just before his arrival his two lieutenants had very nearly come to blows over the meaning of the word dromedary. They were both good seamen and amiable companions, but they were both given to writing verse, Mowett being devoted to the heroic couplet while Rowan preferred a Pindaric freedom, and each thought the other's not only incorrect but devoid of grammar, sense, meaning, and poetic inspiration. At two bells in the afternoon watch this rivalry had spilled over on to the name of the transport: why, it was difficult to make out, since dromedary could not conceivably be made to rhyme with anything
Just before a significant arrival, two lieutenants found themselves in a heated argument regarding the interpretation of the term "dromedary." Although they were both competent sailors and good friends, their literary passions caused friction. Mowett favored the structured heroic couplet, while Rowan embraced the freedom of Pindaric verse. This creative rivalry led them to believe that each other's style lacked proper grammar, sense, and inspiration.
During a watch period, their disagreement escalated to discuss the transport's name. The mention of "dromedary" seemed perplexing to them, particularly since it lacked a suitable rhyme, which further fueled their ongoing conflict over poetic expression. Their debate illustrates how personal interests can sometimes lead to absurd disputes, reflecting their strong personalities and differing artistic ideals.
