The “mast,” which extends above the deck to a distance equal to about three-fourths the length of the hull, passes through the hole in the deck already mentioned, and rests firmly in the hole made for it in the bottom of the hull.
The lower end of the topmast is lapped on in front of the upper end of the mast, as seen in the figure, and may be secured in place by two loops of fine brass wire.
The spars of next importance are those which stretch the mainsail. The larger is called the “boom,” and extends along the lower edge or “foot” of the mainsail; while the other, which is called the “gaff,” is secured to its upper edge or “head.” The boom is equal in length to the mast; the usual meaning of the word is here intended, i. e., the lower part. The gaff is a little over one-half the length of the boom.
The mast and topmast taper slightly toward their upper ends, while the gaff is nearly the same size throughout its entire length. The boom generally swells a little, being somewhat larger in the middle than at either end.
The boom and gaff are adjusted to the mast by a “jaw” on either side, forming a crotch, which keeps them from slipping off. Builders of miniature yachts will, however, probably find it more convenient to whittle the ends of the spars in the form of a crotch than to attach jaws as separate pieces.
Other smaller spars which enter into the equipment of racing craft, will be mentioned in speaking of the sails.
The standing rigging is now to be considered; this consists of stays and shrouds. “Shrouds” are ropes which lead from near the head of the mast to either side of the vessel, where they are fastened into the chain-plates. These are strong iron bands firmly bolted to the timbers. The shrouds of the model yacht, however, can be attached to copper tacks driven into the sides. They—the shrouds—are tied around the mast just below the point where the lower end of the topmast ends.
In “real” yachts these shrouds end in loops which encircle the mast, and rest upon, or are held in place by blocks called “hounds” attached to either side. But young ship-builders will probably find it will answer all purposes to make a slight notch on either side of the mast, at the point indicated.
A sloop yacht has usually two shrouds on either side, while in a large ship there are four or five, making, as is known, a good-sized ladder.
The “fore-stay” runs from the same point on the mast to the top of stem.