Jack's sentence remained uncompleted, for with the suddenness peculiar to the Straits a vicious squall swept down from Carnero Point, taking the _Olive Branch_ full on the broadside. Instantly the two dummy funnels disappeared overboard, where, held by the wire rope guys, they became gigantic drogues or floating anchors, against which the action of the rudder was powerless. Then as swiftly as it had arisen the squall subsided. Captain Brookes was, as usual when in a tight place, ready for all emergencies. Ordering the motors to be stopped lest the propellers should foul the straining canvas, he gave word for the bo'sun's mate to pipe the watch to clear away the wreckage. Lustily the men sprang to their work, axe in hand, but, ere a dozen blows had been struck, the dazzling rays of a searchlight picked out the _Olive Branch_ with the utmost precision. "A cruiser," remarked Captain Brookes, calmly. "Carry on, men; then general quarters." As he sprang towards the conning-tower the searchlight was switched off and a masthead signalling lamp began to "call up" the motionless _Olive Branch_. "Acknowledge," ordered the captain, shortly; and in reply a lamp from the bridge began its succession of rapid short flashes. "_What ship is that?_" "It's no use bluffing them, Tregarthen. I'll show my true colours, and if they've any regard for their own safety they'll sheer off," remarked Captain Brookes, and turning to his signalman he ordered him to reply:-- _"The cruiser 'Olive Branch.'"_ Almost without a moment's hesitation the intercepting vessel signalled:-- "_Is Lieutenant Tregarthen on board?_" "Ha, Mr. Tregarthen, you're promoted, I understand. Allow me to congratulate you," said his temporary "chief." An affirmative reply having been given, the British cruiser--for British she undoubtedly was--continued:-- "_I wish to communicate; am sending boat._" "They can't do us much harm while the boat's alongside," commented Captain Brookes. "Nevertheless, we must take precautions. A few revolutions with the port propellers, if you please, then carry on with the work of clearing away the wreckage." Hardly had the accommodation ladder been rigged when the sound of oars could be heard, and the outlines of a cutter could be discerned as it approached the side of the _Olive Branch_. "Two communications, sir; one for the officer commanding this ship, the other for Lieutenant Tregarthen. Will you please favour me with an acknowledgment in each case?" announced a lieutenant as he came over the side. "I trust you will honour me with your presence in my cabin," replied Captain Brookes affably, and, as the party of officers moved towards the companion, he continued "Might I be inquisitive enough to inquire how you were so ready with your message?"