The _Mare Nostrum_, represented by a certain number, was to navigate between two other numbers which were those of the nearest steamers.
They were to keep between them a distance of about five hundred yards; it was important that they should not come any nearer in a moment of carelessness, nor prolong the line so that they would be out of sight of the watchful guardians.
At the end, the general instructions for all the voyages were repeated with a laconic brevity that would have made other men, not accustomed to look death in the face, turn pale.

In case of a submarine attack, the transports that carried guns were to come out from the line and aid the patrol of armed vessels, attacking the enemy.

The others were to continue their course tranquilly, without paying any attention to the attack.

If the boat in front of them or the one following was torpedoed, they were not to stop to give it aid.

The torpedo boats and "chaluteros" were charged with saving the wrecked ship if it were possible.