“WNA—WNA—WNA de KWC—KWC—KWC.”
It was a call for his old friend, Roy. And the sender of the message was his new friend, Reynolds. The Morro Castle was nearing port. The Lycoming could not be far behind her. Intently Willie listened to see if Roy caught the call. A moment there was silence. Then, clear as a bell, came the well-known signaling of his chum.
“KWC—KWC—KWC de WNA—I—I—I.” (“Steamer Lycoming answering steamer Morro Castle. All right. Go ahead.”)
“Morro Castle now off Sandy Hook,” said the answering message. “Whole fleet sailing craft near Ambrose channel with no lights. Great danger collision. Must be rum fleet. Morro Castle proceeding at half speed. Tell Captain Lansford.”
Sharp and clear came the Morro Castle’s signals. Equally clear, though not so loud, was Roy’s reply. Evidently he was a good many miles behind the Morro Castle. The moment Roy finished acknowledging the message, Willie cut loose with a sharp call.
“KWC—KWC—KWC de CBM—CBM—CBM.”
Promptly came the response. “CBM—CBM—CBM de KWC. Surprised to hear you at this hour. Working overtime?”
“Yes, but not at the Custom-house,” flashed back Willie. “Am with the customs fleet. We’re looking for rum runners. Heard you tell Roy about the rum fleet off Ambrose lightship. They arrived this afternoon. If you see any power boats, let us know which way they’re headed. Am aboard the Surveyor. Her call is NQU.”
“Will ask the watch to keep sharp lookout. Will let you know if we see any. What’s new?”
“Nothing but the rum fleet,” flashed back Willie. “Wish you’d tell Roy you have been talking to me. Ask him to keep watch for rum runners. How far back of you is the Lycoming?”