This section is from the book "Scientific American Reference Book. A Manual for the Office, Household and Shop", by Albert A. Hopkins, A. Russell Bond. Also available from Amazon: Scientific American Reference Book.
N C
In distress; want immediate assistance.
D C
We are coming to your assistance.
E Y
Do not attempt to land in your own boats.
B
I
Damaged rudder; can not steer.
B J
Engines broken down; I am disabled.
J D
You are standing into danger.
F Z
Heavy weather coming; look sharp.
F R
Bar is impassable.
I
E
D
Cast off.
R
I
F
Make fast - to -
W F Q
Slack away.
K T
Shift your berth. Your berth is not safe.
K P
Hold on until high water.
K H
Remain by the ship.
A B
Abandon the vessel as fast as possible.
K D
Landing is impossible.
K
F
Look out for rocket line (or, line).
K A
Endeavor to send a line by boat (cask, kite, raft, etc.).
C X
No assistance can be rendered; do the best you can for yourselves.
K
G
Lookout will be kept on the beach all night.
K
E
Lights, or Fires will be kept at the best place for coming on shore.
K C
Keep a light burning.
A D
Do not abandon the vessel until the tide has ebbed.
N M
I am on fire.
N O
I am sinking (or, on fire); send all available boats to save passengers and crew.
Y F
Want assistance; mutiny.
Y L
Want immediate medical assistance.
Y G
Want a boat immediately (if more than one, number to follow).
Y P
Want a tug (if more than one, number to follow).
A
G
I must abandon the vessel.
P T
Want a pilot.
V
G
What is name of ship or Signal Station in sight?
D
U
Repeat ship's name; your flags were not made out.
W
C
X
Signal not understood, though the flags are distinguished.
N C X
I can not make out the flags (or, signals).
C Assent - Yes. D Negative - No.
 
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