John who??? Charles Chapman, editor of Motorboating magazine, was the author and titled it "Practical Motor Boat Handling, Seamanship and Piloting."
My first "modern" edition was my dad's 1970s book...the first one I bought was a late 80's followed by at least 2 '90s (none of which I kept, I regret to say)... Iearned how to eye splice 3 strand using the instructions in one of them..instructions that are no longer included in current editions I'm sad to say.
I literally stumbled over my first edition Chapmans on a vintage book seller's site while looking for a 1st edition "Winnie the Pooh." That particular seller had gotten it with books that fit his market, didn't know the first thing about boats or boating books...I bought it for $25. It's a small book, hardbound--the cover is only 5"x 7"--176 pages including a 4 page index. The title page includes this paragraph:
"A handbook containing information which every motor boatman should know. Especially prepared for the man who takes pride in handling his own boat and getting the greatest enjoyment out of cruising. Adapted for the yachtsman interested in fitting himself to be of service to his Government in time of war." (Remember this book was published in 1917 during WWI, 1914-1918)
I think you may find the table of contents interesting too (see photo).
Needless to say, this little book is one of my treasured possessions.
--Peggie
