The numerals 1 to 5 are, therefore, denoted by one to five waves of the flag from a to b, recovering to a.

The numeral 6 by a wave from a to c, recovering to a.  The numeral 7 by a wave from a to b, back to a, and then to c, recovering to the normal position a.  The numeral 8 is denoted by a wave from a to c, back to a, and then to b, recovering to the normal position a.  The numeral 9 is denoted by two waves from a to b, and one from a to c.  The numeral 0 by one wave from a to c, recovering again to a, and then two waves from a to b.  The other signs are made in the same manner, so that a short motion shall always represent a short flash, and a long motion a long flash.

On the completion of the motions required for each sign, the flag must always be brought to the position a.  When the word, or group of figures, is completed, the flag may be lowered in front of the body.

In receiving a message, the flag should always be kept in the position a, except when answering.

In waving the flag, the point of the staff should be made to describe a figure of 8 in the air to keep the flag clear.

Each signal party must consist of not less than two men, whose duties will be as follows:—­

In receiving messages:  No. 1 works the flag for answering, etc., and refers to the code for the interpretation of the numbers received, and calls out the words to No. 2.  No. 2 fixes the telescope and reads from the distant station, calling out the numbers as they are made for the information of No. 1, and writes down the numbers and meaning thereof.

Suppose station “A” in communication with station “B":—­No. 1 at “A” on being told by No. 2 that “B” is about to send a message, takes up his position at attention, holding the flag over the left arm and under the right, or vice versa across his body, according to the wind, with the code book in his hand.  No. 2 fixes his eyes on the glass, and on receiving the numbers from “B” calls them out to No. 1, who ascertains their meaning from the code, and gives the words to No. 2, who writes them down in his book, and then placing his eye to the glass, tells No. 1 to make the answer.  No. 2 does not, however, direct the answer to be made until he is sure of the correctness of the signal received.

Flashing Alphabet, for Use without a Code.—­The following alphabet, etc., can be used under circumstances when it is not convenient or possible to have recourse to the Signal Book, and forms in itself a perfect telegraphic system, necessarily somewhat slow in its application, but having the great advantage of requiring very little previous knowledge and practice to work with correctness.  The symbols and numbers expressing the alphabet are identical with those forming the alphabet in the Signal Book.

[Chart with code signals].

All particulars as to the machines and lanterns used in the Service, for making these flashing signals, and the code, can be procured at W. Nunn and Co.’s Army and Navy Lamp and Signal Works, 65, George Street East, London, E.