Dobson examined them closely through the glass, then turned to his signal-book. "One—three—seven—five—here she is—the Kiku—that's Jap for Chrysanthemum, isn't it? Run up the answering pennant, signalman. Then haul it down and set our number."
The introduction having thus been politely performed, the Kiku, first answering the Osprey's number, hoisted another line of flags.
"H'm, they have our signals pat," muttered Dobson, turning the leaves of his book. "Here it is, Captain. 'Wish to communicate. Have message for—' for whom I wonder? Answer, signalman. There goes the second half of the signal: 'man on board your ship.' Well, that's cool! What shall we reply, sir?"
"Answer: 'Send boat with message—hurry,'" said Dave, frowning. "I don't like to stop, but the message may be important. I suppose it's for me, only the Japanese don't know enough to say so. Slow down, quartermaster."
"Slow, sir." And the indicator swung to that mark.
"Half speed."
"Half speed, sir."
"Now, full stop."
"Full stop, sir," and the engines of the Osprey were still.
The Kiku had taken similar measures, and changing her course, approached to within a hundred rods.