The first part—which is one of Cuttle's favourite quotations—is the first line of a song by G. Linley. He composed a large number of operas and songs, many of which were very popular. The second part of the quotation is from Braham's ‘Death of Nelson’ (see p. [116]).
In conversation with his friend Bunsby, Cuttle says—
Give me the lad with the tarry trousers as shines to me like di'monds bright, for which you'll overhaul the ‘Stanfell's Budget,’ and when found make a note.
Elsewhere he mentions Fairburn's ‘Comic Songster’ and the ‘Little Warbler’ as his song authorities.
The song referred to here is classed by Dr. Vaughan Williams amongst Essex folk-songs, but it is by no means confined to that county. It tells of a mother who wants her daughter to marry a tailor, and not wait for her sailor bold.
My mother wants me to wed with a tailor
And not give me my heart's delight;
But give me the man with the tarry trousers,
That shines to me like diamonds bright.
After the firm of Dombey has decided to send Walter to Barbados, the boy discusses his prospects with his friend the Captain, and finally bursts into song—
How does that tune go that the sailors sing?
For the port of Barbados, Boys!
Cheerily!
Leaving old England behind us, boys!
Cheerily!Here the Captain roared in chorus,
Oh cheerily, cheerily!
Oh cheer-i-ly!
For the port of Barbados, Boys!
Cheerily!
Leaving old England behind us, boys!
Cheerily!
Oh cheerily, cheerily!
Oh cheer-i-ly!