"One moment," was the reply.
Jack waited in the radio room aboard the Essex.
"Essex! Essex!" came the call five minutes later.
"Answer," Jack directed the operator.
"Essex replying," the operator flashed.
"Admiral Sellings orders Essex to proceed north and stand out to sea to protect inbound vessels. Understand one submarine sighted five miles out five hours ago. Repeat."
The operator repeated the message to show that he had caught in correctly.
Jack went on deck and gave instructions necessary to putting the Essex out at sea. Then, "Full speed ahead!" he signalled.
The British destroyer Essex stood out to sea magnificently. Aboard, her crew stood to their posts, ready for action. Jack, surrounded by his officers, held the bridge.
"We've got to keep a sharp eye out," said Jack.