They came to a standstill in front of a row of two-storeyed houses. Owing to the darkness it was impossible for the flight-sub to form an accurate idea of the pretensions of the place; but at any rate it was a pitiful contrast to "The Old Rectory," the Deringhames' house at Alderdene. "The works were nearly hit by the bombs," continued Betty. "We had just started the night-shifts, but the girls were sent off after the raid was over. One of them was so frightened that I had to take her home. That's why I was late." "Fortunately for me," declared Billy earnestly. "Yes, a stranger would have some difficulty to find his way on a night like this," said Betty inconsequently. "You are on a straight road now, until you come to a railway arch. Just beyond you'll notice a line of overhead wires if you keep your eyes open. Just beyond is a path on the left. That will take you past Ladybird Fold." "I'll call in the morning," said Barcroft. "We--that is, mother and I, will be pleased to see you," replied the girl. "Goodnight--Billy." For the rest of the distance the flight-sub trod literally on air until he reached the path that Betty had mentioned. Tripping over a slab of stone he came to earth in a double sense. "Dash it all!" he exclaimed as he picked himself up. "Has the governor defended Lady bird Fold with entanglements and pitfalls? By Jove, this is a night!" Groping his way Billy ascended the steeply sloping cinder path across the meadow. Another stile and a broad stretch of rugged ground had to be negotiated before he saw a dark mass looming up in front. By this time he was feeling particularly stiff, hungry and cold. The keen air of the hillside made him regret the absence of his airman's leather coat. "Wonder if this is the show?" he mused as he surveyed the isolated and apparently deserted building. He stopped and listened intently. Voices were heard within, behind the thickly-curtained window. He recognised one of the speakers. "That's the governor, right enough," he exclaimed, all traces of annoyance vanishing at the pleasurable discovery. The outer door was unlocked. Billy threw it open and burst into the well-lighted study. "Cheer-o, pater!" he exclaimed. "Sorry I'm late. Some night, eh, what?" CHAPTER X THE SEAPLANE'S QUEST "S' LONG, you festive blighters! Good luck!" With this typically airman's farewell ringing in his ears Flight-lieutenant John Fuller, D.S.O., clambered lightly into the pilot's seat of Seaplane 445B. Owing to Billy Barcroft's absence on leave a change round had been effected in the composition of the crews of the seaplane carrier "Hippodrome's" little nest of hornets, and as a result Fuller found himself in company with Bobby Kirkwood as his observer.