Page:Semenoff V. The battle of Tsu-Shima.pdf/197

been nothing was visible save a patch of white foam!

It was 7.10 p.m.

The enemy's fleet having turned sharply to starboard, bore off to the east, and in its place was a group of torpedo-boats, which now surrounded us in a semicircle from the north, east, and west. Preparing to receive their attacks from astern, our cruisers, and we after them, gradually inclined to port, — and then bore almost direct to the west — straight towards the red sky. (There was no compass near me.)

At 7.40 p.m. I still was able to see our battleships, steaming astern of us devoid of formation, and defending themselves from the approaching torpedo-boats by firing. This was my last note.