The Chief Mate should be familiar with the system of piping and the handling of the same. He should study the pipe diagrams and trace out the lead and use of everything for his own information.

There are many things in tank steamers not common to the regular run of sea carriers. The hose connections, the method of trimming, the use of summer tanks, the expansion trunks, and the many wrinkles having to do with the care and management of tankers.

When going into dry dock, be sure and see that all tanks are "gas free" before lights or red hot rivets are introduced. This is done by steaming them out, by blowing air through them, and by filling with water and pumping same out, the oil in the water, which should be overflowing, will run off first.

The officer who is going into tank steamers, or is in that service is advised to get a small pamphlet by Mr. Herbert John White, a British Merchant Marine officer, called OIL TANK STEAMERS, published by James Brown and Son, Glasgow, and for sale in New York by D. Van Nostrand Company (price $1.00). This is a very clear and practical manual for the use of tank steamer officers—one of the best books of its kind.

CHAPTER VIII
THE CHIEF MATE (Continued)

Receiving Stores. All stores delivered to the vessel should be received by the officer of the deck. The Chief Mate should provide for the proper receipt and the proper entries either in a log book or in a stores receipt book. Everything should be checked, weighed, and measured. This should be the basis for the approval of bills from supply houses, etc.

Keys. The key board of a vessel should be the direct charge of the Chief Mate, delegated, if necessary, but he should see that the keys are kept in order, properly marked, and only in the possession of those entitled to have them in charge. Receipts should be given for all keys drawn from the key board.

Master Keys. The master keys should be in the possession of the Chief Mate, and of the Master. When the Chief Mate goes ashore, the master keys should be left with the officer in charge of the ship during his absence.

The key board is a fair indication of the efficiency of a vessel.