CHIEF. And what do you teach them?
GOVERNESS. Oh, everything. Arithmetic, French, Geography, History, Dancing——
CHIEF (holding up his hand). A moment! I would take counsel with Percy. (To 2ND PIRATE) Percy, what shall we ask her in Arithmetic? (The 2ND PIRATE whispers to him.) Excellent. (To her) If you really are a teacher as you say, answer me this question. The brigantine Cocktail is in longitude 40° 39' latitude 22° 50', sailing closehauled on the port tack at 8 knots in a 15-knot nor'-nor' westerly breeze—how soon before she sights the Azores?
GOVERNESS. I—I—I'm afraid I——You see—I——
CHIEF (to 1ST PIRATE). Arithmetic rotten.
1ST PIRATE (writing). Arithmetic rotten.
CHIEF (to 3RD PIRATE). Basil, ask her a question in French.
3RD PIRATE. What would the mate of a French frigate say if he wanted to say in French, "Avast there, ye lubbering swab" to a friend like?
GOVERNESS. Oh, but I hardly—I——
CHIEF (to 1ST PIRATE). French futile.