The Germans also gave money at the rate (as I receive the tale) of three dollars a head for every German saved.

The obligation was in this instance incommensurably deep, those with whom they were at war had saved the German blue-jackets at the venture of their lives; Knappe was, besides, far from ungenerous; and I can only explain the niggard figure by supposing it was paid from his own pocket.

In one case, at least, it was refused.

"I have saved three Germans," said the rescuer; "I will make you a present of the three." The crews of the American and German squadrons were now cast, still in a bellicose temper, together on the beach.

The discipline of the Americans was notoriously loose; the crew of the _Nipsic_ had earned a character for lawlessness in other ports; and recourse was had to stringent and indeed extraordinary measures.