The jib has two sheets, one on either side of the mast, one of which is hauled in and the other slackened out, according to the tack the vessel is on.
When the jibs are small the sheets require no purchase, but each should lead either through a single block on the gunwale or a comb cleat ([Fig. 35]) on the deck. It is important that this fairlead be exactly in the right spot, for on this depends whether the jib stands flatly or becomes a loose bag. The right spot can only be determined by experiment.
Fig. 35.
Where the bulwarks are high, it is sometimes found advantageous for the jib sheets to pass through holes in them.
A knot should be tied at the end of each jib sheet, so that in case the sheet gets loose by accident it cannot escape through the fairlead.
The foresheets require a purchase, more especially when no horse is used.
