Topman and the Afterguard
Hymnal Index | Ship's Company Website

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The topman and the afterguard were walking one day,
Said the topman to the afterguard, I mean for to pray,
For the rights of all sailors and the wrongs of all men,
And whatever I do pray for you must answer Amen.
Says the afterguard "Amen."

First I'll pray for the bosun with his little stick,
He calls out all hands then gives us a lick,
Strikes many a brave fellow then kicks him a-main,
May the Devil double triple damn him.
Says the afterguard "Amen."

Next I'll pray for the Purser who gives us to eat,
Spew-burgers rank butter and musty horsemeat,
With weevily biscuit while he gets the gain,
May the Devil double triple damn him.
Says the afterguard "Amen."
Then I'll pray for them navy officers who hold back our due,
We are owed three years' wages and prize money too,
Well it's no pay for you Jack try next voyage again,
May the Devil double triple damn them.
Says the afterguard "Amen."

Well the last thing that I'll pray for is a draop of good beer,
For the Lord made the liquor our spirits for to cheer,
And where we had one pot I wish we had ten,
And never never want for grog my boys.
Says the afterguard "Amen."