DUTIES AT QUARTERS, IN BATTLE OR EXERCISE.
CAPTAIN.
104. The CAPTAIN, when at general quarters, either for exercise or in
action, is to superintend and take the general direction of every
thing connected with the management of the ship and the service of her
armament.
105. He will from time to time carefully inspect the ship, in order,
before commencing a general exercise, to ascertain that all the
required and proper preparations have been made for battle. When time
and other circumstances will permit, he will always make this
inspection before going into action, and when prevented from making it
personally, he will direct it to be made by the Executive Officer.
106. When engaged with an enemy at so great a distance as to require
the guns to be elevated, he will, if practicable, cause the distance
to be ascertained by observation, and, when that cannot be done, will
estimate the distance, and from time to time send directions to the
Officers of gun divisions for what distances the sights of their guns
should be set, and the nature of the projectile, and, if a shell be
used, the time of the fuze (_See_ Article 326), and also the
cartridges to be used, whether for "distant," "ordinary," or "near"
firing.
107. He will determine and direct when two shot may be fired; when
"quick-firing" may be permitted; when small arms shall be distributed
and loaded; when Boarders shall be called up, and when they shall
assail an enemy. He will receive, through the Executive Officer, the
reports from all Officers commanding divisions.
EXECUTIVE OFFICER.
108. The EXECUTIVE OFFICER, under the direction of the Captain, and
with the aid of the Master, will work the ship when in action or at
general quarters. He will receive the reports of the officers of the
different divisions and others, and communicate them to the Captain of
the ship.
SIGNAL OFFICER.
109. The SIGNAL OFFICER is to see that every thing is prepared for
making and answering signals promptly, and will make all such as the
Captain may direct. He will provide himself with a watch, pencil, and
signal note-book properly ruled.
110. He will note and report to the Captain all signals that are made
to or by other vessels of the squadron, or other vessels in sight, and
also note the time at which each signal was made. He will observe and
report any material change which may take place in the positions of
the vessels of the squadron, or of other vessels, and every event of
moment that may occur.
MASTER'S DIVISION.
111. The MASTER will cause the persons in his division to sling the
yards and gaffs, to stopper the topsail sheets, to lead out the
preventer and other braces, and will see that they are clear, and
toggled, to prevent them from unreeving.
112. He will have the fighting stoppers at hand in the chains and tops
for stoppering the rigging; hatchets and axes ready for clearing away
any casual encumbrances from the guns; axes and hatchets for this
purpose must be sharpened, covered with painted canvas, and labelled
"not for general use;" and will cause proper arrangements to be made
for applying and securing grapnels, if they should be required.
113. He will see that the hammocks are compactly stowed, covered, and
stopped down, and will cause the boat and boom covers to be hauled
over and securely stopped down; the relieving tackles to be hooked and
ready for use; a compass to be placed to steer by; and see the spare
tiller at hand, the chronometer and other instruments put out of the
reach of shot, and relieved as much as possible from the jar of the
guns.
114. In case the Captain should give orders for sending small arms and
ammunition into the tops, he will attend to having them sent there,
and will be watchful that they are not so used as to expose the sails
and rigging to danger from taking fire; and in order to furnish a
sufficient supply of water, in case of accident, he will have four
fire-buckets fitted for each top, with lanyards long enough to reach
the water from the yard-arms, and these should be filled with water in
preparing for action.
115. On the probability of an engagement, when the ship is on
soundings, the Master will have the ground-tackling ready and clear;
boats ready for getting out, and every preparation made for towing,
warping, anchoring, and getting springs upon the cables; and have
leads and lines in the chains. If at anchor, he will have the boats
dropped astern, the oars secured to the thwarts, and, if directed,
have the plugs ready to be taken out that the boats may fill, and also
cause the spare spars to be put overboard.
116. Whenever the cables are bent, they shall be kept stoppered until
wanted for use.
117. In action, besides aiding the Executive Officer in working ship,
the Master is to pay special attention to the steerage of the vessel,
and to the rigging, sails, and spars, and will see that the stoppers
are properly applied, and damages repaired as speedily as possible.
In vessels where there is no Signal Officer, the Master, in action or
general exercise, may be directed to perform the duties of Signal
Officer.
118. The Boatswain being the assistant of the Master, is to see that
the rigging, especially forward, is kept clear, and that all damages
are promptly reported and repaired. In the absence of the Master, all
the above preparations will be at once made by the Boatswain, and
reported to the Executive Officer by him.
ENGINEER'S DIVISION.
119. The CHIEF ENGINEER will see all proper preparations made for
repairing damages to the engine and its dependencies, and will have
the apparatus for extinguishing fire ready for immediate use. As soon
as these preparations are fully made, and his men mustered, he will
report his division ready to the Executive Officer. He will also
report such damages as may be received in action, and what assistance
is required to repair them, and he will have charge of the
preparations made for extinguishing fires below.
POWDER DIVISION.
120. The Officer commanding this division, when called to quarters for
general exercise or action, will receive from the Captain the keys of
the magazines and shell-rooms, and of their respective water-cocks,
and will deliver them to the persons in charge, who are not to open
them without his special order.
121. He will have the fire-screens let down, and the light-rooms and
the deck under his charge lighted.
122. He will see that the shot and shell whips are in place and in
working order, and that shot-troughs are placed for conveying shot
where required; that the Gunner and his Mates at the magazine hatches
and scuttles, and the persons stationed at the shell-room scuttles,
are ready to open them when the order is given.
123. That all the precautions mentioned in the duties of Gunner and
Carpenter have been taken against fire, namely: that the division-tubs
are filled with water, and that wet swabs are placed by them, and
under all the lower scuttles through which passing-boxes are returned;
that a fire-tub is placed at the bottom of each chute for the return
of empty boxes; that it is nearly filled with water, and has its wire
grating shipped; that a proper supply of fresh water is provided for
the use of the men; that the hatchways of the decks next above that on
which the Powder Division is stationed are properly covered; that the
air-ports are closed and secured; and that the hose is screwed to the
force-pumps and ready for use.
124. He is to see that the means which are provided for lowering the
wounded are ready and properly fitted, and that the wounded, when
lowered down, are conveyed to the part of the vessel set apart for the
Surgeon's Division, by the persons detailed for that purpose.
125. He will also see that all obstructions to the safe and rapid
passage of powder, shot, and shells are removed; and when every
preparation for action has been made in his division, will report it
ready to the Executive Officer.
126. When the order is given from the Captain to open the magazines,
shell-rooms, and scuttles, he will direct the Gunner and Gunner's Mate
to repair to their respective scuttles, put on their magazine dresses
and shoes, divest themselves of every article of metal, and see that
the men stationed with them do the same; they are also to see that wet
swabs and cans of fresh water are provided.
127. The magazines being opened, the lids of the tanks are not to be
unscrewed until orders are given to that effect. Then the Gunner and
his Mate, and their assistants in their respective magazines, will
open as many, and no more, tanks than are necessary to supply charges
of the kind ordered, which they will pass up to the men stationed on
the deck above to receive them. These men will be particularly careful
to observe the orders transmitted from time to time, designating the
kind of charges required at the guns.
128. While at general quarters he will see that the men preserve their
proper stations in silence, order, and coolness; and he will give
particular attention to the sufficient and correct supply of powder
and projectiles to the various divisions, and take care that in time
of action, or of exercise with powder, the passing-boxes, after being
once taken out of the magazine, are not passed into it again, or even
inside of the screen, during the whole of such action or exercise.
These duties are of the highest importance.
129. In exercise where no powder is used, he will see that such
substitutes for the various charges as the Captain may direct are
passed up in their proper boxes, so that the number of rounds and the
kind of charge, whether "distant," "ordinary," or "near," may be
ascertained, and compared with those ordered. Should any defect or
deficiency in the arrangement for giving a full supply to the guns be
discovered, it is to be reported immediately to the Captain, in order
that a remedy may be applied as speedily as possible, by additional
men or other proper means.
130. The Carpenter will see that the hatches on the deck next above
the berth-deck or orlop are properly covered with gratings and
tarpaulins, and that the air-ports are closed and secured.
131. He will then cause all the pumps to be rigged, namely, the main
pumps, for freeing the ship in case of leaks, and the force and
channel pumps. He will have the engine also rigged and filled to
supply water for extinguishing fire.
132. He will attend particularly to the preparations for stopping
shot-holes, and see that all the articles enumerated in his general
duties (Article 59) are distributed among his mates and crew.
133. He will, when directed, cause the cabin and other bulkheads to be
taken down, and every other obstruction removed which comes within his
department, that may interfere with the working of the guns or the
passage of ammunition; and having performed this service, will report
to that effect to the Officers of the Divisions in which such
obstructions existed.
134. When these preparations are completed, he will see that the men
under his direction are in their proper stations, and, when all their
preparatory duties have been performed, will so report to the
Executive Officer, and to the Officer commanding the Powder Division
what relates to that division.
135. During an action the Carpenter will attend the pumps, sound the
well frequently, and, should he discover indications of serious injury
below the water-line, will immediately make them known personally,
either to the Captain or to the Executive Officer, and to them only.
136. During an action, such of the Carpenter's crew as are stationed
in the wings, or on the orlop, in line-of-battle ships, or on the
berth-deck in other vessels, will be constantly on the look-out for
shot-holes.
When a shot enters they are to make its position known by reference to
the numbers of the ports under or near which the hole is found, and
its distance below or above the water-line, as shown by the interior
line corresponding to it, already described in the general duties of
the Carpenter (Article 60); and are also to apply promptly such remedy
themselves as may be in their power.
137. The MASTER-AT-ARMS, assisted by the Ship's Corporals, will see
the galley fire and all unauthorized lights put out; that the lamps
are in their places, properly trimmed and lighted; and that the lenses
and reflectors are cleaned and polished.
After the magazines have been swept, closed, and secured, and the
retreat has been beaten, the Master-at-arms will see that the lights
in the light-rooms are extinguished, and apply to the Executive
Officer for permission to renew the usual lights and fires.
SURGEON'S DIVISION.
138. The SURGEON or senior Medical Officer will see that all necessary
preparations are made for the reception and treatment of the wounded,
in the part of the ship which may have been set apart by the Captain
for that purpose, and report to the Executive Officer when such
preparations are completed.
139. He will cause a sufficient number of tourniquets, or temporary
substitutes for them, to be distributed to such men of the different
divisions, and in each top, as may be appointed to receive them; and
he will take care that the persons in his division, and such others as
the Captain may direct, are instructed in the use of tourniquets, to
prevent, as far as possible, any dangerous loss of blood before the
Surgeon or his Assistants can attend to wounded men.
OFFICERS COMMANDING DIVISIONS OF GUNS.
140. Each Officer Commanding a Division of Guns is to see that all
persons belonging to it are present; that all the prescribed
arrangements are duly and promptly made; that every article designated
for use in the division is in order and in place; that the decks are
wet and well sanded; that the hand-swabs at the guns are wet; and that
any small arms that may be distributed among the men of his division
are properly loaded at the time directed by the Captain.
141. In action he will cause the wounded of his division to be
promptly and properly conveyed to the Surgeon, but will see that no
man leaves his quarters on pretence of assisting the wounded. Four
men, "aids to wounded", should be attached to each Division of Guns,
so as not to take men from guns for that purpose.
142. On the lower deck of line-of-battle ships, or the main deck of
frigates and spar-deck of single-deck vessels, he will see the
hatchways in the range of his division properly covered by the
Carpenter's crew, assisted by the handspikemen or compressor-men of
the nearest guns, and the scuttles and whips duly prepared for passing
powder, shot, and shells.
143. He will be particularly careful to prevent the men from loading
the guns improperly, or otherwise than may be specially ordered, and
will prevent any unnecessary noise.
144. He will see that the guns are very carefully pointed and properly
aimed; that there is no firing until correct sight can be obtained, as
random firing is not only a waste of ammunition, but it encourages an
enemy, when he sees shot and shell falling harmlessly about and beyond
him.
He will carefully impress upon the Captains of guns that there is no
excuse for several successive bad shots, as observation of the first
or second will surely indicate an erroneous estimate of distance, and
afford means of correcting it. Accuracy of fire is to be encouraged
rather than rapidity.
It is essential to rapidity and accuracy of fire, particularly on
covered decks, that the Division Officers shall keep the Gun Captains
constantly advised of the position and distance of the object.
145. He will also take care to prevent confusion at the
powder-scuttles in the range of his division, and that all orders
which require to be repeated are duly passed. In case of accident to
the Powder-passers, he will promptly supply their places by such men
as can be best spared from his division.
146. He will take care that each gun in his division is provided with
all the "Equipments and Implements" prescribed for its use; and that
the "spare" articles which may be required in his division in action
are in place.--(Article 148.)
147. He will report to the Executive Officer when all preparations
have been made for action; and also after action and exercise, when
the guns have been properly secured, and the stores and implements
belonging to his division have been returned to their places.
EQUIPMENTS AND IMPLEMENTS.
148. Those for broadside-guns, whether mounted on two or four truck
carriages, or on slides, are to be as follows, viz.:
--------------------------------------+---------------------------------
ARTICLES FOR EACH GUN. | WHERE THEY ARE TO BE PUT
| WHEN THE GUN IS SECURED.
--------------------------------------+----------------------------------
Carriage complete, with bed and |
quoin, or elevating screw |At its port.
|
Breeching with shackle-bolts and pins |At the gun.
|
Compressors and levers, pivot-bolt |
and housing-chock, for Friction |
Carriages |At the gun.
|
Two side-tackles |Hooked to the securing-bolts on each
| side of the port and to the
| carriage.
|
One train-tackle |Hooked to the securing-bolts in the
| side, with the parts of the fall
| round the breech of the gun.
|
Two handspikes[1] |Resting on the bed-bolt, in-board
| ends secured by beckets.
|
One tompion with lanyard and wad |In the muzzle of the gun.
|
One sponge and cap[2] |On the beam or carling over the
| right side of the gun
| (on movable brackets).
|
One rammer[2] |On the beam or carling over the left
| side of the gun (on movable
| brackets).
|
One lock with string and vent-plug |
complete |In place on the gun.
|
One breech-sight with cover |In place on the gun.
|
One reinforce-sight with cover |In place on the gun.
|
One priming-wire and one boring-bit, |Inside of the brackets of the
with beckets for the wrist | carriage, near the breech.
|
One fire-bucket with lanyard |On gun-decks, close to the side,
| near the beam over the gun; on
| spar-decks, round the capstan and
| the boats forward.
|
One bucket of prepared grease or oil |
for rifle cannon |On the breast-piece.
|
One battle-lantern, with candle or |
lamp trimmed and primed, but |
provided for gun-decks only; none |In the fire-buckets. The candle in
for spar-decks | supply box.
|
Battle-axes (as prescribed according |
to the number of men at gun).-- |
_See_ Art. 101 |Inside of the brackets.
|
One hand-swab |On the breast-piece of the
| carriage.
|
One deck-bucket and large swab |To be kept in the hold until wanted.
|
Two chocking-quoins for |When not in use, between the
truck-carriages | brackets and the bed.
|
Two lanyards for each half port |In place.
|
Lanyards, chain pendents, runners and |
tackles for tricing up, and bars and |
keys for securing lower deck ports |In place.
|
Ten shot for shot-guns |In racks round hatches nearest the
| gun.
|
For shell-guns, one shell in its box |Between the trucks on the left side
| of the gun.
|
Ten selvagee wads for shot and shell |On the breast-piece of the carriage,
guns | strung on a pin.
|
Two housing-chocks for lower deck |Placed before the _front trucks_
guns | when the gun is run in for housing.
--------------------------------------+------------------------------------
149. He will also assure himself that the following articles, which
may be required, are in readiness in his division, and prepared for
use, namely: One rattle for calling Boarders; one division-tub for
fresh water; one spare bed and quoin for carriages requiring them; two
spare gun-trucks; four spare handspikes; one worm; one scraper; one
bristle sponge for cleaning guns; two spare breechings; four swabs,
and, if any of the guns be on slides, a spare pivot-bolt. Of these
articles the worm, scraper, sponge, and spare breechings[3] are to be
becketed up between the beams and carlings on the gun-decks as far as
practicable, and those which cannot be so placed will be kept at hand
in the storeroom or other convenient place. A ladle is supplied for
each calibre on board, and will be kept ready in such place as may be
designated by the Executive Officer.
The above allowance of articles designated as "spare," including worm,
scraper, sponge, and swabs, is upon the supposition that each division
is composed of five guns and their opposites. In case the number of
guns should be either more or less, the articles will be increased or
diminished proportionally to the nearest whole number.
150. He will take care that the Quarter Gunners of his division keep
the two division-boxes marked "supply" and "reserve" constantly
provided with the following articles, all in good order, viz.:
The "Supply" box with a waist-belt for each Boarder, Pikeman, Fireman,
Sail-trimmer, and Pumpman; a primed candle for each battle-lantern; a
thumbstall and vent-guard for the 1st and 2d Captains of each gun. The
belts of Boarders to be furnished with a frog for a pistol, with its
cartridges and percussion-caps; those of 1st and 2d Captains of guns
with a box containing fifty primers fitted to slip on the waist-belt.
Those for Firemen, Sail-trimmers, and Pumpmen to have each a frog for
the battle-axe.
The "Reserve" box with one drill-brace; three vent-drills; one
vent-punch; two gun-locks and strings complete; a flask of
priming-powder; two boring-bits; three priming-wires; eight
thumbstalls; four boxes of percussion-primers; one box of
friction-primers; one spare lock-string for each gun, and one
fuze-wrench; a shackle-punch and pin, and some rags for wiping. These
boxes are to be placed by the Quarter Gunners in their respective
divisions, near the mast, and on the opposite side to that engaged.
In vessels of the class of Frigates and upward, these boxes are to be,
on covered decks, kept in their several divisions and secured
overhead.
On spar-decks they are to be kept under the break of the poop and the
topgallant forecastle, and, in vessels having neither poop nor
topgallant forecastle, between the beams on the berth-deck. They will
be kept under lock and key.
151. He will see that such men of the divisions, and others who are
appointed for the purpose, obtain the requisite number of tourniquets,
and distribute them to the men selected to use them. (_See_ Article
139.)
BROADSIDE GUNS.
STATIONS AND GUN-NUMBERS.
152. The following are to be the gun-numbers and stations for a gun's
crew composed of sixteen Men and a Powderman, when working
broadside-guns on lower decks; on other decks 15 and 16 are 3d and 4th
Side-Tacklemen.
-------------------------+-----------+-------------------------
LEFT SIDE. | GUN-NOS. | RIGHT SIDE.
-------------------------+-----+-----+-------------------------
First Loader. | 3 | 4 | First Sponger.
Second Loader. | 5 | 6 | Second Sponger.
First Shellman. | 7 | 8 | Second Shellman.
First Handspikeman. | 9 | 10 | Second Handspikeman.
First Side-Tackleman. | 13 | 14 | Second Side-Tackleman.
First Port-Tackleman. | 15 | 16 | Second Port-Tackleman.
First Train-Tackleman. | 11 | 12 | Second Train-Tackleman.
First Captain. | 1 | 2 | Second Captain.
-------------------------+-----+-----+-------------------------
Powderman near the midships, and on the left of the gun.
For a gun's crew of fourteen men and a Powder-boy, or of twelve men,
the higher numbers are those to be omitted, and the stations and
duties of all the others remain unchanged.
With a gun's crew of ten men, all the numbers continue with the same
stations and duties excepting No. 10, who becomes Train-Tackleman, and
the 2d Captain handles the handspike.
With a gun's crew of eight men, numbers from 1 to 7 inclusive retain
the same stations and duties; No. 2 will, in addition to his duties as
2d Captain, also attend to the handspike, and No. 8 becomes
Train-Tackleman.
With a gun's crew of six men, all the numbers retain the same stations
and duties, excepting that No. 5 also acts as Shotman, and No. 2
attends to the handspike and train-tackle in addition to the duties of
2d Captain.
153. This arrangement exhibits the gun's crew placed as the men should
stand when first assembled at quarters, either for inspection or any
ordinary exercise. It is intended that the men are then to stand
parallel with the gun, and facing in-board.
CALLS FOR ASSEMBLING AT QUARTERS.
154. BEATS OF DRUM.
1st. THE ORDINARY BEAT will be the call for INSPECTION at general
quarters.
2d. The ORDINARY BEAT, preceded by ONE ROLL--EXERCISE at general
quarters, without powder.
3d. The BEAT QUICK--ACTION; or EXERCISE at general quarters with
powder, as though engaged in BATTLE.
4th. WHEN AT QUARTERS, a roll of the drum will be a signal for
"SILENCE AND ATTENTION!" All firing or other noise will immediately
cease, and the next order be awaited in perfect silence. It is of the
utmost importance to impress this upon the officers and crew.
5th. When the Captain is satisfied that his order has been delivered
and understood, he will order TWO TAPS to be beaten, as a signal for
the "EXECUTION OF THE ORDER." The roll and the taps to be given
sharply and distinctly.
155. On assembling at quarters for inspection or general exercise,
unless directed otherwise, in port, the men are first to go to the
starboard guns on the spar-deck, the port guns on the main deck, the
starboard guns on the next deck below, and so on. At sea they are
first to go to the weather guns, or, if the ship be dead before the
wind, to the same sides as in port.
156. When assembled for inspection, besides seeing that all the guns
and articles belonging to them are in order and in place, it is
directed that the men, without arms or implements, or casting loose
the guns, shall be frequently called away and mustered in their
stations as Boarders, Pikemen, Sail-trimmers, and Firemen; and also
practised in shifting from one side to the other, and in taking their
places for fighting both sides at once.
157. On assembling for exercise at general quarters without powder,
after the men have been mustered and the divisional reports made, the
order will be given: "CAST LOOSE AND PROVIDE!"
Then the starboard watch will provide and cast loose the odd-numbered
guns, and the port watch will provide and cast loose the even-numbered
guns.
The 1st parts of guns' crews on the starboard side providing and
casting loose the starboard, and the 2d parts the port guns. The 1st
parts of guns' crews on the port side the port, and the 2d parts the
starboard guns. In securing guns the same order of distributing the
men is to be observed.
When both these services of providing and casting loose have been
performed, and the luffs choked or hitched and trucks chocked, the men
are all to return to the guns at which they were mustered, and,
taking their places, await in silence further orders, if not already
given.
158. When assembled for exercise as though actually engaged in battle,
besides what is prescribed for an exercise at general quarters without
powder, the further preparations indicated hereafter will be made. The
guns' crews will proceed at once to provide and cast loose both sides
without waiting to be mustered, or for any further orders.
159. The call for BOARDERS to repair to the spar-deck will be by the
rattle and verbal order, repeated by the Officer of each division of
guns. They should be trained to form promptly on the opposite side to
that engaged, near the hatch by which they ascend.
On the first call or order, the first division only will repair to the
spar-deck, led by their officers. If the call or order should be
repeated before the first division shall have returned to their guns,
the second division will immediately repair to the spar-deck.
160. The call for PIKEMEN to "repel boarders" will be by sounding the
Gong. At this signal all the Pikemen will assemble on the spar-deck
with their muskets.
161. ALL HANDS will be summoned to repel boarders (_See_ Article 92)
by springing the rattles and sounding the gong together, and by verbal
orders.
162. SAIL-TRIMMERS. The particular division that may be wanted at a
time will be called by passing the word for it.
163. The call for FIREMEN to repair to the spar-deck will be given
verbally and by striking the ship's bell rapidly. The rapid ringing of
the bell will be the FIRE-ALARM at all times, when the crew will
immediately assemble at quarters.
164. Boarders, Pikemen, and Sail-trimmers of the spar-deck guns, or
any portion of them, and of the Master's division, as well as the
Marines, may be ordered from their quarters to perform a particular
service, without any call, whenever the Captain may deem proper.
165. Men called for any of the foregoing duties will, on reaching the
spar-deck, form on the gangway, upon the side not engaged with the
enemy, unless otherwise directed at the time.
166. When called to quarters, every person is to repair to his station
promptly and without unnecessary noise; and on the order, "to your
quarters," all will return to their stations in the same manner.
PREPARATIONS FOR EXERCISE AT GENERAL QUARTERS, WITHOUT POWDER.
167. Sling the topsail yards and gaffs, and put the preventer braces
in place; distribute fighting stoppers and jiggers; stopper the clews
of the topsails; get whips on each side of the lower masts for tricing
up the pendant tackles, and also the mast-bands and fishes required
for securing a crippled mast. Make arrangements for using grapnels;
get hauling-lines ready for sending small arms and ammunition into the
tops; if not on soundings, haul over boat and boom covers and stop
them down; bring up and stow, if down, such hammocks as interfere with
the guns, or are in the way of the powder division;[4] haul over and
secure the hammock-cloths; hook and mouse the relieving-tackles; place
the spare tiller and compass at hand; put the chronometers, and other
instruments of navigation, out of the reach of shot; distribute the
small arms together with their accoutrements and a supply of filled
cartridges, to the men appointed to use them; place axes and hatchets
at hand on the spar-deck for clearing away incumbrances at guns;
grapnels in mizzen channels with whips to after-davits and
spanker-boom end, to hook up any gear likely to foul the screw. In
steam vessels, topgallant masts and rigging ready to be sent down and
all unnecessary gear unrove.
If underway and on soundings, get the boats ready for hoisting out;
the ground-tackle ready for use and keep it clear, and make every
preparation for towing, warping, and anchoring with springs on cables;
stopper the chains; get lights in the light-rooms, including those of
the shell-rooms; light powder division; also gun-decks, if at night,
and it be ordered by the Captain; drop magazine screens; get shot and
shell whips, and buckets or nets, in place; rig canvas chutes for
returning empty passing-boxes; remove every obstruction to the free
passage of powder; clear away and open shot-lockers; see the hatchways
of the next deck above the powder division properly covered; division
and fire-tubs in place, with wet swabs by them, and at the landing of
each line of scuttles through which the passing-boxes pass; rig main,
force, and channel pumps and fire-engine, which fill with water; get
light Jacob-ladders and slings ready for lowering the Carpenters
outside, and materials for stopping shot-holes; take down cabin and
other bulkheads, when directed, and pass them below; sand the decks;
place a bucket of water and a wet swab in rear of each gun, and for
all rifle-guns a bucket of oil or prepared grease; have spare
breechings at hand; rope ladders for hatchways in place; a bag, to be
supplied from one reserve-box, containing a flask of priming-powder
and the following spare articles: two locks, four lock-strings, eight
thumbstalls, two boring-bits, two priming-wires, a shackle-punch and
pins and some old rags, to be slung round the neck of the Quarter
Gunner of each division of guns; rammers and sponges placed, and the
latter uncapped; one worm in place, on each side of the deck, for each
division, and a ladle at hand for each calibre on board; pistols, in
frogs furnished with cartridges and caps, and cutlasses and
battle-axes, belted round the respective persons designated to wear
them; marines accoutred and under arms, and distributed as the Captain
may direct; tourniquets to be distributed as may be judged necessary.
(_See_ Articles 139 and 151.)
PREPARATIONS FOR EXERCISE AT GENERAL QUARTERS,
WITH POWDER, AS THOUGH ENGAGED IN BATTLE.
168. Crew cast loose the guns; shell-rooms and magazine are opened;
powder and shells passed up, and every thing ready for firing, the
order for which is awaited. If the beat is followed by orders from the
quarter-deck to fire, then this is performed as soon as each gun is
ready. In this case, besides what has just been prescribed for a
General Exercise without powder, the following further preparations
will be made: Put out galley fire and all unauthorized lights; light
match and place it in manger; open magazines and powder-tanks, and
also shell-rooms, when ordered; close and secure air-ports; fill
division and fire tubs with fresh water; place cans of fresh water and
wet swabs in magazines and shell-rooms; light up the cockpit, or other
place, for the wounded; place mattresses, and if there be room, sling
spare cots; get ready the amputating-table, instruments, bandages,
lint, medicines; have a plentiful supply of fresh water and swabs, and
sprinkle the decks. Make a particular examination of all the
arrangements for extinguishing fire; see that force-pumps and hose are
in good order, and the men stationed at them in their places.
Speed being one of the principal elements of military force, steamers
will, on going into action, have all the furnaces clean, and the fires
in condition to make steam rapidly.
The beat to quarters for action is therefore a signal to start fires
in any furnaces not in use.
PROVIDING BROADSIDE-GUNS.
169. When the exercise of broadside-guns is to be confined to one side
only, each gun's crew is to provide its own gun, on the side at which
it is ordered to assemble, as follows: but when the guns on both sides
are to be exercised at once, each part of a gun's crew is to provide
its own gun; each Captain, Loader, Sponger, &c., doing separately what
is done by both himself and his second when the exercise is confined
to one side only.
170. Captains of guns to provide themselves with percussion-primers,
thumbstalls, and priming-wire, and to see that the men of their
respective parts of the gun's crew discharge their several duties
promptly and carefully.
171. Spongers provide sponges and rammers.
172. Loaders provide a bucket of water and a wet swab; and, for rifle
cannon, a pot of oil or prepared grease.
173. Shell or shotmen provide a sufficient supply of selvagee and six
junk-wads, and supply the racks around the hatchways with shot from
the lockers as required.
174. Handspikemen see the handspikes in place, and then assist in
getting up shot for the guns; and, if necessary, in covering hatchways
in the division.
175. The Powderman or Boy is to provide an empty passing-box, if no
powder is to be used; otherwise he is to present himself at the
appointed place to receive a full one.
176. The Fireman is to take down the fire-bucket, and place it and the
battle-lantern in their appointed places. On gun-decks the lantern
should be hung up at the ship's side, or in rear of and between the
guns, as may be directed, and lighted when ordered by the Captain, and
the fire-bucket directly in rear of the gun. On spar-decks the bucket
may be laid on the deck, or hung up in any convenient place in rear of
and near the gun.
177. Side-tacklemen provide sand and water, and sprinkle and sand the
decks, if directed; and get bucket and swab from the hold, fill the
bucket with water, wet the sponge and the swab, and lay it on deck
under the sponge.
178. Quarter Gunners of divisions, besides equipping themselves, as
already directed (Article 167), with a bag of spare implements, will
attend to the "Supply" and "Reserve" boxes of their divisions (_See_
Article 150), and distribute the belts, primer-boxes, and other
articles which they contain, to the guns' crews, as soon as
practicable, and then keep themselves ready to furnish any reserved or
spare articles which may be required, such as spare breechings,
ladles, and worms, and will see the battle-lanterns provided with
candles with primed wicks, ready for lighting when ordered by the
Captain.
179. The swords and pistols should be always available for the
Boarders, at the shortest notice; but their particular disposition at
quarters, and at what time the pistols shall be loaded, will be
determined by the Captain, as in his judgment circumstances at the
time may require. Pistols should be loaded, on the probability of
action, without further orders.
[Illustration: (STEAMER "POMPANOOSUC" CLASS.) Passing Powder Lith. by
J.F. Gedney, Washn. C.K. Stellwagen, del.]
ARRANGEMENTS FOR DELIVERING AND DISTRIBUTING POWDER.
180. In making arrangements to deliver and distribute powder from the
magazines, for action, the following general considerations and rules
should govern:
181. Cartridges, as experience proves, can be passed up each
independent chain of scuttles leading from the magazine to the point
at which the Powder-boys are to receive the full boxes, at the rate of
one every six or seven seconds.
182. Experience also proves that, under the most favorable
circumstances, the broadside-guns of a man-of-war cannot be
advantageously fired oftener than once in every seventy-five seconds.
Hence it may be received as a rule, that a single chain of
passing-scuttles is abundantly sufficient to supply powder for a
division of guns as large even as eight of a side; and that it is also
sufficient when both sides of such a division are to be used at once,
for then the firing of each piece is unavoidably retarded by the
division of the guns' crews.
183. No one chain of scuttles should be required to supply cartridges
for more than a single description of guns,[5] unless their cartridges
be the same in diameter, weight, and form, and their passing-boxes
alike, as in the case of the 8-inch shell-gun of 63 cwt. and the
32-pounder of 57 cwt. If, therefore, there be on a deck of guns but
one differing from the rest in calibre, class, or assimilation of
cartridges, that one should have a separate chain of scuttles for its
supply, in order to guard effectually against confusion, or, at least,
delay. In a word, each additional calibre or class of guns, unless the
cartridges be assimilated and the passing-boxes alike, involves an
additional chain of passing-scuttles for its supply; and it should be
borne in mind that errors with respect to cartridges of guns of the
same calibre, but differing in class, are more to be apprehended than
with guns differing only in calibre.
184. If the guns on a deck be all of the same calibre and class, or of
like cartridges and passing-boxes, then one chain of scuttles to
supply the forward half of those guns, and another to supply the after
half, will be all-sufficient.
185. For each chain of passing-scuttles there will probably have to
be--
One man in the magazine to deliver charges from the tanks.
One man in the passage to receive and pass those charges through the
scuttle in the orlop or berth deck.
One man at the passage-scuttle on the orlop or berth deck, to receive
the charges and pass them to the screen.
One man just outside of the screen, to receive the charges through a
flapped hole therein, and put them in the empty passing-boxes.
One, two, or three Runner-boys (according to the distance) to run, on
the orlop or berth deck, with full passing-boxes, from the screen to
the scuttles through the deck, and back again with the empty boxes to
the screen.
One man, a very careful one, at the bottom of the canvas chute, to
receive the empty passing-boxes, strike them, in an inverted position,
over the fire-tub, and inspect them carefully before allowing them to
be taken away to be replenished.
One man, on the orlop or berth deck, at the passing-scuttle through
the deck above, to pass up full boxes.
One man at the passing-scuttle on the next deck above the orlop or
berth deck, to receive and pass up full boxes, or, in the case of a
single-deck vessel, or of distribution on the main deck of a frigate,
or on the lower deck of a ship-of-the-line, to receive and deliver
them to Powder-boys.
One man at the passing-scuttle on the second deck above the orlop or
berth deck, to receive and pass up full boxes; or, in the case of a
frigate, or distribution on the main deck of a ship-of-the-line of two
decks, to receive and deliver them to Powder-boys.
And one man at the passing-scuttle on the third deck above the orlop,
to receive and deliver full boxes to Powder-boys on the spar-deck of a
ship-of-the-line of two decks.
Thus each chain of scuttles will require--
Seven men to supply its guns on the first deck above; as, for example,
the lower deck of a ship-of-the-line, the main deck of a frigate, or
the spar-deck of a sloop-of-war, or other single-deck vessel.
Eight men for the spar-deck of a frigate, for the main deck of a
ship-of-the-line of two decks, or for the middle gun-deck of a
ship-of-the-line of three decks.
Nine men for the spar-deck of a ship-of-the-line of two decks, or for
the main deck of a ship-of-the line of three decks.
And ten men for the spar-deck of a ship-of-the-line of three decks.
Besides, each of these numbers--7, 8, 9, and 10--is to be increased by
two or three Runner-boys, for the purposes above described.
186. In vessels of and above the class of frigates, or having two
magazines--one forward and the other aft--the forward half of the guns
on each deck is to be supplied from the forward magazine, and the
after half from the after magazine. Thus, for each deck of guns, one
scuttle at each of the two magazines, together with its corresponding
chain of scuttles, will be sufficient, if all the guns be of the same
calibre and class, or have like charges. But the introduction on board
of any vessel of guns differing in either of these respects will
involve the necessity above stated of a separate scuttle of delivery
at the magazine, and also of a distinct chain of scuttles connected
with it, for the exclusive supply of each variety of charges that may
be introduced.
In this case, the exceptional guns should be supplied, whenever
practicable, from the larger magazine, when there are two differing in
size.
187. In single-deck vessels carrying more than sixteen guns, all of
the same calibre and class, and having but one magazine, two scuttles
at that magazine will be sufficient--one to supply the forward half of
guns, and the other the after half.
188. In single-deck vessels carrying only sixteen guns, or less, all
of the same calibre and class, or having like charges, one scuttle at
the magazine will suffice.
189. Should any single-deck vessel be of such great length, or so
remarkable in her armament of guns, although all of the same calibre
and class, as to render additional scuttles advisable, they are to be
cut.
PASSING-SCUTTLES.
190. All the powder is to be passed up from the orlop or berth deck
through circular scuttles, cut in the deck or decks at places, as
nearly as circumstances will permit, immediately abreast of the middle
of the particular set of guns to the supply of which each chain of
scuttles is specially appropriated. Besides these scuttles for passing
the powder up, there are to be corresponding ones for each set,
provided with a canvas chute for returning the empty boxes below. The
drawing shows the manner of supplying an upper deck and returning the
empty boxes from it. Each deck is to be supplied in like manner, by a
distinct and separate arrangement, through as many independent sets of
scuttles as may be required by the preceding "Arrangements for
delivering and distributing powder."
191. Each scuttle is to have a tompion or other means of closing it,
so as to be water-tight when not in use, and to be so placed or
regulated in height as not to interfere with the transportation of
guns.
192. Should any serious difficulty arise in finding places for cutting
any of the different sets of scuttles through the decks, or in the
cases of small or very wet vessels, recourse may be had to the
gratings of the hatchways. Still, they are always to be cut through
the decks whenever it can be done with propriety.
193. For each scuttle at the magazine for the delivery of powder there
must be a corresponding flap-hole in the magazine screen, and this is
to be regarded as a part of the chain of supply equally with the
scuttle itself.
194. When on board ship there are any guns of the same calibre and
class, or of assimilated charges, carried on two consecutive decks,
all of them may be supplied by the same chain of scuttles, provided
the whole number of guns thus made to depend upon this chain does not
exceed eight of a side. For instance, under the circumstances stated,
the chase, or a few shell or other guns on a spar-deck, may be
supplied by a chain of scuttles intended principally for the main-deck
guns; or, the shell-guns on a main deck being few, may be supplied by
a chain intended principally for the deck below.
195. In delivering cartridges from the magazines for serving guns,
they are to be passed up from the magazine to the orlop or berth deck
before they are put into the passing-boxes, which, in time of action,
or when exercising with powder, after being once taken out of the
magazine, are not, on any account, to be allowed to go into it again,
or even inside of the screen, during the whole time of such action or
exercise. They are to be replenished at the screen, but outside of it.
196. All passing-boxes shall be painted black, with the calibre and
charge painted in white letters, two and one-half inches (2-1/2) long
on the side, and one and a half (1-1/2) on the top.
197. If, however, there are any guns of the same calibre on spar-decks
requiring lighter charges, the lower half of the box shall be painted
white. For gun-decks in similar case the lower half shall be painted
red.
198. Empty passing-boxes returned by the chutes are always to be
landed upon wet swabs, and then to be turned upside down, and so
struck over a fire-tub, as before directed, to free them from any
loose powder.
199. One fire-tub, nearly filled with water, is to be placed on the
deck, alongside the bottom of each chute for returning empty boxes.
The top of this tub is to be provided with a stout hoop to ship and
unship, with a grating of stout copper wire, the meshes of which are
to be made small enough to prevent the passing-box from falling into
the water, in case of slipping from the man's hand while being struck
over the tub.
SHOT AND SHELL.
200. Shot and shell are to be passed up by hand, or whipped up, by the
most convenient hatchways. The hands stationed below at the lockers
are to work the whips, each of which, being fitted with a toggle, will
indicate when the projectiles are hoisted high enough. In case a
shot-locker should be somewhat removed from the hatchway, up which the
shot are to be passed or whipped, the shot may be speedily conveyed
over the distance by means of a wooden trough fitted for the purpose.
HATCHWAY FOR THE WOUNDED.
201. One hatchway, or portion of a hatchway, and that as nearly
amidships as possible, is to be reserved for lowering the wounded
below, and to be properly provided with a cot or cots, having a whip
to each.
[Illustration: NAVAL TRUCK CARRIAGE D. Van Nostrand Publisher. Julius
Bien, pr.]
NAVAL GUN-CARRIAGES.
202. All gun-carriages and their equipments are to be made in
conformity with directions from the Bureau of Ordnance.
NOMENCLATURE OF ORDINARY NAVAL TRUCK-CARRIAGE.
WOODEN PARTS.
_Carriage._
A. Brackets of large truck-carriages are made each of two pieces,
joined by a jog _a_, and dowelled. The remaining parts of the
brackets are the trunnion-holes _b_, steps _c_, quarter-rounds
_d_, and arch _e_.
B. Transom, let into brackets.
C. Breast-piece, in two parts--the inner part fixed, by two bolts,
into transom; the outer part movable, connected by hinges.
D. Front and rear axletrees, consisting each of square body _f_,
and arms _g_, jogged into brackets.
E. Front and rear trucks.
F. Dumb trucks.
G. Bed and stool.
H. Quoin.
_Implements._
I. Handspikes.
K. Chocking-quoin.
METAL PARTS.
_Carriage._
1. Two cap-squares.
2. Four cap-square bolts and two keys and chains.
3. Two bracket-bolts.
4. Two rear axletree-bolts.
5. Two side-tackle eye-bolts.
6. One train-tackle eye-bolt.
7. One transporting eye-bolt.
8. Two breast-bolts.
9. Two hinges of breast-pieces.
10. Two transom-bolts (upper and lower).
11. Two breeching side-shackles and pins.
12. Bed-bolt.
13. Four axletree bands.
14. Chafing-plates of steps and brackets.
15. Four linchpins and washers.
16. Quoin-plate and stop.
17. Ratchet for quoin-stop.
18. Four training loops.
19. Breeching-thimble (cast iron).
20. Side-shackle bolts for breechings.
21. Shackle-pin, plates, and keys.
22. Two axle-stays.
23. Handspike-shoe.
OF PARTS PECULIAR TO MARSILLY CARRIAGE.
A. The lowest piece of the bracket, in place of the rear truck of
ordinary carriages.
B. Rear transom, in place of rear axle.
C. Breast-piece (fixed).
D. E. Sweep-pieces.
D. Fixed below the port-sill
E. Movable, with brass catches (_f f_) and hooks and eyes (_g g_).
H. Elevating screw and lever, with saucer (I) in place of bed and
quoin.
K. Roller handspike.
L. Loop for handspike.
FOOTNOTES:
[1] _Marsilly_ carriages require a roller handspike each.
[2] The rammers and sponges belonging to the broadside-guns of spar-deck
divisions of all ships having topgallant forecastles, or other light
decks, may be kept under the forecastle or light deck when not in use. In
ships not provided with these decks they are to be kept at the guns inside
the brackets; or, if that cannot be done, triced up overhead on the next
deck below.
[3] The spare breechings should never be stowed near the galley nor
Engine-room, lest they be damaged by heat and moisture.
[4] The Executive Officer of the ship should appoint a sufficient number
of men in each watch for the purpose of stowing the hammocks of the watch
below in case of being called to quarters in the night, so as to prevent
confusion and insure the greatest possible dispatch in clearing for
action.
[5] See Table of Charges for Great Guns.