Terminology Question

A

Aardee

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Where does the rallying cry of "2...6...HEAVE!!" come from when hauling ropes?? - Why use "2,6" rather than "1,2"??

I've heard a number of skippers use this to encourage the troops (including the Global Challenge boys) and wondered where it originates...

Thanks,

Graham.

<hr width=100% size=1>"I am a bear of very little brain and long words bother me" - A A Milne.
 
See <A target="_blank" HREF=http://www.guardian.co.uk/notesandqueries/query/0,5753,-26509,00.html>here.</A> Good old Google.

Dave

<hr width=100% size=1>The question 'Why not?' is a very difficult question to answer, and a very foolish question to ask.
 
As far as I know the reason is this: The team of at least six men who worked a muzzle-loading cannon were known by their respective numbers. The men working the tackles to heave the gun forward for firing were numbers 2 and 6. Hence the famous order: - "Two six. heave!"

Mick

<hr width=100% size=1>. . . . . . .<A target="_blank" HREF=http://www.marinersboatyard.co.uk>boatyard</A>
 
Thanks Dave. That's been bugging me for a while...

<hr width=100% size=1>"I am a bear of very little brain and long words bother me" - A A Milne.
 
Still used by the Royal Navy I believe (was when both my brothers were in the mob) for any situation requiring push/pull/heave-ho of usual immovable object, when two or more working together.

<hr width=100% size=1>Scheme me up Botty..........there's no intelligent life down here!!!!!!!!
 
Used on the STA Tall Ships or at least it was on the Malcome Miller not sure about the new Brigs.

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1998 my Sixtith Birthday present to myself Weymouth - Lisbon in November didn't get out of oilies for five days Force 8 plus in Biscay.

<hr width=100% size=1>
 
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