Yet I have
never heard that much was stolen; and beyond question, much was very
honestly returned. On both accounts, for the saving of life and the
restoration of property, the government of the United States showed
themselves generous in reward. A fine boat was fitly presented to
Seumanu; and rings, watches, and money were lavished on all who had
assisted. 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. The town was divided in two camps, to
which the different nationalities were confined.
Pages:
211
212
213
214
215
216
217
218
219
220
221
222
223
224
225
226
227
228
229
230
231
232
233
234
235