human
Ain't no use in expecting that German navy to come out in the open and fight to a finish, commented Bill Witt, as the conversation turned on the likelihood of a big battle between the German high seas fleet and the combined fleets of the United States, Great Britain, and France.
gpt
Those fellows would sooner lay back safe in the Kiel Canal; they know full well we'd make short work of them if they ever came outside.
human
Ten to one your Uncle Sam don't wait for them to come outside, put in Jack earnestly.
gpt
Now that they have all got together and figured out what to do as a result of the sessions of that joint naval board in London, we're likely to be sent right in after them.
human
You can bet the _Dewey_ will be in on any such stunts as that, pursued Ted.
gpt
And why shouldn't we go right after them? The United States Navy never did lie back and wait for the enemy to come out.
human
You fellows just aching for a scrap again, he said finally.
gpt
Well, there's no telling when we might run right into one to-night. Those German destroyers are likely to make a sortie from Ostend. Besides, you never can tell when some of the Kaiser's air navy is likely to be popping around.
human
Little Mack scanned the sky to the east. Turning to the boys, he remarked laughingly:
gpt
You three pretty good chums, aren't you?
human
Just like three peas in a pod, declared Bill Witt.
gpt
These two Brighton boys took me right in---and me a rank outsider! I'm sure lucky to have struck two such good friends.
human
Guess we know good goods when we meet it,
gpt
Little Mack
human
That's right, boys, he smiled.
gpt
You've got the right spirit. That's the kind of democracy we stand for, and that's why the good old U.S. Navy is the best in the world---fellows all pulling together. I'm mighty proud of all my boys, continued the little lieutenant.
human
You've made a great record so far, and I only hope you keep up the good work. Stick together like pals---and be proud of that flag of ours.
gpt
There's an ace for you,
human
Ace! I should say so, sputtered Bill.
gpt
Why, if 'Little Mack' told me to go get von Tirpitz I'd go right after him.