206 Crossing the Line 



1946, continued 



These preHminaries, which represent tlie approach of the ship to King 

 Neptune's domain, take place after supper on the evening of tlie day before 

 that on which the ship crosses the Line. The Daily Orders for that day should 

 contain an item in the following sense: — 



2030 (About). The ship, being within hailing distance of the Equator, 

 will probably be boarded by an Emissary from the Court of King Nep- 

 tune. On sighting this Emissary, the hands will be piped forward to wit- 

 ness his arrival. 



The setting for the Herald's arrival must of com-se depend on the size 

 of the ship and the resources available. The following treatment is suited to 

 a cruiser or above. 



Preparations 



Run two or more old wash-deck hoses across the upper deck just forward 

 of tlae breakwater, and connect to mains. Hoses should have small holes 

 pierced in them of the right size and number to produce a vertical curtain 

 of water about 6 or 8 feet high when the mains are fully opened. 



Rig green floodhghts, yardarm groups, or "footlights" to illuminate the 

 water curtain, all hghts being on a dimmer circuit. Rig spotlights to illuminate 

 figmres standing in the eyes of the ship. 



If available, rig loudspeakers to sound aft from the forecastle, with the 

 microphone concealed in a conch-shell or on the Herald's stafif. 



Drill 



Pipe: "D'ye hear there? Ship is expected to be within hailing distance of the 

 Equator in ten minute's time." 



When spectators are mustered ( all abaft the breakwater ) , bring up water 

 curtain and floodlights slowly. Under cover of water cmtain the following 

 muster as quickly as possible in the eyes of the ship: 



Trumpeters 

 Herald 

 Bears. 



Fanfare on trumpets, followed by a throaty roar of laughter tln-ough the 

 loudspeakers. 



Herald: "Ahoy — What ship?" 



Captain (from the bridge) : "Her Britannic Majesty's Ship . . ." 



Herald: "Who commands this ship?" 



Captain: "Captain . . . Royal Navy" (adding decorations in full, e.g. 



Companion of the Distinguished Service Order, etc. ) . 

 Herald: "Stop the ship — I wish to come onboard." 

 (Ring dovra Stop Both) 



