should be made neither too hard nor too soft; and to
avoid either of these extremes, a sufficient number of hitches only
will be taken to give the wad the consistency required for service.

Sections of one-third or one-fourth of these wads will answer as well,
in case of need.

MAGAZINE-SCREENS.

215. Are made of thick fearnaught, or of double baize, with holes
through which to pass the powder; these holes to be covered by broad
flaps of the same material. One screen is to be hung abaft, and
another forward of the magazine passing-hatch and scuttles in
sloops-of-war; in ships-of-the-line and frigates, one is usually to be
hung abaft the fore, and one forward of the after, magazine-scuttle;
but as ships are differently arranged, two to each magazine will be
allowed, if required.

Canvas chutes for returning empty passing-boxes are to be supplied to
each scuttle.

MAGAZINE-DRESSES.

216. Are to be of worsted, like a simple shirt, to reach to the
knees--no metal buttons to be worn.

The shoes must be made wholly of cotton canvas or buckskin. In hot
climates or warm weather generally, the naked feet are preferred.
India-rubber and woollen slippers are prohibited.

RATTLES FOR CALLING BOARDERS.

217. To be made like those used by watchmen, of white oak, or some
other similar wood. Rattle, 12 inches long; ratchet, 2 inches in
diameter; spring, one inch in width, and of sufficient thickness and
elasticity to produce the requisite sound. Weight enough should be
given to the butt to cause it to revolve round the handle with ease.

Fixed rattles of greater power will be attached to suitable places on
each deck.

SHELL-WHIPS.

218. To be made of two-inch rope, rove through two single blocks one
above the other, in the shell-hatchway, and the ends knotted together.
A hook is fixed on each part of the whip, near the block, so that the
parts being bowsed on alternately, a full box is brought up on one
hook and an empty one lowered by the other, at the same time.

FLASH-PANS.

219. Shallow copper bowls, large enough to hold an ounce of powder,
with a handle two feet long, to be supplied to all vessels.

DARK LANTERNS.

220. To be made of copper, tinned inside, with two handles at the
side, that the shade may be turned without taking hold of the top. The
whole height, 12 inches; diameter, 4 inches.

BOAT GRAPNELS.

221. Are made of round iron, quite light, for throwing into the
rigging or chains