The requisite qualities of a life-boatman's life-belt 1. Sufficient extra buoyancy (maximum 28 Ibs., minimum 25 Ibs.) to support a m«n heavily clothed, with his head and shoulders above the water, or to enable him to support auother person besides himself.

2. Perfect flexibility, so as to readily conform to the shape of the wearer.

3. A division into two zones, an upper and lower, so that between the two it may be secured tightly round the waist; for in no other manner can it be confined sufficiently close and secure round the body without such pressure over the chest and ribs as to materially affect the free action of the lungs, impede the muscular movement of the chest and arms, and thereby diminish the power of endurance of fatigue, which, in rowing-boats, is a matter of vital importance.

4. Strength, durability, and non-liability to injury..