Promptly the shore station hoisted the answering pennant, just "at the dip", to show that the signal was seen, and their "close up" indicating that the message was understood.
A E L W and A E N U followed in quick succession.
"They mean Southampton and Plymouth," explained Rayburn. "Our port of departure and the port we're bound for. Southampton is considered our port, since Keyhaven comes in that district. Now give me V O X."
"What does that mean?" asked Desmond.
"'I am going to semaphore to you '," was the reply. Rayburn glanced over his shoulder at Gregory, who was sitting on the raised cabin-top with his eyes fixed shoreward. "Mr. Armitage gave me instructions to report the picking up of young Gregory at West Bay. I think there'll be a rather astonishing reply." Taking up a pair of hand-flags, Rayburn awaited the acknowledgment from Prawle Point and then began to semaphore the message.
"Have picked up dinghy with 'Gregory, Abbotsbury' on her transom. One person in her is now aboard. Propose landing him at Plymouth. Please telephone information to Gregory, Abbotsbury, Dorset."
Presently the long arms of the shore semaphore began sending out the reply:
"Boy escaped from Borstal Institute, Portland, yesterday night. Keep him on board until arrival at Plymouth. Will inform police there, who will take necessary action."
"Message received," replied Rayburn, then, turning to Findlay, he exclaimed: "Haul down!"
Meanwhile Woodleigh, standing just behind Rayburn, had written down the message as the latter dictated in a low voice the astounding news. Then, without giving any sign that might arouse Master Gregory's suspicions, the Patrol Leader went aft and handed the written report to Mr. Armitage.