%()6 Mr. Atwood’s Disquisition on 
To infer the measure of stability from this value of the line ET, 
it will be necessary to have given the distance GE, between the 
centre of gravity of the vessel, and the centre of gravity of the 
volume of water displaced. The position of this latter centre is 
regulated entirely by the form and dimensions of the body under 
water ; and, on this account, is to be considered as a point abso- 
lutely fixed, in respect of the water-section, or other given plane. 
But the position of the vessel’s centre of gravity being regulated, 
partly by the construction and equipment of the vessel, and 
partly by the distribution of the lading and ballast, can be as- 
sumed on the ground of supposition only; unless in cases where 
the position of this point has been actually ascertained. In 
some vessels, the distance GE has been measured, and found 
equal to about y part of the greatest breadth afe*the water-line : 
without knowing what tire real distance of the two centres of 
gravity G and E may be, in the ship of which the dimensions 
are here given as subjects of calculation, the distance GE may 
be estimated (merely for the purpose of exemplifying the pre- 
ceding rules) at \ of the breadth BA, or = 5.39. Con- 
sequently, the inclination of the vessel from the upright being 
30°, GE x sin. 30° = ^- = 2.69 = ER : which being sub- 
tracted from ET == 4.23, will leave TR or GZ = 1.53 feet, 
the measure of the vessel’s stability, when inclined round the 
longer axis through an angle of 30°. 
The solid contents of the volume displaced being 119384 
cubic feet, the weight of the vessel and contents will be equal to 
that of 1 1 9384 cubic feet of sea water ; which, allowing 33 cubic 
feet to each ton, will amount to 3410 tons. According to this 
determination, the force of stability to turn the vessel round the 
longer axis, when inclined from the upright through an angle 
of 30°, is a force of 3410 tons, acting at a distance of 1.33 feet 
