At stem and stern and between each of the slaves' benches were heavy cannon.

These galeasses were floating edifices, very wonderful to contemplate.

They were gorgeously decorated.
There were splendid state-apartments, cabins, chapels, and pulpits in each, and they were amply provided with awnings, cushions, streamers, standards, gilded saints, and bands of music.

To take part in an ostentatious pageant, nothing could be better devised.

To fulfil the great objects of a war-vessel--to sail and to fight--they were the worst machines ever launched upon the ocean.