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10 December - Day #8. The day dawns brighter and cooler so we head on south. Richard, the Deep Creek lock operator, told us the Dismal Swamp visitor center is giving away Florida cruising guides. Needless to say we pull up to their dock and get one. We arrive half an hour early for South Mills' scheduled lock opening. That didn't bother Frank who ushered us right through. Can't say enough about off season cruising. The previous days of hard rain means the river is high, running fast, and full of flotsam. We idle Nellie back and enjoy the scenery. Approaching the draw bridge at Elizabeth City we realize that it doesn't open during the 4-6 PM rush-hour. Fortunately it's just 3:55 and we squeak through. Just ahead is our destination; the free downtown docks of Elizabeth City, NC. 26nm today and 185nm total. DBH
