"We can try," replied the commander of the Sylph, with slightly compressed lips. "As soon as the Germans engage the Canopus, we will try to get out ahead of the rest of the fleet and, keeping out of the thick of battle, steam to sea. Then if any of the enemy try to get away, with our superior speed we can at least head them off and engage them until help arrives." "A first-class plan," Jack agreed. "However, I shouldn't be surprised if Admiral Sturdee had anticipated such a maneuver by the enemy." "Even if he has," said Lord Hastings, "we probably wouldn't be selected to accomplish the work, and that's what we want to do. Therefore, we will act without being ordered." "Good," said Jack. In the meantime the German fleet had been approaching steadily. It was apparent that the presence of the British battleship Canopus, in the entrance to the harbor, had at last been discovered. A wireless message flashed through the air. "Surrender or I shall sink you!" it read. "An Englishman never surrenders!" was the reply flashed back by the commander of the Canopus. The German admiral tried again. "I would avoid all unnecessary loss of life," he signaled. "Thanks," was the laconic response of the Canopus. "We are able to take care of ourselves." To this there was no reply, and still the German squadron came on without firing a shot. "Wonder why they don't shoot?" asked Jack. "Guess they want to get as close as possible first," replied Frank. "Remember, they believe they have only one to deal with." "True," said Jack. "But why doesn't the Canopus fire?" "I suppose," replied Frank, "it's because the commander wishes to draw the enemy so close that escape will be impossible." And the lad had hit upon the exact reason. Mindful of his instructions to draw the enemy in as close as possible before engaging him, the commander of the Canopus had no mind to open the battle. And ever the German squadron was steaming closer and closer to destruction. But there is an end to everything, and so there finally came an end to this inaction. "Boom!" A single German gun had opened the battle. There was no reply from the Canopus. "Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!" Two of the enemy's ships cut loose at the Canopus. Still the British battleship did not reply. But the Germans had not yet found the range, and the Canopus was untouched, although several shells struck near her. Then: "Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!" The Canopus had at last opened fire on her foes. And, even as the first British shell sped across the water, the Canopus turned and began to retreat. Fearful of losing their prey, the German vessels increased their speed and steamed rapidly after her, their big guns continuing to hurl shells across the water. The Canopus was replying gun for gun, now, and with each moment the roar of battle increased.