Modern introduction by John H. Harland. First published in 1808, this guide became standard training material throughout the 19th century in Britain and the US. Lever compiled the text for young gentlemen choosing a sea-faring life, and he later expanded it for general use for young officers in the Royal Navy and East India Company. The book covers rigging, but also, a ship's operation through wind in its sails, tacking, use of a compass, swinging a ship at single anchor, casting, and other aspects of operating a sailing ship. The copious original drawings are included. Includes a dictionary of sea terms. Sight wrinkle to top corner of front cover, otherwise like new. Unabridged 1998 republication of the second edition published by Joahn Richardson, London, 1819. Dover Publications. 1998. Paper. USED. $30.00