Page:The Indian Drum (1917 original).pdf/318

300 morning and sent, at his rooms, to Henry, who was not yet down. It did not contain therefore the last that was known; and she read only enough of it to be sure of that.

"After 4:10, to repeated signals to Number 25 from Richardson and shore stations—'Are you in danger?' 'Shall we send help?' 'Are you jettisoning cars?' 'What is your position?'—no replies were received. The Richardson continued therefore to signal, 'Report your position and course; we will stand by,' at the same time making full speed toward last position given by Number 25. At 4:35, no other message having been obtained from Number 25 in the meantime, Manitowoc and Frankfort both picked up the following: 'S. O. S. Are taking water fast. S. O. S. Position probably twenty miles west N. Fox. S. O. S.' The S. O. S. has been repeated, but without further information since."

The report made to Henry ended here. Constance picked up the later messages received in response to orders to transmit to Corvet, Sherrill, and Spearman copies of all signals concerning Number 25 which had been received or sent. She sorted out from them those dated after the hour she just had read:

"4:40, Manitowoc is calling No. 25, 'No. 26 is putting north to you. Keep in touch.'

"4:43, No. 26 is calling No. 25, 'What is your position?'

"4:50, the Richardson is calling No. 25, 'We must be approaching you. Are you giving whistle signals?'

"4:53, No. 25 is replying to Richardson, 'Yes; will continue to signal. Do you hear us?'

"4:59, Frankfort is calling No. 25, 'What is your condition?'