Splash

It was the only fine day during a week near Ullapool; a chance to launch for a sail. Out off the Summer Isles a breeze we did seek, being relieved there was no longer a gale. Then half a mile to the north a splash we saw. Was it? Might it be? Could one be found right here? Then up came a spout and we were filled with awe. Another one confirmed that it might come near. We looked at each other – should we be afraid? Around us there were guillemots, razor bills and puffins, yet not one of them seemed dismayed, so we relaxed and anticipated thrills. So towards us it swam, breaking the surface, spouting again, till it was just over there, some sixty feet distant. No longer nervous we reckoned its length to our boat did compare. And so it passed south as we were held in wonder. Ashore we determined the species of whale was a minke, sure it could not be under sixteen feet. I recount this memorable tale.