A Fair Distribution
WHEN the British ships under Lord Nelson were bearing down to attack the
combined fleet off Trafalgar, the first lieutenant of the Revenge, on
going round to see that all hands were at quarters, observed one of the
men,--an Irishman,--devoutly kneeling at the side of his gun. So very
unusual an attitude exciting his surprise and curiosity he asked the man
if he was afraid. Afraid, answered the tar, no, your honor; I was
only praying that the enemy's shot may be distributed in the same
proportion as the prize-money,--the greatest part among the
officers.