XVIII.

And oh, the little warlike world within!

The well-reeved guns, the netted canopy, [9.B.]

The hoarse command, the busy humming din,

When, at a word, the tops are manned on high:

Hark, to the Boatswain's call, the cheering cry!

While through the seaman's hand the tackle glides;

Or schoolboy Midshipman that, standing by,

Strains his shrill pipe as good or ill betides,

And well the docile crew that skilful Urchin guides.[ed]

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