jack Stockton on board the latter's yachtPlaymate. In mid-Channel the yacht is run down; the two friends are rescued, and find themselves on board a mysterious cruiser—theOlive Branch—commanded by Captain Brookes. Finding that Tregarthen is a British naval officer, Captain Brookes announces his intention of keeping him on board, and, after due deliberation, Gerald decides to fall in with the captain's plans, as far as his sense of loyalty will permit.

Tregarthen is initiated into the secrets of theOlive Branch, including that of the deadly ZZ-rays—an irresistible charge of electricity whereby the destruction of a hostile ship can be made at will. Captain Brookes also explains that by the power at his command he hopes to make war so terrible that no nation will venture to declare war; thus universal peace will be assured. During the voyage south a German "tramp" is boarded for the recovery of some plans which had been stolen by a deserter, and for this action theOlive Branchis branded as a pirate.

Hostilities break out between Chili and Peru, and Captain Brookes determines to intervene. TheOlive Branchis damaged by a mine, and while undergoing repairs is trapped by a British squadron. Captain Brookes is handicapped by a vow never to fire on a British vessel.

By the aid of the Z-rays, however, theOlive Branchescapes, though not without sustaining injury. The vessel puts into a creek in the Patagonian coast for repairs. A number of blacks which are encountered at first appear friendly, but afterwards prove treacherous, and to cower them Captain Brookes utterly destroys, by means of the ZZ-rays, a huge rock regarded by the natives as the home of their god of war. Later the captain receives a message which, without disclosing particulars, he tells Tregarthen is to the utmost urgency, and involves immediate action.

image: chapter_19.jpg[Illustration: CHAPTER XIX]

AWEEK later theOlive Branchwas once more ploughing the waters of the North Atlantic. Since leaving Desolation Inlet her battered appearance had undergone a great change. The bridge and chart-house had been replaced, but the task of renewing the automatic steering-gear was, for the time being, beyond the resources of the ship. Thus, day and night, one of the quartermasters and two assistants had to take their places at the wheel, instead of merely keeping a sharp look-out as theOlive Branch, like an intelligent human being, pursued an unswerving course.

By this time the identity of the hitherto mysteriousOlive Branchhad become common property, and the principal European nations had agreed that she was not to be ignored as a fighting machine. Incidentally, Gerald's report to the British Admiralty had served a useful purpose, for, unknown to Captain Brookes and his officers, code messages had been dispatched to the numerous ships flying the White Ensign on the high seas, ordering them to abstain from hindering or molesting the cruiser, unless the latter were caught in the act of committing an outrage on British shipping. No doubt Captain Brookes's magnanimous forbearance when he ran the gauntlet from Talcahuano Harbour had much to do with this decision, but, being ignorant of it, the captain of theOlive Branchstill took precautions toavoid coming into contact with a British man-of-war.

How this was to be accomplished, especially in the somewhat congested waters of the Straits of Gibraltar, through which he must pass in order to gain the Eastern Mediterranean—since the passage of the Suez Canal was out of the question—required careful forethought. News having been received by wireless from one of his agents that several of the Russian Volunteer Fleet were making the passage from Libau to Sevastopol gave Captain Brookes his opportunity; nor was he slow to act. TheOlive Branchwas to be disguised as a Russian vessel.

Accordingly, two huge canvas funnels were rigged up; an additional mast with a dummy wireless installation was erected; a calm day afforded the opportunity of painting the ship a greenish hue, similar to that adopted in the Imperial Russian Navy; the name Ekaterinoslav, conspicuously written in Slavonic characters, graced her stern, while the blue cross of St. Andrew on a white field floated from the ensign staff.

"I think that will pass muster," observed Captain Brookes. "But, by Jove! I hope we won't encounter a stiff breeze, or our make-believe funnels will sweep the deck."

"It will give the show away if they do," rejoined Lieutenant Sinclair. "We've guyed them as firmly as it is possible to do, and even now they are whipping before the wind."

"We must ease down a bit. I intended to in any case, so that we can slip through the Straits in a decorous manner. Will you please tell the engine-room to slow down to fifteen knots, and then stow and secure the windshields."

At sunset theOlive Branch, which was running in a northerly direction off the southwest coast of Spain, altered her course to S.E., and boldly stood in towards the historic Straits, so as to pass midway betwixt the batteries of Gibraltar on the north and Ceuta on the south, or African, shore.

The evening being warm, Gerald Tregarthen appeared on deck accompanied by Jack Stockton. The latter was making rapid progress under the skilful care of Dr. White, and though the wound had proved a severe one, no complications had arisen.

"That's Cape Tarifa," observed Gerald, as a fixed red light became visible on the port bow. "We ought soon to pick up the white light on Europa Point. But, by Jove! Jack, I hardly like this phase of the proceedings. Once we are in the Mediterranean, how are we to get out again if this blockading business is continued? It's all very well dodging a few cruisers, though, mind you, it was a fine performance; but when it comes to having to tackle the whole of the British Mediterranean Fleet, that's a rather tall order."

"But we seem to be slipping through unobserved."

"After the fashion of a crab entering a crab-pot—it's on the return trip that we have to pay toll. This disguise will serve us for the present, but the first appearance of theOlive Branchin her natural guise will set the whole of the Mediterranean Fleet about our ears."

"If they——"

Jack's sentence remained uncompleted, for with the suddenness peculiar to the Straits a vicious squall swept down from Carnero Point, taking theOlive Branchfull on the broadside. Instantly the two dummy funnels disappeared overboard, where, held by the wire rope guys, they became gigantic drogues or floating anchors, against which the action of the rudder was powerless.

Then as swiftly as it had arisen the squall subsided.

Captain Brookes was, as usual when in a tight place, ready for all emergencies. Ordering the motors to be stopped lest the propellers should foul the straining canvas, he gave word for the bo'sun's mate to pipe the watch to clear away the wreckage.

Lustily the men sprang to their work, axe in hand, but, ere a dozen blows had been struck, the dazzling rays of a searchlight picked out theOlive Branchwith the utmost precision.

"A cruiser," remarked Captain Brookes, calmly. "Carry on, men; then general quarters."

As he sprang towards the conning-tower the searchlight was switched off and a masthead signalling lamp began to "call up" the motionlessOlive Branch.

"Acknowledge," ordered the captain, shortly; and in reply a lamp from the bridge began its succession of rapid short flashes.

"What ship is that?"

"It's no use bluffing them, Tregarthen. I'll show my true colours, and if they've any regard for their own safety they'll sheer off," remarked Captain Brookes, and turning to his signalman he ordered him to reply:—

"The cruiser 'Olive Branch.'"

Almost without a moment's hesitation the intercepting vessel signalled:—

"Is Lieutenant Tregarthen on board?"

"Ha, Mr. Tregarthen, you're promoted, I understand. Allow me to congratulate you," said his temporary "chief."

An affirmative reply having been given, the British cruiser—for British she undoubtedly was—continued:—

"I wish to communicate; am sending boat."

"They can't do us much harm while the boat's alongside," commented Captain Brookes. "Nevertheless, we must take precautions. A few revolutions with the port propellers, if you please, then carry on with the work of clearing away the wreckage."

Hardly had the accommodation ladder been rigged when the sound of oars could be heard, and the outlines of a cutter could be discerned as it approached the side of theOlive Branch.

"Two communications, sir; one for the officer commanding this ship, the other for Lieutenant Tregarthen. Will you please favour me with an acknowledgment in each case?" announced a lieutenant as he came over the side.

"I trust you will honour me with your presence in my cabin," replied Captain Brookes affably, and, as the party of officers moved towards the companion, he continued "Might I be inquisitive enough to inquire how you were so ready with your message?"

"Merely the result of a general order, sir," replied the lieutenant of H.M.S.Galatea, one of the latest super-Dreadnought cruisers. "Since your marvellous display of speed one never knows where you might turn up next. We happened to be the vessel that stood in your way."

There was a marked difference between the respective manners with which Captain Brookes and Gerald received their communications.

The former calmly and deliberately cut the flap of the envelope with a paper-knife, while his subordinate tore his with almost feverish anxiety.

Gerald's contained a copy of a general order, in which it was stated that Sub-Lieutenant Gerald Tregarthen had been promoted Lieutenant in His Majesty's fleet; and, further, that he was appointed for special duties for an indefinite period, thereby proving that My Lords were both willing and anxious for him to continue his stay on board theOlive Branch, although they hesitated to say so in plain words. Nevertheless, the communication lifted a great load off Gerald's mind, although in his excitement he could not fully realise his good fortune. Meanwhile Captain Brookes had completed the reading of the letter addressed to him. Not a sign did he give of its effect, but, inscrutable as the Sphinx, he carefully selected a quill, pointed it, and began to write.

Gerald had before remarked that these pens were the only obsolete articles on the ship. Captain Brookes, past master in the art of modern appliances, had a peculiar liking for quills; and it was with almost pre-Victorian punctiliousness that the captain penned his reply. This done, he carefully sealed the envelope with wax and handed it to the British officer with a courteous bow.

Then, having waited till Gerald had written his acknowledgment, he broke the official ice by requesting the lieutenant of theGalateato partake of a bottle of choice old Madeira.

For nearly half an hour the midnight reception continued, and though the conversation was mainly small talk, Captain Brookes noticed that his visitor was keenly taking in his surroundings, though, the captain reflected, there was little information to be gleaned in that cabin that would prove of use to a stranger.

By the time theGalatea'scutter had returned to her parent ship the work of clearing away the debris was accomplished; and with a courteous interchange of signals the two vessels separated, the British cruiser heading towards Gibraltar Harbour, theOlive Branchtearing at forty-five knots towards the vast tideless waters of the Mediterranean.

Shortly before eight bells on the following morning all hands, save those whose absence was absolutely necessary, were mustered on the quarter deck.

As Gerald emerged through the companion he noticed that the Russian Ensign no longer floated aft, but held ready to be hoisted was the green and white flag that theOlive Branchclaimed as her own.

"There's something in the air, Jack," he whispered to his chum.

The officers and men had mustered with anxious faces. They knew that a communication of some import had been received from a British cruiser, but the vaguest details of its contents were missing.

Presently Captain Brookes, in full uniform, came on deck, striding proudly like a young bantam, as the point of his scabbard clanked across the metal plating. Walking as he didbetween, yet slightly in advance of, two tall lieutenants, his gait would have appeared ridiculous had he been other than the captain of theOlive Branch; but there was a determination in his bearing that outweighed his comparatively diminutive stature and his pompous walk.

As eight bells were sounded the ship's ensign was hoisted, all hands standing rigidly to attention as was their wont. Then, taking from his pocket the document that he had received overnight, Captain Brookes began to read its contents.

From My Lords executing the office of Lord High Admiral of His Majesty's Ships and Vessels on the High Seas to the officer commanding the cruiser (nationality uncertain) "Olive Branch."

SIR,—You are hereby informed that, as far as His Majesty's Government is concerned, the decree of piracy issued against you, dated 29/8/—, is cancelled, provided that you and the vessel you command abstain from committing any act of violence against any of His Majesty's subjects, ships, buildings, or other properties of the Crown.—(Signed) BALDERSTOWE, Secretary to My Lords, etc., etc.

For a few seconds following the conclusion of this announcement absolute silence prevailed. The officers were too phlegmatic to allow themselves to express their feelings with acclamation; the men took longer to grasp the meaning of the declaration. When at length its significance came home to them, the seamen burst into a prolonged cheer.

Thoroughly loyal to their chief, the officers and crew had realised that the captain's policy had brought them into dangerous paths; nor could they forget that they were Britons by birth. But now the amnesty had been received the load on their minds had been removed; they could pursue their plans with a good grace.

"You see, my men," exclaimed Captain Brookes, "there's more in this than the British Admiralty feel inclined to put into writing. We are recognised as an important factor in preserving the world's peace. Nay, I will go farther. Should Great Britain in her hour of trial require our assistance—and events seem to show that clouds are already gathering on the political horizon—theOlive Branchwill not hesitate to range herself on the side of the champion of true liberty.

"Now occurs the opportunity of informing you of theOlive Branch'spresent mission. For some considerable time past there have been signs of an approaching rupture between Turkey and Greece, and events have proved that the trouble between these two States has almost invariably ended in European war.

"I have every reason to believe that a secret treaty exists between Greece and Russia, whereby the Russian Black Sea fleet will force the passage of the Dardanelles directly the first shot is fired between the Greeks and Turks; while, on the other hand, Austria and Italy will support the Hellenes. It naturally follows that the Russian troops will swarm over the Carpathians. Under the existing understanding between Germany and Austria the former country will not remain passive while Muscovite armies are massing on her eastern frontier; nor is it unreasonable to suppose that France, ever burning to wipe out the indignity of losing Alsace-Lorraine, will side with her old ally, Russia.

"This conflict between Greece and Turkey must, therefore, be nipped in the bud. The encounter between the respective fleets must not take place; and it is theOlive Branch'sduty to prevent it."

Another outburst of cheering greeted the conclusion of the captain's speech, and the men were dismissed.

As Captain Brookes was about to descendthe companion, Selkirk,the chief engineer, came towards him.

"We're running verra short of fuel, sir," he reported. "A matter of twa days will clear us oot o' the last drap."

"That's serious, Mr. Selkirk."

"If she'll take a mixture of lubricating and paraffin maybe I'll screw another four hoors out o' the motors, sir; but the——"

"Very well, Mr. Selkirk. Economise as much as you can; meanwhile I'll see what's to be done."

Captain Brookes realised the gravity of the situation. At half speed it would be just possible to reach Malta, but it was deemed inadvisable to claim the hospitality of a British dependency at this early stage of reconciliation.

On the other hand, theOlive Branchwould soon be in a state of comparative impotence, since the running of her dynamos from which her offensive and defensive power was derived, would be seriously affected by the under-fuelled motors.

Consequently, Captain Brookes decided to take a bold step; he would shape a course for the Straits of Messina, intercept one of the many oil-tank vessels plying between Baku and the French Mediterranean ports, and by fair means or foul take possession of her cargo.

image: chapter_20.jpg[Illustration: CHAPTER XX]

JUST before dawn theOlive Branchgained the northern approach of the Straits of Messina. Away on the starboard quarter glimmered the lights of the Sicilian town of Milazzo, while well down in the northern sky a faint ruddy glare betokened the position of the smouldering fires of Stromboli.

"There's Cape Faro," observed Sinclair, pointing to a headland that loomed against the pale diffusing light. "We'll soon be in the thick of the shipping."

"The sooner the better," rejoined Lieutenant Palmer. "The chief has just been informed that we can only keep going another two hours."

"Port light showing, sir," shouted the look-out, as a faint red star moved slowly from behind the intervening headland.

"Be careful not to excite suspicion," cautioned Captain Brookes, as she gave a warning blast on her syren. "Ask her to make her number."

A reference to the code-book showed that the stranger was the British steamerBletchley Hall.

"Done this time!" grunted Sinclair, as theOlive Branch'shelm was altered to show her red. Nor was the second venture more successful, the vessel in this case being thePluton, from Zante to Castellamare.

Then, in order to economise their precious fuel, theOlive Branch'sengines were stopped. As the sun rose, however, a tramp, emitting dense volumes of oil-fed smoke, laboured slowly through the Straits. The practised eye of Captain Brookes regarded her with satisfaction. "If that's not an oil-tank, I'm a Dutchman," he exclaimed.

Unsuspectingly the tramp gave her name, port of clearance, and destination, and the nature of her cargo—crude petroleum. Then, to the astonishment of her skipper, theOlive Branchmade a peremptory signal for her to heave to.

To give the Russian credit he did not immediately accede to this demand. Smoke poured from the tramp's funnels in increasing volumes as she altered her course with the intention of seeking safety in flight. As well might a hedgehog seek to outpace a dog, for, with the last of her fuel theOlive Branch'smotors worked up to a speed of thirty knots, while a solid shell, passing twenty yards in front of the tramp's bluff bows, caused her to stop and reverse her engines.

"Pipe away the cutter," ordered Captain Brookes. "Mr. Palmer, you will please take charge—you know your orders, I presume?"

"Yes, sir," replied the lieutenant.

As the cutter ranged alongside the tramp's rusty sides her captain, a tall, broad-shouldered, heavily bearded Slav, began abusing the intruders, cursing them in a medley of all the seafaring epithets of Europe.

"Belay there!" exclaimed Palmer. "Don't worry, old fellow! All we want is some oil."

"Then you'll haf to want," replied the irate skipper, who spoke English with tolerable fluency.

"We mean to pay you a fair rate."

"No, no—I will not sell."

"Then we must make you."

"Pirate, eh?" sneered the Russian. "Me report you, an' you'll go so," making a rapid circle with his thumb and finishing with an upward jerk. "What's the name of your sheep?"

"TheOlive Branch—isn't that good enough for you?" retorted Palmer, beginning to lose his temper.

The effect of this announcement was almost magical. The crew of the tramp, mostly fair-haired Finns, disappeared from her bulwarks, while the captain hastened to leave the bridge and lower a rope-ladder over the side.

Thirty seconds later Palmer and six of his men were in possession of the Russian vessel, and the cutter was sent back to the cruiser. Then, carefully manoeuvred, theOlive Branchcame alongside the tramp and the work of spoliation began.

The hoses were already connected up, and under the action of six powerful centrifugal pumps the precious oil was transferred to the tanks of theOlive Branch, till six hundred tons completed the carrying capacity of the cruiser.

This done, Captain Brookes made out a draft in payment and handed it to the Russian skipper, at the same time making him a present of a case of whisky, which the man received with an ill grace.

"We may as well give him a taste of the Z-rays, just to show there's no deception," remarked Captain Brookes as theOlive Branchshowed her heels to the tramp.

"Will the rays not effect the submarine cable between Reggio and Messina?" asked Gerald.

"What matters? If they want an explanation there are the subjects for theory," replied the captain, waving his arm in the direction of the invisible Etna. "Volcanic disturbances, eh?"

The Z-rays were accordingly released for ten minutes, during which time theOlive Branchhad passed the renowned Scylla and Charybdis of the ancients and was heading towards the port of Catania, sixty miles to the south'ard of the Straits.

"Wreck ahead, sir," reported the look-out.

Glasses were instantly levelled, and an object was discovered that at first sight appeared to be a small sailing craft lying on her beam ends.

"If that be the case, she's a rum sort of sailing boat," remarked Stockton. "She has a sail set on her keel as well."

"It's a monoplane," announced Captain Brookes. "The airman has come to earth on the water, to perpetrate an Irish bull. Stand by there, for'ard!"

Orders were given for theOlive Branchto reduce speed, while the crew prepared for salvage work. In the course of a few minutes the distance had decreased sufficiently for the wrecked aeroplane to be plainly visible to the naked eye. Although it owed its buoyancy to the fact that two cylindrical aluminium floats were attached to the chassis, the disabled monoplane was deeply submerged. The engine was lost to view, the tips of the twin propellers just projecting above the surface, while the extremities of the planes dipped to each successive swell.

Seated up to his waist in water was the aviator, clad in a partially inflated rubber suit. He had already seen that aid was approaching, and with the utmost deliberation he had taken an air-tight case from his pocket. From this he drew a huge cigar, which he proceeded to light with an automatic lighter, puffing away with the greatest unconcern, as if a plunge into the sea in a monoplane was an every-day event.

"Steady on your helm, there," cautioned the captain, as the huge hull glided slowly to leeward of the wrecked aeroplane; then leaning over the rail he hailed "Ahoy, there! What's the length of your planes?"

"Fifteen feet," came the reply.

Noiselessly one of the cranes swung outboard; the block with its electrical grappling device was lowered, and engaging the framework fairly amidships, held it in a vice-like grip. The next instant the monoplane was swinging in the air, a cascade of water and oil pouring from every point of its complicated framework.

"You've come to grief, I see," observed Captain Brookes genially, as the airman slipped from his seat on to the deck of the cruiser.

"No need to tell me that, sir," replied the stranger, speaking with a pronounced American twang. "I guess I'd give a dollar or two to find out how she busted up. First time I've known an engine of the Maxfield Universal Gold Star Motor Company, of Petersburg, Pa., to play that low-down trick. But here's my card, sir: Sidney P. Flew, of New York City, and of Portland, State of Oregon; until a few minutes ago, on tour from Queenstown to Cairo by monoplane. What ship is this, sir?"

"You are on board theOlive Branch," said Captain Brookes, taking the piece of pasteboard.

"What, that durned pirate? Wal, if I ain't come out on top after all. Shake, sir! I'm that downright fortunate that I feel like pinching myself in case I'm fooling myself."

"Then you have heard of theOlive Branch?"

"Heard of her? Why, the whole of Europe and the United States have been talking about her. When I left New York the last words my pa said to me were, 'Sidney, young fellow, mind that durnedOlive Branchdoesn't snap you up.' 'I wish she would,' says I. 'It would be the stunt of a lifetime, and you would be the proudest man in Broadway if you knew your son set foot aboard that vessel.' And now, here I am."

"Well, your wish is gratified, though I don't know whether your expectations will be realised, Mr. Flew," replied Captain Brookes, hardly knowing what to make of the young man's verbosity. "Meanwhile one of my officers will take you below. The hospitality of theOlive Branchis at your service for a few hours at least."

"No need of refreshment at present, sir. Had breakfast at Cosenza not two hours ago. With your permission I'll dismember my machine and overhaul the engine before the salt-water plays the mischief with it. Durned if I can cotton to it! The motor was going like a clock, when all of a heap it stopped. Ignition all to blazes. So down I planed, like a ptarmigan with a broken wing."

"I think I can explain it," observed CaptainBrookes. "I was compelled for certain reasons to let fly an electrical current, and unfortunately for you, your monoplane came within its influence."

"More luck!" exclaimed the American, enthusiastically. "Sidney P. Flew, of New York City and Portland, fired at by the electrical guns of the world-renowned cruiser,Olive Branch. What a heading for the New York Herald."

"He's a harmless young enthusiast," remarked Captain Brookes to Gerald, as the aviator turned his attention to the rescued monoplane. "You might take him in hand and show him those parts of the ship that are of no particular importance. As soon as his craft is all ship-shape, we'll start him on his journey. By the bye, I hear that the Turkish fleet is still in the Golden Horn, and that nothing is likely to transpire for a few days. What do you say to a run across to Malta?"

"I should be glad of the opportunity, if no inconvenience is caused."

"There will be none. Sinclair is going, so if you care to take your friend, Stockton, now's the opportunity. The cutter will take you into Catania, whence a steamer plies regularly to Valetta."

Tregarthen and Stockton had barely fifteen hours ashore at Malta, but not a minute was wasted. Gerald had a previous knowledge of the island, and was thus able to pilot his chum. His chief object in making the trip was to procure a lieutenant's uniform. Now that the Admiralty had given the sanction to Gerald's presence on theOlive Branchhe felt he could with propriety wear the uniform of his rank. So directly he landed at Valetta he hurried to a naval outfitter's, where by dint of promises of liberal payment he prevailed upon the Maltese tailor to have the uniform ready at the expiration of twelve hours.

"There's no time to be lost if we are to stop this business," was Captain Brookes's greeting on Gerald's return. "The Turkish fleet has cleared the Dardanelles at last. Turn in and take a good night's rest, for I'm sure you want it."

"One moment, sir—how's the airman?"

"Oh, he's a nuisance. Makes out he can't get his engine to work smoothly. I believe it's only an excuse to hang on. However, it can't be helped; I can't pitch him out at a minute's notice, so I've had the monoplane unrigged and stowed away beneath the armoured deck. After this business is over we can land him if he's still unable to fly. Look, there he is, talking to Palmer. By the bye, he seems very fond of that young fellow. Now, off you go, Mr. Tregarthen, for by sunrise to-morrow we may be cleared for action."

image: chapter_21.jpg[Illustration: CHAPTER XXI]

THE narrow waters of the strait between Negropont and Andros presented an unwonted spectacle to the crew of theOlive Branchas they stood at general quarters.

Straining and grinding at their utmost speed of nine knots were four Turkish battleships—theAzizieh,Mahmoudieh,Orkanieh, andOsmanieh, while on their flanks were the cruisersAbdul Medjid,Fezibahri, andHamidieh, compelled, for defensive purposes, to reduce their speed to that of their consorts. By dint of strenuous exertions—so incomprehensible to the kismet-abiding Turk—the battleships had been cleaned of the deposit of barnacles that had encrusted their hulls during years of idleness in the Golden Horn, and were about to try conclusions with the smaller, yet more serviceable, warships of Greece.

The Hellenic fleet, consisting of the three battleshipsHydra,Psara, andSpetsai, and three modern cruisers built by the Italian firm of Ansaldo, did not hesitate to put to sea, and now at less than seven miles apart the rival fleets prepared for the opening stages of the conflict.

At her utmost speed theOlive Branchdashed in between the fleets, a huge white flag flying from the truck of a forty-foot spar lashed to her diminutive signalling mast. Then, reversing her propellers, she brought up within three cables' lengths of the Turkish flagship, theAzizieh.

All hands on board theOlive Branchwere now at their stations, only Captain Brookes, Gerald, Lieutenant Slade, the signal bo's'un, and two yeomen of signals remaining on the bridge or within the conning-tower.

"Make the general signal to both fleets," ordered the captain, and hoist after hoist rose to the yard-arm with the utmost celerity.

From captain of "Olive Branch" to the commanding officers Turkish and Hellenic Fleets:—

Abandon hostilities and return to respective ports. Every vessel disregarding this order by opening fire will be destroyed.

The Turkish admiral was beside himself withrage. He had heard of theOlive Branch, and of her dealings with the Peruvian fleet, but was he, a Mussulman, to be overridden by a Giaour? Slowly the foremast turret of theAziziehswung round, the muzzle of the 9.2 Krupp pointing menacingly towards the distantPsara. For quite ten seconds the gun remained thus trained, the admiral still hesitating to give the word to fire.

Then, trained by the manual power imparted by a score of toiling seamen, the turret turned till the muzzle gaped straight at theOlive Branch.

"Better take shelter, gentlemen," remarked Captain Brookes, calmly. "The old gentleman yonder seems to be forgetting himself."

Even as he spoke the Krupp opened fire. The Turkish gun-layer, distrustful of the quality of the charge, had allowed for the admitted inferiority of the explosive; but this particular powder was far above the usual standard.

The result was that the projectile, possessing a high initial velocity and a low trajectory, flew handsomely over theOlive Branch, although sufficiently close to allow the windage to be felt by those on the bridge as they hastened to take cover.

"For'ard turret: load with Mark 2 projectile," ordered Captain Brookes. Then turning to Gerald he remarked: "Perhaps that gunner lost his head. I'll give them the benefit of the doubt."

The captain's humane consideration was thrown away. The shot had been intentional, and the Turkish admiral, finding there was no reply, prepared for a second round.

"Give it to her!" shouted the captain.

Mark 2 projectiles, though of low bursting power compared with theOlive Branch'sfirst quality shells, were not to be despised.

The right-hand gun of No. 1 turret kicked slightly and emitted a slight bluish haze as the projectile screamed on its way towards the Turkish flagship.

TheAziziehwas an old ship, being built on the Clyde in 1864, yet her 5 1/2in. belt was still capable of standing a lot of hammering; at least, so thought the Turkish authorities.

The 6in. shell took her fairly and squarely amidships, and though the ship was not instantly pulverised—as she would have been had Captain Brookes so wished—her destruction was none the less complete.

A small jagged hole marked the place of entry of the projectile; but on the explosion of the shell it seemed as if the vitals of the ship were thrown high in the air.

Twice theAziziehmade a double list, then settling down by the stern she showed that her wound was fatal. With true Oriental indifference the Turks had gone into action without throwing overboard their inflammable gear; even their wooden boats were still in davits or on the booms, and these were burning furiously.

Calmly the lithe, brown-skinned seamen lowered themselves over the side or plunged into the water. Many were caught by the propellers as the ship, by some inconceivable means, threw her stern in the air and plunged bows foremost beneath the waves, dragging down many of the swimmers in the smoke-enshrouded whirlpool that marked her grave. Then a deafening roar, as the water came in contact with her boilers, gave place to an ominous silence. TheAziziehwas no more.

That was the end of the action. The rest of the Turkish vessels immediately went about and made off at full speed towards the Dardanelles; while the Grecian admiral, having made a signal thanking theOlive Branchfor her intervention—an acknowledgment that Captain Brookes deliberately ignored—retired southward.

Thus the near Eastern difficulty was settled with a promptitude hitherto unknown; but, though Captain Brookes was unaware of it, the averting of a European war was not complete. The inevitable struggle was ere long to be diverted through another channel.

"See here, Mr. Tregarthen," remarked the American airman, a few days after this occurrence, "I'd just like to have a look inside that wonderful conning-tower. Can you work it?"

"I'm afraid not, Mr. Flew; at least, not without Captain Brookes's permission. Why don't you ask him?"

"Thanks, I just won't," was the reply. "Don't mention it to him."

Five minutes later the captain appeared on deck.

"Why is that Yank so keen on knowing what is within the conning-tower, Mr. Tregarthen?"

Gerald flushed with surprise. The perception of the captain of theOlive Branchseemed beyond comprehension.

"Don't look so flabbergasted, Mr. Tregarthen. You are not the first person that fellow has broached on the matter. "However, I've madeup my mind to get rid of him at the earliest possible opportunity. He may be all right, but, bluntly, I don't like his inquisitive manner."

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