"I observed someone in that vessel astern signalling from the shelter of the bridge, sir," he explained. "I couldn't make out the message, and judging by the manner in which they signalled I took it for granted that the sender wished to avoid outside attention. When I strolled aft the flag-wagging ceased, so I sent Mr. Weeks to your cabin to investigate. He informs me that Mr. Taylor is in the stern-walk and is signalling to yonder German."
"How could he gain the stern walk without attracting the attention of the sentry on the half-deck?"
"I believe, sir, that he slipped over the rail when no one was looking, lowered himself to the canopy of the gallery, and thence to the stern-walk; that's a comparatively easy matter."
"Very good, Mr. Sinclair; carry on as if nothing were amiss."
Thereupon Captain Brookes made for the shelter of the after-turret, whence from the sighting-hood he could command an uninterrupted view of the German vessel without being observed.
"Can you understand German?" he asked.
"Fairly well, sir," replied Gerald.
"Then see what you can make of that," pointing to the rapidly waving flag. "I shall require corroboration."
"'Make an attempt to leave the ship tonight; we will be awaiting you,'" read Gerald.
"That's it," assented Captain Brookes. "They've finished for the present; but I've learnt enough."