§ The work on ships building by contract in 1887–88 has very nearly kept pace with the programme; of the five belted cruisers, the "Orlando" and "Undaunted" were delivered within the contract time: the remaining vessels were not delivered until the contract dates had been exceeded.
§ The "Victoria," formerly "Renown," but re-named in honour of Her Majesty's Jubilee, was launched early in April last year, and it is probable she will be delivered in April next, or three years from the date of the contract, and six months within the guaranteed period.
§ The sister vessel "Sanspareil" was launched in May, 1887, and it is anticipated that her delivery will also take place some months within the period allowed by the contract.
§ The completion of these two powerful iron-clads will bring to an end the Special Programme of 1885, originated by Lord Northbrook, so that it may be anticipated that the expenditure involved in carrying out that Programme will be almost concluded, during the year 1888–89. The actual date of completion of these two ships for service depends upon the dates of delivery of the 110-ton turret guns, and this may lead to some expenditure upon them in 1889–90.
§ During 1887–88 the only new vessels ordered by contract were the sheathed protected cruisers "Magicienne" and "Marathon," which are being built by the Fairfield Company, Glasgow; the engines being supplied by Messrs. Hawthorn, Leslie, & Co. These vessels are being advanced very rapidly, and the contract provides for their delivery at the end of this year (1888).
§ The work done by private firms in connection with the machinery of H.M. Ships during 1887–88 has been of remarkable magnitude and importance. Continual advances in the speed of war ships involve the construction of machinery of ever increasing power, and the introduction of successive improvements. In 892 893 this continuous effort the professional officers of the Admiralty have had the advantage of the co-operation and assistance of the most eminent private firms of marine engineers who contract for the machinery. Some of the trials made during the year 1887–88 have been of exceptional interest; as for example those of the "Anson," the "Orlando," "Galatea," and "Rattlesnake." The decision to adopt triple expansion engines has been amply justified by the results so far attained. In not a few cases the engine power and speeds estimated in the stage of design have been considerably exceeded on trial.