Packets and Passage to Donaghadee. 83 



rapidly, as to give an idea that the passage 

 could not be unattended with risk, yet the 

 experience of years has proved it otherwise ; 

 and that the strength of the currents, which ap- 

 pears to constitute the danger and difficulty, is, 

 in fact, the means of accelerating the intercourse 

 between the two shores ; for by consulting the 

 tides, delays seldom occur. The London mail 

 arrives daily about noon, and the packet sails as 

 soon as possible afterwards. 



UKit ?!fO(J 



It is in contemplation to make some improve- 

 ments in the harbour, for the purpose of facili- 

 tating the embarkation of cavalry. The Marquis 

 of Downshire was the first patron of this port ; 

 but in consequence of the impositions practised, 

 he withdrew his support. This has led to the 

 establishment of certain regulations that are 

 effectual in preventing frauds. 



The passage, and every thing connected with 

 it, is very reasonable. Horses and carriages 

 are embarked and transported with facility ; and' 

 since the union, the passage has been more fre- 

 quented. 



The importation of horses and cattle from 

 Ireland has been very considerable. In the last 

 year, thirty thousand four hundred and twenty-^ 



G 2 



