'To prove to your Majesty that I am perfectly dry underneath the suit, I am, with your permission going to take it off.

You need not be afraid, I am perfectly dressed underneath.' Seeing that she did not object, I quickly unbuckled the tunic and hauled it over my head cast it on the deck and kicking off my rubber pants, I stood in my stocking feet before them.

The Queen examined the mechanism of the dress with much interest and said: 'I would like to have a suit made for the use of this yacht, and I wish you a safe journey across the channel.' Seeing that the interview was about closed I said: 'Now, Your Majesty, I hope you will excuse any error I have made, for you see that you could not naturally expect me to be posted in court etiquette.' The Queen laughed heartily in which she was joined by the surrounding crowd and said: 'You did very well, Captain.' When she left I again joined Captain Welch, of the Yacht, who told me that Her Majesty was well pleased.

'You may be sure of a handsome present.' I then asked him what was the cause of all the laughter.

He said: 'Why that was the only mistake you made.