Naval Knickers on the Stage

I think it's worth reviving my occasional series on Naval Knickers to share these splendidly patriotic unmentionables. I came across this image in the National Maritime Museum's Picture Library and am rather at a loss for words!



The Sailor on the Stage as played at the Alhambra Theatre
by Alf Cooke, 1887
I wonder if Archie ever encountered this particular "sailor" in Dury Lane? ;)