9
200
now lies to be lengthened and have her Engines fitted. The mere fact of space being required in this climate to render the vessel workable in Summer with such a Boiler, under conditions at all consistent with proper sanitary considerations, requires enlargement of the hull - a point adverted to by Mr. Reed). The expense of the alteration will probably be about £2500.
9. That this with the cost of Engines, freight, and the original expense of building, will make the total cost of the vessel, when completed, about £8000, for which sum the Victoria will be a new and exceptionally strong steamer, 260 tons burthen, well built, coppered and copper fastened with new Boiler and Engines, and thoroughly well found.
10. Owing to the amount $16,000 originally paid for her, computed from the approximate Estimate furnished by the Hong Kong and Whampoa Dock Company, which is probably the most competent to make this necessary alteration, and which had sent in the lowest tender for construction, and whereby her builder lost nearly £9,000, the Victoria is a cheap vessel and will be ample value for the above money. Nevertheless, in fitting her for her Engines and the large Boiler sent out for her, I must