yessi222, who’s blog I really enjoy, often has the phrase ‘currently reading’ and there is normally some interesting, often erudite, title. Not so for me, I seem to read in bursts – mainly on holiday and, had I been dong this between January and July, the answer would have continually been Alan Bennett’s ‘Untold Stories’ – which I thoroughly enjoyed but took months to finish!

Now I have just finished the third of Patrick O’Brian’s ‘Master and Commander’ books – I was recommended to these by photoblogger and close friend robinray who does not post much – but is always interesting when he does. See the talking pheasant on toast blog for a taste of his sense of humour. I think that as I have a naval background in my family (see blogs passim) there is just something about all of this sea stuff and the navy etc that gets to me and I suspect I shall end up reading more of O'Brian's beautifully written and historically based novels (there 20 in the series so I have some way to go!).

So what’s this got to do with ducks Robert? Oh yes, well in the third of the O’Brian books (HMS Surprise), there is a lovely description of a fleet of East Indiamen getting ready to do battle with a French squadron. There they are in a line, all identically spaced and sailing along! And as I came round a corner and saw these lovely creatures all in a line – I just thought - here they are- line astern!!

(which for the non naval minded means that the fleet is behind the flagship - the Admiral’s ship).

Excellent idea AND photo!!!~ R urmysunshine · 2008-10-01: 17:21

Fist, a question for any passing botonist or twitcher, are they ducks or geese? Robert, nicely, spotted and a well executed shot. ????? · 2008-10-01: 17:23

wonderful shot! it's duckday? tomie · 2008-10-01: 18:14

great title and shot!! :)) jennye · 2008-10-02: 05:25

funny! : ) ????? · 2008-10-02: 18:43