Miscellany.

This is coolbert:

It is called a ricochet shot. A cannonball being bounced [skipped] on the ground or the water toward the target.

"A ricochet (pronounced RICK-uh-shay) is a rebound, bounce or skip off a surface, particularly in the case of a projectile."

Only can be done with a "cannonball" [round] when fired from a smooth-bore cannon.

"their [smooth bores] projectiles could be skipped ('ricochet fire') over the surface of the water to better ensure a hull hit. Rifle projectiles could not do this; they would either burrow into the water or bounce off it wildly due to their spin."

And this interesting extract from the five part series courtesy of Professor Kershaw:

"there was the impact of the expanded Führer cult on Hitler himself. Some of those in his close proximity later claimed to have detected a change in Hitler around 1935-6. He became . . . more convinced of his own infallibility . . . a more pronounced messianic tone. He saw himself ever more -- as chosen by Providence [GOD!]."

Hitler developed megalomaniac disease? Perhaps chosen - - but NOT by GOD!!?? A malady common in persons such as Hitler, Stalin, Mao, Hussein? Having absolute power does "something" to the mind? Totalitarian leaders actually begin to believe in their own "greatness". Develop grandiose plans and schemes. Carry through to very bitter end, regardless of the consequences.

coolbert.