But the shot that settled the _Messudiyeh_ aroused the forts and
started the torpedo boats, and the _B-11_ became the target of the
guns. She promptly sought refuge by a dive and had to lie submerged
for several hours to elude her hunters. The object of the hazardous
excursion accomplished, there was the problem of getting back, which
was now gravely complicated by the fact that the compass of _B-11_ went
wrong in the commotion and was not dependable. The Lieutenant had to
find his way out without it. But he did it; passing again the five rows
of mines, escaping the swirl of the currents that seemed rushing to
slam the submarine against the rocks, returning to station safely and
without casualty or mishap.
That was Dec. 14 and Dec. 26 the London _Gazette_ published the
announcement that the King had approved the grant of the Victoria
Cross to Lieutenant Holbrook, and that Lieutenant Winn had been made
a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order. A writer at that time
said:
“That the torpedoed battleship was guarding the mine field adds a touch
of comedy to the proceedings that must have been singularly gratifying
to Lieutenant Holbrook and his gallant companions who crept along the
sea floor with him that eventful day.”