days. Parbuckle me, if you ain't the
loveliest gal I've ever set eyes on. There--I can't say fairer
than that, can I?
ROSE. No. (Aside.) The question is, Is it meet that an
utter stranger should thus express himself? (Refers to book.)
Yes--"Always speak the truth."
RICH. I'd no thoughts of sayin' this here to you on my own
account, for, truth to tell, I was chartered by another; but when
I see you my heart it up and it says, says it, "This is the very
lass for you, Dick"--"speak up to her, Dick," it says--(it calls
me Dick acos we was at school together)--"tell her all, Dick," it
says, "never sail under false colours--it's mean!" That's what
my heart tells me to say, and in my rough, common-sailor fashion,
I've said it, and I'm a-waiting for your reply. I'm a-tremblin',
miss. Lookye here--(holding out his hand). That's narvousness!
ROSE (aside). Now, how should a maiden deal with such an
one? (Consults book.) "Keep no one in unnecessary suspense."
(Aloud.) Behold, I will not keep you in unnecessary suspense.
(Refers to book.) "In accepting an offer of marriage, do so with
apparent hesitation." (Aloud.) I take you, but with a certain
show of reluctance. (Refers to book.) "Avoid any appearance of
eagerness." (Aloud.) Though you will bear in mind that I am far
from anxious to do so. (Refers to book.) "A little show of
emotion will not be misplaced!" (Aloud.) Pardon this tear!
(Wipes her eye.)
RICH. Rose, you've made me the happiest blue-jacket in
England! I wouldn't change places with the Admiral of the Fleet,
no matter who he's a-huggin' of at this present moment! But,
axin' your pardon, miss (wiping his lips with his hand), might I
be permitted to salute the flag I'm a-goin' to sail under?
ROSE (referring to book). "An engaged young lady should not
permit too many familiarities." (Aloud.) Once! (Richard kisses
her.)

DUET--RICHARD and ROSE.

RICH. The battle's roar is over,
O my love!
Embrace thy tender lover,
O my love!
From tempests' welter,
From war's alarms,
O give me shelter
Within those arms!
Thy smile alluring,
All heart-ache curing,
Gives peace enduring,