FIRST ENGAGEMENT
The Japanese combined fleet had successfully made a threatening movement against the enemy's fleet, causing them to abandon their departure from Port Arthur. From that time the blockade was strict. The operations of the third army had greatly advanced. Commander-in-Chief Togo, in order to aid the army's operations and to keep up the blockade, issued orders in the latter part of July to the Saien division (Saien, Heien, Chokai, Akagi, two converted gunboats and two boats of the twelfth torpedo flotilla), and the fifth division under the Itsukushima, to divert and threaten the enemy in order to aid the third army. The first division and the rest of the main strength (the Nisshin, Kasuga, the Yaeyama added), the third and fifth (Itsukushima, etc.), the sixth division and the first, second, third, fourth and fifth destroyer flotillas, the first, second, sixth, tenth, fourteenth, sixteenth, twentieth and twenty-first torpedo flotillas, were ordered to watch in turn outside Port Arthur and maintain a strict blockade.
In the early morning of August to the commander-in-chief, Admiral Togo, was north of Round Island with the first division (Mikasa, Asahi, Fuji and Shikishima) and the Yaeyama (dispatch boat), and from 6.35 a. m. received reports, continuously, regarding the departure of the enemy's ships. Cruising to the southward of Encounter Rock, he ordered the Asama, which was then in the Elliot group of islands, and the entire destroyer and torpedo flotillas, then in Dalny Bay, to get under way at once. A short while after this he received a message from the Hashidate, which was at Small Flat Island, informing him that the main fleet of the enemy had departed from the harbor and were on a course SE. A further report stated that the enemy's ships were headed for the Gulf of Pechili. The Nisshin and Kasuga, which were south of Cap Island, were ordered to join the fleet, and the Yaeyama was ordered to Dalny Bay, to convoy the torpedo craft. The Nisshin and Kasuga joining, single line ahead formation was taken by the first division, the ships' order being as follows: Mikasa, Asahi, Fuji, Shikishima, Kasuga, and Nisshin. At nine minutes past noon the first division arrived at a point about three sea miles SE. by E. of Encounter Rock. At 30 minutes past noon, changing course to WSW. they discovered the enemy's fleet cruising to the southward in the following order: Tsesarevitch, Retvisan, Pobieda, Peresviet, Sevastopol, Poltava, the cruisers Askold, Pallada, and Diana, in single line ahead, and the cruiser Novik and eight destroyers in the left wing, about 10 sea miles WNW. of Encounter Rock. At this point Admiral Togo, hoisting the battle flag on the Mikasa, ordered the engagement opened. The enemy's fleet at this time was in a single line ahead formation, composed of five battleships and four cruisers, while one cruiser and eight destroyers were in the left wing. The hospital ship Mongolia followed in rear. Although the weather this day was fine, a mist hung over the sea and a southerly breeze was blowing. Commander-in-Chief Togo feared that the enemy would return to Port Arthur and was desirous of tempting them to the open sea. At 1 p. m., changing course 8 points to port, the formation being line abreast, the course was SSE., but as the enemy seemed to head SE., course was again changed to port 8 points, making a single line ahead in inverse order, the Nisshin leading on a course ENE. At 1.15 p. m. each ship took up a long range fire. The first division now changed course to the northeastward, with the intention of pressing the advance ships of the enemy, but the enemy slightly sheering to port, then gradually to starboard, headed south, and seemed to be about to go astern of the Japanese fleet. Hereupon the first division, at 1.30 p. m., changing course 16 points to starboard, reformed in single line ahead with the Mikasa leading. Steaming rapidly SW. on a right angle course with the enemy they concentrated fire on his leading ships. The enemy again changed course to port, and for a time his formation was chaotic. The Japanese, taking advantage of this, changed course gradually to north and opened fire. The enemy's units in rear quickly took position on the unexposed flank of their larger ships to avoid the fire. The enemy's line now naturally became an irregular double line ahead, and they were endeavoring greatly to escape to the southeastward. Admiral Togo, at this juncture, ordered the third division, which was to westward, to attack the enemy's cruisers. The first division attempted to cut off the advance of the enemy, but the movement being delayed, was unsuccessful, so they ran parallel, the enemy's line slightly in advance, the Milkasa being abreast of the center. The enemy now changing course to port, drew away and at 3.20 p. m. firing ceased for a time, but pursuit was made vigorously. In this phase of the battle the Japanese as well as the Russian ships were damaged. One 12-inch shell which hit aft on the sheltered deck of the Mikasa pierced the mainmast and killed 8 seamen. One division officer and four seamen were wounded. The Asahi had 1 seaman wounded. The Nisshin was struck by two shells and a paymaster and 2 seamen were killed; 1 lieutenant and 12 seamen were wounded.
The third division (Yakumo, Kasagi, Takasago, Chitose, the Asama absent) engaged in a search for the enemy, and at dawn of this day picked up a message sent by the Fuso to the Mikasa, which stated the fact of the enemy's departure. Later they received a report from the second destroyer flotilla to the effect that all the enemy's ships were to leave the harbor. At 10.23 a. m. the third division was cruising to the eastward, but receiving a report that the enemy showed intentions to proceed to the Gulf of Pechili, the third division changed course to the westward. At noon, when this division had arrived at a point SE. of Liauti- chan Promontory, the enemy was picked up, the enemy's ships steaming east. The third division alone proceeded towards the enemy. At to minutes past noon, in a single line ahead (the Yakunto, Kasagi, Takasago, and Chitose), cruising on a parallel course, increasing and decreasing the speed, were on the starboard hand of the enemy. They endeavored to draw the enemy in the direction of the main fleet. At 20 minutes past noon they saw the sixth division bearing northeasterly. Then the first division came from the E. by N. and, continually changing course, seemed to try to force the enemy to the open sea by turning his leading units. The third division perceived that the fire was becoming more and more severe. On account of this the third division decided to attack the rear ship and cruised to the rear of the enemy. Increasing the speed and heading north they pressed upon the cruiser fleet which was the rear unit. At 3.15 p. m. orders were received from Admiral Togo to attack the cruiser fleet of the enemy. The pursuit became more intense. As the range decreased the firing became more severe. One shell, striking the main deck of the Yakumo, killed and wounded 27 people. The Yakumo concentrated her fire on the Poltava, but as the range was very great, orders were received to cease firing. Then Admiral Dewa ordered the Yakumo and the Asama, which had now joined, to follow the first division. The Kasagi and the other three ships were ordered to take position south of the enemy, in order to engage in the attack of the first division. By changing course to south they cruised obliquely towards the first division. Admiral Yamada, with the fifth division (the Hashidate, and Matsushima—the Chin-yuen and Itsukushima were absent), was in the vicinity of Small Flat Island watching for the enemy. Observing the enemy's fleet heading south, he wired the fact to the Mikasa, and at the same time he ordered the destroyer and torpedo flotillas to report to him at once. With the Hashidate and the Matsushima he proceeded to get into contact with the enemy. The enemy, after leaving the southeast Cape of Liauti-chan, appeared to enter the Gulf of Pechili. His division, coming out to the westward of Encounter Rock, changed course to the southwestward and watched the movements of the enemy. At this time in the east they discovered the first division. When that division opened fire about 1.08 p. m., in order not to interfere with the movements of the first division, the fifth division stood towards Gugen (Encounter Rock) in a single line ahead in the order of the Hashidate, Matsushima, and Chin-yuen, and endeavored to keep the enemy in sight. The Izumi, of the sixth division, arriving from the north, reported that she had been unable to discover her companion ships. Admiral Yamada then ordered the Izumi to cruise after the Chin-yuen. Wishing to close in on the enemy he ordered the speed to be increased. About 4.40 p.m. he discovered the first division again bearing about SE. by S. Assuming that the sixth division ought to be near the first division, he ordered the I zumi to proceed in that direction. Division Commander Togo, of the third fleet, with the sixth division (Akashi, Sumo, Akitsushima—the Izunzi and Chin-yuen absent), was in the vicinity of Encounter Rock in the early morning. Knowing from the reports which were coming from all directions that the enemy's ships were coming out of the harbor, at 11.25 a. m. they proceeded to the westward of Encounter Rock, with the Akashi, Suma, and Akitsushima, but the enemy had already passed through the mine field and were steaming south in a single line ahead. Being pressed by the Japanese first division, the enemy's cruiser squadron were placed on the port side of the main fleet. Admiral Togo, division commander, being off the port bow of the enemy, stood southeast, but as the enemy changed course to SE. by E., and as the range seemed to shorten, he cruised on the same course at full speed. The range now becoming greater, he gradually changed course to the southward, crossing the enemy's bows and came out east of the first division. The enemy's fleet now changed course to southeast. When the course of the first division had become almost parallel to the enemy, the sixth division changed position to starboard. At 3.13 p. m., when situated about five sea miles in the rear of the sixth division, they quickly changed course in the same direction as the first division, but as the Suma had a mishap with her boilers, she was ordered to fall to the rear. The Muni, which had previously been operating with the fifth division, now joined the line.
SECOND ENGAGEMENT
The combined Japanese fleet accomplished their wish to tempt the enemy to the open sea. At this point Commander-in-Chief Togo, seeing the range becoming greater, ordered the fire to cease temporarily, and increasing the speed, cruised parallel to the enemy for about two hours. At 5.30 p. m., about 40 sea miles north from the Cape of Shantung, the distance of the advance guard of the enemy was about 7000 meters. The Poltava opened fire and the Japanese fleet answered at once. The first division attacked the advance column of the enemy. After a severe engagement, lasting about one hour, the enemy's fire seemed to weaken. At 6.37 p. m. a large shell from the Japanese fleet struck and exploded on the conning-tower of the Tsesarevitch, the leading ship, and the steering gear seemed to be damaged. She sheered to port and on adcount of this the enemy's formation was broken up. Some of the ships sheered to port and some to starboard. Taking advantage of this the first division at 7 p. m., making a detour to the north, surrounded the enemy and then changing course 4 points to port pressed the advance of the enemy by an echelon formation. The confusion among the enemy's ships was very great and they seemed on the verge of escaping to the westward. Fortunately just at this time the Asama and one part of the fifth division appeared northwest of the enemy and the third division to the southeast, and, all working together, drew a chain around the enemy's ships. The enemy, being in such a disorganized condition, were unable to fight. The Askold, Novik, and several destroyers attempted to escape to the southward, breaking through this chain. At this time the sixth division was some distance SE. by S. of the first division. Seeing this movement they hastily cut off the retreat. The third division, also changing course to port, pursued these ships. By sunset the remaining ships were unable to continue the fight. At 8 p. m. Commander-in-Chief Togo ordered the torpedo craft to make an attack. The larger ships ceased firing. In this engagement the Mikasa, the flagship of the first division, at 5.38 p. m. concentrated her fire upon the Tsesarevitch, which was the leading ship, and then shifted her fire to the next two ships. When the enemy's formation became disordered the Mikasa gradually drawing near, attacked the ships of the cruiser squadron with explosive shells, knowing that the range was effective. Later fire was shifted to two of the enemy's destroyers. The second ship, the Asahi, at the beginning of the engagement attacked the rear ship of the enemy and then concentrated upon the leading units and the fifth ship; after the formation became disordered concentrated on the Retvisan and other of the isolated ships. The third ship, the Fuji, at first fired on the leading ship and then shifted her fire to the four ships following. At about 7.02 p. m. the Fuji bombarded the Retvisa'', which had taken the place of the Tsesarevitch as leading ship, and later concentrated on the Pobieda and the Tsesarevitch. The fourth ship, the Shikishima, opened fire at the same time as the Fuji; her fire was concentrated on the cruiser squadron. The fifth ship, the Kasagi, opened fire on the rear ship, then changed to the fifth ship. Later, taking advantage of the enemy's disorder, she concentrated on the Retvisan. The sixth ship, the Nisshin, fired on the rear ship, and when the third ship of the enemy advanced toward her, shifted her fire and forced this ship to retreat. Thus in the second engagement the first division was mainly engaged, and caused great damage to the enemy, but in turn the ships of this division had been struck many times. The Mikasa, especially, was the enemy's chief target. The trace of shells on her vital parts numbered more than 20. One shell which exploded in the vicinity of a 12-inch gun at the beginning of the engagement destroyed it. Prince Hiroyasu was wounded. One seaman was killed and a first-class petty officer and 16 men were wounded. One shell which exploded on the forecastle at 6.30 p. m. killed 1 lieutenant, 1 signal petty officer and 5 seamen; wounded 1 captain, 2 lieutenant commanders, 1 lieutenant, 2 midshipmen and 10 seamen. Another shell killed 2 lieutenants, 1 midshipman and 15 seamen, and wounded the torpedo officer, 1 petty officer, 1 midshipman, 49 seamen and 3 servants. The second ship, the Asahi, received one shell under the water line on the port quarter and a fragment of another shell wounded a gunnery officer. The fifth ship, the Kasagi, was struck three times and 11 men were wounded. One shell which struck the Nisshin, the sixth ship, killed the chief engineer, 1 staff officer and 1 aide, 1 warrant officer, 1 chief yeomen and 6 seamen. Among these casualties nine of the bodies were blown to pieces. In addition two seamen were wounded. The Shikishima was hit by one shell, but no casualty occurred. The Fuji was unharmed. The first division intended to attack the cruiser fleet of the enemy in the first movement, but were unsuccessful. When the second movement was opened the flagship, the Yakumo, followed the Nisshin, the rear ship, of the first division, and the Kasagi, Chitose and Takasago were operating on a different course on the starboard quarter of that division. At 6 p. m. the Yakumo concentrated her fire on the Poltava, the rear ship of the enemy, and when the enemy became confused, fired on the ship nearest her. The Kasagi and the two other ships bombarded the enemy severely. The Asama, which had just arrived from the Elliot Islands was in time to cut off the retreat of the enemy's ships which were escaping. Admiral Dewa, seeing the Askold and Novik and several destroyers attacking the destroyer flotilla led by the Yaeyama and the Suma, which was isolated to the southwestward, ordered the Yakumo, Kasagi, Chitose and Takasago to drive the enemy off. The Yaeyama and the torpedo craft by the aid of the above-named ships were safe. The Suma joined the sixth division. At this time, as the sun had set, firing was ceased and the ships steamed true east. Since the first movement the fifth division had been situated on the port quarter of the enemy's fleet. About 5.37 p. m., when the second movement was opened, this division changing course at will, at 7.10 p. m. drew near the enemy. A short time passing, the majority of the enemy's ships stood to the westward, but the Asama of the third division cut off their retreat with a severe fire. The Hashidate, the leading ship of the fifth division, at first opened fire with her starboard battery. The Matsushima and the Chien followed. At 7.46 p. m. the first division advanced on the leading ships of the enemy by detour, and in order not to interfere with the first division's movement, the fifth division changed course to port and opened fire. The distance becoming greater, firing ceased. The loss of the fifth division was very small. The Chin-yuen, was struck twice and 6 seamen were wounded. The Yaeyama, receiving orders to convoy the torpedo craft, at first went to Small Flat Island and later, changing her course to southwest, met the torpedo craft and delivered her orders received from Admiral
Togo. The Yaeyama, then wishing to join the first division, suddenly came within range of the enemy's fire which she immediately returned. Deciding at this time that it would be impossible to join with the first division, she concentrated on the rear ship of the enemy by making a detour. At 8.40 p. m. the Yaeyama joined the first division. The sixth division had no opportunity to engage in the first movement, but cruised after the first division. The Suma, receiving damage to her boiler, was forced to reduce her speed and received orders from Admiral Togo, division commander, to fall in with the fifth division, which was about 10 sea miles north of the sixth division. Division Commander Togo leading with the Akashi, the Izumi and the Akitsushima, at full speed followed after the first division and at about 6.45 p. m. were to the southward of the enemy. At this time the second movement was already started. The Tsesarevitch, the flagship of the enemy, suddenly changing her course to port, broke up the formation of the enemy. The sixth division now joined with the other divisions in forming a cordon around the enemy's ships. The Suma alone, in order to join the fifth division, cruised to the northeastward and at this time the majority of the enemy's ships passed between the Suma and the fifth division, which had also now changed their course to port. On account of the great distance, the Sunta deemed it unadvisable to join with the fifth division and decided to again join the sixth division. The cruiser Askold leaving the enemy's line and the Novik also shaped their course between the Sum and fifth division the Suma engaging both of the enemy's ships. The sixth division, seeing the danger of the Suma, took position between that ship and the Askold. The Askold and the Novik at this time, with increased speed, escaped. As it was now sunset, Division Commander Togo ordered the firing ceased and, after ordering the Sum to the Elliot group of islands, he himself, leading the other three ships on a course SSE., continued to pursue the enemy.
THE ASSAULT OF THE DESTROYER AND TORPEDO FLOTILLAS
DESTROYER FLOTILLA
The attack of the larger ships in the second movement was very successful, but was abandoned at sunset. At this time the destroyer and torpedo flotillas, taking up the attack in the dark, searched for the main strength of the enemy which were now retreating to Port Arthur. On the morning of the loth the first destroyer flotilla (Asashio, Kasumi and Shirakumo) was off the entrance of Port Arthur and the second destroyer flotilla (Ikazuchi, Inazunta, Oboro and the Akcbono) was at the southern side of the entrance to the harbor and the third destroyer flotilla (Usugumo, Shinonome, and the Sazanami) was at the southwestern side of the entrance of Liau-ti-chan Promontory, and all were watching for the enemy. Perceiving the movement of the enemy departing. from the harbor, each flotilla quickly reported to the division which was close at hand to them. The first destroyer flotilla took position on the bow of the enemy, the second flotilla on the port side, and the third flotilla in the rear. The fourth destroyer flotilla (Hayadori, Harusante, Asagiri and the Murasame) and the fifth destroyer flotilla (Kagcro, Yugiri Shiranubi and Murakumo) were in Dalny Bay. When these two flotillas received the report of the enemy's leaving the harbor, they got under way and joined the third division. When the engagement opened, the first and third destroyer flotillas and the fourteenth torpedo flotilla took position on the protected side of the first division, and the second destroyer flotilla increased their speed with the intention of joining the above-named ships. At 8 p. m., when the order was received for the attack on the enemy's fleet, the first destroyer flotilla, heading to the westward crossed the enemy's bow and on a parallel course on the starboard side of the enemy headed toward Port Arthur. Each boat conducted an attack on the ship abreast of it. At 9.40 p. m. the Asashio discharged a torpedo at a ship with three stacks. The Kasunti, observing three of the enemy's ships on an opposite course conducted an attack on the center ship, changed course in the opposite direction and finally lost sight of them. Anticipating that the retreat of the enemy would be to the northwest, she cruised in that direction. At dawn of the nth she arrived off Cap Island. At this place she came across torpedo boat No. 38 of the second torpedo flotilla whose movements were impeded and requested a tow, but as another boat with the second torpedo flotilla came along the Kasumi was relieved of the duty. Then meeting with the Asashio the Kasumi proceeded to Dalny Bay. The Shirakumo, coming across a ship of the Pobieda type, attacked her and later attacked another ship, then shaped her course northeast and by dawn of the 11th arrived at the entrance of the harbor. Although she saw the Retvisan and the Mongolia entering the harbor she did not open fire on them on account of dawn. The second destroyer flotilla which attempted previously to join with the first division and failing to accomplish this object on account of the wind and waves, searched in the vicinity of Port Arthur, thinking that the enemy would return to that place. Starting at 10.30 p. m., for a period of one hour she searched and was rewarded by discovering three of the enemy's ships in the dark. At once the Ikazuchi, on an opposite course with the enemy, discharged a torpedo at one ship at 11.42 and immediately ran to the northward. The Inazuma attacked the second ship and the Oboro, the third ship. After dawn of the 11th, the above three boats joining, reconnoitered off the entrance of Port Arthur and discovered a ship of the Poltava type and several other ships cruising slowly to the westward. The third destroyer flotilla about 10 p. m. came upon a ship with three stacks, and prepared to attack her, but as the Japanese torpedo flotilla suddenly appeared, in order to avoid a collision, the course was changed and the enemy was lost to view. They then, returned to Port Arthur. At 4 a. in. on the 11th, discovering gun flashes at a distance of several miles in the east, they proceeded in that direction and discovered the forms of three ships. This flotilla, thinking this to be an engagement between their own ships and the enemy, made signals but got no answer. Drawing closer, discovered them to be three ships of the enemy and one destroyer. The Japanese destroyers were about to make an attack when they received a sudden fire which caused them to change course. Hereupon each destroyer, after making an attack upon the enemy, proceeded to Dalny Bay. On the way they received a request for assistance from the Asagiri (the fourth destroyer flotilla), and escorting that ship they finally made Dalny Bay. The fourth destroyer flotilla, when they perceived the enemy was about to escape to the westward, proceeded in that direction. Receiving a severe fire from the enemy and in attempting to escape, the Murasame was obliged to leave the line on account of a block in her bilge pump. The other three ships, at about 8.20 p. m., when they were about to attack the enemy, were forced to give up the attempt on account of the severity of the enemy's gun fire. A second attempt was fruitless. At 8.5o p. m., when they prepared for the third attack, they discovered two ships of the enemy on the port bow and one on the starboard bow and received a severe fire from these. The Hayadori discharged a torpedo at the rear ship and again attacking the ship on the starboard hand, retreated to the southwestward. In this movement she lost the other destroyers. Steaming alone to Port Arthur at 3.30 a. m. on the 11th she discovered gun flashes to the southward, but not meeting with the enemy she later arrived at Flat Island. The Harusame, after attacking the leading ship of the enemy, cruising with the Hayadori and Asagiri lost each other on account of the fire of the enemy. At 2.20 a. m. on the nth she met with torpedo boat No. 63 (twentieth flotilla) and until dawn searched for the enemy, and then proceeded to Flat Island. One shell striking the Asagiri on the starboard casing of No. 3 boiler, destroyed the safety valve, and on account of the escaping steam for a time she was forced to retreat. At 9.48 p. m., after exchanging fire with the destroyers of the enemy for a short while, they discovered smoke southeast of Round Island, and closing in in that direction they were subjected to a heavy fire. One shell entering the after boiler room through the after starboard coal bunker, exploded. One petty officer and 8 men were killed. Although she had entirely lost power to move, she continued to fight; making temporary repairs she proceeded to the southward of Round Island at reduced speed and coming across the third destroyer flotilla with her assistance entered Dalny Bay about 5 p. m. The Murasame, whose bilge pumps were choked, after repairs pursued her companion ships, but on account of darkness was unable to overtake them. Then anticipating the movement of the enemy, at 10.05 p. m. on the starboard bow, hearing gun fire, she proceeded in that direction and discovered three ships of the enemy heading toward Port Arthur. This was at 30 minutes past midnight on the 11th. Quickly taking position ahead of the leading ship, she attempted to carry out an attack, but the enemy changed course, making it impossible to draw near. Furthermore, the blower of the forward boilers being destroyed, she gave up the chase and proceeded to the southward of Cap Island. Previous to her arrival at this place she was attacked by a destroyer of the enemy and returned the fire. The enemy's destroyer escaped toward Port Arthur. The Murasame, arriving northeast of Cap Island, engaged in reconnoitering duty. The fifth destroyer flotilla, awaiting an opportunity to attack, about 7.50 p. m. met the Askold, Novik and four or five destroyers advancing, and in order to escape these, lost sight of the main fleet of the enemy. Anticipating that the enemy's course would be about southwest, she searched in that direction. At 10.55 p. m. she discovered three ships and one destroyer. The Japanese destroyers engaged at will. The Kagero approached the rear ship and under a heavy fire delivered an attack and proceeded to the rendezvous and together with the Yugiri and Shiranubi received an attack from the enemy which caused the boats to separate. As dawn was approaching and being unfavorable for an attack proceeded to Cap Island. On the morning of the 11th they joined the other three ships and engaged in a blockade. The Yugiri made an attack and then joined the Shiranubi. At 4.13 a. m., to the southeastward of Encounter Rock, discovered three ships of the enemy and attacked one ship. The Shiranubi also attacked one and then both together attacked the third ship. Then they joined the Kagero. The Murakumo, discovgring a ship and destroyer, discharged one torpedo. Exchanging fire with the destroyer she drew out of range; at 1 a. m. the 11th she met the Yugiri and Shiranubi, but later lost them. At 3.30 a. m. she discovered another ship and a destroyer and alone attacked these, and in the early morning picked up the destroyer of the enemy, but soon lost her. Later she met with the Kagero.
THE TORPEDO BOAT FLOTILLA
On the morning of August m the first flotilla (Nos. 69, 68, 70, 67) were in the east of Winson Cape and the sixteenth flotilla (Shirataka, Nos. 39, 71, 66) were south of Port Arthur and were engaged in watching the enemy. The second flotilla (Nos. 38, 37, 46, 45) and the twenty-first flotilla (Nos. 47, 49, 44) were anchored at Ping-tu-tan. The sixth flotilla (Nos. 56; 59, 57, 58), the tenth flotilla (Nos. 43, 42, 40, 41), the fourteenth flotilla (Chidore, Kasasagi, Hayabusa, Manazatru) and the twentieth flotilla (Nos. 62, 64, 63, 65) were anchored at Dalny Bay. When the enemy left the harbor all flotillas accompanied the fleet, and awaiting sunset carried out an attack on the enemy's ships. The first flotilla, lacking coal and water, when the opportunity of attack drew near, thinking the enemy in retreat, pursued. At about 9.19 p. m. they met four ships which they thought to be the enemy's destroyers. At the time of eluding these, they became separated in two sections. Nos. 69 and 68 searched in vain for the enemy. On account of the lack of coal and water they proceeded to the Elliot group of islands. Later No. 70 also returned without meeting with success. No. 67 alone at 9.40 p. m. discovered a ship of the Poltava type. Running southeast under fire she drew near and carried out an attack, then proceeded to the Elliot group of islands. No. 46 of the second flotilla collided with No. 37 in the daytime and having damaged her bow, returned to Dalny Bay. The other three ships after sunset proceeded southwest and separating at 10 p. m. searched for the enemy. After one hour No. 38 attempted an attack on a ship with two masts and two stacks, pursued her and at 20 minutes past midnight on the 11th struck a mine which greatly damaged her port bow. One seaman was killed, the commanding officer and 8 men wounded, but the ship remained intact. Later sinking, she transferred her wounded men to No. 39 (sixteenth flotilla) which happened to come across them at that time. After a short time had passed No. 38, again falling in with the enemy, received their fire, but escaped it, and meeting No. 37 of the same flotilla, was towed by that ship into Dalny Bay. No. 45, discovering a ship of two stacks, after attacking it returned to Ping-tu-tan. No. 37 being blocked by the enemy's destroyers, could not carry out her object. After engaging the enemy for a short while, she picked up No. 38. The sixth flotilla about sunset pursued the enemy and as the boats became separated they operated singly. No. 56 discovered a ship of the Diana type proceeding with a destroyer. After delivering two attacks at 9.20 p. m. she entered Ping-tu-tan. No. 58 at 3.30 a. m. on the 11th discovered three ships of the enemy about 15 sea miles south of Port Arthur. She at once attacked the center ship. Next met a ship of the Diana type cruising south, accompanied by two destroyers. Attacking these, she proceeded to Ping-tu-tan. Nos. 59 and 57 (No. 57 separating from No. 59, operated singly), after meeting the enemy, returned to Ping-tu-tan. The tenth flotilla at sunset shaping their course NW. by W., pursued the enemy and at midnight of the 11th discovered a ship of the Tsesarevitch and Retvisan types and three destroyers in the vicinity of Encounter Rock. No. 43 after attacking a ship of the Retvisan type retreated, and estimating the enemy's course made a further attack. No. 42, attacking a ship of the enemy, proceeded south. No. 40 attacked a ship of the Tsesarevitch type and on changing course, her steering gear being jammed, control of the boat was lost. Dropping out of range she proceeded to Port Arthur. Later in vain she searched for the enemy. No. 41 retreated. The boats one after another proceeded to the rendezvous. The fourteenth flotilla at the time delivered an attack. The Manazuru, which had remained behind at Dalny Bay to repair her boilers, arrived and joined. All together, searching for the enemy to the southward of Round Island, they discovered a ship of the Diana type. Thereupon the Chidori and the Kasasagi, after attacking the enemy, proceeded to the vicinity of Port Arthur. The Hayabusa, receiving no opportunity to attack, becoming separated at 11 p. m., attacked a ship of the Tsesarevitch type. The Manazuru, operating singly, at 8.50 p. m. attacked a ship of the Diana type and at a. m. again attacked a ship of the Tsesarevitch type. After this all boats took up the blockade. The sixteenth flotilla, after sunset, estimating the whereabouts of the enemy, pursued them. The Shirotaka at 10.04 p. m. discovered a ship of the Retvisan type on the port bow and running to starboard discharged a torpedo. No. 39 also attempted an attack. No. 71, on account of the dimness of the enemy's form, gave up the attack. No. 66, losing sight of the enemy, finally stopped operations. After the attack the Shirotaka, losing her companion ship, singly attacked the enemy, but in vain, and at 3 a. m. on the 11th arrived at Round Island. Nos. 39 and 71 met No. 38 (second flotilla) drifting. Picking up the wounded they separated from her. No. 38 about dawn proceeded to Round Island. No. 66 at 2.05 a. in. discovered a ship with two stacks and two masts, conducted an attack and pursued, but after a short while returned to Round Island. The twentieth flotilla about 8.30 p. in., the boats separating, delivered an attack. No. 62 discovered a ship of the Diana type and one destroyer. At 8.57 she attempted to cross the bow of the enemy. The enemy took up a serpentine course, but on account of her high rate of speed and the high seas, she was not able to accomplish her object. Cruising parallel with the enemy she discharged a torpedo and then, meeting No. 64, pursued the enemy at full speed. Later No. 62 proceeded to Ping-tu-tan. No. 64, hearing of the enemy's condition from No. 62, proceeded to the northwestward. At 9.35 p. m. she discovered a ship of the Tscsarevitch type cruising slowly to the southward, attacked her and the next morning proceeded to Pingtu-tan. No. 63 at 9 p. m. discovered smoke on the port beam and drawing near discovered a ship of two masts and three stacks in company with one destroyer, but being unable to make out whether it was a large ship or not, she changed course and was lost to sight. No. 63 searched in vain on various courses. At 1.30 a. m. on the 11th, meeting two destroyers of the enemy, she ran north to avoid the firing. Later meeting with the Harusante (destroyer flotilla), together they watched for the enemy, but on account of the dawn drawing near, returned to Ping-tu-tan. No. 65 at lop, in. discovered a ship of the Tsesarevitch type on her starboard beam and with a severe fire attacked this, and changing course attacked a ship of the Sevastopol type at 3 a. m. on the 11th, then proceeded to Ping-tu-tan. The twenty-first flotilla, from 8 p. m., changing course very often, watched for the enemy. When they discovered the enemy on the port quarter, each boat carried out an attack. No. 47 attacked a ship of three stacks and one mast, then made .a retrograde movement. The next morning proceeded to Round Island. No. 44 at midnight on the nth, discovering the fire of the enemy to the northward, proceeded in that direction, and meeting a ship of the enemy cruising south, at once attacked her. At LK) a. m. encountered a ship of the Pobieda type. No. 49 searched all night for the enemy without success.
THE RUSSIAN REPORT (TRANSLATED BY THE JAPANESE)
On July 29 (August 10) the Port Arthur fleet left the harbor at 9 a. m. The Japanese fleet was concentrated outside the harbor against us. On account of the enemy's floating mines the movement was very difficult. Being pursued by the enemy we fought several hours. The cornmander-in-chief was killed and the captain of the Tsesarevitth was rendered senseless. The Tsesarevitch that evening received a torpedo attack. About dawn we reached Shantung Promontory and upon examining the damage of the ships we decided we could not make Vladivostok, but proceeded to Kiaochao Bay. In this battle we had 4 officers of high rank killed and 9 wounded, including myself. Among the enlisted personnel innumerable were killed and wounded. At this Bay we found one cruiser and one destroyer of our fleet.
THE REPORT OF DIVISION COMMANDER
We passed the anchorage safely, but it took two hours. The commander-in-chief made signals saying, "Proceed to Vladivostok." At the time we were leaving the harbor the ships of the enemy surrounded us. Two gunboats and the second destroyer flotilla at once returned to the harbor. From noon our fleet advanced. The enemy's fleet confusedly cruised to the rear. Hereupon we escaped them by cruising to port. Wlien we had passed into the range the engagement opened. In this engagement the Askold's forward stack was struck by a shell. Shortly after the second phase of the attack opened. At 5.45 p. in. the Tsesarevitch signaled, "The command has been changed." The enemy's ships surrounding us, the position was dangerous and we attempted to pass them through the weakest part of the line, so hoisting signals, "Follow my movements," advanced. My division followed. Several of the enemy's ships concentrated the fire upon us. At this time the Askold seemed to have caused damage to the enemy's cruiser. The Asama took fire. This seemed to be our means of escape. Four destroyers approached and attacked the Askold, but made no hits. My ship was greatly damaged. At last, breaking through the cordon, this division was able to escape. At this time the Japanese ships left off the pursuit. We now advanced through the Liau-ti-chan Straits. The Askold was greatly damaged. Two stacks were entirely destroyed. Her speed being decreased, she proceeded to Vladivostok. My ship was headed for Shanghai. On July 31 we arrived at Woosung and entered dock.
Casualties:
One officer killed, four wounded.
Ten enlisted men killed, 44 wounded.
DIVISION COMMANDER'S REPORT
The Presviet's fighting top being destroyed, I had signal hoists made on the forward bridge which read, "Follow my movements," but the other ships seemed to misunderstand. On account of great damage and innumerable dead and wounded, we decided to return to Port Arthur. The Retvisan, Pobieda, Poltava, and Sevastopol followed me and the Tsesarevitch was in the rear of the line, but being separated, before dawn of the next day, the only ships that were able to arrive at Port Arthur were as follows:
Presviet, Pobieda, Retvisan, Sevastopol, Poltava, Pallada and three destroyers.
Casualties:
Two officers killed, three wounded. Casualties in the fleet:
Thirty-eight officers and men killed, 21 officers wounded, 286 seamen wounded.
The Japanese ships engaged:
Four first-class battleships.
One second-class battleship.
Four armored cruisers.
Five small type cruisers.
Sixty torpedo crafts.