Originally Posted by
The Wizard of BC
Naval uniforms of old used epaulets to show rank.
Dr Maturin:
"I beg your pardon. You were speaking of wetting a swab."
Jack Aubrey:
"Oh, yes. It is a cant expression we have in the Navy. The swab is this" -patting his epaulette- "and when first we ship it, we wet it: that is to say, we drink a bottle or two of wine."
"Indeed?" said Maturin with a civil inclination of his head. "A decoration, a badge of rank, I make no doubt? A most elegant ornament, so it is, upon my soul. But, my dear sir, have you not forgot the other one?"
"Well," said Jack, laughing, "I dare say I shall put them both on, by and by."
(edited with the actual quote, now that I have the book in front of me)
Last edited by OC Richard; 16th September 13 at 09:13 AM.
Proud Mountaineer from the Highlands of West Virginia; son of the Revolution and Civil War; first Europeans on the Guyandotte
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