A yard across either the main or mizen mast of a torpedo vessel, from ten
to fifteen feet above the water-line, is a very convenient method for
launching and towing. The leading block on the yard, through which the
tow-rope is rove, may be fitted to a traveller on the yard with an inhaul
and outhaul, that the distance out from the ship’s side may be regulated
as convenient.
In a large vessel, the leading block for tow-rope can be fixed to the
end of the quarter-boat’s davits. The brakes for commanding the tow-rope
should be screwed firmly to the deck. In a vessel properly constructed
for the service, they would be on the lower deck, the tow-rope having
been led along the yard, and down each side of the mast.
A leading block for the tow-rope is placed on the deck by span or bolt
a few feet in front of the brake. The safety-key reel, if used, must be
fixed in a convenient position on deck, that the man attending it can see
how to control it; in a properly-constructed vessel he would be in the
pilot-house. The safety-key line leads through a small leading block on
the ensign-staff or some convenient point abaft the lead of the tow-rope,
that it may be kept well clear of it. The leading block on the yard may
be fitted with a lizard, if thought necessary. A sharp instrument should
be kept by the brakes ready to sever the tow-rope.