eight bells

The eight bells of the north tower were also removed in 2023 – a massive operation given their size.

At one point, it was feared that the eight bells in the north tower were at risk of falling, which would have brought the tower itself down, and possibly much of the cathedral walls.

At eight bells, when Mr. Collins relieved him, Nat stumbled below, surprised to find he was utterly exhausted.

Captain Prince said, “Eight bells. Your watch, Mr. Bowditch. Men’s lives depend on that, too.”

One night, near eight bells of the first watch, Johnny came to Nat’s cabin, his teeth chattering with fright.