In message <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>, Rick Ansell <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> writes >On Sat, 24 Nov 2007 13:08:08 +0100 >Terry Streeter <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > >> BARRY HOLLAND wrote: >> > To continue the naval theme :- 'bosun' is a contraction of >> > 'boatswain'---& there aren't any apostrophes in sight! >> >> If bosun is a contraction of boatswain, where did the "u" appear from? > >It's a NAUTICAL contraction, for all love! :) > >It was contracted in the saying of it, not the writing. > >Then some grasscombing bu**er decided to standardise how you spell it. > >Which I am a Lissun, one who subscribes to the 'List of the world', the >Patrick O'Brian Discussion List, alias The Gunroom, ai'nt I. > >Which it is fast approaching Two Bells in the First Watch and I must >sling my hook. > >Rick > You are Preserved Killick and I claim my share of the prize money!
Guy -- Guy Morgan nb Virgo, WFB, Stockton GU Defend the waterways. Visit the web site www.saveourwaterways.org.uk
