Single sheet, parchment, 230 x 185mm, part-printed form with manuscript insertions, two wax authenticating seals and a blue paper embossed duty stamp over the printed arms of The Company of Watermen and Lightermen. With this indenture, Thomas Patterson, is bound to "Learn his Art, and with him (after the manner of an Apprentice) to dwell and serve upon the River of Thames from the Day of the Date hereof until the full End and Term of seven years...." The indenture contains several morality clauses in which the Apprentice is bound to "do no damage to the said Master", "shall not commit Fornication, nor contract Matrimony" nor "play at Cards, Dice, Tables, nor any other unlawful games whereby his said Master many have any loss." The Watermen of the River Thames transported passengers and the Lightermen moved goods from vessels at anchor to the quays and back. The Company of Watermen and Lightermen operated was founded 1514 and operated as a City Guild in the licensing of watermen & lightermen until the this role was assumed by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.