of sea-birds, a valuable manure found in thick
beds on certain islets on the coast of Peru, indeed, in all tropical
climates. The transport of it occupies a number of vessels, called
_guaneros_. It is of a dingy yellow colour, and offensive ammoniacal
effluvium. Captain Shelvocke mentions it in 1720, having taken a small
bark laden with it.

GUARA. The singular and ingenious rudder by which the rafts or balzas of
Peru are enabled to work to windward. It consists of long boards between
the beams, which are raised or sunk according to the required evolution.
A device not unlike the sliding-keels or centre-boards lately
introduced.

GUARANTEE. An undertaking to secure the performance of articles
stipulated between any two parties. Also, the individual who so
undertakes.

GUARD. The duty performed by a body of men stationed to watch and
protect any post against surprise. A division of marines appointed to
take the duty for a stated portion of time. "Guard, turn out!" the order
to the marines on the captain's approaching the ship. Also, the bow of a
trigger and the hilt of a sword.

GUARDA-COSTA. Vessels of war of various sizes which formerly cruised
against smugglers on the South American coasts.

GUARD-BOARDS. Synonymous with _chain-wales_.

GUARD-BOAT. A boat appointed to row the rounds amongst the ships of war
in any harbour, &c., to observe that their officers keep a good
look-out, calling to the guard-boat as she passes, and not suffering her
crew to come on board without previously having communicated the
watch-word of the night. Also, a boat employed to enforce the quarantine
regulations.

GUARD-BOOK. Report of guard; a copy of which is delivered at the
admiral's office by the officer of the last guard. Also, a full set of
his accounts kept by a warrant-officer for the purpose of passing them.

GUARD-FISH. A corruption of the word _gar-fish_.

GUARDIAN OF THE CINQUE PORTS. Otherwise _lord warden_ (which see).

GUARD-IRONS. Curved bars of iron placed over the ornaments of a ship to
defend them from damage.

GUARDO. A familiar term applied equally to a guard-ship or any person
belonging to her. It implies "harbour-going;" an easy life.

GUARDO-MOVE. A trick upon a landsman, generally performed in a
guard-ship.

GUARD-SHIP. A vessel of war appointed to superintend the marine affairs
in a harbour, and to visit the ships which are not commissioned every
night; she is also to receive seamen who are impres