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Nancy's Namesake

Nancy was named for Captain Nancy Blackett, intrepid, indefatigable skipper of the Amazon, red capped pirate, terror of the high seas and heroine of Arthur Ransome's Swallows and Amazons of whom even her doctor is bound to admit 'Nancy doesn't grow safer with age'.

My name is Nancy Blackett.

I'm the terror of the seas

When traders see my topsails

They go trembly at the knees.

 

If they behave politely,

I politely take their ship.

Make them wish they hadn't

If they give me any lip.

 

Nancy takes charge - loading Captain Flint (from Swallowdale)

  

I draw no unfair distinction

Rich or poor, short or lank,

But perfectly impartial

As I make them walk the plank.

 

I've a bo'sun plays the fiddle

As they walk it one by one.

And my brave boys line the bulwarks

To enjoy the harmless fun.

Arthur Ransome