TOPGALLANT-FORECASTLE. A short deck forward above the upper deck, mostly
used as a galley, but in some merchantmen a berthing place for their
crews, though generally very wet and uncomfortable for want of a few
necessary fittings. Also, it facilitates working the head-sails.--In
several of the iron-clad frigates, chase-guns are fitted there.
TOPGALLANT-MAST. The third mast above the deck; the uppermost before the
days of royals and flying kites.
TOP-GALLANT QUARTER-BOARDS, OR TOP-GALLANT BULWARKS. _See_
QUARTER-BOARDS.
TOPGALLANT-SAILS. The third sails above the decks: they are set above
the topsail-yards, in the same manner as the top-sails above the lower
yards.
TOP-HAMPER. Any unnecessary weight either on a ship's decks or about her
tops and rigging. Also, applied to flying-kites and their gear. Also, to
an officer overclothing himself.
TOP-LANTERN, OR TOP-LIGHT. A large signal-lantern placed in the
after-part of a top, in ships where an admiral's flag or commodore's
pendant flies.
TOP-LINING. A lining on the after-part of sails, to prevent their
chafing against the top-rim. Also, a platform of thin board nailed upon
the upper part of the cross-trees on a vessel's top.