MrssouRi BOTAr'iscAi Garden 
George EfiGELMA'U'-' Papers 
VESSEL AND EQUIPMENT. 
For the purposes of this expedition the well-known screw 
steamship “City of Merida,” of Alexandre’s New York, Ha¬ 
vana and Mexican Mail S. S. Line, has been secured. She 
is 1,492 tons burthen, 256 feet long, 36 feet 9 inches wide, 26 
feet deep, has three decks; from the spar, or upper, deck to 
main deck is 7 feet 6 inches; from main to lower deck 8 feet, 
and from lower deck to floor is 11 feet; is brig rigged, and in 
every respect a thoroughly first class steamship; was built in 1870. 
She is fitted with state rooms and saloons for work, study, lec¬ 
tures, and all other uses of a scientific and educational tour, and 
is provided with a steam launch, an adequate number of smaller 
boats, an ample armament, and is to be commanded by expe¬ 
rienced and skillful naval officers, with a trained crew. A large 
library will be furnished, in which especial care will be taken to 
supply the members with the best works on 'science and travel, 
particularly those relating to the places embraced in the route, 
with a fjull and suitable provision of scientific apparatus for the 
illustration of the subjects of study, and the investigation of all 
natural products and phenomena that may be deemed desirable. 
Especial attention will be constantly given to the sanitary con¬ 
dition of the vessel, and the health, comfort and convenience of 
all on board. 
As a well supplied table contributes materially not only to the ; ^ 
health and enjoyment but to the efficiency of such an expedi¬ 
tion, every care will be taken to secure good stewards, cooks and 
the best provisions attainable. To this end every opportunity will 
be used to procure fruits and fresh provisions, to recruit and refit, 
and to do whatever may be found necessary to keep the vessel 
and the expedition in the best possible condition. This care, 4 
with the recent improvements in canning and preserving fruits | 
and meats,, will secure an excellent diet. Several of the Faculty P 
