"Right you are, Fischer," was Lord Hastings' smiling rejoinder, "though how you recognized me in all this German toggery is more than I can explain."
The admiral advanced and wrung Lord Hastings' hand.
"And why this German uniform?" he asked. "And who is this young man with you?"
"I'll answer the last question first," smiled Lord Hastings, "by presenting to your excellency, my second officer, Mr. Frank Chadwick."
Admiral Fischer acknowledged the introduction.
"Now for the answer to my other question," he said.
In a few brief words Lord Hastings explained. As he progressed with his recital Admiral Fischer became more and more astonished. And when Lord Hastings had concluded, the admiral burst out:
"And you mean to tell me the Germans have the temerity to attempt a raid in the very mouth of the Thames?"
Lord Hastings nodded.
"They certainly have," he said quietly, and he produced the order he had received from the German admiral.