palm, the
hole being towards the wrist. The lobe to which the ring and lanyard are
attached, serves simply as a handle.

In the diagram given, the black line indicates the "pipe" or call; the
four faint horizontal lines, the notes, and the vertical bars, the time.

The roll indicated by the wavy line in the diagram is made by rapidly
opening and closing the hand. The gradual rise and fall is effected in
the same way, but slowly. The rattle is done by a quick movement of the
tongue.

This diagram is furnished by an old boatswain. As a rule, the calls are
taught entirely by personal instruction, and it is believed that they
have here been put into print for the first time. None of the ordinary
manuals have ever given them, the young sailor having had to learn them
by experience on shipboard.

Their importance is evident from the fact that every order aboard ship
is preceded by the pipe peculiar to the command; for though the words
may not be heard, the whistle can always be distinguished. Even the most
lubberly landsman, with such continuous practice, soon learns the
meaning of the different calls, and jumps to obey them.

[Illustration: THE BOATSWAIN'S CALLS]

[Illustration: STATIONS OR QUARTERS FOR EXERCISE, OR PRECEDING ACTION,
OF FIVE-INCH BREECHLOADING RIFLES.]

1. First Captain, Second Boarder. 2. Second Captain, First Boarder. 3.
First Loader, Second Boarder, 4. Second Loader, First Boarder. 5. First
Shellman, Pumpman, Port guard. 6. Second Shellman, Fireman, Port guard.
7. First Shellman, Second Rifleman. 8. Second Shellman, First Rifleman.

1. Stands at elevating gear wheel and sights and fires the gun.

2. Stands at the right and beside the breech; opens same after firing so
shell can be taken out.

3. Stands at the left training wheel--i.e., the wheel that moves the gun
laterally. He also loads the gun.

4. Stands at the right training wheel. He takes out the empty shell
after firing, and wears heavy gloves for that purpose.

5 and 6. Stand just behind No. 2 to the right of the gun. They may be
termed emergency men. They assist with the shells, carry the wounded, if
any; will be called away in case of fire, and are qualified to sight and
fire the gun in case the first and second captains are wounded or
killed. They provide revolvers and belts for Nos. 1, 2, and 3, and belts
for Nos. 5, 6, 7, and 8. They are also port guards, and defend the ports
in case of close action.

7 and 8. Carry shells f