THE “SWORD” IN CONFLICT WITH THE TUG 451

In a moment I said,—

-“ Perhaps, Lieutenant, it would be wise to return to the
surface ; we shall be better able to find the mass of rock
in which the opening is.”

“J think so too, if you can point out exactly where it
lies.”

“Wvean?

“Very well.”

As a precaution, the current of the lantern was discon-
nected and the liquid medium became dark. On receiving
the. order, the mechanician set the pumps working, and
the vessel, lightened of the water in its reservoirs, rose
slowly to the surface of the lagoon.

I remained in my place in order to take the bearings
through the lens of the periscope.

Then the ascending movement ceased, and the Sword
emerged a foot at most above the water.

On that side I recognized the wall of the Beehive by
the lamp on the bank.

“What do you say?” asked Davon.

“Weare too much to the north. The tunnel lies to
the west of the cavern.”

“Ts there anyone on the banks ?”

“Notone.:

“That is well. We may remain level with the water.
Then when the Sword is, in your opinion, facing the
tunnel, we shall sink.”

That was the best thing to do, and the steersman put
the boat in the very eye of the tunnel, after having drawn