Shifting Backstays

Packstays used only as necessity requires. They are always shifted when a vessel goes about so that the weather ones are taut and the lee ones slack. Shifting backstays set up with their own permanent tackle, and are nothing more nor less than preventer stays for the topmast when the vessel is under a press of sail. When not employed, they are set up in the after-part of the channels of the mast to which they belong.