The skipper Mr. Cooke had hired at Far Harbor was a God-fearing man with a luke warm interest in his new billet and employer, and had only been prevailed upon to take charge of the yacht after the offer of an emolument equal to half a year's sea pay of an ensign in the navy.

The helmed cherubim And sworded seraphim Are seen in glittering ranks with wings display'd

No handcuffs or nigger-knockers.

[…] a Master of Ceremonies' words Ladies and gentlemen […] interpellates those being addressed as an audience, and one that is differentiated by gender.