Of course, the mere fact of a competent,
well-trained boy crew was a novelty to the newspaper writers, who made
much of the submarine boys and asked them many questions about their
work.
"How soon are you going to take us out aboard the 'Pollard'?" inquired
one of the women reporters.
"Just as soon as Captain Benson and his young men have had a chance to
show you the remarkable feat that you have come here to see," promised
Mr. Farnum.
"And what is that remarkable feat?" asked another journalist.
"The wonder of it will strike you all the more if we do not announce it
in advance," rejoined David Pollard.
"Captain Benson, what have _you_ to say about it?" pleaded one of the
newspaper women. "Won't you give us at least a hint?"
"I'd like to, immensely," smiled Captain Jack, "but I've always had
a great respect for Mr. Farnum's judgment."
"Good enough, captain," laughed the boat builder. "And now, signal for
the boat that is to put you aboard."
As the boat was coming in Captain Jack turned to the newspaper writers
to say:
"Ladies and gentlemen, the thing that is to be done to-day is something
that has never been done on any other boat than the 'Pollard.' If it
looks a bit dramatic, you will understand, of course, that that is a
means toward making it all the more impressive."
"Oh, dear, but you _are_ making me dreadfully inquisitive," complained
one of the newspaper women, plaintively.
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