be rigged on the same plan, with a jib and mainsail, and they will be
found to be both safe and swift.

THE CONSTRUCTION

Without careful working drawings, which but few boys could manage
without the aid of a skilled workman, it would be impossible to show
just how a good sail boat can be made. It should be said, however,
that the ordinary rowboat may be easily changed into a sail boat,
provided a keel is attached, or a lee board provided. The latter, as
you know, is a broad piece of board that is slipped, when needed, into
a groove along the side of the boat, to keep it from drifting when the
wind is not full astern.

Good, light string timber that is easily worked should always be
chosen. See that it is free from knots; if this cannot be had, do not
try to build a boat.

After all, unless all the conditions are favorable, and you have great
talent for such work, it will be easier to save your money and then
buy such a boat as you need, or if you cannot do this, get a carpenter
who knows how to build such a craft to make the boat for you.

I have known cases where a number of boys, living near the water,
bought a sail boat which they owned in common. Each had the right to
its use on a fixed day, though, as they were school fellows, it
happened that they usually went out together. The latter is the better
way, provided always that when the crew starts off for a cruise it is
distinctly understood that one of the number is to be the captain for
the time and is to be obeyed accordingly.