She's father and mother and brother and sister to me.

I have no kin, and when I see how much trouble kin can give you, I don't feel lonely.

The ship I sail--whatever her name--is to me 'My Lady,' and I guard and guide and cherish her all the days of her life with me." "Why do you say 'her life,' Captain ?" "Because ships are like women--contrary and unreasonable.

Like women they must be made to answer the rudder, or they go on the rocks.

There are, of course, men-of-war, and they get men's names, and we give them fire and steel to protect themselves, but when your yacht with sails set, goes curtsying over the waves like a duchess, you know she's feminine, and you wouldn't call her after your father or yourself, but your sweetheart's name would be just suitable, I'm sure." John smiled pleasantly, and his silence encouraged the Captain to continue.