the general disposition of the several materials contained in a ship's hold, with regard to their figure, magnitude, or solidity.

In the stowage of different articles, as ballast, casks, cases, bales, and boxes, there are several general rules to be observed, according to the circumstances or qualities of those materials. The casks which contain any liquid are, according to the sea phrase, to be hung-up and bilge-free, i.e. closely wedged up in an horizontal position, and resting on their quarters: so that the bilges where they are thickest being entirely free all round, cannot rub against each other by the motion of the vessel. Dry goods, or such as may be damaged by the water, are to be carefully inclosed in casks, bales, cases, or wrappers; and wedged off from the bottom and sides of the ship, as well as from the bow, masts, and pump-well. Due attention must likewise be had to their disposition with regard to each other, and to the trim and centre of gravity of the ship; so that the heaviest may always be nearest the keel, and the lightest gradually above them.