Jack had seized a piece of paper and began putting down the message.
"Get the captain, quick," he ordered.
"S-T-E-A-M-E-R D-A-U-N-T-L-E-S-S O-N F-I-R-E H-U-N-D-R-E-D M-I-L-E-S E-A-S-T C-A-P-E M-A-Y."
He had just finished spelling out the words when Bob returned with his uncle and the captain.
"They're a hundred miles east of Cape May," he told them. "Just a minute," as Captain Ole was about to speak. "They sending more."
"H-U-R-R-Y. S-O-S S-O-S."
"We're off Atlantic City now," Captain Ole told them as he started from the room to give orders to change the course. "Heard anything more?" he asked as he returned a moment later.
"Not a thing," Jack told him.
"Well, keep on watch and if you pick up anything let me know at once. I'll be on the bridge." He went out and Mr. Lakewood followed him leaving the boys alone.
"She's sure picking up speed," Bob said as he felt the quiver of the boat's engine.