306 



DEPOSITS FOR COAL. 



paraiso, Arica^ Callao^ and Payta or Guayaquil, 

 each capable of receiving from four hundred to 

 five hundred tons : these vessels could be pro- 

 cured on the coast at a very small expense, and 

 made convenient for the reception and discharge 

 of coal , heavy moorings would be necessary in 

 Valparaiso ; but in the other ports any common 

 ground tackle would answer. These hulks 

 would also act as piers for the steamers, and as 

 deposits for extra machinery, provisions, &c. ; 

 also, for goods destined to be shipped on board 

 the steamers, which could be cleared out on 

 board the hulks, and thereby avoid the delay 

 necessarily involved in the routine of custom- 

 house regulations. Vessels bringing coals would 

 al so have the advantage of much greater despatch 

 (as lighters or launches would not be required), 

 by hauling alongside the hulks, and discharging 

 without suffering any interruption. The re- 

 venue laws will require the deposit of the keys 

 of the hulks in the respective custom-houses, 

 and the attendance of an officer on the receipt 

 or delivery of any goods. The expenses of 

 these hulks may be defrayed by the charge 

 of one or two rials per package, for goods 

 deposited. 



There will be no immediate necessity of 

 making a coal deposit in Panama. At present. 



