"Christ!" gasped Mick, "this table's *****ing heavy."

"That's 'cause it's bolted to the floor, you stupid sod." came John's sardonic reply. Well, in the end, they at least managed to move the chairs about.

While waiting for the Ladies of New Esperance to bring the beer, an American approached, who said that he had seen the dancing on the quay-side.

"Oh no!" they thought, "Not another complaint."

To their surprise the American told our heroes that he had enjoyed it, and asked if they were going to dance in the bar.

It was pointed out that someone was just setting up his disco in the corner, and, although it would be possible to compete with it, it would nevertheless be rude, undignified and bad mannered, which, of course, our heroes never were.

The friendly Yank gave an expansive wave of his hand'

"Don't worry about that", he said, "the ship's Purser happens to be a friend of mine. I'11 go and have a word with him."

Five minutes later he returned and, after discussions with Len and the D.J., the latter promised that after about half an hour of his disco, he would clear the dance area and announce a twenty minute Morris spot. Whatever kit that was to hand was quickly put on, and soon, as promised, the opportunity was given:

"Ladies and Gentlemen ... we've a special guest appearance tonight; The Earls of Essex Morris Men, who are just returning from Germany. I don't know what they do (he was Dutch, see), but I'm told they're very good. Carry on, lads!"