with the light gaining strength the appointments of the room gradually became clearer the black steel sink under the window ; the goose-necked cold water tap ; the wax-cloth-covered table ; the mantelpiece with its regulation pair of wally dugs , brass candlesticks , tea caddy , and overhanging gas mantle ; the crammed to capacity pulley with its array of vests , towels , nappies , and knickers ; the home-made wee creepie stool ; the rather decrepit armchair into which the heid o the hoose would slump when home between stints as an ocean going deckhand .