They watched the vessel approaching, and soon answering flags appeared.
“Watch for Armstrong’s reply. There it goes. ‘Heave to or we fire.’”
The next few minutes were breathless with excitement, for the Leopoldville, for that was the name of the ship, continued to advance; but she had slowed down perceptibly.
She came nearly abreast of them but much nearer the shore and still continued on her course.
Again flags fluttered from the Esmeralda.
Suddenly there was a sharp report and a shot was fired from the cruiser. But still the Leopoldville did not stop.
“Now comes the critical moment,” Gaunt said beneath his breath.
Again the sound of a gun, and the most skillful gunner was the firer of the shot.
Gaunt’s eyes were eagerly fixed on the liner.
“Splendid,” he cried. “It hit her right astern. Her rudder has gone, and probably her propellers.”