NET. In commerce, is the weight of a commodity alone, without the package.
NET AND COBLE. The means by which sasses or flood-gates are allowed in fishings on navigable rivers.
NETTING. Network of rope or small line for the purpose of securing hammocks, sails, &c.—Boarding netting. A stout netting formerly extended fore and aft from the gunwale to a proper height up the rigging. Its use was to prevent an enemy from jumping on board.—Splinter netting. Is stretched from the main-mast aft to the mizen-mast, in a horizontal position, about 12 feet above the quarter-deck. It secures those engaged there from injury by the fall of any objects from the mast-heads during an action:
"And has saved the lives of many men
Who have fallen from aloft."
NETTLES. Small line used for seizings, and for hammock-clues. (See [Knittle].)—To nettle, is to provoke.
NEUTRALS. Those who do not by treaty owe anything to either party in war; for if they do they are confederates. They are not to interfere between contending powers; and the right of security justifies a belligerent in enforcing the conditions. They are not allowed to trade from one port of the enemy to another, nor to be habitually employed in his coasting trade. Indeed the simple conveyance of any article to the opponent of the blockading squadron, at once settles the non-admission, or even hovering.
NEVER SAY DIE! An expressive phrase, meaning do not despair, there is hope yet.—Nil desperandum! As Cowper says,
"Beware of desperate steps. The darkest day,
Wait till to-morrow, will have passed away."
NEW ACT. The going on shore without leave, and which though thus termed new, is an old trick.
NEWCOME. An officer commencing his career. Any stranger or fresh hand newly arrived.