invented, though little used; but of
late the larger ships are effectively fitted with adaptations for the
purpose.

DISTINCTION. Flags of distinction, badges, honourable note of
superiority.

DISTINGUISHING PENDANT. In fleets and squadrons, instead of hoisting
several flags to denote the number of the ship on the list of the Navy,
pendants are used. Thus ten ships may be signalled separately. If more,
then, as one answers, her pendant is hauled down, and then two pendants
succeed. (_See_ SIGNALS.)

DISTRESS. A term used when a ship requires immediate assistance from
unlooked-for damage or danger. (_See_ SIGNAL OF DISTRESS.)

DISTRICT ORDERS. Those issued by a general commanding a district.

DISTURBANCE. _See_ SPANISH DISTURBANCE.

DITCH. In fortification the excavation in front of the parapet of any
work, ranging in width from a few feet in field fortification to thirty
or forty yards in permanent works, having its steep side next the
rampart called the escarp: the opposite one is the counterscarp. Its
principal use is to secure the escarp as long as possible. There are wet
ditches and dry ones, the former being less in favour than the latter,
since a dry ditch so much facilitates sorties, counter-approaches, and
the like. That kind which may be made wet or dry at pleasure is most
useful.

DITTY-BAG. Derives its name from the _dittis_ or Manchester stuff of
which it was once made. It is in use among seamen for holding their
smaller necessaries. The ditty-bag of old, when a seaman prided himself
on his rig, as the result of his own ability to fit himself from clue to
earing, was a treasured article, probably worked in exquisite device by
his lady-love. Well can we recollect the pride exhibited in its display
when "on end clothes" was a joyful sound to the old pig-tailed tar.

DITTY-BOX. A small caddy for holding a seaman's stock of _valuables_.

DIURNAL ARC. That part of a circle, parallel to the equator, which is
described by a celestial body from its rising to its setting.

DIURNAL PARALLAX. _See_ PARALLAX.

DIVE, TO. To descend or plunge voluntarily head-foremost under the
water. To go off deck in the watch. A ship is said to be "_diving into
it_" when she pitches heavily against a head-sea.

DIVER. One versed in the art of descending under water to considerable
depths and abiding there a competent time for several purposes, as to
recover wrecks of ships, fish for pearls, sponges, corals, &c. The diver