The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Footrope \Foot"rope`\, n. (Aut.)
   (a) The rope rigged below a yard, upon which men stand when
       reefing or furling; -- formerly called a horse.
   (b) That part of the boltrope to which the lower edge of a
       sail is sewed.
       [1913 Webster]