very next day some smoke and dots appeared on the horizon.
Quickly they grew until they could be identified as enemy ships.
The captain of the Sylph set out a wireless message requesting
help from any units in the area:

"Have sighted enemy; four vessels: approaching rapidly," and
the exact position of the Sylph.

In a moment came the answer:

"Head north, slowly. We will intercept the enemy when actively
engaged. Remember the Hawke!"

Lord Hastings sent another message:

"How many are you?"

"Five," came back the answer. "Undaunted accompanied by torpedo
destroyers Lance, Lenox, Legion and Loyal, as convoys."

"Good!" muttered Lord Hastings; then turned to Lieutenant
Hetherington:

"You may clear for action, sir!"

The gallant British sailors jumped quickly to their posts, the
light of battle in their eager eyes. At Lord Hastings' command,
the Sylph was brought about, and soon had her stern toward the
enemy.