But I must defend myself by observing the very artificial state in which we live on board of a man-of-war.

Necessity, my dear Mr Simple, has no law.

You must observe how gently I always commence when I have to find fault.

I do that to prove my gentility; but, sir, my zeal for the service obliges me to alter my language, to prove in the end that I am in earnest.

Nothing would afford me more pleasure than to be able to carry on the duty as a gentleman, but that's impossible." "I really cannot see why." "Perhaps, then, Mr Simple, you will explain to me why the captain and first lieutenant swear." "That I do not pretend to answer, but they only do so upon an emergency." "Exactly so; but, sir, their 'mergency is my daily and hourly duty.