"Mr. Tregarthen, before we talk of compulsion--though I admit I was the first to suggest such a step--pray consider the main and side issues of the question. You are bound by a solemn oath to obey your lawful sovereign, King George V. Do you think you could serve him in a better manner than by acquiring the knowledge of what this vessel is, and how she is enabled to possess such irresistible power? The Admiralty would be only too glad of a chance to gain the secret of the _Olive Branch_. You would to all intents and purposes become a naval attaché, with far greater prospects of gaining invaluable knowledge. Now, this is my offer: Your service for the space of not less than two years; your solemn word that you will obey my orders in all matters, provided you are not called upon to commit a hostile act against your own nation. Means will be afforded you to communicate with the authorities at the Admiralty, in which you can explain the facts under which you were compulsorily detained, and so on. Then, at the end of two years, or before, should my mission be accomplished, you will be permitted to return home, armed with the priceless secrets that are to command universal peace. Is that clear?" "And the alternative?" "I do not wish to discuss the alternative beyond saying what I have already stated." Then, seeing that Tregarthen was on the point of giving a direct refusal, Captain Brookes interposed:-- "Now, don't do or say anything foolish. Take time to consider the matter. I'll see you at four bells in the forenoon watch, when I shall expect a definite reply." _(A second instalment of this thrilling serial will appear next month)_ [Illustration] [Illustration: In spite of his strenuous resistance they hauled the deserter out of the empty tank, and then unceremoniously bundled him into the gig.] [_See page_ 112. [Illustration: second instalment] BY PERCY F. WESTERMAN Author of "A Lad of Grit," etc. _ILLUSTRATED BY E. S. HODGSON_ *Characters in the Story* GERALD TREGARTHEN, sub-lieutenant of H.M.S. _Calder_, decides to spend his leave on a small yacht. He accordingly takes train to Poole, where the craft is lying. On the journey he reads in a newspaper a passage relating to the departure from the Tyne of a powerful cruiser, nominally intended for the Brazilian Government, also a series of reports concerning a mysterious accident to the German cruiser _Zietan_. At Poole he joins his friend and former school-chum. JACK STOCKTON, owner of the yacht _Playmate_. The same night they put to sea, intending to cross the Channel. When about thirty miles off the Isle of Wight they encounter a dense sea-fog, and the _Playmate_ is run down by a large vessel. Tregarthen is stunned by some falling gear, but is saved by Stockton, and both are taken on board the ship that has run them down.