http://www.canaljunction.com/craft/horsedrawn1.htm
Maybe totally OT, but totally interesting!

Yes, but it doesn't cover the use of scythes by passenger "expresses"
to cut the towropes of oncoming goods vehicles which didn't give way.
Was that just made up by CS Forester?

"Assuredly this canal traffic was a miracle of modernity, and it was
gratifying to be on board the very fastest of the canal boats, the Queen
Charlotte, that took priority over all other traffic. On her bow she
carried a glittering scythe-blade as the proud symbol of her superior
importance. It would sever the towline of any approaching boat which did
not drop her line quickly enough to let her through."
--
Robin
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