The Second Mate was third in command of the ship, behind the Captain and First Mate. He commanded the starboard watch, keeping and eye on the helm, watching the weather, adjusting the sails, and keeping the Master aware of anything important. Along with the Third Mate, he supervised the seamen's work, stood watches, and maintained discipline. During the chase, he was in charge of one of the whaleboats, the small boats that were rowed out in pursuit of the whales. His lay (share of the profits) was between1/28 and 1/40.