ad been introduced as General Gruenwold.

"I understand that you young gentlemen lost an airship when the schooner
sank?" he inquired of Ned, motioning the boys to chairs.

"Yes, sir!" replied Ned. "It was, of course, a complete loss."

"Then you understand machinery pretty well?"

"We have always thought so," was the modest reply.

"And electricity?"

"Yes, sir. We understand wireless, also."

"Then I am fortunate. Perhaps you would consent to assist us in some
difficult technical tasks we have on hand."

"We shall be glad to do what we may to reimburse you for our keep if you
will be good enough to assist us to return to the United States!"

"Let us discuss that at another time, if you please," replied Gruenwold.
"Just now we are short of practical electricians. If you will offer your
services in that direction we shall be very grateful. You may be sure
that we shall not be forgetful when it is possible to reciprocate."

"Thank you," replied Ned in acknowledgment of the indirect promise. "Now,
if you will show us what you want done we shall be most happy to proceed.
I believe we have nothing else to do."

"Here are some plans," stated the other, opening a cabinet at one side of
the room. "In these compartments are plans of certain vessels. You will
observe on these sheets marked 'elek.' complete diagrams of the plan of
wiring. Take this one, for instance. Do you think you could understand
what is meant by these tracings?"

Ned studied the diagram for a few moments. The other boys leaned over his
shoulder. Presently, after conferring with his friends, the lad announced
that he understood the drawings perfectly, even though he was unable to
read the explanations which were in the German language.

A smile lighted the face of Gruenwold as this statement was made.
Evidently the need for completing the work was urgent.

"In that case, we will ask you to accompany this orderly on board the
vessel and proceed with the work. I will write an order directing the
ones in charge of the vessel to admit you and render such aid as may be
necessary. Later I will send a man who can speak English."

While the general was writing the necessary order to the ones in charge
of the vessel to which he had referred the boys were busy communicating
with each other by means of the mute language, in which they were quite
adept. By supreme efforts they were able to suppress the excitement under
which they were laboring.

"What a