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The Commodore

Wallowing Physically but not Psychologically

Dear Motley Crew,


We have this morning, received some worrying news from The Forward Observation Officers who have observed that we are, in fact, no longer moving forward. We are, to borrow from Monty Python, inert, stationary and motionless. In effect, and not to put too fine a point upon it, in the doldrums and not going anywhere. Geographically speaking, this, of course, is not strictly true, given that the doldrums are a goodly distance from Banbury, Oxfordshire. Nor is it true psychologically, as the Grand Poohbah has reported that all crew members are coping well with what we have been advised could be a protracted state of confinement, but you get the general idea.


The Admiral of the Fleet has advised that, although we are unable to move the ship or leave the ship, the daily schedule should be adhered to as much as possible in order to preserve the soundness of mind and body. All crew will, therefore, be expected to keep calm and carry on, and should also be prepared to take on extra duties if, and when, necessary. Given that in times of crisis good governance and example should be demonstrated, The Captain has taken on the task of polishing the well-deck to within an inch of its life.


The First Cook and Storekeeper report that Matanuska has enough food on board to see us through the tough times ahead, and, more importantly, has an ample supply of lavatory paper. Rice and pasta are in short supply, however, and will not be featuring on the menu anytime soon. The Ship’s Nurse advises that all crew remain in good health and The Veterinary Officer has given a similar pronouncement for Mrs Chippy. We note that the early morning yoga class still has only a 50% attendance but that the afternoon one-hourly promenade around the decks has been attended by all. In view of the positive response by all to our situation, The Whiskey Soundings Officer has been advised to distribute an extra daily ration for all crew and this will be handed out at 1800 hours each evening.


The Chief Engineer has informed us that at this stage, we have sufficient fuel on board to keep Matanuska’s engine room stoked and her fire burning, but we may need to make use of the diesel supply vessel that is due back in these waters in a fortnight or so.


For those of you who find that, at the end of their shift, time hangs heavily, you may be interested in the following link to the days of nostalgia and DOS! This amusement has been examined and certified by The Commodore who came within a hair’s breadth of having to be certified by the Ship’s Nurse after an inordinately long period of approval testing.

Stay well,


The Captain, The Commodore and The Cat





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