§ Good progress has also been made on the new vessels laid down in 1887–88 in the Dockyards. The two 20-knot protected cruisers building at Chatham have been pushed forward nearly to the stage of launching; the similar, but sheathed, cruiser at Portsmouth has been advanced considerably beyond what was contemplated in the Estimates for 1887–88. The two composite sloops ("Nymphe" and "Daphne") are almost ready for launching, and the 6 gunboats of the "Pheasant" class have been advanced as was intended.
§ It was found to be advantageous for the economical employment and distribution of workmen that four ships, not contained in the Estimates of 1887–88, and additional to the authorized programme, should be laid down and commenced during that financial year. These vessels were required for special service and reliefs, and consisted of three gunboats (of the "Rattler" class modified) and a paddle steamer for surveying service. The three gunboats are building at Pembroke.