332 Letters on Steam Navigation. 
XIL.—Letters on Steam Navigation ; by Junrus S»rrn, 
i—with a Letter to the Editors, from Mr. Henry si 
LETTER I. - 
TO MR. HENRY SMITH. x 
My Dior Sir—Since'I wrote to you respecting masts for steam 
ships, T have, on more mature deliberation, satisfied myself that 
they are better without any masts at all. It may be expedient in 
the present stage of Atlantic steam navigation, to construct what 
may be called a deck mast, that can be thrown up upon a hinge, 
or bolt axis, in case it should be wanted. Ido not doubt that 
more power is lost by the resistance of masts and rigging in steam 
ships, than is gained by the use of sails, I am aware that it will 
be said that-the sails relieve the engines; but upon the same prin- 
ciple, the resistance occasioned by the masts and rigging, distress — 
the engines in proportion to the degree of resistance and the time 
of its continuance. The truth is, as I apprehend it, the engines, 
if properly constructed, will Peiforin their duty just as well with- 
out the aid of sails as with it.. _ Every one at all ‘accustomed to 
the seas, must be aware that a steam ship running off at the rate 
of ten knots an hour, would ‘so far keep ahead of an ordinary 
‘breeze, that sails would have no effect in propelling, whilst the 
resistance of the masts and rigging would have a ideas anda 
: e effect in retarding her. 
Tn crossing the Atlantic one way ar: the other for twelve 
months, how few days out of the three hundred and sixty five 
would a ship have so strong a wind, and that a fair one, as to 
enable her to run ten knots an hour under eanvas? And if the 
wind is not strong enough and fair enough to do that, sails cat 
be of little or no use. If, as is contended, the use of sails does 
relieve the engines, all that can be meant by that is, that you call 
lessen your steam power and reduce the consumption of fuel. ._ 
But I think that advantage will be more than counterbalanced by 
the constantly increased resistance arising from the use of masts 
and rigging. Your’ == wert 
UNIUS Saini. 
London, Sept. 19, 1838. a s. 
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