Two Years before the Mast (Ch. XVI), by Richard Henry Dana, Jr.

<p>"A sailor's liberty is but for a day," as Dana explains. Dressed in his Sunday best, the sailor feels like a dashing Beau Brummel; and sets out to enjoy his freedom. "While it lasts it is perfect. He is under no one's eye and can do whatever he pleases." (Volume 23, Harvard Classics)</p> <p> </p>