| General Fiction posted December 29, 2024 |
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From days of olde comes...
A Seaman's Conversation
by Tom Horonzy
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I say, ahoy. May I come aboard?
Who spakes, thar on Bedford's pier, in the dark after sixteen bells?
Josey Whales, of Scotland. I am looking for a sail. I was told 'Renown' is known for catching fish.
Tis, it is, because its crew is deft with the spear in hand, and can steer a scow through ten-foot swells oer a thous' foot of sand. We only hire esperience tars, not drunken sailors from any olde bar. Do ye qualify lad?
Aye, I cud if you wud empower me. I recently returned from Dakar on 'Caroline', where she was waylaid for repairs after fighting pirates off the coast of Senegal. Still, after repairs she returned home with suffishin oyl to light Boston for a gudly while.
Watch yur step. Come aboard. I need a look-see if yur what ye sed youd be. I can read a man's soul by looking thru his eyes.
Thank ye, 'Boats.'
Put your duffle down. Stand tall in the glow. Now, turn. I need to see how lean ye be. Seem aright. Need a bunk to bed tonight?
Aye. Does this mean...
Maybe. Come morn, I'll give you a tryl to see how you knot a line. Can you knit a monkey fist? I have a hunch you can, by the marlinspike on your hip. With this, I surmise you know the difference tween port and starboard. Go portside to the second hatch. Stow your gear below, then get some nods.
By the way, I'm Billy Bligh. First mate.
Are you related to William Bligh, Captain of 'The Bounty.'
Why? How do you know his name?
By rumor only, which has him being a few degrees off True North, if you get my drift.
Have no fear, our skipper is fair. It will be up to he to decide your fate when you two meet as we intend to sail on the out-goin' tide tomorrow e'en, Mr. Josey Whales.
A Dialogue Only Entry contest entry
 Recognized |
Do not attempt to correct any spelling herein. I tried to imply how the speaksay of a day in the early 18th century may have been.
The picture was provided by Cottonbro on Pexels.com.
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and 2 member cents. The picture was provided by Cottonbro on Pexels.com.
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© Copyright 2025. Tom Horonzy All rights reserved.
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