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“Prepare to abandon the Deering,” Schultz said “Release the schooner’s anchors before you return to the Bremen”

“Jawohl”

With the sails still set, the Deering would continue on, so the cutter would have no reason to investigate the unusual sight of a stationary ship in open water

His men efficiently carried out their tasks, and Schultz was the last to disean totower by Horváth

“Thisopportunity to test the Irre Waffe on a warship,” the Hungarian said hopefully

“We’ve already pushed our luck, Herr Doktor,” Schultz replied “Let’s return home and enjoy our rewards”

Horváth looked disappointed, but nodded

When the Bremen was buttoned up and Schultz was back in the control room, he ordered the U-boat to dive He raised the periscope and watched the cutter approach until she abruptly turned north

Schultz turned to see the schooner receding into the distance, the words CARROLL A DEERING, BATH etched in white on her black fantail She would likely be ripped apart by the storm, but even if she weren’t, there was no evidence that the U-boat had ever been in contact with her The Deering’screould forever remain a mystery

Schultz lowered the periscope and said, “Set a course due south Back to base”

That drew a raucous cheer froo next after they sold off the current load of cargo With the Bree of twenty thousand miles, it really could be anywhere

The entire earth was their hunting ground

1

THE ATLANTIC OCEAN

PRESENT DAY