When the Cock Crows

by Waldron Baily

"When the Cock Crows" by Waldron Baily is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers on Captain Ichabod, a reclusive fisherman living on a small island off the Carolina coast, who unexpectedly becomes embroiled in a dramatic shipwreck and subsequent rescue of a young woman. The book blends themes of adventure, isolation, and courage, as the Captain navigates the challenges posed by a brewing storm while reflecting on his past and the company of his lone companion, a rooster named Shrimp. The opening of the novel introduces Captain Ichabod as he tends to his fishing gear and prepares for a day on the water. The scene is set with vivid descriptions of the coastal landscape and brewing storm, creating a sense of foreboding. Ichabod is depicted as a grizzled, solitary man, living with his adopted pet rooster who serves as both companion and alarm clock. His routine is interrupted by the distress signals of a ship in peril, which forces him to confront his long-buried fears and ultimately leads to a fateful encounter with a beautiful young woman who has survived the wreck. The narrative weaves together Ichabod's worries about the storm and his reflective thoughts on companionship, setting the stage for a story rich in emotional depth and moral complexity.