I cannot blame the captain of the ship
For disciplining lubberly midshipmen,
Though crews through which misunderstanding slip
With noxious rumours thoroughly equip men.

Suspicion sowed on every spar and deck
Makes all desirous of assigning blame
In order to avert a violent wreck,
Unlucky Jonah being called by name.

So when the purser gets a private note,
Requesting guidance, he does not return it.
Instead he will betray the one who wrote
And makes him wish that he had thought to burn it.

From whom will superstition ask a price-
Purser or sailor who sought his advice?