MUSKET-ARROWS. Used in our early fleets, and for conveying notices in 1815.
MUSKETEERS. An early name for those soldiers who were armed with muskets.
MUSKETOON. A short kind of blunderbuss with a large bore, to carry several musket or pistol bullets; it was much used on boat service. They were mounted on swivel crutches, and termed top-pieces; quarter pieces in barges and pinnaces, where timbers were especially fitted for them.
MUSKET-PROOF. Any bulk-head, parapet, or substance which effectually resists the force of a musket-ball.
MUSKET-SHOT. Was the computed distance of 400 yards, now undergoing change.
MUSLIN, or Dimity. The flying kites of a ship. "Give her the muslin," or "Spare not the dimity," frequently used in tropical chase of slavers.
MUSTER, To. To assemble in order that the state and condition of the men may be seen, and also at times to inspect their arms and clothing.
MUSTER-BOOK. A copy of a ship of war's open list, drawn up for the use of the clerk of the check, in calling over the crew. A copy of the muster-book is to be transmitted every two months to the admiralty.
MUSTER-PAPER. A description of paper supplied from the dockyards, ruled and headed, for making ships' books.
MUSTER-ROLL. A document kept by the master of every British vessel, specifying the name, age, quality, and country of every person of the ship's company; even neutrals are compelled to produce such a paper in time of war.