Then the prey could not get
away from us.

How promptly the fishermen alighted because of the fear of our shells!
They scrambled aboard the one steamer selected to save them in such a
rush it looked like a panicky flight. Soon cutters and rowboats were
swarming all around us and speedily the steamer selected to save the
crews was crowded.

But even during such an exciting occupation we did not neglect to keep a
sharp lookout, for under no circumstances were we to be taken by
surprise when at this work. But it was easy to look out over a great
distance. The horizon was free and clear.

As soon as the fishermen were safe aboard the steamer, we began the
sinking of the ships and went from ship to ship, stopped at a distance
of a hundred meters, and sent solid, well-aimed shots at their water
lines until they had had enough and began to sink. Many went down with
the first shot. Others were tougher and required four. For the gun crew
this was great sport. They took turns and each jealously counted the
number of shots required for his "fisherman."

When the steamers were "fixed," we went to the sailing boats, which, in
accordance with their inveterate custom, were lying huddled together.
The sailors generally needed only one shot--then they capsized and sank
into the sea with a death gurgle. It was a touching scene which, in
spite of our inner joy, was hard on our nerves, as every true sailor
regards the sailing-ship as a remnant of romance, dying out faster and
faster in these days.

This was truly the reason why now and at other times our hearts ached
for each sailing ship which we had to sink. The surface was covered with
hundreds of thousands of dead fish which were scattered over the sea. To
countless sea gulls it was a highly welcome call to dinner, which they
eagerly accepted, gorging themselves and filling themselves so that
their feathers stood straight out from their bodies.

We had already sent thirteen ships to the bottom, only two sailing-ships
remaining besides the rescue steamer. As the opportunity was a rare one,
I permitted the firemen and men from the engine room to come up on deck
so that they could see with their own eyes a ship go down. I enjoyed
hearing their funny remarks and to watch how, in their childish joy,
they enthusiastically greeted each new shot. I was glad to see the
bright color the fresh air and excitement brought to their pale faces.
Groening stepped up to me and said thoughtfully: