On the four-hour trip back from the coast, I gave a well reason, thoughtful analysis of the pros and cons of the boat. "The engine doesn't run" "I can fix that" "The exhaust manifold has rusted off and the exhaust vents into the cabin" "I'll make a new one out of Stainless Steel and run the exhaust out through a port." "It's a 24ft boat with no trailer, and it is 300 miles away. Plus, your driveway is only 18ft long." "I'll find a way."

And so he did. Over the next five months, Dan spent every free second on the boat. He got the engine working, fabbed a new manifold, repaired the cabin, scrubbed her, painted her, and finally announced the rebirth of the mighty Ajax. He invited all his friends (and me) to come down to Oregon City to see her float upon the waves once more.