(GRIMSBY enters, followed by PRINCE ERIC.)

[GRIMSBY] (singing)
WELCOME, DEAR FRIENDS, TO OUR CONTEST.

(As GRIMSBY calls the gathering to order, opportunistic PRINCESSES parade in, escorted by groomed SAILORS. ARIEL is crushed.)

THE FIRST THAT OUR KINGDOM HAS EVER SEEN.

[GRIMSBY] (spoken)
We gather today for a vocal display, so our Prince may at least

[GRIMSBY] (singing)
CHOOSE A QUEEN!

[GRIMSBY] (spoken)
These six Princesses possess the most accomplished voices in the land!
(to the PRINCESSES)
Tonight, one of you will join Prince Eric on the throne. May the best woman win!

(One by one, the PRINCESSES step forward to sing.)

[PRINCESS 1] (singing)
LISTEN TO ME.

[PRINCESS 2]
DON'T I SOUND RICH?
[PRINCESS 3]
LOUD, AM I NOT?

[PRINCESS 4]
PLUS I'VE GOT PERFECT PITCH.

[PRINCESS 5]
WOULDN'T YOU THINK I'M THE GIRL...

[PRINCESS 6]
...THE GIRL WHO HAS EV'RYTHING?

[PRINCESSES 1, 2, & 3]
(belt, in competition)
EV'RYTHING?

[PRINCESSES 4, 5, & 6]
(head voice, more competition, opt. 8vb)
EV'RYTHING?

[GRIMSBY] (spoken)
Surely one of these lovely voices matches the music in your heart—

[PRINCE ERIC]
(unconvinced and disheartened)
I wish I could say "yes"! But she's not here.
[GRIMSBY]
The sun has nearly set, and your birthday will soon be over. You must choose a mate!

(Aware that this is her last chance. ARIEL forces her way into the center of the hall.)