is set to cast first vote.

The process, which they seldom botch,

is let five bottles float.

With picks inside, they ride the tide

along New Hampshire’s shore.

‘Til someone finds them, brings inside,

and then we know the score.

It may be days or even weeks

before they wash back in.

And every eager candidate

seeks those five votes to win.

The tiny town retains its crown

way up there in the sticks.

While bigger cities tear them down

as just a bunch of hicks.

But Dixville Notchers won’t be cowed

by them there city slicks.

They savor every vote allowed.

Some day there might be six.