'GANS AT SEA cont'd...

by Lucille D'ecoupage

Admiral Lord Terrence of Gate waved a glass of sherry at the assembled crowd, "From the addition of one inch of steel to the hulls of his two vessels, to the installation of a newly developed ship-wide heating system, to the loading of a great ballast of supplies guaranteed to satiate even the most particular of crews..." He took a sip of the sweet wine and with his free hand held high called out to those who had dared to resume their whispered conversation, "I would also like to take this opportunity to announce, with the blessing of the Royal Society, that a reward of one-thousand pounds be bestowed upon the Captain and his crew for reaching the one-hundredth meridian!"

An audible gasp went out among the ladies thus assembled.

"Two thousand pounds..." continued the Lord dramatically, "Upon reaching the one-hundred and tenth and a further five thousand pounds for passing that glorious measure - the hundred and twentieth meridian!"

A great hue and cue ensued, glasses smashed into the fireplace and much excitement was exhibited by both the men and women attending. The Lord Admiral was entirely pleased by this display as it gave himself great plaesure in bestowing pleasure among others. He particularly enjoyed that moment when, as the applause died down and people's faces turned back towards him in anticipation of what surprise he might have in store for them next. He would hold the moment as long as possible, without impinging upon it's impact; a quite delicate art indeed.

"I am without doubt that given Sir Richard's considerable experience, his Officer's profound state of readiness and the smiling good grace of His Majesty, no other nation shall defeat our goal... That the mast first seen in the west by route of the east shall be British, will give rise to more British and will continue to be British. To all those gathered here, to those of us about to embark upon this adventure and to those of us unlucky enough to be left behind I say, Hip-hip..."

In a tremendous chorus, the entire room exploded, "Hurrah!"

"Hip-hip..."

"Hurrah!

"Hip Hip!"

"Hurrah!!"