Cut out the plank at the part and replace it with a well seasoned piece, butting the remaining parts of the plank over a rib. If thought necessary, put in an extra rib or two, if the hole is above water-line. An easier method is to push the edge of .a piece of sheet copper under the plank, double it over the hole, hammer it close, and tack down with plenty of copper tacks; the part should previously be painted. Cracks may be tilled with a putty made of red lead, white lead, and copal varnish.