1. The mizzen sail functions much like a second mainsail.

2. Quick as thought, I sprang into the mizzen shrouds , rattled up hand over hand, and did not draw a breath till I was seated on the cross-trees.

3. Sailors speak of mizzen masts because the word for mast in Arab is mazzan.

4. A ketch therefore uses three primary sails: the mainsail and head sail, as on a sloop, plus the mizzen sail aft.

5. This means that the mainsail and head sail of a ketch are generally smaller than on a sloop, but the mizzen sail roughly makes up the difference.

6. Their foremasts are typically raked forward, while the main and mizzen were either straight or raked slightly back.

7. Five minutes after, it was down; and we sailed under mizzen - tops'ls and to'gall'nt sails.'

8. For example, with the wind at an intensity that a sloop might have to double-reef the main to reduce sail area, a ketch may sail very well under just jib and mizzen.