In this case the torpedo vessel steers in for the bow or quarter of the vessel attacked, according to the direction of the current, and on the side approached launches the torpedo between the moorings as at A; leaving the tow-rope slack, the torpedo vessel proceeds ahead or astern against the current, and when at a sufficient distance off, the tow-rope is held fast, which will cause the torpedo to diverge into contact with the vessel attacked, as shown by the drawing.
Plate 4.
Kell Bros. Lith. London.
CASE 1.—ATTACKING A VESSEL MOORED HEAD AND STERN.
CASE 2.
ATTACKING A VESSEL AT ANCHOR BY CROSSING THE BOW.
In this case, the torpedo is sufficiently diverged when near to the vessel with a good scope of tow-rope out. After having crossed her bow, proceeding onwards, the tow-rope will be brought obliquely across her cable, and the torpedo will swing into her, as shown in the drawing. It may be here remarked that, in all cases, the depth of explosion can be obtained by the sudden slacking of the tow-rope; and the tow-rope, once under the keel, causes the torpedo to be hauled down near to it before exploding.
Plate 5.
