LAUNCH OF THE EMU.

Thames Star, Volume III, Issue 1665, 20 April 1874, Page 2

LAUNCH OF THE EMU.

Seldomlately have we seen sucb a crowd of people in Shortland as that which was attracted thither this morning to see the launch of the Emu. From a comparatively early hour persons of all ages and both sexes wore seen going in the direction of Shortland Wharf, a sufficient evidence that an unusual interest has been taken in the progress of what promises to be a splendid success in naval architecture. ■ The centre' of attraction was the vessel herself, which had been gaily decorated with bunting as new to the breeze as she was to her element until this morning. From bowsprit to mast-

head was a line of streamers ; at the main floated what may be called a distinguishing pennant—a white flag with an •emu in dark blue, and over the stern drooped a splendid new ensign. From daylight ©this morning the workmen were employed in making preparations for the launch, and the completeness of ijjhese preparations'was evidenced by the -easy way in which the vessel glided off the stocks into the water. Every thing being ready, the accompanying bottle of champagne suspended at the bows by a blue ribbon, a few minutes before half-past nine o'clock the sheers were knocked away—the champagne broken by Mrs C. B. Stone (daughter-' "in-law of i the owner), who at the same jtime'named-the ship the Emu, and down 'the " ways " the Emu glided without any rocking or other movement but a steadyforward one. In five minutes she walked the waters of the Kauaeranga like a thing jpf life, looking as graceful as a swan. ilt was pronounced on all: sides to be a most successful launch, scarcely occupy-, jing five minutes from the first movement >until she was afloat, The builder, Mr. pi. Stone had some slight fears that the Vessel might come to a temporary ftick in the mud,'; but' she did not, the height of the spring tide giving ample depth of water. The launch was carried out under the immediate direction of Mr Stone, and Captain Baker, who has left the steamer Golden' Grown, in which he has been for a long time Chief Officer, to assume'the command of the Emu. A numerous cpnipany, 1 were entertained 'by/the builder at a champange' breakfast. The Emu is to be towed to Tararu to-day and tjienee to Auckland by, the Golden Crown^ when the' engine, and pther machinery and cabins will be fitted. She was originally intended for a steam collier, but we learn that she will now be employed in the coasting trade; ' Probably, her nrst'tripwillbeto'Lyttelton with timber, returning with a cargo pf A wheat. The vessel as launched to-day lias cost £2500, and an equal sum wijl be required" to fit her for sea. The launch t'ook place just ait half-past nine, and tliere could not haye been less than 1000 persons present. She is the largest vessel ever built at the Thames. We are Informed that the fir^t' vessel ever' built in Auckland was' to' th'e ! order of the owner-of the Emui MiCaptain James Stone. The Emu is said* to be bne of the most faithfully built" vessels eveil .turned but of a yard; and she certainly looks a perfect mpdel-^a credit to her builder and. to the enterprise of the owner. / [In attempting to take the, Emu to Tararu .she stuck, owing to the fast receding tide, so that her departure for Auckland is postponed until. tomorrow.] .; v