Do I have Irish blood, yes, recent, no... maybe within the last 100 years or so? My family has been in America for over 350 years so heritage from across the pond is not tightly connected... :) Just another soggy Seattle Sysop. -----Original Message----- From: Jim SHARPE [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Sunday, April 21, 2002 5:54 AM To: [email protected] Subject: RE: [GEN-FRIENDS] where are you Hi George my late father in law used to take part in the Whit Week (Whitsuntide) procession we used to have in Manchester when all the churches walked from their outlying parishes to Albert Square in the city centre. He carried one of the poles supporting the big banner of his church and it was essential especially in a breeze that the guide rope bearers kept the lines taut. Unfortunately these bearers were usually flipperty-gibbet young women who were more interested in their gossip and waving to the crowds than supporting the banner so they became the object of some choice epithets from the men. The term 'Melt' springs to mind. If you have any Irish blood in you you'll know it isn't very complimentary. Jim Sharpe Shaw, Oldham.