Peter Clement Davis


NIGHT ORDERS

Give wide berth to all ships; keep a sharp lookout;
advise if wind and seas rise to force eight;
call me if there's fog, or when in doubt.

Advance clocks one hour at midnight;
if there's trouble in the hold, call the Mate;
assure wise berth to all ships, keep a sharp lookout.

Log anomalies, squall lines, waterspout;
increase speed if wind and seas abate;
call me if there's fog, or when in doubt.

We make landfall at dawn or thereabout;
be sure that running lights are burning bright;
give ample room to traffic; keep a sharp lookout.

Break out ladders for the pilot boat;
check compass error by star. Do not wait
to call me if in fog, or when there's doubt.

Wake me before landfall, and roundabout
five-thirty call the Mate.
Stay well clear of vessels; keep a sharp lookout.
Call me if there's fog, or when in doubt.

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