Advantages of 

 timely prepa- 

 ntioQ. 



qA ship*s lifeboat. 



set on end, or leaning obliquely towards the rings in the 

 stem and stern, to which they are to be secured, and at the 

 same time to two other rings placed in the keel, proper for 

 that purpose : these caskJ^, from their position and power, 

 would effectually prevent sinking or upsetting: and as the 

 crews of such vessels are few in number, their boats might 

 support them safely through any breach into shallow water. 



The foregoing plans are founded upon unquestionable 

 principles, and constructed according to a regular method. 

 They keep in view the difficulties to be encountered, and 

 provide against them by making a few necessary prepara- 

 tions in due time. Were this attended to, all the confusion 

 and embarrassment which arise from sudden alarm, and 

 the distress that must attend a total want of suitable means, 

 would be prevented, and an encouraging prospect of safety 

 held out even in the most perilous situations. 



The want of timely forecast, and the neglect of means 

 that were in our power, never fail to occasion the bitterest 

 self-reproach, and the most painful vexation, whenever we 

 are overtaken by misfortunes, which a little prudence mighi; 

 have prevented. 



Having however but too much reason to apprehend, that 

 such prudential provisions as have been stated will still be 

 neglected, in spite of every suggestion and consideration 

 that can be urged, I shall now propose a third plan. 

 Though inferior to the former, as a ship with jury masts, torn 

 sails, and a temporary rudder, is to one in perfect good con- 

 dition; yet, considering that this inferior plan, like the dis- 

 abled ship, may gain what was despaired of, and save what 

 was given up for lost, I proceed to state it : 

 Casks alone. This plan will consist in the application of casks only. 

 These, if stowed closely and so as to fill up as well as pos- 

 sible one third part of the boat forward, and one third aft, 

 would effectually prevent the boat from sinking or over- 

 setting. 



Upon this plan, in order the better to secure and com- 

 bine the casks, the end of a. sail should be in the first place 

 thrown into the bottom of the boat, and the c&sks being 

 stowed upon it, the other end of the sail should then be dou- 

 Jbled over all : the seizings are then to be made through 



holes 



A third plan 

 suggested. 



