The Commodore, however, is of opinion that much of the inconvenience anticipated is obviated by lengthening the vessel 18 feet, as it is, or thereabouts, and he recommends that this course be adopted, probably that before Your Lordship interferes the Engines and Boiler contracted for by the Crown Agents will be on their way to this Colony.
The Commodore does not believe that the Boiler proposed is at all the most suitable, but he considers that many of the inconveniences occasioned by such a huge generator of heat in a space confined and for such a length both above and below deck will be diminished, and be made more amenable to control by obtaining further space.
I shall, therefore, take measures to be at least prepared to carry out that recommendation, at the same time I expect the expense will be considerable.
The "Victoria", as she stands, is a very good sailer, and is thought to be the strongest built as well as the cheapest vessel entirely teak built, copper fastened, copper bottomed, and with so per cent more timbers than is normally allowed to vessels of her size. With all her sails complete for sea she cost $16,000, though I believe the Union Dock Company, which built her, expended $24,000 on her.
I fear, however, that lengthening her 18 feet will cause an expense amounting to nearly 1/2 of the original cost, whilst it will make her more handy for turning in narrow channels.
It is clearly the opinion of the Commodore that, nevertheless, it would be most inconvenient and unsuitable to put her proposed Engines and Boiler in without lengthening her, and consequently it does not leave much room for choice in the matter, if the Colony be consulted to take the Engines and Boiler contracted for by the Crown Agents.
When I have obtained the necessary information as to the probable cost of the alteration, I shall communicate fully with Your Lordship, though the time for making the change, according to the Commodore, would be when the Engines arrive. I fear that I shall be compelled to act in the matter a good deal on my own responsibility.
I have the honour to be,
My Lord,
Your Lordship's most obedient humble servant,
MacDonnell
Governor.