The long Naval oar is surprisingly full of avoirdupois weight.

True, a midshipman has to handle but one oar, but it takes him many, many days to learn how to do that properly.
Yet, as August came and wore along, the midshipmen found themselves becoming decidedly skilful in the work of handling the heavy cutters, and in handling boats under sail.
Competitive work and racing were encouraged by the Navy officers who had charge of this instruction.
Each boat was under the direct command of a midshipman who served as crew captain, with thirteen other midshipmen under him as crew.
When the post of crew captain fell to Dan Dalzell he embarked his crew, gave the order to shove off and let fall oars, and got away in good style.
Then, leaning indolently back Dan grinned luxuriously.
"This is the post I'm cut out for," he murmured, so that stroke-oar heard him and grinned.
Yet, as "evil communications corrupt good manners," Dan's attitude was reflected in his crew of classmates.

The cutter was manned badly at that moment.
"Mr.Dalzell!" rasped out the voice of Lieutenant Fenton, the instructor, from a near-by boat.
Dan straightened up as though shot.

But the Navy officer's voice continued sternly: "Sit up in a more seamanlike manner.

Pay close attention to the work of your boat crew.