the entrance of the straits which divides Asia from Europe, and passes from the Archipelago to Constantinople. It is now called the Dardanelles, and is about two miles wide.

HELM of a ship, is a piece of timber fastened into the rudder, which comes forward into the steerage, or place where the person at the helm steers the ship, by holding the whipstaff in his hand, which is joined to the helm. They begin however to be left off, steering-wheels being used in their room.

There are several terms in the sea-language relating to the helm; as, bear up the helm; that is, let the ship go more largely before the wind. Helm amidship, or right the helm; that is, keep it even with the middle of the ship. Port the helm, put it over the left side of the ship. Starboard the helm, put it on the right side of the ship.