Coasters:

The lookout on coasters is generally badly kept, owing to their being short-manned, and sometimes to carelessness. At night and in foggy weather keep out of their track, if possible. Also, keep out of the way of tugs towing barges, as they are bad customers, who pay little or no attention to the rights of small craft. Large steamers are as a general thing very carefully navigated, and can be trusted to go clear, if they see you; but remember that yacht side lights are poor things, and cannot be seen at any distance.