July 28, 1704 - Aboard the Watch Dog
Fourth bell of First Dog Watch. Second Dog Watch begins.
The last of the Larboard Watch was still arriving after the fourth bell of the First Dog Watch had sounded. William stood at the waist with his pocket watch out, counting aloud every minute that past beyond the leave of absence which had been granted.
The last boat to ferry crew back from the docks contained at least two of the 'Dog's marines, Ciaran and Treasure among them. Ciaran looked embarrassed to be arriving late.
"My apologies, Sah!" he called out across the water.
"Eagle eyes for all things but clocks...Ciaran?" William returned.
"Sah...the tide is frightfully strong tonight!"
"Ayyyye. But which tide...? The Cul du Sac Royal...or...the Cul du Sac Rum Punch?"
There were a few smiles and chuckles along the rails, for Ciaran was seldom one to be caught out of the Captain's grace. Still, William's tone was not an angry one, for he was in good spirits, and to be completely honest, he was glad that someone had arrived late. He wanted an example, albeit a gentle one.
He turned his back to the approaching boat and faced the men and women already waiting in the waist. Some of them looked anxious, Apollo coin burning heavy, round holes in their purses. Some looked flushed from rum so recently enjoyed ashore.
"A slip of the watches will not be tolerated, you dogs." William began, but the tone was an affectionate one, after a fashion. "You dogs." he continued. "You loyal and brave dogs. Mind well your purposes aboard ship and your adventures ashore. I see, by my count, that none are left ashore that were not put there for some purpose." William paused. "We have need of of further recruits aboard the 'Dog and Heron. You may pass the word among the taverns and shopkeepers that there is a place here for any worthy seaman. Mister Warren!"
"Aye, Sah!"
"The Starboard Watch has their leave to go ashore."
"Aye, Sah!"
"You have the night and the morning. Everyone of you of the Starboard Watch. Do not let me find you still ashore after the Forenoon Watch is ended!"
~Larboard Watches on Duty