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MINUTES OF PROCEEDINGS OF 
6. The engines would be completely protected below the arch, and 
any necessary openings through the arch could be secured by iron 
shutters being drawn over during action if necessary, and in such a 
way as to admit of the air required being drawn down through them. 
7. The ship, however much she might be knocked about, unless this 
arch were penetrated (and this would be almost impossible), could not 
sink ; and as an additional security, of course all below the arch would 
be divided into water-tight compartments by light iron bulk-heads. 
The ship would carry an armament of sufficient weight for ordinary 
cruising purposes, and in addition could have one heavy gun on each 
side in a box battery, iron-plated, for engaging an iron-clad with, in 
case of meeting such a ship. 
The above views are, it must be borne in mind, only suggestions, not 
matured plans. I am fully aware that the danger from fire and splinters 
will be urged against a ship so plated, but these disadvantages appertain 
to a still greater extent to the present wooden cruising ships. The chief 
advantage claimed is that the ship, though a cruising ship, shall be 
virtually unsinkable. 
POKTSMOUTH, 
June 1, 1871. 
