On February 10th, 1917, two American merchant ships, SS Rochester and SS Orleans, left New York bound for Bordeaux, France. The only obstacle in their way was the Kaiser's U-boats.

If the vessels were attacked and destroyed the American public would demand that their country go to war with Germany.

Captain Kokeritz of the Rochester was ready for the challenge.

A challenge that would become personal between him and the Kaiser who had $10,000 placed on his head.

The nations of the world held their breath as they awaited the outcome of this battle of the wills.