Alan Copyright © Rob Lock 2010

Your ash fills one of the hundred and forty
seven drawers you made and left for Annie
to count in the sheds.

The ones containing
nuts & bolts, drill bits, hinges - a boat builder's,
saddler's, etceteras - I've nosed through
in the days since I arrived;

those guarding childhood
at the mission, half orphaned; the tropical north;
cattle driving forays; broken bones and marriage,
Annie has eased open for me.

Now, at sea, your mates
heave to: we're at the point where you and Jim
found your bearings, before he went away.

They're helping Annie do the hardest thing.

Rum is passed around;
some splashed overboard; private words are said.
And there it is: Annie's handprint - your ash
on Brian's back. Your mark left on each of us.