After the late fight Ludar had hauled down the Frenchman's flag; but it was in vain I begged him to hoist that of her royal Majesty in its place.

He would not hear of it.
"No," said he, "I sail under no false colours.

This is a voyage for safety, not for glory, else I know the flag would fly there.

As it is, Humphrey, 'tis best for us all to fly nothing.

The masts shall go bare.
The blue of a maiden's eyes is colour enough for you and me to fight under." I could not gainsay him.