fall-block

Updated: June 16, 2025

The boatswain had unshackled the fall-ropes aft, and the boat slewed off with the jerk of a heavy wave. "Clear away there forward, blast you!" Two seamen were tugging at the fall-block. Something had fouled. The "Starlight" was rearing head stern up; her shattered bows were already under the waves; her life was now a matter of seconds only. "Cut the ropes, you blasted idiots!"

Max Rittenberg - Swirling Waters