It is rather a surprising circumstance that such an unmusical party should be so keen on singing.

On Xmas night it was kept up till 1 A.M., and no work is done without a chanty.

I don't know if you have ever heard sea chanties being sung.

The merchant sailors have quite a repertoire, and invariably call on it when getting up anchor or hoisting sails.

Often as not they are sung in a flat and throaty style, but the effect when a number of men break into the chorus is generally inspiriting.' The men had dinner at midday--much the same fare, but with beer and some whisky to drink.