apiece. The prow of each galley was of iron,
pointed like a beak, and so sharp that when rowed at full speed
against a hostile ship it was like to sink her, or at least to drive
deep and hold on while the boarders poured up and over her side.
In addition to this formidable weapon, each carried four guns right
forward, besides a heavier piece which was worked on a circular
platform amidships, and when not required for service was stowed by
the mainmast for ballast. Each galley had two masts, though they
were next to useless, for it is easy to see that vessels so laden and
open at the decks were fit only for the lightest breezes, and in foul
weather must run to harbour for their lives.

Before embarking in the boat which was to take him on board, Tristram
was led up to the Rice-bank, where a barber shaved his head, and
where he was forced to exchange the suit he wore for a coarse canvas
frock, a canvas shirt and a little jerkin of red serge, sleeveless,
and slit on either side up to the arm-holes. The design of this (as
a warder explained to him) was to allow his muscles free play, which
Tristram pronounced very considerate, repeating this remark when he
received a small scarlet cap to keep the cold from his shaven head.
He was next offered a porringer of soup, consisting chiefly of oil,
with a dozen lentils floating on the top; and having consumed it, was
rowed off to be introduced to his new companions. On considering his
circumstances, he found but one which could be called consoling.
It was that he had been allowed to retain and stow in his waist-belt
his little packet of pepper-cress seed--a favour for which he thanked
his persecutors with tears in his eyes.

It happened that his galley was bound that afternoon on a cruise of a
few miles along the coast and indeed was lifting anchor as he was
hauled up the side. He had, therefore, but a hasty view of his
surroundings before he was chained to his bench, facing the great
oar. He saw only a long chamber, crossed by row upon row of white,
desperate faces. Down the middle, by the ends of the benches, ran a
gangway, along which three overseers paced leisurably, each with a
tall, flexible wand in his hand. The stench in the place was
overpowering, and Tristram was on the point of swooning when the
fellow who was chained beside him growled a word of advice:

"Look sharp and slip your jacket off."

Tristram obeyed without understanding. He saw that all the figure