Our ships were led
by the _New York_. About 9 A.M. the men crowding the decks sighted some
smoke coming dead ahead out of the mist, and in a short time the German
battle-cruisers were plainly seen leading the other German ships in
their last trip at sea under their own flag. They were not flying
battle-flags. At this time every one of the Anglo-American ships was at
her battle station, turrets were fully manned, and all preparations made
for treachery at the last minute.
The German line, led by the _Seydlitz_, steamed slowly between the
Allied lines, keeping perfect station, and when their flag-ship came
abreast of the _Queen Elizabeth_ the signal was given for the whole
Grand Fleet to make a turn of 180 degrees, and return into port with the
humiliated enemy. The appearance of the enemy ships was very good. There
is no doubt they were magnificent fighting ships, and that in action
they would have acquitted themselves gallantly.
Lieutenant W. A. Kirk, U.S.N., who witnessed the surrender from a point
of vantage on the bridge of the battleship _New York_, standing just
behind Admiral Rodman and Admiral Sims, said that it was exceedingly
difficult at the time to grasp the significance of their surrender and
feel duly impressed, as there was a lack of show or emotion of any kind.
"The whole affair," he added, "was run exactly according to prearranged
schedule, and was only another proof of the quiet, businesslike,
efficient way the Royal Navy does things.
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