Day: April 3, 2021

As Princess Pirouette grew older, her social responsibilities increased. By the time she was seventeen, she was hostessing numerous events such as royal receptions for worthy causes. Memorable among these gatherings was a reception for retired seamen. At this particular assembly, Admiral Crank was her cohost. He was a rather outlandish figure who sported a long, bushy mustachio dyed black in contrast to his hair which was a shock of white. Equally startling was his accent. Lady Greenmeadow said it was “from the gutter.”

Speaking to a land-stranded captain he could be heard to say, “Aye, cap’ain! T’were in the caboose where the fire started, it was. Nearly sank the vessel, it did!”

Pirouette, who was standing right beside the erstwhile captain of the sea, did her best not to cringe as the old Admiral spoke. Interjecting with a skillful flourish of her fan, she said, “Was this before or after the battle, Admiral?”

Monsieur l’Amiral paused for a moment and then said, “T’were no battle, Madam Princess! No battle at all! Have yea not been listening to a word I’ve said?”