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Bill Bones used ter say, on many a day, When takin' a ship fer its loot, That a blow on the head was quickest dead And safest and best ter boot. But a wictim's end, fer meself I contend— There 's a hundred been killed by me— Is a walk, I 'll be frank, on a slippery plank, And a splash in the roarin' sea. |
(He turns and surveys the drawing above the windows. He cocks his head like a connoisseur, critically—with approval.)
"It eases yer pipes" Duke: I 'm the artist o' that there masterpiece. The Spittin' Devil! I done it on a rainy mornin'. Genius is queer. (Then he sings again.)
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Ol' Pew had a jerk with a long-handled dirk— His choice was a jab in the dark— |
(He is engaged thus, fumbling with his cards, when Darlin', crossing from the fire, interrupts him.)
Darlin': Duke, will yer have a nip o' grog? It eases yer pipes. Yer sounds as if yer had crumbs in yer gullet.
(The Duke pushes forward his cup.)
Duke: It 's a lovely tune, and I wrote the words meself. (He continues his song.)