Crossing the Channel!

[Lautrec]

Recently when crossing between Plymouth and Roscoff on the Brittany Ferry, I managed to wangle an invitation on to the bridge. The Captain took time off to show me around. I asked him,

'How many crew have you?'

He replied in fluent English, 'I have a crew of 185 and I trust every man'

He pointed forward to the bow where a man was mopping down the deck.

'Do you see that man up forrard, I would trust him with my life!'

Just then, as he turned away, a large wave broke over the bow and washed the poor man overboard.

I called out,'Captain, you know that man you trusted with your life, . . . .  he has just b*ggered off with your mop and bucket!'