Shortly after 8 A.M., on the port bow, the _Chin-Yen_, _Matsushima_, _Itsukushima_, and _Hashidate_ appeared out of the mist, steaming on an almost parallel course. Ahead of them was a small, light cruiser, apparently the _Akitsushu_, which hurriedly drew off to the north as soon as we were able to see her well (and equally she us), and the whole squadron began slowly to increase their distance and gradually to disappear from sight. At about 10 A.M. the light cruisers _Chitose_, _Kasagi_, _Niitaka_, and _Otawa_, also appeared on the port beam, and it became evident to all of us that the decisive moment could not now be long postponed. At a signal from the flag-ship, the 1st and 2nd armoured squadrons steamed ahead, and, turning “together,” 2 points[12] to port, began to take position ahead of the 3rd squadron. The transports were ordered to keep more to starboard and astern of the fleet, while the cruisers were to cover them on the port side. To starboard of the transports was the _Monomakh_, detailed to protect them from the _Idzumi_ and suchlike vessels. At 11.20 A.M., when the distance of the Japanese light cruisers was 10,000 yards, the _Orel_ fired an accidental shot (which she immediately reported by semaphore). Unable with smokeless powder to tell by which of the leading ships it had been fired, the fleet took it as a signal from the _Suvoroff_, and opened fire. Of the whole fleet the fire of the 3rd squadron was the heaviest. The Japanese cruisers turned to port and, firing also, rapidly drew off. The flag-ship then signalled, “_Ammunition not to be wasted_,” and when the firing ceased, “Ships’ companies to have dinner at once.” At midday, finding ourselves on a line with the southernmost point of Tsu-shima, we shaped course N.23°E. for Vladivostok. The officers also had breakfast now, in turn, and as quickly as possible. To-day there was to have been as usual a big breakfast in the ward-room, with the Admiral and his Captain and staff as guests: but on this occasion it naturally could not take place as the Admiral and Captain were unable to leave the bridge, and the staff only dashed down to the Admiral’s table to eat a few mouthfuls. Having gone down to my cabin to fill my cigarette-case before the fight, I happened to look in at the ward-room at the psychological minute. Although the dishes were being handed anyhow and whatever came nearest was taken, champagne sparkled in the glasses, and every one was standing up, silently listening to the toast proposed by the senior officer, A. P. Makedonsky. “On this, the great anniversary of the sacred Coronation of their Highnesses, may God help us to serve with honour our beloved Country! To the health of the Emperor! the Empress!--To Russia!”