§ Mr. C. CRAIGasked whether in June last His Majesty's ship "Proserpine," while on the voyage from Aden to Colombo, broke down in the engine-room twenty-six times and took fourteen days to accomplish the journey, two of which were done with her sun awning hoisted as sails as her only means of propulsion; whether the "Proserpine" has been broken up yet or sold out of the Service; and, if not, whether instructions will be given that no more money be spent on this ship?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAThis vessel was fourteen days on the passage from Aden to Colombo, during two of which she was in tow of another of His Majesty's ships. Delays were caused by condenser troubles, which do not necessitate the condemnation of the vessel. Such repairs are being carried out as will keep the ship efficient till paid off, when she will be relieved by another ship.
§ Mr. C. CRAIGDoes the right hon. Gentleman deny that the "Proserpine" was two days sailing under her sun awnings as her only means of propulsion?
§ Dr. MACNAMARAI have no report of that, but I should think it extremely likely they used the awning in default of other means?