As explorers and merchants brave the high seas in search of new opportunities, sailors do the hard work of getting them there. Seamen raise and lowers sails, row galleys, repair equipment, maintain vessels, load and unload goods and perhaps help steer ships. If the ship is attacked, they usually are expected to defend it. However, sailors often have ample free time. They are generally common men with common tastes, but unlike most, their lives are nothing but travel. Since they are usually far from home, and therefore not in danger of hurting anyone’s reputation, they are often seen as unruly. They can also make a considerable amount of money on the side by engaging in trade on their own. In fact, sailors often carry a small bag of goods which they sell and trade at each new port.