| Description | Bumstead has been thinking of a method of combatting German submarines. In case it is useful, he passes the suggestion to Larmor. He thinks that it might be possible to lay mines at the entrance to the Irish Sea, off the Scilly Isles and off Queenstown, too deep to impact surface vessels but dangerous to a submerged submarine. A considerable area would have to be covered and at depth; it would take more mines in three dimensions to protect a given area. If submarines were protecting themselves from destroyers, they would run a risk of being blown up. Larmor must know that Bumstead's sympathies have been strongly with the Allies from the beginning. Until a few weeks ago he thought it a duty to maintain neutrality, but the progressive brutality of German actions has brought him to a different mind. Since the Falabra, the Gulflight and the Lusitania, he hoped that the American government will make war on Germany. Many people feel as he does but he cannot predict how public sentiment will turn. America is less prepared for war than Britain was, but might do some good. The considerable number of German-American citizens is a difficulty. He hopes that Larmor is well and the terrible events do not weigh too heavily on him. |