The Arts Of The Sail: Knotting, Splicing, & Ropework, by Hervey Garrett Smith. 256 Pages. Softbound. This excellent handbook on basic shipboard skills offers boating and yachting enthusiasts a complete course in rigging, working, and maintaining a ship. More than a 100 illustrations help the reader grasp the fundamentals and fine points of handling a ship while the author describes in detail the sailors tools, basic knots and useful hitches as well as splicing, handsewing and canvas work. Boat maintenance and management are also discussed-such as belaying, coiling and stowing; towing procedures; chafing gear; etc. Fashioning decorative knots, ornamental coverings, and nettings are made easy with Smith's step-by-step instructions. This is the perfect book to keep aboard as a ready reference, but may also entertain many an armchair sailor or landlubber as well. $11.95 (BK-0204)