by A.L. on Thu Jul 31, 2008 12:55 am
Sailors wore the eye patch so when they boarded a boat they could go from the bright daylight on deck to the near pitch darkness down below without having to wait for their eyes to adjust. Also at night, having a 'dark eye' while on watch so you can see past your own ships lights when you need to is handy.

"Every normal man must be tempted, at times, to spit on his hands, hoist the black flag, and begin slitting throats"