[20] Souffler—to blow.
[21] It is still unfortunately too much the custom to risk the loss of ship and “sweet lives,” by neglecting the use of the lead.
[22] The tide runs two or three hours later in the offing than in shore; by attending to this, a vessel working down channel may gain great advantage.
[23] Of Magellan.
[24] Probably what is now called a “gig”; a fast-pulling boat.
[25] Obviously a phrase of the period. Ancient Pistol is made to say: “Si fortuna me contenta, spero me contenta.”
[26] Familiar as we are with the present resources of the dockyard at Plymouth, we can hardly estimate the firmness that could bear up against such mischances; of this stuff were the founders of the British naval power composed.
Now fitted the halter, now traversed the cart,
And often took leave yet was loath to depart.
The Thief and the Cordelier.—Prior.
[28] Chart, or perhaps card for reducing the courses and distances:—