Have just worked out why we gather so many onlookers at the locks. On a lock approach Andy is at the wheel and Shiv, like a proud figurehead, is at the bow and helping to line up the portside. Shiv uses the American “ok” sign (rounded forefinger meets thumb) to signal that the barge is lined up. It transpires that, in France, this hand gesture means “you are worthless”. Sorry Andy! Now we know why you get those looks at the lock.
However, there is some recompense. In this multi-national place we all rely on hand signals, some friendlier than others. On several occasions Andy has been out on deck as a beautiful lady has passed and the lady has used her hands to signal great length. Andy is always quick to say thank you.
The boys have discovered that the French have various hand gestures to indicate that they are getting bored : first you may see a hand wiped across the forehead, or perhaps fingers are flicked across the cheek. Or, best of all, they may just stare ahead and pretend to play an imaginary flute!
We are now almost willing someone to do this… with the state of our French it is surely only a matter of time.
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