I have two recordings, by successive generations of the Copper Family and on the later version of Warlike Seamen, the "younger" generation use the words "For us to cruise, and confuse against a daring foe," while the "older" lads sang "For us to cruise, and not refuse .."

The older version just made more sense both lyrically, and comported with naval orders ...

So my vote is at least make sense when you change the words (or know what you are singing about).

Of course out here in the desert, I am trying to make sense of a number of Geordie songs (before I even attempt to mouth the words).

Allahamdalla, Cheers, Brian