If the oceans of the world could speak, what marvellous tales of heroism they could relate that are hidden in the oblivion of their depths.  Sailors generally are singularly reticent about their adventures.  They are sensitive about being thought boastful; the nature of their training and employment is so pregnant with danger that they become accustomed to treat what most people would consider very daring acts as a part of their ordinary business that should not be made a fuss about.  Hence many a gallant deed has been done that was never heard of beyond the ocean and the vessel where it took place.

There is not a crew that sails on salt water that could not relate after every voyage they make events and doings thrilling with interest which would be considered stirring and brave if they had taken place on shore among persons other than sailors.  It is no uncommon thing to hear the cry “A man overboard!” while a vessel is being rushed through a heavy sea at a great speed, and the alarm is no sooner given than some gallant fellow is seen to jump overboard to his rescue.  Not long ago a large vessel bound out to the west coast of South America was running before heavy north-east trade winds and a high following roller.  A man was seen to fall from the foretopsail yard right overboard before the order could be given to haul the vessel to the wind.  One of his shipmates plunged into the bosom of a mountainous sea without divesting himself of any clothing; even his boots had to be taken off in the water.  The ship was promptly brought to the wind, and skilfully manipulated towards the drowning man and his rescuer.  The order was given to lower the cutter, and a scramble was made for the distinction of being one of the crew.  The two men battled with the waves until the boat reached them.  They were taken into her and saved.  A short paragraph in the newspapers telling the simple story was all that was heard of it.

Three years ago, Mr. Barney Barnato, the millionaire, was coming home from South Africa, and when off the Western Islands, from some cause or other he fell overboard.  The mail steamer must have been going sixteen or seventeen knots an hour at the time, but it did not prevent the second officer (I think it was) from jumping in after him and recovering his body, though, alas! it was inanimate.  This brave fellow’s act was made famous by a gifted and wealthy young lady passenger falling in love with him, and he of course with her.  They have since been married, and I wish them all the blessings that earth and heaven can bestow upon them.  I believe Mrs. Barnato and the executors of the genial Barney showed their appreciation in a suitable way also.