The boys were not long left in doubt. Rapidly overhauling them the strange vessel did, indeed, seem to be at first glance a tug tearing along through the waves at a great rate. The bow was lost in a smother of foam and spray. But a tiny speck of deck house was visible. The stacks were low. Great billows of black smoke vomited forth from the short funnels came drifting down the wind.
In a short time the vessel approached near enough so that the boys could distinguish a small gun mounted at the bow.
“I know what that ship is!” announced Jimmie, directly. “That’s what they call a torpedo boat destroyer or despatch boat!”
“I believe you’re right, Jimmie,” decided Ned. “They certainly have got the speed!” he added admiringly as the craft approached.
“Get ready to hail ’em!” cried Frank. “Get out a flag!”
“Haven’t got a flag aboard this wagon!” scorned Jimmie. “What do you think this is—a dreadnaught with full equipment?”
“Then take off your shirt and wave that at ’em!”
“Just the idea!” agreed Jimmie, proceeding to follow the advice.
Bracing himself against a thwart amidships Jimmie waved the improvised distress signal. His efforts were not unavailing.