That the commander of the Emden had picked up the message became apparent a few moments later.
"Emden has signaled the Sydney her presence not needed, sir," said the operator, "and signed the message Hastings."
Lord Hastings scribbled rapidly.
"Send this," he ordered.
The message read:
"Disregard all communications not in code. Emden trying to throw you off the track."
The Sydney acknowledged the receipt of this message, and Lord
Hastings and the two lads returned to the bridge.
"What do you suppose Captain von Mueller will do now?" asked
Jack.
"Run as long as he can," replied Lord Hastings.
"However, the Sydney is considerably faster, so it is only a question of time till we get him."