Gilbert Sullivan HMS Pinafore monologue

H.M.S. PINAFORE
by William S. Gilbert and Sir Arthur Sullivan

EXT: QUARTER-DECK OF H.M.S. PINAFORE. SAILORS, LED BY BOATSWAIN, DISCOVERED CLEANING BRASSWORK, SPLICING ROPE, ETC.

LITTLE BUTTERCUP

For I'm called Little Buttercup-dear Little Buttercup,

Though I could never tell why,

But still I'm called Buttercup-poor little Buttercup,

Sweet Little Buttercup I!

I've snuff and tobaccy, and excellent jacky,

I've scissors, and watches, and knives

I've ribbons and laces to set off the faces

Of pretty young sweethearts and wives.

I've treacle and toffee, I've tea and I've coffee,

Soft tommy and succulent chops;

I've chickens and conies, and pretty polonies,

And excellent peppermint drops.

Then buy of your Buttercup-dear Little Buttercup;

Sailors should never be shy;

So, buy of your Buttercup-poor Little Buttercup;

Come, of your Buttercup buy!