THE S.S. CHARLES EDWARD.

Colonist, Volume XXVII, Issue 3805, 4 January 1884, Page 4

THE S.S. CHARLES EDWARD.

On Saturday,'. Dec. 22, a, considerable number of gentlemen availed, themselves of the opportunity of- a most pleasant cruise in the Bay, afforded by the owners of the ss Charles Edward. The alterations to this sieamer, conversion from paddle to twin screw being completed, the visitors were able to inspect the'wonderful improvements made and to experierce ■ her comforts as a passenger boat. She had two or three spins over the measured mile, with satisfactory results, and every one wai loud in their praises. Her carrying capacity, speed, and accommodation are all much improved,. while she is much more economical in the matter of fuel. The most striking feature in her accommodation is her charming ladies' cabin, situated under the bridge, on the main deck amidships, the most favorable position as regards motion, and being forward of the engines and galley is entirely free from any unpleasant smells | which may arise from these sources. The deck cabins, formerly used by the ladies are now available for gentlemen. On returning to port the visitors adjourned to the saloon for refreshment, the tables were tastefully laid out with fruits, flowers, &c. Iv proposing success to the Charles Edward, and to the Anchor Foundry, MiPitt thanked the owners , for the pleasant outing and eulogised their enterprise in preventing, at the time of the late proprietor's death, the dispersion of the fleet, and of now expending, locally, such, a large amount in further improvements. Mr Sclanders replied on behalf of the Compauy, and referred to the undoubted benefit to everyone in Nelson of the steamers being owned here, and having all. repairs effected on the spot, and where the wages of the crews were mostly spent.. The steamers, foundry, &c, represented the most important of our local industries. He trusted the mercantile community would loyally support the local enterprise. He regretted the absence, through accident, of Captain Whitwell, the only mishap throughout the repairs. : Mr Cock proposed the health of Mr Alexander Brown, the Superintending Engineer (also one of the owners), whose skill and ability are so welb known, and who planned and carried out all the alterations. The machinery, which works without a hitch, was entirely constructed at' the Anchor Foundry, and will compare most favorably with work turned out in any part of the world. : Mr Sharp proposed success to Messrs Cock and the health of the bride of Mr Henry Cock, a daughter of the late proprietor of the steamers, who, with her husband, is now on the way to Nelson from England. Judge Bkoad proposed the health of the Captains of the Anchor Line. Being a frequent traveller by the steamers, no one had a better opportunity than he of judging of the difficult nature of their duties in dealing with bar harbors, and the satisfactory manner in which they fulfilled them. It would be impossible to find men better adapted to their work. He specially referred to the many kind enquiries he received on the Coast respecting Captain Whitwell and the universal regret ac the accident.