On Sun, 27 Jun 2004 08:47:07 -0400, "Gary Warner"
wrote:
I understnad that on these ships the stern is their week point
both in construction and because if you can shoot out the
other's rudder they are in a very bad poistion. But I thought
that these ships could only fire to their sides. If that's the case
I don't see how being either the lead ship or the following
one is much of any advantage.

Anyone understand this?
==================================
Yes. If you are astern, there is very little danger of receiving
return fire since the canon were mounted in the sides of the boat.
The trick is to maneuver and stay astern while you rake the rigging
and deck with your own broadsides.