"I am not sure that she can keep it up without straining something," he said. "But it is better to be on the move than lying still. The ice won't part for us of its own free will, that's sure." Still the D-17 plowed slowly along; and then, perhaps half a mile from the starting point, she stopped. "Back her and try again," was Lord Hastings' command. This was done and again the vessel made headway. This process was repeated time after time; and some five hours later, those upon deck made out clear water beyond, though there was a considerable expanse of ice to penetrate. Undaunted, Lord Hastings continued to force the D-17 against the apparently impenetrable barrier; and at last the D-17 broke clear. Lord Hastings gave a sigh of relief. "Now for Petrograd at full speed," he said. "We'll have a look over the ship as we go along. There is no need stopping to do it here. Every minute may be precious. Take the wheel, Mr. Chadwick, while I make a tour of inspection." Frank did so, and Lord Hastings turned to Jack with this command: "Full speed ahead, Mr. Templeton!" CHAPTER IX. ASHORE. In spite of the fact that, upon investigation, Lord Hastings found the D-17 leaking in several places, serious trouble in the engine room and other minor wounds suffered in her battle with the ice, the submarine made Petrograd safely and under her own steam. It was broad daylight of the following day when the vessel sighted land. At the same time a Russian man-o'-war, sighting the D-17, immediately cleared for action and gave a signal for the submarine to heave-to. Lord Hastings obeyed and a launch put over the side and came toward the D-17. A few moments later Lord Hastings and a Russian officer were closeted in the former's cabin aboard the submarine. When they emerged, the D-17 proceeded. Several hours later found Lord Hastings, Frank and Jack ashore, the D-17 having been turned over to the Russian naval authorities for repair. It was found that it would be necessary to put the craft in dry dock and this meant that several weeks must elapse before the submarine could be put in commission again. "And what are we going to do all that time, I'd like to know?" said Frank, plainly disappointed. "Well, we might look about Petrograd a bit," said Jack with a faint smile. "Hold on there," said Lord Hastings. "I intend keeping an eye on you fellows this time. You may remember the trouble you had on your last trip here. Nothing more like that if I can help it." "I am afraid we won't have much of a time this trip," said Frank. "You are afraid you won't, eh?" repeated Lord Hastings. "Well, I'm in hopes you won't, and neither will you if there is anything I can do to prevent it. To tell the truth, I am half way inclined to have you both locked up for safe keeping, until the time comes for us to sail." "Oh, we'll be good, sir," said Frank.