1902] SUNDAY ROUTINE 249 



ship," and though we don't polish bright work, we do our share 

 of scrubbing. In the forenoon the living-spaces are thoroughly 

 cleaned, lockers and other articles of furniture are moved, holes 

 and corners are searched, and whilst the tub and scrubber 

 hold sway, the deck becomes a " snipe marsh." At this time 

 also the holds are cleared up, the bilges pumped out, the upper 

 deck is " squared up," and a fresh layer of clean snow is 

 sprinkled over that which has been soiled by the traffic of the 

 week. On this follows a free afternoon for all hands, and after 

 dinner in the wardroom the toast is the time-honoured one of 

 " Sweethearts and Wives." 



' On Sunday we don a different garment ; it need not 

 necessarily be a newer or cleaner one— the thing is for it to be 

 different from that which has been worn during the week. By 

 9.30 the decks have been cleared up, the tables and shelves 

 tidied, and the first lieutenant reports " All ready for rounds." 

 Then follows a humble imitation of the usual manof-war walk- 

 round Sunday inspection, and in solemn procession we pass 

 through the now empty mess-deck and on to the other in- 

 habited parts of the ship. I am more than ever convinced 

 that this routine is an excellent thing ; not only has it the best 

 effect on the general discipline and cleanliness of the ship, but 

 it gives an opportunity of raising and discussing each new 

 arrangement that is made for the better comfort of all on 

 board. 



' After the inspection of the ship comes that of the men, 

 who are fallen in under the awning on deck. Though it is 

 only possible to see them in the rays of the flickering lan- 

 tern which the boatswain bears ahead of me, I see enough 

 to assure me of the general good health and cheerfulness 

 of the company. Then come the only military orders of 

 the week. The first lieutenant says, " Front rank, one pace 

 forward — march." We pass between the ranks, and the men 

 are dismissed. 



' After this the mess-deck is prepared for church ; har- 

 monium, reading-desk, and chairs are all placed according to 

 routine, and the bell is tolled. The service is read by me, 



