The 4Ls = L.L.L.L.

Therefore I say, use the Lead and the Log and mind the Latitude and the Look-out.

I believe in the Lead, as it warns me against dangers which the Eye cannot sea (sic).

I believe in the Log as it checks my distance run.

I believe in ascertaining the Latitude, as it helps me define mv position.

I believe in the Look-out, as it warns me against dangers to be seen.

The Lead warns me against dangers invisible, The Log warns me against false distances, the Latitude helps to define my position, and the Look-out warns me against dangers visible.

And I earnestly resolve, and openly declare, that as I hope to sail my ship in safety on the ocean, as I wish to spare the lives of my fellow creatures at sea, and as I wish to go in safety all my days, so will I steadfastly practice that which I believe.

And I hereby warn seamen, and tell them that if they neglect any one of these four things, rather the Lead, the Log, the Latitude or the Look-out, they or their fellows will some day surely perish.

    The Mariners Creed - the L.L.L.L. to be said daily and acted on always

                        American Practical Navigator, Bowditch, United States Hydrographic Office, Washington, D.C., 1918, Second Reprint Edition, 

This above was found written on the inside cover of this volume. Nathanial Bowditch wrote the first edition in the 1802 and the book still bears his name.