[_To himself._] I knew that would happen.
Pardon me, I have been speaking on other subjects to-night. I should say, the extremely pleasant occasion which brings us together.
Certainly, my dear Rankling, how nice of you!
Not only am I the commander--the father--of a ship--of a daughter whom it is my ambition to see happily wedded to the man of her choice--
[_In an undertone, glaring at her._] You vexing girl.
But I am also the husband of a heavily plated cruiser--er--um--h'm! of a dear lady to whose affection and society I owe the greatest happiness of my life.
[_To herself._] How different some gentlemen are when their wives are not present.
If I have the regret of knowing that my acquaintance with Mrs.--Mrs.--
Thank you, I know--Parkinson--has begun only to-night, I have also the pleasure of inaugurating a friendship with that delightful young lady, which on my side shall be little less than paternal. I--I--I--
I will not sit down without adding a word of congratulation to Mr.--Mr. --
Thank you, I know--Parkinson--the young gentleman whose ingenious construction and seagoing qualities--
Er--um--whose amiability and genial demeanour have so favourably impressed us. As an old married man I welcome this recruit to the service.
It is one of hardship and danger--of stiff breezes and dismal night watches. But it is because Englishmen never know when they are beaten--
Yes, sir--it is because Englishmen never know when they are beaten that they occasionally find conjugal happiness. I ask you all to drink to the Navy--to Mr. and Mrs.--thank you, I know--Jenkinson.
[_All except Dinah and Reginald rise and drink the toast "Mr. and Mrs. Parkinson," then as they resume their seats, Reginald rises sulkily._]
[_Jane appears at the door, wildly beckoning to Queckett._]
Hush! [_The Girls motion Jane away; she retires._]
All I have to say is that the highest estimation Admiral Rankling can form of me will not do justice to my devotion to my wife.
[_Fiercely._] And I should like to know the individual, old or young, who would take my wife from me!
[_To himself _] Many a husband would like to know that person.
In conclusion--as for Admiral Rankling's offer of a paternal friendship, I trust he will remember that offer if ever we should have occasion to remind him of it. [_Looking at his watch._] And now I regret to say--[_ The girls rise, the men follow. _]