_Brakes._--The brakes are used for the purpose of controlling the tow ropes; they can be fixed by screws into the deck at the most convenient place for command, and in a properly constructed torpedo vessel would be placed below the water line, to prevent exposure of the men working them. They are so arranged as to admit of the tow rope being quickly veered, and at the same time are sufficiently powerful to bring the torpedo to the surface when required. Success greatly depends on the skilful handling of these brakes, for in conjunction with the cork buoys they give the operator command of the depth at which the enemy is to be struck. Unless a very high rate of speed is required, one handspike will control the tow rope; the other strap can be thrown off the drum, and the handspike allowed to lie on the deck ready to be thrown into gear, if necessary. The surface of the drum in contact with the strap should be powdered with rosin to increase the friction. The tow rope should be so reeled up that in veering the reel may revolve towards the men at the handspike. The spindle will contain several tow ropes, that, in the event of one torpedo being cut away, another can be immediately bent. The brake for small torpedo requires only one drum and handspike. It can be fitted to a steam launch by placing an extra thwart across near one of the others. Care should be taken that the riding turns lie fairly over each other, to prevent a jamb when veering. The brakes, both large and small, are so made as to ensure durability, they being considered a part of the ship's furniture. Brake for safety key line is a small reel on the same principle. When going a slow speed, it may not be necessary, as the safety key line can be attended by hand; but when going ten or eleven knots, it will be found of considerable advantage, both in keeping the bight of the safety key line from dragging astern, thereby lessening the divergence of the torpedo, and also in drawing the safety key when a strong stop is used. _Arrangements for Launching and Towing the Torpedoes._--A yard across either the main or mizen mast of a torpedo vessel, from 20 to 25 feet above the water line, is a very convenient method for launching and towing. The leading block on the yard, through which the tow rope is rove, may be fitted to a traveller on the yard with an inhaul and outhaul, that the distance out from the ship's side may be regulated as convenient. In a large vessel, the leading block for tow rope can be fixed to the end of the quarter-boat's davits. The brakes for commanding the tow rope should be screwed firmly to the deck. In a vessel properly constructed for the service, they would be on the lower deck, the tow rope having been led along the yard, and down each side of the mast.