§ It has been decided to vary the design in three of the vessels in the following particulars:—
- 1. To wood-sheathe and copper the bottoms, so as to make the vessels capable of remaining afloat for long periods without serious fouling and consequent loss of speed.
- 2. To adopt horizontal engines, placed entirely below the protective deck.
§ These changes involve an increase in displacement and a slight decrease in maximum speed which are accepted in view of the special services for which the vessels are intended.
§ In armament, protection, and all other qualities, the conditions are the same in these as in the steel-bottomed ships.
§ The trials of these vessels will be made under the new regulations, with all weights aboard.