But here the doubtful officers dispute,

Till skill, and judgment prejudice confute:

For Rodmond, to new methods still a foe,

Would first, at all events, the sheet let go;

To long-tried practice obstinately warm,

He doubts conviction, and relies on form.

This Albert and Arion disapprove,

And first to brail the tack up firmly move:

‘The watchful seaman, whose sagacious eye

On sure experience may with truth rely,