Had a conversation last night (over a pint or three of Cain's Formidable Ale, so it might not have been too reliable!) in which someone put forward an alternative theory.

The shot was brought to the upper deck only for the battle (wooden multiple egg-cups only on the main & lower gun decks) and stowed in temporarily rigged shot garlands, made (presumably) of brass. Since they were brought from the hold they were a bit warmer than sea temperature and, because they were massive, unlikely to freeze in the short time they were on deck. If it was very cold, however, the spray might freeze on them and then it would be cold enough to freeze the balls ON a brass monkey.

Or is this a load of balls?

Incidentally, one of the Times crossword clues yesterday was "Cannon ball (6)" (also done in the pub!). Anyone (who hasn't already solved it!) like to hazard a guess? A virtual pint for the first correct answer. No looking at today's paper!

Steve