1862 .] 
the Isthmus of Krau. 
361 
establishment of running steamers , and that a vast amount of time 
will be saved over present routes. Of the political bearing of the 
subject, we have said nothing, but holding in view that the line 
from Ceylon to Cochin China, is nearly ^straight, we are convinced 
that if Great Britain does not take it in hand, France must, with 
every chance of a profitable opposition to the P. and 0. Company in 
their line with Europe to Calcutta via Madras. 
Alex. Fraser, 
Captain , Bengal Engineers. 
J. G. Forlong, 
Captain F. B. S F. 
Fx. Engineer, Tenasserim Provinces. 
