The middle one, occupied by the pilot, was surmounted by a periscope fitted with lenticular portholes, through which an electric search-lamp lighted the way through the water.

Forward, in the other compartment, Thomas Roch and I were shut in.
My companion, though the gag which was choking him had been removed, was still bound, and, I thought, knew what was going on.
But we were in a hurry to be off, and hoped to reach St.George that very night if no obstacle was encountered.
I pushed open the door of the compartment and rejoined Lieutenant Davon, who was standing by the man at the wheel.

In the after compartment three other men, including the engineer, awaited the lieutenant's orders to set the machinery in motion.
"Lieutenant Davon," I said, "I do not think there is any particular reason why I should stay in there with Roch.

If I can help you to get through the tunnel, pray command me." "Yes, I shall be glad to have you by me, Mr.Hart." It was then exactly thirty-seven minutes past eight.
The search-lamp threw a vague light through the water ahead of the _Sword_.

From where we were, we had to cross the lagoon through its entire length to get to the tunnel.