RECORD TARGETS. 31 
The cut-water at either end was continued up to a height of 6 feet, 
with a similar upright in the centre of each keel. These uprights 
formed the main supports of the structure. Cross-pieces at their tops 
connected them, and also at a height of 6 feet 6 inches from the bottom 
of keels. In addition to these, there were four uprights from each keel 
connected by cross-pieces and forming knees at a height of 6 feet 
6 inches. The whole of these frames were constructed of deal scant- 
ling, 6 to 9 inches by 14 inch. 
Upon the floats themselves was built up a framework, covered with 
tarred canvas, stretched down to the tops of floats, and from each 
projecting end depended a “chick ” of laths and stout twine. 
The extreme length of target, including “ chicks,’ was 36 feet; the 
canvas roof being 20 feet long, each top corner painted white. The 
target area for fire effect was 432 square feet. The keels or floats being 
3 feet in depth, and the cross-pieces connecting the uprights being 
6 feet 6 inches from the bottoms, all parts, except those running in the 
direction of movement, were at least 3 feet clear of the water—a very 
great advantage. 
This target is cheap, seaworthy, and tows lightly, It records every 
hit, and can be severely punished before it becomes disabled. 
The Mitchell pattern target consists of a pair of long, narrow boats, 
placed parallel, and 10 feet apart. They are divided into water-tight 
compartments, and are covered in with tarred canvas. Its particular 
feature is the steering apparatus, which is ingenious. 
At the stern of each boat is a rudder, whose tiller is connected to 
the bridle by yoke-lines—the two tillers are connected by an iron rod. 
The bridle runs freely through a rounded wooden float, to which is 
fastened the tow-rope. As the tow-rope veers, the float slides, carrying 
with it one or other yoke-line, thus steering the target into the wake of 
the towing steamer. 
The superstructure, resting on wooden cross-pieces, about 14 by 8 
inches, of deal, and on edge, consists of light wooden masts, carrying a 
lattice-work of cotton webbing. 
The tops of masts are ornamented with small flags. The length of 
target is 36 feet, and height above water-line is 12 feet. 
MITCHELL TARGET. 
Zetia 
ree Oa a errr x 
— WATER LINE .—= 
= — = = = 
A A = Tillers. B B = Yoke-lines, 
The above is a rough hand sketch only, and is not drawn to scale. 
| This target answers fairly well as a record of hits, but has the fail- 
Mitchell 
pattern. 
