The large wheel, usually turned by a boy, is used to convey power to the “whirls” or small spindles carrying hooks upon which the fiber is fastened. These whirls, revolving, give the twist to the yarn as the spinner deftly pays out the fiber, regulating it with skillful fingers to preserve the uniformity and proper size of the yarn. As he goes backward down the long walk through the “squares of sunlight on the floor” he throws the trailing yarns over the “stakes” placed at intervals along the walk for the purpose. The spinning “grounds” were usually arranged with wheels at either end, so that spinners, reaching the farther end, could go back to their starting point spinning another set of yarns. [Illustration: HAND SPINNING] Then, in the case of small ropes, the strands could be made by attaching two or more yarns to the “whirl” and twisting them together, reversing the motion to give the strands a twist opposite to that given the yarns. These strands were twisted together, again reversing the motion, making a rope. Thus it will be seen that, reduced to its lowest terms, rope-making consists simply of a series of twisting processes. The twisting of the yarns into the strand is known as “forming” or putting in the “foreturn.” The final process is “laying,” “closing” or putting in the “afterturn.” Horse power was used in old times for forming and laying rope which was too large to be made by hand. [Illustration: PILGRIM HALL, PLYMOUTH] Part II [Illustration] CHAPTER I MANILA FIBER In any manufacturing enterprise the question of raw materials is one of the highest importance. No manufacturer can become extensively successful without an intimate knowledge of the material entering into his product. He must be an expert judge of its quality to be able to determine for himself the exact value of what is offered him and its adaptability for his particular purposes; he must be closely in touch with all the markets; he must know all the conditions surrounding the production and marketing of the material; he must be fully posted as to all causes, natural and speculative, affecting the supply or the demand. To be most valuable, this knowledge must not only cover matters affecting the present, but must forecast the future with the greatest possible degree of certainty. Such foresight is particularly valuable in the cordage business, where material must be provided for many months before it is used. This factor has always been conspicuous in the management of the Plymouth Cordage Company, and has contributed not a little to its continued and increasing growth and prosperity. [Illustration: HANK OF MANILA 12 FEET LONG]