Leech-lines

Ropes attached (between the clew and earing) to the leech-ropes of a course, topgallant-sail, etc., then pa ed through blocks, on the yard under the rim of the top etc. afterwards descending on deck. Employed to stretch the upper portion of the leech-ropes along the yard, when the sail is clewed up; they are called after the sails with which they are connected.