Forecastle Watch Sings Farewell to Spanish Ladies
The sailors launch into a traditional sea shanty with the haunting refrain “Farewell and adieu to you, Spanish ladies! Farewell and adieu to you, ladies of Spain! Our captain’s commanded.” This melancholic song marks the beginning of the chapter’s musical atmosphere.
1st Nantucket Sailor Leads Whaling Shanty
A Nantucket sailor breaks the sentimental mood, declaring sentimentality bad for digestion. He initiates a boisterous whaling shanty with lively verses about the captain watching whales through his spyglass, urging the men to row “hand, boys, over hand” and praising the bold harpooner striking the whale. The crew rallies with the cheerful chorus “be cheery, my lads! may your hearts never fail!”
Mate Calls Eight Bells for Watch Change
The mate’s voice rings out from the quarterdeck calling “Eight bells there, forward!” marking the end of one watch and the beginning of another, a routine timekeeping moment aboard the ship.
2nd Nantucket Sailor Rouses Sleeping Watch
The second Nantucket sailor commands the bell-boy to strike eight bells and then rouses the sleeping watch with his “hogshead mouth,” shouting “Star-bo-l-e-e-n-s, a-h-o-y! Eight bells there below! Tumble up!” to wake the offgoing watch.
Dutch Sailor Comments on Night’s Drinking
A Dutch sailor reflects on the night’s heavy drinking, noting it was grand for sleeping. He draws a parallel between the Mogul’s wine and its effect on the crew—deadening to some while energizing others. He encourages his shipmate to continue rousing the sleeping men, describing it as a resurrection where they must “kiss their last, and come to judgment.” He jokes his throat isn’t spoiled from eating Amsterdam butter.
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