The opening of Preface
In offering the following work to the public, the author deems no apology necessary, as it was written for the use of the Naval and Merchant Service of the United States, as a ready means of introducing Young Sailors to the theory of that art by which they must expect to advance in the profession they have chosen. He flatters himself, however, that it will be found useful to many old and experienced seamen, as well as to those who have just entered the sailors’ life, and particularly to those destined for the Navy. Should it fall into the hands of the learned, they will bear in mind that he is better versed with the marlinespike than the pen, and that it was composed in the hours of relaxation from official duties. He therefore hopes that it may be received for that which it is intended to be, A KEDGE-ANCHOR, for the youthful sailor. The work has been submitted to the inspection of a number of experienced officers, both in the Navy and Merchant Service, who have given it their decided approbation;--some of whose names are appended to the work.