"That the Log should be kept in plain seamanlike prose
Is a rule every sensible seafarer knows"
That's a quote from Bill Tilman, who certainly knew
How to write in good English, and frequently drew
Pen portraits in prose; some are sharp, some benign
But as far as I know, that's his sole Alexandrine.
Ebrio quid faciamus nauta,
Ebrio quid faciamus nauta,
Ebrio quid faciamus nauta
Hora matutina?
Euge! Et spumat salum,
Euge! Et spumat salum,
Euge! Et spumat salum
Hora matutina.
Handed to me by a friendly Chart Agent and ex-Thames Barge skipper as we stood on the touchline at Woodbridge Rugby Club, doing our parental duty, on Sunday.