What was the purpose of the "Pharos"?

 title: 'BIG SWANKIE FINDS MORE THAN HE EXPECTED.— PAGE 9.'

The 'Pharos' was a temporary floating lightship that was prepared and anchored near the Bell Rock[1]. The purpose of the 'Pharos' was to act as a depot, rendezvous, and guide to the three smaller vessels employed in the work, and as a light to shipping[1].

The 'Pharos' served as a home to the men while they worked on constructing the lighthouse, as they were not allowed to go ashore to the mainland[1].