This was the conversation that Jack heard that day.
At noon on November 18, Jack, together with other commanders, received word from Admiral Beatty to steam toward Harwich, on the English coast, and to take his place in the long line of ships that would be gathered there to receive the surrender of the enemy fleet.
Excitement thrilled the crew of the Essex. They were about to witness one of the greatest events of world history and there wasn't a man aboard who didn't know it. Nevertheless, there was no confusion, and the Essex steamed rapidly westward.
"Hope we get up near the front of the line," said Frank to his chum. "Also that we are close to Admiral Beatty's flagship."
"Here too," said Jack. "It will be a sight worth seeing."
"Rather."
"Well, we can't kick no matter where they place us, you know. I suppose I shall receive the necessary instructions in plenty of time."
Jack did. The instructions came the following morning, while the Essex was still possibly a hundred miles off the English coast.
"You will report to Admiral Tyrwhitt," Jack's message read, "who will assign you to your station."
Jack immediately got in touch with Admiral Tyrwhitt by wireless. The latter gave his position and informed the lad that his place in line would be next to the Admiral's flagship.