the chain-plates, so the planking and timbers surrounding them should be closely inspected. An old or weakly constructed vessel is often deformed and pulled out of shape by this strain.
Examine the masts and spars to see if they are rotten or sprung. Masts are most liable to be unsound where they pass through the deck, and beneath the hounds. Longitudinal cracks in spars are immaterial unless the fissures be of great depth. It is the custom to fill these cracks with putty in order to keep out the moisture; take out a portion of the putty in places so as to ascertain whether rot has set up within. Transverse or diagonal cracks generally indicate that the spar is sprung, and should be condemned. If the examination of hull and spars proves satisfactory, there yet remains a careful inspection of all the equipment, the condition of the wire and rope rigging, the blocks and sails, the anchor, chain, and so forth.
The age of the vessel must also be taken into consideration before completing the purchase. It is a risky thing to buy an old craft of, say, twenty-five years of age, and at any rate she should be most minutely surveyed. On the other hand a vessel that has been built of honest stuff, and has been well cared for, will remain sound for a great many years; and if, after close examination of an old vessel, she proves to be in really good condition, you may safely trust her more than you would a younger boat. With boats it is as with human
