Regular readers of this blog, as well as Ocracoke Islanders, will know that "buck" is a common local word meaning "pal" or "friend."
Many years ago an islander motored his small skiff out into the harbor to spend time with friends on a sailboat that was anchored in Silver Lake. After several hours of congenial conversation and a few drinks the islander stepped back into his skiff, cast off his line, pushed away from the sailboat, and pulled the cord on his outboard.
Unfortunately, he had neglected to set his controls to neutral. As soon as the engine fired the skiff took off, and the islander fell over backwards into the harbor. The unmanned skiff made a wide circle and headed back towards the islander who was treading water. The islander dove deep as the skiff roared past him, just overhead.
"I'm alright, buck!" he yelled as he came back up for air. He hardly had time to collect himself before he saw the skiff headed back to him. He dove under the water and the skiff went by again.
"I'm alright, buck!" he called out once more. 'Round and 'round went the skiff. The islander finally swam back to the safety of the sailboat.
I can't remember if the skiff ran out of gas, or if they were able to catch up to it with the sailboat's dingy. Regardless, it is an enduring image!
Our latest Ocracoke Newsletter is the story of the Rondthalers of Ocracoke Island. You can read it here: http://www.villagecraftsmen.com/news032112.htm.
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Reading of interest concur approval of stimulation of brain function. Regards to the author of writing quality hearin posted for public approval and edification. While struggling with proper verbage it calls to my attention the need to further investigate and propogate the sharing of information in learning of language of States United as America. Further thanks are provided for antecdotes of historical and cultural memories. Approval by younger generations of occupants of the Island of Ocracoke may not be forthcoming but will regard work as valuable in furtherance of years. Regards to sophisticated author for hierarchy of wisdom thusly inspired and overwhelmingly contributed. Carry on with tellings of old! May blessings spew forth from thy fountain of knowledgeable wellness and sercruit.
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ReplyDeleteThis one got a belly laugh, oh how I needed that. Thanks Phillip
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