They could watch the progress of the big shell as it sped toward the Yucatan, where it kicked up the water but a few yards to port. Again and again the big gun spoke, and then there was a cheer from the crew as a shell struck home.
Twice more the Yucatan was hit, and, while not in a vital spot, her speed was suddenly reduced. The Tennessee dashed on.
Then came the first shot from the enemy. The spray flew high beside the cruiser as a shell struck the water to larboard. Before she could fire again, another shell from the Tennessee’s forward turret gun crashed aboard her.
Then a white flag was run up the Yucatan’s masthead.
The firing aboard the Tennessee ceased, and the cruiser bore down on the enemy.
Boats were hurriedly lowered, manned and darted across the water to take charge of the Yucatan. Half an hour later one of them returned bearing the German commander and his officers. They were conducted to the captain’s cabin immediately.
Henry Bristow—now Captain Von Blusen—at first did not see the members of the Willing party in the cabin, and he faced Captain Ainslee angrily.
“What is the meaning of this outrage?” he demanded.
Captain Ainslee smiled.
“Come, come, captain,” he said. “Why this air of wounded dignity? Surely you won’t attempt to deny that you stole the Yucatan?”