My first shift down pit, aged 13

In the North of England, especially among miners, Aye Aye and its different intonations has subtle differences in meaning. For example Aye Aye in a moderate central tone like Aye Aye would be a question as to healthwise, answered by one Aye sort of forced which would sound like Aye (in mournful) which would mean Fair as can be, but for this occasion, the meaning was different for Tom, a miner and his marra or partner Charlie.