Mexico

…Because of the salvage of the ‘Nestos’ we were with the ‘Gelderland’ near the Bermudas.
After we brought her into the port of St. George, the ‘Nestos’ was prepared for towing her to Baltimore (USA).
And so everyone got the chance to go ashore.

The four of us, T. Geul, C. v/d Mijl, G. de Fouw and me, went to Hamilton for groceries, food and drinks.

On the way back we got an hitch in a rickety car where the glove compartment lid fell open at every bump and I closed it every time.
Unsuccessful effort.

Ton Geul.

There was much more fun to experience when I looked in the rearview mirror.
Ton, Cor and Gerard had bought sun hats and at each hole in the way moved the hats rhythmically along.
The fatigue of walking had struck.

The men had also brought two table knives.
I received them as a wedding present.
We still use them.

On the market square of St. George it was night time gathering together.
At that time it was customary to go to sleep on Dam Square in our capital and a few did so there in St. George.

St. George square.

That was not tolerated and they disappeared into jail.
The second mate went out again to find them; but where?
That turned out not to be so difficult.
A well-known Dutch singer had a hit at that time on board: ‘Mexico’.
That now scaled ‘Mex-iiii-co’ through the deserted streets.

He got the men on board under the promise to immediately board again and please do not let them sing.