weather gauge

He would thus have what corresponded to the weather-gauge in old-time frigate actions.

His plan was to gain the weather-gauge of the Armada, and inflict damage on them in their course, and throw them into disorder.

Another simple weather-gauge may be made by stretching whip-cord or catgut over five pulleys.

She stood down upon us, under all sail, having the weather-gauge, and as soon as she got within gunshot began blazing away.

Commander, you handled him like a babby, kept the weather gauge, and hulled him every shot.