Sailors who have not crossed the equator are called "Pollywogs." At the equator they go through a "cleansing" ceremony and are presented to Neptune, ruler of the seas. If he is satisfied, he will keep them safe during their voyages. The cleansing of Pollywogs requires King Neptune attired in seaweed and piped on board with a conch shell. Hilary sacrificed one of her t-shirts so Neptune could have a new seaweed garment. She knew she had to do everything to please him.