§ SIR JOHN HAYsaid, he wished to ask the Secretary to the Admiralty, If it is true that it is the intention of the Board of Admiralty to try the Cupola ships. Royal Sovereign and Prince Albert, without any masts, at sea; or whether the tripod masts proposed by Captain Coles are to be adopted?
§ LORD CLARENCE PAGET, in reply, said, it was not the intention of the Board of Admiralty to fit with masts the cupola ships, Royal Sovereign and Prince Albert, as they were intended only for the defence of harbours; but if they were required to go to sea, they would be fitted with temporary and removable masts.