The Boy Allies Under Two Flags

"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.

There came a wireless message from the German commander.

"Surrender!" it said.

"We will die first!" was the answer sent by Lord Hastings.

Steaming slowly, the Sylph apparently was trying to escape; at least so figured the German commander. To him it appeared that he could overtake the little vessel with ease, and his squadron steamed swiftly after it.

Gradually the Germans gained upon the little vessel, finally coming close enough to send a shot after it. They were not yet within range, however, and the shell fell short.

"We'll have to let him get a little closer," muttered Lord Hastings, "or he may draw off. We'll have to face th