Who Should Row
If a friend is with you, he must be given the preference of seats. You must ask him to row “stroke,” as that is the place of honor.
If you cannot row, do not pretend you can. Say right out that you can’t, and thus settle it, consoling yourself with the pleasant reflection that your confession entitles you to a seat by the side of the ladies and relieves you from the possibility of drowning the whole party.