THE FREEDOM OF THE SEAS
booms, ladders, davits, stanchions, ventilators and inflammables. In short, everything not absolutely needed for the moderate comfort of the personnel and the conduct of war had been left behind. In battle, articles of wood, whether fixtures or furnishings, have an unpleasant way of splintering under shell fire and, besides, may become ignited. Prior to an actual engagement the call of Clear Ship for Action frequently consigns still other things to a watery grave.
Nelson stood first watch that night and turned into his hammock at midnight. The Gyandotte was riding on a more even keel now and the sway of his swinging bed was only enough to help him pass quickly into a sound slumber.
