The inspectors shall state in every certificate of inspection granted to steamers carrying passengers, other than ferryboats, the number of passengers of each class that any such steamer has accommodations for, and can carry with prudence and safety. (R. S., 4464).

It shall not be lawful to take on board of any steamer a greater number of passengers than is stated in the certificate of inspection; and for every violation of this provision the master or owner shall be liable, to any person suing for the same, to forfeit the amount of passage-money and ten dollars for each passenger beyond the number allowed. (R. S., 4465.)

Every steam vessel licensed under the foregoing section shall carry and have on board, in accessible places, one life-preserver for every person allowed to be carried, in addition to those provided for the crew of such vessel. (July 9, 1886; sec. 2.)

CHAPTER XI
THE SECOND MATE

Watches. The Second Mate of an ocean steamer is always a watch officer, that is, he is in responsible charge of a watch at sea, and where the Chief, Second, and Third Mates, stand the watches, his watch is generally taken from Noon until 4 P.M., and from Midnight to 4 A.M., or he stands the afternoon and the mid watches.

Hold Duty. The Second Mate is in charge of the after holds. His duties, under the Chief Mate, are those outlined in the duties and responsibilities of that officer. The Second Mate is the understudy of the Chief Mate and should diligently prepare himself to take up the work of that position. The Second Mate who is fortunate enough to be shipmates with a top-notch first officer, should improve every opportunity to study his superior and to perfect himself in the difficult duty of the station next ahead.

Coming Alongside. In coming alongside, coming to anchor, docking, etc., the Second Mate is in charge aft.

He should note the clearance of the propellers, and should promptly report by voice or telegraph, or by messenger, when anything in his end of the ship requires the attention of the Master on the bridge.

A quartermaster, with semaphore flags, is a handy means of communicating with the bridge while docking. Red and white lights are sometimes used while docking at night.