This classic treatise by Alpheus Hyatt Verrill provides a comprehensive guide to cordage and the art of knot-tying. The author begins by explaining the fundamental structure of rope, detailing how fibers are twisted into yarns, strands, and finally into ropes and cables, while also offering practical formulas for calculating rope strength and weight.
The core of the text is dedicated to practical utility, categorizing various knots, bends, and hitches by their specific functions. Verrill distinguishes between temporary fastenings like simple knots and bends, and permanent attachments such as hitches used to secure lines to solid objects. Clear instructions are provided for creating reliable connections, including the square knot, the bowline, the clove hitch, and the timber hitch, emphasizing safety and mechanical reliability in everyday and maritime use.
The manual extends beyond basic joining to address specialized techniques such as shortening overlong ropes without cutting them, forming endless rings known as grommets, and constructing temporary handles or straps. The author explains the precise methods for making artificial and Flemish eyes, as well as executing various lashings and seizings for rigging and repairs.
A significant portion of the work is devoted to splicing, contrasting short splices, long splices, and eye splices with simple knots. Verrill argues that proper splicing preserves the strength of the line and allows it to pass smoothly through blocks and sheaves where bulky knots would fail.
Finally, the treatise explores ornamental and fancy rope work, detailing traditional maritime crafts such as crown knots, wall knots, Matthew Walker knots, Turk's heads, and half-hitch work. The text concludes with instructions on worming, parcelling, and serving ropes to protect them from wear, demonstrating how utilitarian craft blends seamlessly into decorative art.
