Ruby Rose
Location: Canadian Prairies
In 1979, I read an article detailing how in the wardroom of H.M.S. Swiftsure, a Minotaur-class light cruiser of the Royal Navy, you will find hanging on the wall a picture of an elderly man with strong features and piercing eyes. Apparently, he had served on her in the Pacific during the Second World War, where she proved the most efficient anti-aircraft cruiser in the fleet. It was the last Royal Navy cruiser completed during that war. In the 1970s, he decided to pay a visit to her, and the crew invited him to stay on board for a meal and to sit and talk over old times. As the hour got later, there was a small play of words between the Captain and the elderly man.
The Captain suggested that perhaps he would like to spend the night on board as the hour was so late, to which the elderly man delightfully accepted.
“Splendid,” said the Captain. “Just let me know when you wish to retire.”
Suddenly, the elderly man’s chin went up, his shoulders went back, and his eyes flashed.
“Retire?” he snapped. “I never retire. I always advance!” And, the old warrior rose, bowed to his hosts – and advanced to bed!
Now, that’s the right spirit!
