But before Kenwyn could get to the flashing signal lamp four loud blasts from the motor fog-horn of the "Topaze" sent forth their cry for urgent assistance.
"She's settling down by the bows," exclaimed one of the spectators of the ocean drama.
"Full speed ahead," ordered Captain Restronguet. Within five minutes from the request for aid the "Aphrodite" was abreast the stricken vessel at less than a cable's length away. Her fore part, already deep in the water, showed unmistakable signs of the mortal blow she had received. Her armoured belt, that extended right to the bows, had already disappeared from view, but for nearly thirty feet on the starboard side and nearly opposite the for'ard nine-point-two-inch gun the lighter steel plates were rent and buckled in all directions. Over the gaping wound a collision mat had been placed, but one might as well attempt to stop a mill-stream with a mop-head.
The order had already been given to abandon ship, and with the utmost precision and coolness the seamen were drawn up to await the approach of the cruiser's boats, that were now only a few yards off.
"Do you want me to pick up any of your crew, sir? I'll stand by if you desire it," shouted Captain Restronguet to a solitary figure on the steeply-inclined fore-bridge that the men of the "Aphrodite" recognized as Captain Sedgwyke.
"Thank you," replied the captain of the "Topaze." "We have enough room in the boats for the whole of the ship's company. Do you, sir, kindly take up the work that I had the misfortune to interrupt you in, and may you have better luck."
Captain Restronguet gravely saluted the gallant yet ill-fated officer. At the same time, although anxious to set off in pursuit, he was loth to leave the cruiser until every man was saved.
"What are you waiting for, sir?" hailed Captain Sedgwyke, his voice barely audible above the hundred different noises emanating from the doomed cruiser, as the water, pouring in, broke down bulkheads, swept buoyant objects 'tween decks in a wild stampede against the partitions, and caused the imprisoned air to escape with a vicious hiss.
"I am standing by," replied Captain Restronguet. "You gave a signal for urgent aid, sir."
"We thought the ship would sink before the boats could arrive," said the captain of the "Topaze." "There is no danger to life. Our consort the 'Pique' is on her way to pick us up."