When Tregarthen recovers his senses he finds himself alone in a cabin. From observation he comes to the conclusion that the vessel possesses astounding speed and that she is heavily armoured; also that he is a prisoner. At length he is taken into the presence of CAPTAIN BROOKES, in command of the cruiser _Olive Branch_. This individual claims that his cruiser is the most powerful vessel afloat, and that it is his mission to exterminate war and secure universal peace, using the super-powerful means at his command to achieve that purpose. He also informs Tregarthen that, as a British naval officer, he will prove useful to the _Olive Branch_ in her mission, and suggests that the sub-lieutenant should serve on board the cruiser for a period of not more than two years. At the end of that time he will be able to impart the valuable knowledge thus gained to the British Admiralty. Tregarthen is about to refuse, but Captain Brookes reminds him that in any case he is virtually a prisoner, and adds, "Take time to consider the matter. I'll see you at four bells, when I shall expect a positive reply." [Illustration: chapter VI] CHAPTER VI THE CONNING-TOWER OF THE "OLIVE BRANCH" PUNCTUALLY at ten o'clock on the following morning Gerald Tregarthen was ushered into the captain's cabin. "Well, sir, what decision have you arrived at?" demanded Captain Brookes. "No decision at all, sir," replied Tregarthen, firmly. "I want first of all to know what you propose to do with my companion." "With Mr. Stockton? I suppose I ought, as the pirate you regard me, to hold him as a hostage for your good behaviour. But rest assured, I'll have him shipped aboard the first homeward-bound vessel we sight." "Before I give you a reply I should like to have a few minutes' conversation with him," said Gerald. "Your request seems reasonable. You may have fifteen minutes' interview." While speaking, Captain Brookes had touched the push of an electric bell, and a seaman, evidently a petty officer, was immediately in attendance. "Take this gentleman to his quarters and desire Mr. Black to bring Mr. Stockton to him." "Very good, sir," replied the seaman, and holding back the heavy curtains that hung over the door he allowed Tregarthen to precede him. In less than five minutes Jack Stockton had joined his chum. "Hulloa, Jack! How have they treated you?" "Can't complain," was the laconic reply. "They told me you were all right in spite of a crack on the skull. Beyond that I didn't worry much, though I've been thinking about my poor old yacht." "Yes, it's rough luck," replied Tregarthen. "But she's insured, isn't she?" "Yes. But what does that matter? I shall never have the same craft again; and, Gerald, she was part and parcel of my existence." "You'll have another one soon." "Will I? How do you know?" "Because they are going to ship you aboard the first vessel we meet." "Ship _me?_ How about you?"