Their resolve was a little nervous and the cheers a tad too raucous.  But their bravado endeared them to me, these lads who are for leaving. 

As for their more stoic elders, well, they too play their part.  After all, when Chamberlain declared were not young soldiers eager and veterans somber? 

Thus do sons and fathers gird each other for the fray.

A life at sea today seems strange to some, and yes, the grand old dame may founder yet.   But in every era,  have not a few proud Englishmen when denied their birthright turned Argonaut or sought to rule the waves? 

And for every one that leaves at least another must remain behind.  And so it is with me.

Press on press on you poor brave boys!  And so they go, unfurling sail ahead of fitful winds on their quest to regain glory.

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Image: Turner, Joseph Mallord William. Calais Pier: An English Packet Arriving. 1803. National Gallery London.