CHAPTER XXIX.
THE REINE BLANCHE I CANNOT forbear a brief reflection upon the scene ending the last chapter.
The ratanning of the young culprits, although significant of the imperfect discipline of a French man-of-war, may also be considered as in some measure characteristic of the nation.
In an American or English ship, a boy when flogged is either lashed to the breech of a gun, or brought right up to the gratings, the same way the men are.

But as a general rule, he is never punished beyond his strength.

You seldom or never draw a cry from the young rogue.

He bites his tongue and stands up to it like a hero.

If practicable (which is not always the case), he makes a point of smiling under the operation.