"Madam," he said, "Madam, I...."
"Would ja like to have a drink of water? It's right down this way, an'
then ya turn ta the left."
"No ... uh. I.... Madam, would you honor me by becoming my partner for
the night of the Changing of the Wives?"
She balanced on the balls of her feet and looked up at him. "Yur th'
captain, ain'tcha?"
"Yes," he said. "I am."
"Sure, I'll do hit," she said. "I'd be mighty proud ta."
The captain turned away and then turned back. "Madam," he said, "what
is your name?"
"Joanne Marie. Jest ask for me. Everybody down here knows me."
"Joanne Marie, Joanne Marie," he repeated under his breath. He
shuddered and turned to go.