None of the ordinary manuals have ever given them, the young sailor having had to learn them by experience on shipboard.
Their importance is evident from the fact that every order aboard ship is preceded by the pipe peculiar to the command; for though the words may not be heard, the whistle can always be distinguished.

Even the most lubberly landsman, with such continuous practice, soon learns the meaning of the different calls, and jumps to obey them.
[Illustration: THE BOATSWAIN'S CALLS] [Illustration: STATIONS OR QUARTERS FOR EXERCISE, OR PRECEDING ACTION, OF FIVE-INCH BREECHLOADING RIFLES.] 1.

First Captain, Second Boarder.2.Second Captain, First Boarder.

3.
First Loader, Second Boarder, 4.

Second Loader, First Boarder.5.