The Sydney, within range at last, had opened the battle.
CHAPTER XXII
THE BATTLE
"Now for it!" cried Jack, as the first shell from the British cruiser splashed up the water only a few yards in front of the Emden.
A second concussion was heard and an English shell struck the heavy armored side of the German cruiser.
The sailors and officers raised a loud cheer. It was first blood for the Sydney, and the sailors aboard that vessel also let out a yell of delight.
So far the Emden had not answered the Sydney's fire. However, she was dashing rapidly ahead, seeking to get within range. Two more shells from the Sydney struck the Emden before she finally managed to get within range, and opened fire with the 4-inch guns in her forward turrets.
The results of the first salvos from the German guns were nil.
The range finders on the Emden had evidently not calculated
properly. The water leaped into white sprays ahead of the
Sydney, indicating that the Emden's first fire had been wasted.
But the next attempt o the Emden met with better success. A solid shot struck the Sydney, squarely on the bow. The Sydney's armor was, too strong for the German guns at this distance, however, and while the vessel staggered slightly, she was not damaged to any extent.
It became apparent early in the battle that the marksmanship of the Sydney's gunners was much superior to that of the foe. The range-finders were attending to their work with coolness and precision. The fire was deliberate and accurate. It was slower than that of the Emden, but far more deadly.