THE BADMINTON LIBRARY
OF
SPORTS AND PASTIMES

EDITED BY
HIS GRACE THE DUKE OF BEAUFORT, K.G.
ASSISTED BY ALFRED E. T. WATSON

YACHTING
II.

Old Flags

YACHTING

BY
R. T. PRITCHETT
THE MARQUIS OF DUFFERIN AND AVA, K.P.
JAMES McFERRAN
REV. G. L. BLAKE, T. B. MIDDLETON
EDWARD WALTER CASTLE AND ROBERT CASTLE
G. CHRISTOPHER DAVIES, LEWIS HERRESHOFF
THE EARL OF ONSLOW, G.C.M.G., H. HORN
SIR GEORGE LEACH, K.C.B., Vice-President Y.R.A.

IN TWO VOLUMES—VOL. II.

WITH ILLUSTRATIONS BY R. T. PRITCHETT
AND FROM PHOTOGRAPHS

LONDON
LONGMANS, GREEN, AND CO.
1894

All rights reserved

CONTENTS OF THE SECOND VOLUME

• CHAPTER PAGE

• Royal Yachts and English Yacht Clubs
  By R. T. Pritchett, Marquis of Dufferin and Ava, K.P., James McFerran, and Rev. G. L. Blake. [1]
• Scottish Clubs
  By R. T. Pritchett and Rev. G. L. Blake. [72]
• Irish Clubs
  By R. T. Pritchett, Rev. G. L. Blake, and T. B. Middleton. [99]
• The Thames Clubs and Windermere
  By Edward Walter Castle, Robert Castle, and R. T. Pritchett. [152]
• Yachting on the Norfolk Broads
  By G. Christopher Davies. [190]
• Yachting in America
  By Lewis Herreshoff. [227]
• Yachting in New Zealand
  By the Earl of Onslow, G.C.M.G. [287]
• Foreign and Colonial Yachting
  By R. T. Pritchett and Rev. G. L. Blake. [304]
• Some Famous Races
  By R. T. Pritchett. [324]
• Racing in a 40-Rater in 1892
  By R. T. Pritchett. [332]
• Yacht Racing in 1893
  By H. Horn. [349]
• The American Yachting Season of 1893
  By Lewis Herreshoff. [400]
• The America Cup Races, 1893
  By Sir George Leach, K.C.B., Vice-President Y.R.A. [416]

• Appendix: The 'Giralda' [425]
• Index [427]

ILLUSTRATIONS IN THE SECOND VOLUME

(Reproduced by J. D. Cooper and Messrs. Walker & Boutall)

FULL-PAGE ILLUSTRATIONS

ILLUSTRATIONS IN TEXT

CHAPTER I
ROYAL YACHTS AND ENGLISH YACHT CLUBS

ROYAL YACHTS
By R. T. Pritchett

The innate love of the English for everything connected with seafaring, roving and adventure, burst prominently forth in the time of Queen Elizabeth, when Drake and Raleigh showed what could be done in small craft in 'ocean cruising,' and, with early Corinthian crews from Devon and the brave West, sallied forth and straightway laid the foundation of our navy, and our present numerous fleet of yachts. In 1604 an early designer, one Phineas Pett, built a yacht for Henry of Wales; and to him the Navy was much indebted for general improvement in line and build throughout the early part of the Stuart dynasty.

At the Restoration we begin in earnest the History of Yachting, and find King Charles II. taking most enthusiastically to yacht building and even racing. That mine of wealth for the details of every-day life, that minute recorder of modes and fashions, Samuel Pepys, Esq., F.R.S., Secretary to the Admiralty, first brings to our notice the aquatic taste of His Majesty. In his delightful 'Diary' we find:—

July 15, 1660.—Found the King gone this morning by 5 of the clock to see a Dutch pleasure boat below bridge, where he dines and my Lord with him.

In a further notice we find His Majesty winning the first yacht race in the Thames, over the course of the R.T.Y. Club, Greenwich to Gravesend and back—a wager of one hundred guineas.

January 13, 1660-1661.—Lord's Day. To the Globe to dinner, then to Commissioner Pett, to his lodgings there, which he hath for the present while he is building the King's yacht, which will be a very pretty thing and much beyond the Dutchman's.

January 15.—The King hath been this afternoon to Deptford to see the yacht that Commissioner Pett is building, which will be very pretty, as also that his brother Christopher Pett (son of Phineas Pett) at Woolwich is making.

Dutch yacht. From drawing by Vandervelde dated 1640.

November 8.—On board the yacht, which indeed is one of the finest things that ever I saw, for neatness and room in so small a vessel.

May 21, 1661.—To Deptford and took barge and were overtaken by the King in his barge, he having been down the river in his yacht this day for pleasure to try it; and I hear Commissioner Pett's do prove better than the Dutchman, and that his brother did build at Woolwich.

October 1, 1661.—Between Charles II. and his brother the Duke of York for 100 guineas. Sailing match from Greenwich to Gravesend and back. The King won.

July 22, 1662.—Lord Sandwich in yacht to Boulogne in foul weather.

September, 1662.—By water to Woolwich, on my way saw the yacht lately built by our virtuosoes. My Lord Brunkard and others, with the help of Commissioner Pett also, set out from Greenwich with the little Dutch 'Bezan' to try for mastery; and before they got to Woolwich the Dutch beat them half a mile. And I hear this afternoon that in coming home it got above three miles, which all our people were glad of.

July 31, 1663.—Sir William Petty's vessel, which he hath built on two keeles, a model whereof built for the King he showed me, hath this month won a Wager of 50l. in sailing between Dublin & Holyhead with the ... Pacquett boat. The best ship or vessel the King hath there, and he offers to lay with any vessel in the world.

'Een Bezan Jagt,' 1670.

It is about thirty tons in burden, and carries 30 men with good commodation, as much more as any ship of her burden also as any vessel of this figure shall carry more men. She carries 10 guns of about 5 tons weight. In coming back from Holyhead they started together, and this vessel came to Dublin by 5 at night and the Pacquett boat not before eight the next morning.[1]

September 17, 1665.—Lord's Day. To church to Gravesend in the 'Bezan' yacht, and then to anchor for all night—and with much pleasure at last to sleep—having very good lodging upon cushions in the cabbin.

Cutter, 141 tons, from Stalkart's 'Naval Architecture,' 1781.

October 1, 1665.—Lord's Day. Embarked on board the 'Bezan.' ... After supper on board the 'Bezan,' then to cards for a while and so to sleep; but Lord! the mirth it caused me to be waked in the night by the snoring around me.

1690.—Macaulay in his 'History' mentions a yacht. Caermarthen's eldest son—bold and volatile, fond of the sea, and living much among sailors—had a small yacht of marvellous speed.

1697.—Peter the Great is known to have added to the advancement of sailing and building yachts during his visit to this country.

1720-1737.—The Water Club of the harbour of Cork was established, to be held once every spring tide in April to the last in September, inclusive. The details of this doyen club will be found in its proper place, p. 99 et seq.

Yacht stern, 1781.

Amidst all the voluminous MSS. of the Admiralty secured and appropriated by Samuel Pepys, it is unfortunate that no sketch or drawing of the Royal yacht of Charles II. is to be found. Search is vain among the papers at Cambridge, where most of the Diarist's gleanings are preserved. We must, therefore, start with existing Royal yachts, beginning with that built for King George III. in 1814, and now lying in Portsmouth Harbour.

The Royal yacht 'Royal George' was laid down at Deptford, May 1814, designed by Sir Henry Peake, Surveyor of the Navy, and she was launched at Deptford in July, 1817. Her dimensions were as follow:

The 'Royal George' was used on Her Majesty's accession, 1837; she was rigged as a ship, and was remarkable for excellent sailing qualities. The captain appointed was Lord Adolphus FitzClarence, G.C.B., &c. The 'Royal George' was laid up in Portsmouth Harbour, in charge of the Master and only fitted out when specially required for Royal service. The lieutenants, mates, assistant-surgeon, and crew were stationed on board a 10-gun brig, H.M.S. 'Pantaloon,' attached to the Royal yacht as tender. This vessel was employed in looking after fishermen, carrying mails, and on other services that might be required.

'Esmeralda,' cutter, under command of the second master, was also attached to the Royal yacht as tender.

On November 7, 1842, a new steam yacht, 'Victoria and Albert,' was laid down at Pembroke Dockyard, and on April 26 next year she was launched. She was designed by Sir William Symonds, Surveyor of the Navy. Construction: diagonal principle, Dantzic oak without, horizontal planking of Italian larch. This yacht, it may here be stated, was subsequently, when a new 'Victoria and Albert' was built, known as the 'Osborne.'

In 1844, it is to be noted, it was ordered that the Royal yacht should carry the Royal standard at the main, the Admiralty flag at the fore, and the Union Jack at the mizzen, which order remains in force at the present time. In this year, it should perhaps be added, the Queen stayed at Osborne House, and in the following year the estate was purchased from Lady Isabella Blatchford by Her Majesty. The steam yacht 'Fairy' (screw) was built at this period.

HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN GOING TO SCOTLAND.

The paddle steam yacht 'Elfin' appeared in 1849. It was built at Chatham, from the design of Mr. Oliver Lang, of mahogany and on the diagonal principle.

Amongst interesting details which should here be recorded, it may be remarked that in August of this year Her Majesty in the Royal yacht visited Cork, and the Cove was henceforth called Queenstown. As regards the speed and capacity of the 'Victoria and Albert,' her capabilities for long cruises were tested in 1850. Leaving Plymouth Sound June 26, 8.45, she arrived in the Tagus off Belem, June 29, 3.10. Distance 772 miles in 66 hrs. 25 mins. Average speed 11⁶/₁₀ knots. Tried at a measured mile with anthracite and Merthyr coal mixed, three years afterwards, her average speed was 11 knots.

A new yacht, under the temporary name of the 'Windsor Castle,' was started at Pembroke in February 1854, but a few weeks later its progress was suspended to facilitate work for the Baltic and Black Sea fleets.

On January 16, 1855, the 'new' 'Victoria and Albert' was launched and christened, and the name of the old yacht (built 1843) changed to 'Osborne.' The new 'Victoria and Albert' was designed by Oliver Lang, Master Shipwright at Pembroke Yard.

Her Majesty's first cruise in the new yacht took place on July 12, and next day she steamed round the Isle of Wight in 3 hrs. 25 mins. The 'Victoria and Albert' proved an excellent sea-boat. In a heavy gale soon afterwards four line-of-battle ships drove; but Captain Denman reported of the new Royal yacht, 'Splendid sea-boat, and rode out the gale with extraordinary ease, not pitching at all, or bringing the smallest jerk on the cable.'

As for speed, she was tried from Cork to Madeira, and returned from the island, 1,266 miles, at an average rate of 10.8 knots. Cork to Portsmouth, 341 miles, 22 hrs. 7 mins., average 15.4 knots, is also noted.

The new yacht 'Alberta' (paddle steamer) was built in 1863.

All the fittings of the Royal yachts are as simple as possible, but the perfect quality of material is not to be surpassed.

The appointments on these vessels are as follows: The commander, three years; lieutenants, two years. One promoted at end of each year. Names of all officers to be submitted to the Queen.

THE ROYAL YACHT 'VICTORIA AND ALBERT,' 1843.
(First cruise, 1843.)

The 'Victoria and Albert' always lies off Cowes during the Queen's residence at Osborne in the summer. During the winter, when the Queen is at Osborne, she is in Portsmouth Harbour. The 'Alberta' always brings the Queen from Gosport to Cowes, and vice versâ, and, as a rule, members of any Royal family. The 'Elfin' runs regularly with messengers, bringing despatches as may be from time to time required; the whole fleet is under the command of Admiral Fullerton, A.D.C., who is always on board any of the yachts in which the Queen may embark. The 'Osborne' brings the Prince of Wales across to Cowes in the summer, when the Prince and Princess and family live on board, remaining generally for about three weeks. The 'Osborne' is an independent command, being the Prince's Royal yacht. The grandest view of the Royal yachts is obtained when Her Majesty inspects a fleet at Spithead. On these occasions the 'Victoria and Albert,' with the Queen and Royal family, the Lords of the Admiralty in attendance on board, is preceded by the Trinity yacht 'Irene,' the 'Alberta' being on the starboard, and the 'Elfin' on the port quarter. Next come the Admiralty yacht 'Enchantress,' and the Lords and Commons,—generally in troopships such as the 'Himalaya,'—others according to precedence.

The stately five-knot approach of these vessels is always very impressive, and forms a nautical pageant well worthy of the Queen of England and Empress of India, who has bestowed such munificent patronage on the various yacht clubs of her realms, having presented since the Accession no fewer than seventy-two valuable challenge cups to be sailed for by all classes, besides the annual cups to the R.Y.S. since 1843. The details of these will be recorded later on.

THE ROYAL YACHT SQUADRON

The present club-house of the Royal Yacht Squadron is of no modern date, but a continuance of Cowes Castle, a fort built in the time of Henry VIII. for the protection of the Medina River, which runs south and forms a fine harbour for laying-up yachts of all sizes and classes, with building yards on either side; and a very busy scene it presents during the fitting-out season.

The Castle was continued as a fort, and on the death of the last Governor, the Marquis of Anglesey, who was a very great patron of yachting small and great, the Marquis Conyngham took a lease of the property from the Crown and passed it on in 1856 to the Royal Yacht Squadron, which was established in 1812, as the seal shows. In 1815 a meeting of the then club was held at the Thatched House Tavern, St. James's Street, Lord Grantham in the chair, supported by Lords Ashbrook, Belmore, Buckingham, Cawdor, Craven, Deerhurst, Fitzharris, Kirkwall, Nugent, Ponsonby, Thomond, Uxbridge, Sirs W. Curtis, J. Hippesley, G. Thomas, Godfrey Webster, Colonels Sheddon and Wheatley, &c. when new life was infused into the Association, and from that time the Squadron has held the proud position of being the first yacht club in the world, with the much-envied privilege and distinction of flying the White Ensign.

Cowes Castle, from drawing by Loutherburg.

After 1815, the R.Y.S. met for some years at the Medina Hotel, East Cowes, and later on the Gloucester Hotel, at West Cowes, was taken for the club-house, close to the Fort and Castle, whither, as just remarked, they moved in 1856. It was at once rebuilt and enlarged. The situation is beautiful, backed by large elm-trees. The platform commands a grand view—towards the Motherbank, Ryde, and the Forts to the eastward, with Calshot Castle, Portdown Hill, and Southampton Water to the northward, and, away to the westward, Lymington.

Seal of Royal Yacht Club, Cowes.

Two of the old guns, formerly in the Fort, have been happily preserved, and are now placed in the grounds which have recently been added to the Castle property on the west side, towards Egypt.

The History of the Royal Cups

The first Royal Cup was presented by His Majesty King William IV., 1830, to be competed for by yachts belonging to members of the Squadron; and the gift was continued during His Majesty's reign. The table appended furnishes details.

At a meeting of the Royal Yacht Squadron in 1837, it was moved and seconded: 'That the Commodore be requested to seek an interview or audience with Her Majesty, with a view to the continuance of the Royal Cup to be presented to the Yacht Club at Cowes.' The request was graciously accorded. The list of Cups presented by Her Majesty is given on p. 18.

On the occasion of the Emperor and Empress of the French visiting Osborne, and landing in Osborne Bay in 1857, the Royal Yacht Squadron boats formed an escort round the Royal barge.

Off Spithead with the Royal Yacht Squadron on their voyage to Cherbourg, 1832.

The Squadron has always been characterised by the large and powerful class of vessels composing it; and the oil picture now hanging in the dining-room at the Castle, painted by W. Huggins, 1835, shows the leading craft of that date, with the Commodore's yacht in the centre. This is the 'Falcon,' 351 tons, full ship rigged, carrying eleven guns on the broadside. The 'Pearl,' 130 tons, belonging to the Marquis of Anglesey, is coming up on the left side, dipping her gaff-topsail to the Commodore, who is under topsails with top-gallant sails loose; in the distance is a yacht, 'Pantaloon,' belonging to the Duke of Portland, brig rigged, with her topsail aback; a large schooner and several cutters are included. An engraving of this picture is lettered thus:

'The Right Honourable Lord Yarborough's yacht "Falcon," of 351 tons, off Spithead with the Royal Squadron, on their voyage to Cherbourg. Painted by W. Huggins, Marine Painter to His Majesty, and published by him at 105 Leadenhall Street. January 10, 1835.

This was a grand period in the club's history for large yachts. These included the 'Pearl' and 'Alarm' cutters, and the schooners 'Dolphin' (217 tons), 'Xarifa,' 'Kestrel,' and 'Esmeralda.' A picture of this schooner, by Condy, is still in the possession of Lord Llangattock of The Hendre. Then came the 'Arrow' cutter of 'Chamberlayne' fame, with the well-known parti-coloured streak. She won and won until she was requested not to enter, which was hardly reasonable, as the enthusiastic owner improved her year by year, and kept well ahead of his day.

'Pearl,' R.Y.S., 130 tons (Marquis of Anglesey). Launched 1821.

In 1843 the Royal Yacht Squadron gave a cup to be sailed for by the Royal Thames Yacht Club at Cowes. A very good picture of the race was painted by Condy of Plymouth. At that time the 25-tonners were the representative craft in the Thames, and 'Mystery,' 'Blue Bell,' 'Phantom,' 'Cygnet,' and 'Gnome' were generally to the fore. When the Thames matches were sailed there were invariably some representatives from the Royal Yacht Squadron to attend the racing, and everyone looked out for the white ensign. The 'Pearl,' belonging to the Marquis of Anglesey, always ran up alongside the club steamer, and dipped her ensign as her owner waved his glazed hat, standing by the gunwale of his grand craft.

In those days there certainly was intense enthusiasm about the 25-tonners, and great was the enjoyment they afforded the visitors.

'Dolphin,' R.Y.S., 217 tons, 1839.
(G. H. Ackers, Esq.)

In 1851 the Royal Yacht Squadron gave a cup to be sailed for, and it was won by the 'America' schooner, belonging to Commodore J. C. Stevens, of the New York Club. In America it is always called the Queen's Cup, and in England the 'America' Cup, but it is really the Royal Yacht Squadron Cup. The Americans have held it ever since.

'Esmeralda,' R.Y.S., 1846.

THE 'MYSTERY' WINNING THE CUP PRESENTED BY R.Y.S. TO BE SAILED FOR BY YACHTS OF R.T.Y. CLUB.
(August 1843.)

Luggers as yachts were common. In 1827 Lord Harborough had a large lugger, the 'Emmetje,' of 103 tons, of which he was so proud that he entered Ramsgate Harbour flying the coach whip of the Royal Navy, until the officer of the Coastguard came on board and hauled it down. Some thirty years afterwards came a revival when Lord Willoughby De Eresby brought out in 1859 his celebrated lugger the 'New Moon.' She was larger than Lord Harborough's—209 tons, 134 ft. long, 18 ft. 5 in. beam, constructed at Hastings. Her highest speed was attained on long reach, and was shown on the occasion of her racing back to Harwich. In a fine breeze she went away from the other yachts, going 14 or 15 knots; but ill fate awaited her; she had to make two boards to fetch the Cork Lightship and the Bell Buoy. That was her destruction; the time taken to dip the enormous lugs in going about allowed the others, who had been nearly hull down, to overhaul her, so necessary is it to have a craft that comes round like a top with canvas easily handled.

'De Emmetje,' lugger, 103 tons, 1827 (Lord Harborough).

The Jubilee of the Yacht Club was celebrated at Cowes in 1865, and another notable event took place on the occasion of the Queen's Jubilee, June 21, 1887. A procession of the Royal Yacht Squadron manœuvred in two columns, canvas and steam, finishing up with a signal from the Commodore: 'Steam ahead full speed.' A drawing of this spectacle, by Sir Oswald Brierley, is at the Castle, Cowes.

'New Moon,' R.Y.S., 209 tons, 1859 (Lord Willoughby De Eresby).

The fastest yachts in the Royal Yacht Squadron are shown, of course, in the list of Queen's Cup winners, which forms a befitting annual history. Yachting in early days, however, was real yachting in its truest sense, cruising about, that is to say, for the sake of peace and rest; the vessels were generally schooners of considerable tonnage for sea cruising. We have no longer 'Alarm,' 248 tons, 'Aurora Borealis,' 252 tons; but the faithful 'Egeria,' 152 tons, belonging to Mr. Mulholland, now Lord Dunleath, is still with us. In 1852-53 there were only two steam yachts in the Squadron, which was averse to the new comers; but by degrees a fine schooner class with auxiliary steam was introduced, including, of well-known boats, 'Sunbeam,'[2] 1874; 'Czarina,' 1877; 'Wanderer' and 'Lancashire Witch,' 1878. New members from 1890 to 1892 added 7,000 tons to the fleet, principally steamers up to 1,000 tons and more.

'CORSAIR,' R.Y.S., WINNING THE QUEEN'S CUP AT COWES, 1892.
40-rater (Admiral the Hon. Victor Montagu).

The squadron at the time of writing is composed of 227 members, and the fleet consists of 107 vessels, as follows: 44 steam yachts, 10 steam schooners, 28 schooners, 13 cutters, 12 yawls, 107 vessels, making 20,367 total tonnage. The minimum tonnage is 30 tons register for sailing vessels, and 30 tons net for steamers (rule, May 1870).

The Queen's Cups are sailed for by yachts belonging to members of the Royal Yacht Squadron only, but other prizes are given during the Squadron Week, generally the first week in August.

Names and dates of yachts owned by H.R.H. the Prince of Wales

Beside several steam launches and sailing boats.

The German Emperor, who became a member in 1891, in that year brought over the 'Meteor,' née 'Thistle,' to compete for the Queen's Cup, and evinced the greatest enthusiasm, sailing in her for the prize, August 3. The 'Meteor' finished first, but the 'Corsair,' 40 tons, Rear-Admiral Victor Montague, R.N., came up with a smart breeze, saved her time, and won.

Much interest was also taken in the presence of a 40-tonner, designed by Mr. G. L. Watson for Prince Henry of Prussia, and steered by the Prince, who seemed thoroughly to enjoy it, and remained all day at the tiller—a sort of thing the British public fully appreciate. Unfortunately the wind was not true.

The Queen has always graciously encouraged yachting in every way. The list of challenge cups presented by Her Majesty will amply confirm the assertion.

List of Yacht Clubs to which the Queen has occasionally given Regatta Cups

ROYAL YACHT SQUADRON.
QUEEN'S COURSE.

The majority of members of the Squadron own, and chiefly use, large yachts, but not a few of them are practical seamen. One prominent member, Lord Dufferin, is specially notable as a keen devotee of single-handed sailing, and is the owner of a famous boat, 'The Lady Hermione.' The Editor has thought this an appropriate place to insert a description of the pastime kindly contributed by his lordship, followed by an account of his well-known boat.

SINGLE-HANDED SAILING

By the Marquis of Dufferin and Ava

The wind blows fair, the vessel feels
The pressure of the rising breeze,
And, swiftest of a thousand keels,
She leaps to the careering seas.

The following description of 'The Lady Hermione' has been written by my friend Mr. McFerran, who is a much better sailor than myself; but, as the Editor has asked me to prefix a few observations of my own on single-handed boat sailing, I have great pleasure in recommending to the attention of the readers of the Badminton Library that exceptionally pleasant form of sea adventure.

Probably the proudest moment of the life of anyone who loves the sea, not even excepting the analogous epoch of his marriage morning, is the one in which he weighs anchor for the first time on board his own vessel. It is true that from the first hour he could call her his own his existence has been a dream of delight, unless perhaps for the passing cloud cast by the shadow of the cheque he has been required to draw for her payment. As soon as she has come into his possession, her ungainly naked bulk, as she lies upon the mud, assumes divine proportions; and as by slow degrees her 'toilette' proceeds, her decks whiten, her masts assume a golden hue and clothe themselves with sail and rigging, his happiness becomes unspeakable. If he is animated by the proper spirit, he has at once set himself to learn navigation; he has plunged deep into the 'Sailor's Manual'; and, to the amazement of his female relations, he is to be seen busily employed in tying and untying knots on short pieces of rope. But his principal preoccupation is the fitting of his cabins. The mystery of the ship's practical garniture he leaves to his master, as being beyond the utmost effort of his intellect, though he has a certain satisfaction in knowing that he possesses a pretty accurate knowledge of the way in which the framework of the vessel has been put together.

At last everything is reported ready. He gives the order to weigh anchor, and, as if by a magical impulse, he finds that the being upon whom he has lavished so much affection has become a thing of life, has spread her wings, and is carrying him into the unknown. He paces the deck with telescope under his arm, in the proud consciousness that he is absolute master of her movements, and that with a wave of his hand he can direct her to the golden islands of the west or to the fabled homes of Calypso and the Cyclops, according as his fancy may suggest. No emperor or autocrat has ever been so conscious of his own majesty. But soon a most unwelcome and humiliating conviction damps his exaltation. He discovers that for all practical purposes of command and government he is more incompetent than his own cabin-boy or the cook's mate: that the real ruler of the ship's movements and destiny is his 'master,' whom his crew call the 'captain'; and that the only orders he can issue with a certainty that they are not open to criticism are those he gives for his breakfast and his dinner, if indeed he is in a position to partake of either. Officially he is gratified with the ambiguous title of 'owner,' while he is painfully conscious that his real social status is that of a mere passenger, and that this unwelcome servitude has every likelihood of enduring during his whole career as a yachtsman. He may indeed, as a man of education, or perhaps of scientific attainments, become in course of time a better navigator than many of the splendid rough and ready sailormen who command the ships of our squadron; but, unless he has been able to spend more time on board than their multifarious occupations allow most owners of yachts to devote to seafaring, he must know that it is idle for him to pretend to compete either in seamanship or experience with the man whom he employs to sail his vessel for him. In short, he remains an amateur to the end of the chapter, and, if he is sensible and honest, is always ready to acknowledge himself the disciple of the professional sailor.

But in single-handed boat sailing this humiliating sense of dependence and inferiority disappears. For the first time in his life, no matter how frequent may have been his cruises on bigger vessels, he finds himself the bona fide master of his own ship, with that delightful sense of unlimited responsibility and co-extensive omnipotence which is the acme of human enjoyment. The smallness of his craft does not in the slightest degree diminish the sense of his importance and dignity; indeed, there is no reason why it should. All the problems which task the intelligence and knowledge of the captain of a thousand-tonner during the various contingencies of its nautical manœuvres have to be dealt with by him with equal promptness and precision. Anchored in a hot tideway and amongst a crowd of other shipping, he has perhaps a more difficult job to execute in avoiding disaster when getting under way or picking up his moorings than often confronts under similar circumstances the leviathans of the deep; and his honour is equally engaged in avoiding the slightest graze or sixpence worth of injury either to himself or his neighbours as would be the case were a court-martial or a lawsuit and 5,000l. damages involved in the misadventure. The same pleasurable sentiments stimulate his faculties when encountering the heavy weather which waits him outside; for, though the seas he encounters may not be quite so large as Atlantic rollers, nor break so dangerously as in the Pentland Firth, they are sufficiently formidable in proportion to the size of his craft to require extremely careful steering, and probably an immediate reduction of canvas under conditions of some difficulty.

Nor are even misfortunes when they occur, as occur they must, utterly devoid of some countervailing joys. He has neglected to keep his lead going when approaching land; he has misread the perverse mysteries of the tides, and his vessel and his heart stop simultaneously as her keel ploughs into a sandbank. The situation is undoubtedly depressing, but at least there is no one on board on this and on similar occasions to eye him with contemptuous superiority or utter the aggravating, 'I told you so.' Nay, if he is in luck, the silent sea and sky are the only witnesses of his shame, and even the sense of this soon becomes lost and buried in the ecstacy of applying the various devices necessary to free his vessel from her imprisonment. He launches his Berthon boat, and lays out an anchor in a frenzy of delightful excitement; he puts into motion his tackles, his gipsy winches, and all the mechanical appliances with which his ingenuity has furnished his beloved; and when at last, with staysail sheet a-weather, she sidles into deep water, though, as in the case of Lancelot, 'his honour rooted in dishonour stood,' the tragic origin of his present trial quickly fades into oblivion, and during after years he only recalls to his mind, or relates with pride to his friends, the later incidents of the drama.

Another happiness attending his pursuit is that he is always learning something new. Every day, and every hour of the day, the elements of each successive problem with which he has to deal are perpetually changing. As Titian said of painting, seamanship is an art whose horizon is always extending; and what can be more agreeable than to be constantly learning something new in a pursuit one loves?

I have heard it sometimes objected that single-handed boat-sailing is dangerous. Well, all sport is dangerous. People have been killed at golf, at football, and at cricket; nor is sitting in an easy-chair exempt from risk; but during an experience of five and twenty years, though laying no claim to much skill as a mariner, I have never had a serious accident, though occasionally a strong tide may have swept me whither I had not the least intention of going; nor have I ever done more than 10l. worth of damage either to my own vessel or my neighbour's. The principal thing one must be careful about is not to fall overboard, and in moving about the ship one should never leave go one holdfast till one's hand is on another. It is also advisable not to expose one's head to a crack from the boom as one is belaying the jib and staysail sheets in tacking, for it might very well knock one senseless.

In conclusion, I would submit that to anyone wearied with the business, the pleasures, the politics, or the ordinary worries of life, there is no such harbour of refuge and repose as single-handed sailing. When your whole thoughts are intent on the management of your vessel, and the pulling of the right instead of the wrong string, it is impossible to think either of your breakdown in your maiden speech in the House of Commons, of your tailor's bills, or of the young lady who has jilted you. On the other hand, Nature, in all her beauty and majesty, reasserts her supremacy, and claims you for her own, soothing your irritated nerves, and pouring balm over your lacerated feelings. The complicated mysteries of existence reassume their primæval simplicity, while the freshness and triumphant joyousness of early youth return upon you as you sweep in a dream past the magic headlands and islands of the Ionian Sea or glide along the Southern coast of your native land, with its sweet English homes, its little red brick villages and homesteads nestling in repose amid the soft outlines of the dear and familiar landscape. The loveliness of earth, sea, and sky takes possession of your soul, and your heart returns thanks for the gift of so much exquisite enjoyment in the pursuit of an amusement as manly as it is innocent.

N.B.—Single-handed sailing need not preclude the presence of a lady passenger. On the contrary, she will be found very useful on occasion, whether in starting the sheets, in taking a spell at the wheel (for they are all familiar with the art of despotic guidance), in keeping a sharp look-out, in making tea, or in taking her part in a desultory conversation.

'THE LADY HERMIONE,' SINGLE-HANDED SAILING YAWL
By James McFerran

In the course of two summers passed on the shores of the Gulf of Naples the writer had frequent opportunities of becoming acquainted with the details of the construction, fittings, and equipment of a very remarkable little yacht, whose white canvas for a couple of seasons was constantly to be seen on that unrivalled sheet of water between the months of June and October. He has thought that a description of the vessel in question may prove interesting, not only to such of the readers of these volumes as are devoted to the art of single-handed sailing—that most delightful, manly, and invigorating of all sports—but also to the general body of yachtsmen who, during the summer and autumn months, fill, in ever-increasing numbers, our various yachting ports with the most perfect specimens of the shipwright's craft that the world can produce.

'The Lady Hermione,' as the vessel whose qualities and characteristics it is proposed to describe is called, is the property of Her Majesty's Ambassador at Paris, his Excellency the Marquis of Dufferin and Ava. His Lordship, as is well known, has from very early days been a keen yachtsman, and though for some time past he has had no opportunities of indulging in his favourite pastime in large yachts, he has long been devoted to sailing in vessels in which he comprises in his own person the hierarchy of owner, master, and crew. During the last fifteen years, in whatever part of the world he may have been, provided sailing were possible, he has never been without a little ship specially constructed for this form of amusement. In each succeeding vessel some new invention or arrangement for her safer, easier, and more efficient handling has suggested itself, and been worked out under the owner's direct supervision. In the present boat the development of the single-handed sailing yacht seems at last to have reached perfection, and it would hardly be possible for the most inventive mind to suggest an improvement in her.

Fig. 1.—'The Lady Hermione.'

'The Lady Hermione' is a yawl-rigged yacht (fig. 1), built by Forrest & Son, of Wivenhoe, to the order of her owner. She is 22 ft. 9 in. long between perpendiculars, 4 ft. 2 in. in depth, has a beam of 7 ft. 3 in., and a registered tonnage of four tons. She is built with mild-steel frames, galvanised so as to resist the corrosive action of sea-water—a mode of construction which has recently been adopted for torpedo-boats—and is sheathed with East Indian teak and coppered. A novel feature in the hull of so small a boat is its division into water-tight compartments by transverse and longitudinal bulkheads, composed of galvanised steel plates riveted to the steel frames. These bulkheads form a large forward compartment, two compartments on each side of the cabin, and a compartment at the stern, thus rendering the vessel water-tight as long as they remain intact.

On the deck, forward and aft, are hatchways which give entrance to the bow and stern compartments respectively. The hatches to these openings, which are kept constantly closed at sea, are fastened down with strong gun-metal screws fitted with butterfly nuts, the screws being fastened to the deck and made to fold down on it with joint when not in use. The coamings of the hatchways, as well as the inner edges of the hatches themselves, are lined with india-rubber, so as to render the covers perfectly water-tight. Access to the side compartments is obtained by means of manholes opening from the cabin, and covered with steel plates screwed into the bulkhead. In the event of the yacht's shipping any water, it is removed by a pump leading through the deck near to the cockpit and within easy reach of the steersman's hand. The cover of the pump works on a hinge, and lies flush with the deck when closed. The pump-handle is made to ship and unship at will, and is in the form of a lever, which renders the operation of pumping more easy than in the ordinary form of pump usually employed in small boats (c, figs. 2 and 11).

'The Lady Hermione' is ballasted with lead, the greater portion of which is carried outside in the form of a keel, which weighs about two tons. On trial, it was found that the little craft was too quick on her helm—a quality which, however useful in racing vessels, is undesirable in a single-handed boat, where the operation of getting aft the sheets when going about naturally requires somewhat more time than it does when the crew is composed of more than one hand. In order to remedy this defect a deep oak keel has been fixed outside the lead keel, and has to a considerable extent answered its purpose. It has also added immensely to the boat's stiffness; and it is blowing very hard indeed when a reef requires to be taken down. In fact, owing to her deep build and her heavy outside keels, 'The Lady Hermione' is virtually uncapsizable, while her water-tight compartments render her unsinkable. It is impossible to overrate the value of these two elements of safety in a boat which is always worked by one person and is taken out in all weathers.

Stepping on board 'The Lady Hermione,' the visitor, however much he is accustomed to yachts, is struck by the number and apparent complication of the contrivances which meet his eye (fig. 3), the interior of the vessel looking, as a witty naval officer once observed on being shown over her, 'something like the inside of a clock'; but, after a few explanations, the usefulness and practical efficiency of the various devices become evident. The principle which has been adhered to throughout in the rigging and fittings is, that all operations connected with the handling and management of the boat shall be performed by one person without the application of any considerable physical force. It has also been laid down as a sine quâ non that everything shall work perfectly in all weathers and under all conditions of wind and sea. The result of the owner's ingenuity is, that the sails can be hoisted and lowered, the sheets attended to, the anchor let go and weighed, and the tiller fixed and kept fixed in any desired position, without the necessity of the one person, who composes the crew leaving the cockpit. The arrangements for carrying out these objects will now be described in detail.

Fig. 3.—'The Lady Hermione.' Deck plan.

The first contrivance which claims attention is that for keeping the rudder fixed at any desired angle (figs. 4 and 5A). In his account of his cruise in the yawl 'Rob Roy' the late Mr. Macgregor says that he had never seen any really satisfactory method of accomplishing this object; but the difficulty has been solved by Lord Dufferin, who, indeed, has had fitted in many of his previous boats an apparatus similar to that in the present one. On the deck aft, about a couple of feet in advance of the rudder-head, are fitted two brass stanchions. These support a brass bar which on its lower side is indented with notches similar to the teeth of a saw, and of a depth of about half an inch (A, fig. 4). On the tiller there is fitted a brass tube or cylinder made so as to slide backwards and forwards within a limit of some eight or ten inches, and bearing on its upper surface a triangular fin of brass (A, fig. 5). When it is desired to fix the tiller in any particular position, the cylinder is instantaneously slipped back until the fin catches one of the notches of the bar, and the tiller is thus securely fixed. The tiller is unlocked by simply flicking forward the cylinder with the hand, the locking and unlocking being done in a second. The toothed brass bar, it may be mentioned, is curved so that the fin may fit into any desired notch, no matter at what an angle it may be desired to fix the rudder (A, fig. 4). The cockpit of the yacht being somewhat small, it was found that when there was a lady passenger on board the movement of the tiller interfered with her comfort, and, in order to obviate this difficulty, a steering-wheel has recently been fixed on the top of the cabin immediately in front of where the helmsman stands (fig. 6). When the wheel is used a short tiller is employed, with steel tackles leading from it through pulleys and fair-leads to the wheel itself. The axis of the wheel carries a brass cap fitted with a screw, by half a turn of which the steering apparatus can be locked or unlocked, and the helm fixed in any position. If it is desired at any time to substitute steering with the tiller for steering with the wheel, the process is very simple. A brass handle of the requisite length, and bearing a cylinder and fin as above described, is screwed on to the short tiller, and the tiller ropes are cast off, the whole operation being performed in a few seconds. The wheel, the stand for which slides into brass grooves on the cabin top, can also be unshipped and stowed out of the way in a very short time.

Fittings of 'The Lady Hermione.'

We now proceed to examine the gear for letting go the anchor, which, though difficult to describe, will readily be understood from the drawing (fig. 7). The anchor, a Martin's patent, when stowed, rests upon two crescent-shaped supports, which project from the bulwarks just forward of the main rigging (A, A', fig. 7). These supports are fixed to a bar or tumbler lying close to the inside of the bulwark, and arranged so as to turn on its axis (B, fig. 7; and C, fig. 12). Fixed to the tumbler inboard there is a small bar which fits into a socket attached to the covering board. On the socket is a trigger (C, fig. 7, and D, fig. 12) from which a line leads along the inside of the bulwarks to within easy reach of the cockpit (D, fig. 7). By pulling this line the socket is made to revolve, so as to release the arm; the weight of the anchor forces the tumbler to turn on its axis, bringing down with it the crescent-shaped supports, and the anchor falls into the sea.

This operation having been completed, it will probably be thought that now at last the crew must leave his point of vantage, and go forward to stopper and bit his cable. But no; we have not by any means yet reached the limits of ingenuity displayed in this extraordinary little ship. The chain cable runs out through a hawse-pipe in the bow, and across the hawse-hole a strong steel plate or compressor, with a notch cut in it to fit the links of the cable, runs in grooves. By pulling a line which leads to the cockpit this compressor is drawn over the hawse-hole, and the cable is thus effectually snubbed. When the anchor has to be got up, or it is required to let out more chain, the compressor can be drawn back by another line which also leads to the cockpit. These two contrivances for letting go and stopping the anchor, together with the apparatus for weighing it without leaving the cockpit, which will now be dealt with, get rid of that fruitful source of discomfort in boats manned by one hand—namely, the necessity of the solitary mariner's having to go forward to deal with his ground tackle at a time when perhaps he has other pressing calls on his attention in connection with the management of his vessel.

Equally as ingenious as the means of letting go the anchor is the machinery employed for weighing it. The windlass used is an ordinary yacht's windlass, except that on its outer end on its starboard side it carries a cogged wheel (fig. 8). Close alongside the windlass there rises from the deck a spindle cut with an endless screw (A, fig. 9), the threads of which take the teeth of the cogged wheel. This spindle runs through the deck, and has at its lower extremity a cogged wheel (B, fig. 9), fitting into another cogged wheel attached to a shaft, which runs aft on bearings in the ceiling of the cabin to the cockpit (C, fig. 9). At the cockpit end it is furnished with a large wheel (D, fig. 9, and fig. 10), on turning which the motion is communicated through the shaft and a system of cog-wheels (figs. 9 and 11), to the Archimedian screw rising up through the deck forward, and this screw in its turn revolves the windlass, and the anchor comes merrily home. The slack of the chain, as it comes in, drops perpendicularly through the hawse-pipe to the chain-locker below, and requires no attention or handling. The machinery for getting the anchor possesses great power, and, even when the anchor has a tight hold of the bottom, the wheel in the cockpit can be turned almost with one finger. The wheel is made to ship and unship, and when not in use is hung up to the side of the cabin. As a general rule, especially when weighing in a crowded harbour, the anchor is simply hove up close to the hawse-hole until open water has been gained, the ropes carefully coiled down, and everything made snug and shipshape. The vessel is then laid to, or the helm fixed so as to keep her on her course, as circumstances may determine, and the crew goes forward to do the one thing he cannot perform from aft, the catting and fishing of his anchor. Suspended from the head of the mainmast is a tackle of the kind known to seamen as a 'Spanish burton,' with a long iron hook attached to its lower block. In fishing the anchor this burton is first overhauled, and, leaning over the bow, the operator fixes the hook in a ring let into the shank of the anchor at a point where the anchor exactly balances itself when suspended horizontally. He then passes the various parts of the fall of the tackle through an eye at the end of a fish-davit—similar in shape to the boat-davits used in large ships—which stands up from the deck close to the bulwarks, a little forward of the supports for the anchor already mentioned (A, fig. 12). By pulling on the hauling part of the burton the anchor is raised close to the end of the davit, and the davit, by an ingeniously arranged spring, on a lever at its base (B, fig. 12), being pressed with the foot, can be swung round until the anchor is suspended immediately above its resting-place, into which it is then lowered, the crescent-shaped supports already referred to having been previously placed in position, and the trigger locked. Here it rests in perfect security, and is ready to be let go by pulling on the line attached to the trigger. On the port side a second anchor is carried, an Admiralty pattern, weighing about fifty pounds, and secured in precisely the same way as the starboard or working anchor, though in weighing it the windlass is used with an ordinary ratchet, as the windlass barrel on the port side is not connected with the shaft previously described. It may here be mentioned that the starboard barrel of the windlass can also be used in the ordinary way, as the spindle with the endless screw already mentioned is made with a joint, so that it can be disconnected from the cogged wheel and laid down flat on deck out of the way whenever necessary (C, fig. 8; and D, fig. 9).

We now pass on to what is the most important thing in all single-handed sailing boats, the arrangement of the halliards and sheets in such a manner that all operations connected with making and shortening sail can be performed from the cockpit. In 'The Lady Hermione' this essential principle has been carried out to its fullest extent. At the foot of the mainmast on each side is a brass fair-lead fitted with ten or twelve sheaves (figs. 13 and 14). Through these sheaves all the halliards (except, of course, those connected with the mizzen) are rove, and then led aft over the top of the cabin to within a few inches of the cockpit (fig. 3). Here they are belayed to a large belaying-pin rack which crosses the cabin top in front of the steersman and within easy reach of his hand (fig. 15). The frame of this rack is pierced with horizontal holes for the ropes to pass through, after which they are belayed to the pins, while the falls are allowed to drop down on to the cabin floor, where they are snugly coiled away in a box with a number of compartments which has been made to receive them. The object of passing the halliards through holes in the belaying-pin rack is to afford a straight pull when getting up sail, and to prevent the ropes from flying away out of the steersman's reach when they are let go. 'The Lady Hermione' is, or rather was originally, fitted with all the running rigging that would be employed in the largest-sized yacht, and this will give some idea of the number of ropes that have to be dealt with by one person:—main and peak halliards, two topping-lifts, tack tackle and tack tricing line, topsail tack, sheets, halliards, and clew line, jib and staysail halliards, and jib and staysail down-hauls. As originally rigged, main, peak, and jib purchases were employed for getting the mainsail and jib well up, but the introduction of the gipsy winches mentioned in the next paragraph rendered these ropes unnecessary, and they have consequently been dispensed with. The system employed, however, has always worked without the slightest hitch, and enables whoever may be sailing the boat to attend to all the halliards without leaving the helm. On the belaying-pin rack each pin has the name of the rope for which it is intended engraved on a small brass plate, so that no confusion can arise as to what part of the gear it may at any time be desired to deal with; though, after a little practice, whoever is sailing the boat knows the lead of each rope by instinct. At the foot of the mizzen-mast fair-leads, similar to those near the mainmast, bring the gear of the mizzen to within reach of the cockpit. The jib and staysail sheets also lead aft, through bull's-eye fair-leads fixed inside the bulwarks, and are belayed to cleats screwed on to the coamings of the cockpit.

Even in a boat of the size now under description, it will be understood that the hoisting of the sails and the getting aft of the head-sheets in a strong breeze would tax the strength of an ordinary person; but, still carrying out the principle of doing everything with the least possible exertion, small gipsy winches of a peculiar pattern are largely employed, and form a very remarkable feature in the fittings of the vessel (figs. 16 and 17). These winches are all made so as to be easily shipped and unshipped at will, as they slide into brass grooves affixed to the deck, and are worked with ratchet handles, to which are attached strong steel springs in order to insure the ratchets always biting in the cogs. Altogether, there are ten gipsy winches on board, two on the deck on each side of the cockpit, two on the cabin top just forward of the belaying-pin rack, and two on the deck in front of the mainmast. The two on each side of the cockpit are used for the head-sheets. The sheets, led aft as previously described, are given a couple of turns round the barrel of the winch, and then belayed to their cleats. In getting them in after going about, they are first hauled hand-taut, then the ratchet handle is worked until they are as tight as may be desired, after which they are belayed. These operations are performed in a very few seconds, and the power of the winches is so great that the sheets are got in flatter than would be possible by any other means. The four winches on the cabin top are employed in the same manner for the main and peak halliards, or for the topsail tack, sheet and halliards, as may be required. The two forward of the mast are used for any purpose for which it may be required to use a purchase. The winches have all worked admirably from the time they were first fitted; they are not in the least in the way, and the simplicity of their operation and the extraordinary power which can be developed from them would scarcely be credited by anyone who has not seen them in actual use. The jib and staysail sheets were at first fitted with tackles; but the introduction of the winches has rendered tackles unnecessary. For the same reason, the main, peak and jib purchases, which were fitted when the little vessel was first prepared for sea, have been dispensed with, as the winches give all the power that can be desired.

Forward of, and attached to, the mainmast a long hawser is kept constantly stowed, to be used as a tow-rope in case towing by a steam-launch or tug should be necessary, as sometimes happens in a calm. This hawser is bulky and unwieldy to handle when wet, and it is understood that on the first opportunity there is to be substituted for it a light steel-wire hawser wound on a miniature but sufficiently strong drum, carried forward, in the same manner that steel hawsers are disposed of on the decks of large vessels.

Having now completed the description of the main features of the vessel, a word or two may be said about her minor fittings, which are also worthy of notice.

In most single-handed boats the helmsman is constantly bothered by his head-sheets, especially when there is a strong breeze, getting foul of something, thus necessitating his going forward to clear them. In 'The Lady Hermione' this inconvenience is entirely obviated by brass guards placed over all the projections upon which it is possible for a rope to catch. In this way the fair-leads in the bow, the windlass and the gipsy winches forward, are all protected, so that it is impossible for a rope to get foul anywhere.

In order to harmonise with the rest of the metal-work, the screws by which the rigging is set up are all of gun-metal, instead of the galvanised iron usually employed for the purpose.

Round the entire gunwale there runs a steel-wire ridge-rope, supported on brass stanchions, so that anyone moving about the deck in heavy weather may have something to hold on by.

In front of the mast there is a ladder made of steel-wire rope with wooden steps, leading from the deck to the crosstrees, which is very convenient in case anything has to be done aloft. This ladder is set up to the deck with brass screws, similar to those used for the rigging.

On the top of the cabin, in front of the steersman and between the gipsy winches, is a lifeboat liquid-compass fitted with a binnacle, the compass, like almost every fitting on board, being made to ship and unship, so as to be stowed out of the way when not in use (figs. 18 and 19).

As the little vessel when abroad was frequently sailed in the winter months, when, even in the Mediterranean, it is somewhat bitterly cold, a brass charcoal stove or chafing-dish of the kind used in Turkey, and there called a 'mangal,' is fitted at the bottom of the cockpit. It is covered with a brass grating, which forms a floor for the helmsman to stand on; and the heat from below keeps him comfortably warm, even in the coldest weather.

Another provision against the weather is a large umbrella for the use of any lady passenger when sailing under a strong sun. When in use the handle is fitted into a socket on the coaming of the hatchway, the socket being fitted with a universal joint, so that the umbrella may be adjusted in any desired position. There are two sockets, one on either side of the cockpit, in order that the umbrella may be carried on whichever side is most convenient (fig. 20).

On either side of the gunwale aft is fitted a brass crutch for supporting the main boom when the vessel is at anchor (fig. 21). At sea the clutches also serve the purpose of receiving the topsail-yard, one end of which is stowed in a crutch, while the other is made fast with a tying to the outside of the main rigging, thus getting rid of the inconvenience of having such a long spar on deck.

A very important fitting is a hatch by which the cockpit can be completely covered in in heavy weather. The hatch is made in sections hinged together, its two halves being also hinged to the back of the seats in the cockpit on either side. When unfolded and fixed in position it covers the entire cockpit, with the exception of a small circular opening left for the steersman, and the vessel is rendered almost as water-tight as a corked bottle. This small circular opening can also be closed, if necessary, by a wooden-hinged cover made for the purpose.

Most of the running rigging is of white cotton rope, which looks exceedingly smart and has answered its purpose fairly well; but it has not the durability of manilla, and when wet it has a great tendency to kink.

The cabin is very plainly fitted up, and is without berths or seats, its only furniture being some racks and cupboards used for stowing away a few necessary articles. When anyone sleeps on board, a mattress is spread on the floor and forms a very comfortable bed.

Lord Dufferin's 'Foam,' R.Y.S. 'In high latitudes,' 1856.

In the cabin there is carried, folded up, a 10-ft. Berthon dinghy, which can be expanded and launched in a few minutes. This does away with the necessity of towing a dinghy, while there is not room to carry one on deck.

In conclusion, it may be said that 'The Lady Hermione' presents a very smart appearance and is an extraordinarily good sea-boat. The writer has frequently seen her out in the Gulf of Naples in weather which even the largest native craft would not venture to face. She is also admirably sailed by her owner, and it is a great pleasure to watch her being handled by him under sail, everything being done with great method and system and in a highly seamanlike style. Her cruising ground has now been transferred to the stormier regions of the English Channel; and two summers ago she was sailed to Trouville, where she remained for some time, running back to the Solent in October in half a gale of wind, during which she behaved admirably, and made better weather than many large vessels could have done.

This paper has run to a greater length than the writer at first intended; but he trusts he will be forgiven in consideration of his having made known to his fellow-yachtsmen the existence of what is really a most unique and wonderful little craft. A model of her hull was included in Messrs. Forrest & Son's exhibit in the late Naval Exhibition at Chelsea, and it is to be regretted that the vessel herself, or, at all events, an accurate model showing her rigging and all her fittings, was not on view also, for she would not have been by any means the least attractive of the many nautical objects of interest contained in the collection in question, which has done so much to make the British public acquainted with the maritime history and greatness of their country.

ROYAL WESTERN YACHT CLUB, PLYMOUTH.

View from the Royal Western Yacht Club, Plymouth.

No wonder Plymouth was early in the field with yachting, in view of the tempting facilities for every variety of aquatic pastime which nature has there provided in the midst of lovely scenery, with shelter close at hand in case of sudden change of weather; in fact, the whole atmosphere is nautical with mighty precedents, for is not this the West-country long famed for mariners with stirring historical associations? Who can walk on the Hoe without thinking of Drake, of Armada fame, and the stout hearts that gathered round him in the hour of need for the defence of England against an overwhelming force? Plymouth is a delightfully picturesque spot. On the S.-W. is the seat of the Earl of Mount Edgcumbe, where the timber is specially fine on the hills which afford shelter from the prevalent S.-W. wind, and blow it truly can on occasions, not infrequently at the Regatta time, when it is least wanted, now that the small raters are in such force. Still it is surprising what weather some of these little fellows make of it as they round the Breakwater. The present club-house of the Royal Western Yacht Club is situated at the west end of the Hoe. The view from the club-house is extremely fine. On the right the wooded heights of Mount Edgcumbe, with the Hamoaze beneath, a little to the right, also Drake's Island and the starting point for yacht and trawler racing; due south the great Breakwater, and in clear weather the new Eddystone Lighthouse. Bearing to the left beyond the Breakwater is the well-known 'Mewstone' and familiar 'Shag Rock,' whilst inside lie a variety of craft. Any foreign men-of-war visiting Plymouth generally bring up at this spot, and the training brigs 'Seaflower,' 'Pilot,' and 'Martin' give quite an idea of old days in the British Navy, imparting much life to the whole sea view, for the lads are always getting under way, or loosing sails, going out or coming in. On still to the left is a range of high hills running out to the Start Point and Prawle Point, and just beyond the Hoe to the eastward is the Catwater, where yachts get a snug berth clear of the entrance to the inner harbour full of trawlers and every possible variety of hookers, fishing craft, &c.

ROYAL WESTERN YACHT CLUB PLYMOUTH.

The Royal Western Yacht Club was established in 1827, and was at that time known as the Port of Plymouth Royal Clarence Regatta Club; in 1833 it became the Royal Western Yacht Club. H.R.H. the Duke of Sussex consented to become patron and H.R.H. the Duchess of Kent patroness, eight presidents were appointed, one of whom, Sir T. D. Acland, is still living in Devonshire. The vice-presidents, twenty-one in number, were all men of high position and great influence. A most interesting list of the yachts in 1835, giving the names of the boats, is still in the possession of the club. Unfortunately there is not space to print this in full, valuable as it would be as a record; still certain points must be noted. There were 43 yachts in the list: of these 17 were clinker-built, like the 'Harriet' cutter of Cowes, 96 tons, belonging to Sir B. R. Graham, Bart., a very handsome craft carrying a crew of eleven hands. Ten were carvel-built, 16 not classified. This was the period of general introduction of carvel surfaces. Sir T. D. Acland's yacht 'Lady St. Kilda' was the largest schooner and largest yacht belonging to the Royal Western Yacht Club. Her complement of hands was eleven. Another point worthy of attention is the proportion of rigs adopted: out of 43 vessels, 29 were cutters, 5 schooners, 4 yawls, 5 no rig given.

The regattas were held at first on the anniversary of the coronation of His Majesty George IV., and the members were to be distinguished by a uniform worn on the day of the regatta, and at such other times as they might think proper.

Undress: Short blue jacket with round collar, single-breasted—six buttons in front, and three on each cuff. White or blue kerseymere waistcoat, with six buttons. White trousers. Blue and white shirt.

Full dress: Blue coat, with buttons on breast and cuffs. White kerseymere waistcoat. White shirt, black handkerchief, white trousers. The president, the vice-presidents, and the stewards were to have three buttons on a slash cuff, and to wear blue pantaloons.

The regatta takes place about September 1, when there is generally a great meeting. About four hundred members and one hundred yachts belong to the club. The Royal Navy contributes innumerable classes of craft to compete in the racing, whilst the trawlers and fishing vessels all come in for the sports, producing one of the most picturesque gatherings to be seen anywhere. The secretary is Capt. H. Holditch, who has kindly furnished the information here given.

THE ROYAL VICTORIA YACHT CLUB, RYDE

The R.V.Y.C., established in 1844, made a strong start, as the foundation stone of the present house was laid by H.R.H. the Prince Consort in March 1846. It is well placed close to the end of Ryde Pier, having a commanding view of very wide range from its windows. The club has always been noted for its encouragement of yacht racing, and has endeavoured to bring about international contests. In 1890 a Gold Challenge Cup was instituted, value 600 guineas, subscribed for by the members, and the famous race for the trophy in 1893 between H.R.H. the Prince of Wales's 'Britannia' and Mr. Carroll's 'Navahoe' will be found described in the account of the sport which took place in that memorable year. The R.V.Y. Club at Ryde is often called the Red Squadron, in contradistinction to the R.Y.S. with the White Ensign.

In 1891 the club started regattas for the small classes which were then becoming so prominent. These have been warmly taken up and attended with great success.

ROYAL VICTORIA YACHT CLUB.

International Gold Cup, Royal Victoria Yacht Club, 1883.
Won by 'Britannia.'

There is yet another Challenge Cup in the hands of the Committee, value 100 guineas. As yet it has not been sailed for, but it is decided that the course is to be in the open Channel, not less than 150 miles, such as Ryde, round Plymouth Breakwater, Cherbourg Breakwater, and back to Ryde for the finish. The Cup was presented by Mr. T. B. C. West, of 'Wendur' and 'Queen Mab' fame. Probably the length of the course has deterred competition; at least, a well-known skipper, Captain John Nichols, who sailed 'Alarm,' 'Mosquito,' and 'Cygnet,' always says that 'nine hours at the tiller is quite enough to do it properly'; and his experience spreads over many years and many a tough tussle for mastery. Mr. Fife of Fairlie declares that the 'Cuckoo,' 90 tons, never showed her real capability until 'Captain John' sailed her. The Royal Victoria Yacht Club has recently added a very large room fronting the sea, and acquired a 'look-out' at the end of the Pier, which seems almost like sitting in an armchair at Spithead. The small raters have a good friend in the Secretary, Mr. Percy Thellusson, who dearly loves them, without neglecting in any way the interests of the larger craft.

An eccentric finish to a yacht race occurred in connection with this club, in the contest for Ryde Town Purse, August 11, 1892, and other prizes for smaller classes. There was a nice breeze from the eastward at 10 A.M., and like a flight of swans the yachts were away together. At 2 P.M., when off the Peel Bank, not a breath of wind was there to help them. The committee decided to run up signal to shorten course and conclude at the first round. No sooner was this done and carried out than a brave westerly breeze sprang up and brought in about fifteen of the craft, all classes together, both great and small, all with feathered bows. The whole of the starters returned together within about ten minutes. The uncertainty of the turf is proverbial, but the uncertainty of the sea is no less remarkable.

THE ROYAL MERSEY YACHT CLUB

'Princess Royal,' steamer 'Leda,' 'Seagull,' 'Hebe,' 'Phœbe.'
First race of Mersey Yacht Club, June 16, 1845.

'Queen of the Ocean,' R.M.Y.C., Commodore Littledale,
saving emigrants from 'Ocean Monarch,' August 24, 1848.

This club, which was established in 1844, originally had its headquarters at Liverpool, the first commodore having been Dr. Grinwood, whose brother is now the only original member left. About 1878 the club quarters were moved to a large house in Birkenhead, close to the river, on the banks of which a pavilion has been constructed, as well as a large slip and two gridirons. During the whole time the club has only had two honorary secretaries, the past and the present. To the late secretary, Mr. Henry Melling, we are indebted for the two illustrations (p. 47); he drew and published them himself, much to his credit, as valuable data showing the rig of the time. The annual regatta is generally held at the latter end of June, the great drawback to Liverpool yachting being the tides and the bar, to diminish which great efforts are being made by dredging on an enormous scale. 1893 was the Jubilee Regatta. This was a great success. 'Britannia,' 'Satanita,' 'Iverna,' took part in the races, which were accompanied by the club steamer, carrying the Commodore, Col. Gamble, C.B., and the Hon. Secretary, Captain James Gladstone.

ROYAL MERSEY YACHT CLUB.

Yacht Club Burgees.

The first illustration is most interesting as bearing the names of the yachts which sailed in the first match of the club, Monday, June 16, 1845. The bowlines on the luff of the gaff topsails should be particularly noticed as a feature of this period. The bowline is also shown in the drawing of the 'Cygnet,' 35 tons, in a following chapter on Thames Clubs.

The second outline represents the 'Queen of the Ocean' yacht, Commodore Littledale, R.M.Y.C., going to the rescue of the 'Ocean Monarch,' emigrant ship, on fire in Abergele Bay, North Wales, Thursday, August 24, 1848.

THE ROYAL PORTSMOUTH CORINTHIAN YACHT CLUB
By G. L. Blake

What the Clyde is to Scotland, and Kingstown and Queenstown are to Ireland, that the Solent and Southampton Water (which constitute the waters more or less shut off from the Channel by the Isle of Wight) are to the South of England. It is no matter of wonderment, then, that attempts should have been made from time to time, and dating back some generations, to form clubs which would have for their express purpose the encouragement of seamanship, and the racing and building of yachts.

To many old yachtsmen the 'ups and downs' of some of these societies which are still in existence form a history of no small interest; while the rise, doings, and fall of those now defunct ought to teach many valuable and important lessons to the officers and committees that are working hard for the prosperity and welfare of present day yacht clubs.

The club which above all others has tended to encourage the proficiency of amateur salts, so that they have become capable of manning, piloting, and steering their own or their friends' vessels to glory, is the Royal Portsmouth Corinthian Yacht Club. Instituted at a time when small-yacht sailing and amateur seamanship had little or no patronage from the big clubs, and when no ruling spirit appeared willing to come forward to help them on to any great degree, when the annual local regattas of the Itchen Ferry, Ryde, and Cowes Town, Southampton, and a few other seaside resorts, were the only opportunities afforded for sport and racing among the small fry, perhaps no club deserves more notice among those south of London than the one in question. Its birth took place at a meeting held on Saturday, May 22, 1880, in the committee-room of the Prince of Wales Club, High Street, Portsmouth, under the patronage of the late Admiral Ryder, R.N., and General H.S.H. Prince Edward of Saxe-Weimar, at that time the Commander-in-Chief and Governor of Portsmouth, Rear-Admiral the Honourable F. A. C. Foley, R.N., and Major-General Sir F. Fitz-Wygram, with Captain Garrett, R.A., in the chair. A provisional committee was elected, among whom were Messrs. W. Gilman, C. Johnson, Thomas and Charles McCheane, F. Ruck, R.E., W. C. Storey, W. V. Dickenson, 69th Regiment, J. Bewicke, 69th Regiment, Colonel Savory, Admiral Hallowes, Commander Britten, R.N., H.M.S. 'St. Vincent,' Captains Sutton, R. Kennedy, Rasch, the Reverends C. P. Grant, Vicar of Portsmouth, and J. F. Brown, R.C. Military Chaplain. General Prince Edward of Saxe-Weimar, Captain Garrett and Captain Sutton were the first officers appointed to serve as Commodore, Vice- and Rear-commodores, and Messrs. Gilman and C. McCheane with Captain Kennedy undertook other duties. Among the yachts owned at that period by the young club, the best known were the 'Vega,' 40 tons, belonging to Captain Garrett; Mr. Gilman's little 'Zephyr,' 11 tons (for many seasons one of the fastest of the old 12-ton class); and the 'Zoe,' one of the most successful 21-ft. boats on the Solent, which was fortunate in being owned and piloted by one of the best amateur helmsmen and sailormen in the south of England—the late Mr. C. Johnson, of Gosport.

ROYAL PORTSMOUTH CORINTHIAN YACHT CLUB.

At the third meeting the Yacht Racing Association rules were adopted, while the fourth settled that very much vext and troublesome question as to what constitutes 'a yachting amateur,' and accordingly drew out the rule that 'No person shall be considered an amateur who has been at any time engaged in the navigation or sailing of a yacht for pay,' the wording of which has since been altered to the following: 'An amateur is a gentleman who has never received pay for sailing in a fore-and-aft vessel, officers of the Royal Navy and Mercantile Marine excepted.' At the same meeting Mr. C. McCheane undertook the sole duties of honorary secretary in place of Captain Kennedy.

On June 26, 1880, the first regatta of the newly formed club was held, when five events were pulled off under the most favourable auspices. So successful was this first attempt at bringing the local boats together, that the next regatta, which was similar in its classes, brought out no fewer than eight entries in the race for the service boats of Her Majesty's ships, all of which were steered by naval members of the club, with the one exception of the 'Wren,' which, it is interesting to chronicle, was steered by Miss Foley, daughter of the Admiral commanding the Portsmouth Steam Reserve. She was the first lady member, and one of the first ladies—if indeed there was one before her—to pilot home the winning yacht in a race. Now that so many ladies enter into the sport of yacht racing and come out as famous helmswomen, the position held by Miss Foley is one to be proud of. In the fourth race Mr. Baden-Powell's old boat, the 'Diamond,' 5 tons, at this time owned by Messrs. Sutton, put in an appearance as a 25-ft. boat; and in the fifth race Mr. J. H. Baillie's 20-ft. boat 'Kate,' the earliest of Mr. Beavor Webb's outputs, entered.

'Madge,' 10 tons. Designed by G. L. Watson, 1880.

Midship section

Besides periodical regattas, the club was able to take in hand a good many matches, which were made up whenever a sufficient number of racing yachts to create sport happened to be lying off Southsea or about the port, and good prizes were always forthcoming, for, as is the case in the Royal Alfred Yacht Club of Kingstown, all money was devoted at this time to racing purposes. The match held on the 14th of August, 1880, is a very fair example of what these extemporaneous races were like. It was for yachts of 20 tons and under. The entries included: 'Madge,' 10 tons, Mr. J. Coats; 'Louise,' 20 tons; 'Euterpe,' 20 tons, Mr. Bayley; 'Freda,' 20 tons, Mr. Freke; 'Maggie,' 15 tons, Mr. Taylor; 'Viola,' 20 tons, Mr. Kelly; 'Sayonara,' 20 tons, Mr. G. W. Richardson. By the end of the first season the club had advanced to such a strong position in the eyes of yachting men and in the public estimation, that Her Majesty was pleased to accede to the request of the Commodore, Prince Edward of Saxe-Weimar, to have it made a Royal club, and accordingly commanded that from May 27, 1880, the club should be styled the Royal Portsmouth Corinthian Yacht Club. Except perhaps in the cases of the Royal Cork, the Royal Yacht Squadron and Royal Highland, no yachting club has ever been known to grow so rapidly into popularity as to obtain the Royal warrant within the space of less than six months.

The season of 1881 began on April 6 with a yacht tonnage of 3,569 tons and 220 members belonging to the club. The year was an important one in its annals, for some of the best known of yachtsmen became members of the community. Captain Garrett gave up the Vice-Commodoreship, and was succeeded by Captain F. Sutton, late 11th Hussars, whilst Admiral Byng undertook the office vacated by Captain Sutton.

The greater number of those who had up to this time joined the Royal Portsmouth Corinthian Yacht Club were yachting members, and lived in all parts of the United Kingdom. The opening regatta was held on the glorious 4th of June, so dear to Eton and other memories. It witnessed the entry, in the race for yachts of 11 to 25 tons, of that favourite old 20-ton clipper the 'Vanessa,' and the old Fairlie 25-tonner 'Santry.' The courses this year finished between a mark-boat and the Southsea Pier.

At the third regatta another famous old ship threw down the glove to the 'Gadfly' and Mr. Arthur Glennie's 'Sonata,' viz. the 16-ton 'Satanella.' On August 13, by the special command of Her Majesty, the club had the honour of holding its Annual Royal Regatta in Osborne Bay. The entries were large for all the items of the programme, no fewer than twelve boats starting in a class for 30 ft. and under, and thirty-one for the race for centreboarders. In this last race the Prince of Wales sailed his little crack 'Belle Lurette,' and won the second prize. In the race for yachts of 40 tons and upwards the 'Samœna,' 'Annasona,' and 'Sleuthhound' started. It may be stated here, that on the day of the regatta the club had 400 names on its list of members, the greater number of whom claimed some pretensions to being yachtsmen. This was a rapid increase of 180 in less than four months, and distinctly proved that the club was already satisfactorily filling the much-desired need on the Solent, and it was most gratifying to those who had given their time and their energy towards the success of the venture that nothing but praise poured in from all quarters, because of the perfect organisation with which all regattas, matches, and general arrangements were carried out. Perhaps it is not too much to say here that the club owed much at this period of its existence to its honorary secretary, the late Mr. Charles McCheane, whose unflagging zeal and well-known gift of organisation helped to a very considerable extent to bring about the prestige which it was beginning to enjoy.

One great feature of the season of 1881 was the addition of a rule allowing any boat that had been hired by a member for a space of over three months to enter for the club races, in order to give every encouragement to the sport of yacht-racing. Many have been the times that such a rule has been begged for by yachtsmen, especially tiros at the game; but the Yacht Racing Association, and, in fact, all Royal Yacht Clubs with the exception of the Royal Portsmouth Corinthian, have placed a veto on any proposition which included in any way its introduction. With the Royal Portsmouth Corinthian the rule proved in the early days of the club a great success, but latterly, as yacht tonnage was added to the club and members became provided with their own ships, the rule gradually died out, till at last it has disappeared altogether from the Book of Rules and Regulations.

The year 1882 was notable chiefly for the introduction of a new class in the regatta programmes, viz. that for 3-tonners. Four of these little vessels did battle in all kinds of weather and proved most successfully how much power and what fine sea-going qualities can be obtained by length and depth with almost a minimum of beam. Mr. Wynne Eyton and Mr. Quilter designed and raced the composite built 'Mascotte,' Mr. A. W. Courtney the 'Naiad,' the late Lord Francis Cecil the 'Chittywee,' and Lord Ailsa and Mr. Baden-Powell the 'Snarley Yow.' Of these the 'Chittywee' was the best all-round boat, though the 'Mascotte' gave her all she could do to beat her.

In the small length classes, the 20-ft. 'Kate,' which had become the property of the Honorary Secretary during the winter of 1881, came to the fore in a remarkable manner, saving her time when necessary, and giving all comers a fair beating. The next year, however, witnessed her total defeat by Mr. Popham's little 'Bird of Freedom,' a boat that is still to the fore.

The Annual Royal Regatta of 1883 was held as before at Osborne Bay, and proved a complete success, and the club could now boast of a patronage second only to that of the Royal Yacht Squadron. The programme on August 11, the day of the regatta, exhibited a great advance on those of the two previous years, as the classes ranged more after the fashionable formulæ, viz. for yachts of 40 tons and under, 20 and over 14, 14 and over 9 tons. The race for 40-ton yachts fell through, but was afterwards sailed on August 22, when the 'Annasona,' 'Tara,' 'Sleuthhound,' 'Phryne,' and 'Silver Star' crossed the line, and 'Tara' and 'Silver Star' (their first appearance under the flag of the Royal Portsmouth Club) came in first and second. Among the twenties, which showed up for the first time, were the 'Freda' and two well-known old warriors from St. George's Channel, the 'Quickstep' and 'Challenge.' In the race for 10-tonners the 'Ulidia,' designed by Mr. W. Fife, jun., was the new addition to the club, and she fought it out with the 'Buttercup,' this latter favourite being thoroughly beaten on all points of sailing.

During the year of 1884 the prosperity of the club was decidedly on the increase. In the first place, during the winter, the premises in the High Street, Portsmouth, which had up to this time formed the Prince of Wales's Club House, had been bought, altered and improved to suit the club's requirements. As it stands now, it is one of the most comfortable club-houses in the South of England.

The club also opened on Southsea Beach a Station House of its own, which has telephonic communications with the house in High Street, and all parts of the towns of Portsmouth and Southampton. It consists of a railed-off space, sufficient to allow of a fair frontage, besides room for the flagstaff, guns, and all such necessary fittings. The building is a very comfortable cabin, with all modern conveniences. The telephonic communication with Southampton is of the greatest possible service, as most of the small raters make the Itchen and its precincts their home.

On June 7 in this year, the custom (which has now died out) of having an opening cruise under the club officers was originated. Nothing can make up for the teaching which manœuvring under sail affords, and it is a great pity more of such cruises do not take place, and that at regular intervals.

The officers of the club had remained the same up to this year, when Admiral Byng gave up the Rear-Commodoreship in favour of Mr. J. R. West. One of the great features of the season was the recognition of the foot classes, which became so popular during the following four years. The first and second regattas introduced races for boats or yachts of 25 feet and 30 feet on the load water-line. In the latter class the 'Eclipse' and 'Keepsake' were competitors, the 'Eclipse' being the better of the two boats; and in the former the 'Daphne,' 'Wave,' and 'Lil' were the three to race, the 'Lil' being the principal winner. The Annual Royal Regatta, owing to the sad bereavement that had visited the Court, took place by royal command off Bembridge, instead of in Osborne Bay as heretofore. No fewer than fourteen items constituted the programme, of which the most interesting was the ten-ton match between the 'Ulidia' and 'Ulerin,' representatives of Messrs. Fife and Watson, the great Scotch yacht designers. On August 16 a fine match was brought off, and the amateurs' powers put to the test, when 'A Corinthian Plate,' a very handsome piece of silver work, weighing 134 ozs., was sailed for by the 'Genesta,' 'Marguerite,' and 'Irex.'

Perhaps the most sporting matches that have been sailed under the red burgee with crown, star, and half-moon in centre, were three that sprang out of a race for yachts of 20 tons and under, and took place at the last regatta of the season. On this occasion the 'Enriqueta,' 20-ton (cutter that was, but at this time a) yawl, snatched, by some few seconds on time allowance, first honours from the old 'Quickstep.' On the Monday following the regatta a friendly match was sailed between the two vessels, ending with the same result as on the Saturday. Two matches were then arranged to be sailed on the next and following days, the conditions of which were that amateurs alone were to man one yacht, while professionals were to take charge of the other. No pilot was to be allowed, and the prize was to be 1l. from each amateur should the professionals win, and a sixpenny pipe from each professional should the amateurs be successful. Lots to be drawn for the choice of yacht in the first race, yachts to be exchanged for the second.

The result of the lots on the Tuesday gave the amateurs the choice of ships, and they took the 'Enriqueta.' The course was across an imaginary line from the Signal Station flagstaff to the mark-boat, round the Spit buoy, Warner Lightship and East Sturbridge buoy, leaving all on the starboard hand, thence round the Spit buoy and mark-boat on port hand, to finish between the mark-boat on port hand and Signal Station. Twice round, 20 miles.

'IREX'
64 tons (John Jameson, Esq.) Designed by Alex. Richardson, 1884.

The wind was light from the south-east. The professionals in the 'Quickstep' were the first over the line, but it was before the gun fired, and they had to recross it. This was not taken advantage of by the 'Enriqueta,' for the yacht, just as the gun fired, was, for some unaccountable reason, kept in irons quite two minutes by her helmsman. The 'Enriqueta' was steered by her owner and Major Urquhart. The 'Quickstep' won by 12 mins. 13 secs. On the following day the conditions were identical, except that the yachts were exchanged. The tide, wind, and weather were the same as on the Tuesday. Both yachts crossed the line at the same time. 'Enriqueta' held the weather berth, and, hugging the mark-boat, went about at once; but 'Quickstep,' by a very pretty piece of steering on the part of Mr. Maxwell Heron, was put about and brought on 'Enriqueta's' weather. 'Enriqueta' got away again under 'Quickstep's' lee, owing to the latter having her sails too closely pinned in. This error was fortunately rectified, and the 'Quickstep,' with sheets slightly checked, at once sprang ahead and forereached on the yawl, but not sufficiently to prevent the 'Enriqueta,' when off Southsea Castle, from going about and crossing 'Quickstep's' bow, a proceeding which, had it not been for the fine helmsmanship displayed, must have ended in a collision. When the yawl tacked the next time, however, the 'Quickstep' was to windward once more, and led round the Warner Lightship by 4 mins. The mark-boat was rounded at the end of the first round by the 'Quickstep' 14 mins. 15 secs. ahead of the 'Enriqueta.' On the second round the wind fell light, shifting and flukey, and, except that the 'Quickstep' won, offered no very interesting points of sailing worth noting. Such matches as the foregoing are worth repeating; for it is when acting in competition with men who make fore-and-aft sailing their business that amateurs find out the value of their seafaring knowledge, and can accordingly gauge their strength and learn to amend their weak points.

In 1885 the first regatta—and regattas now took place once a fortnight regularly—was memorable for the maiden races of the 'Elma' among the service boats, and the 'Syren' in the 25-ft. class. The 'Elma' had been an open whale-shaped admiral's barge. She was rigged with dipping lugs, and manned by sub-lieutenants from H.M.S. 'Excellent.' The writer had the privilege of seeing her work her way to Bembridge late in the season, and the smart manner in which the boat was handled, and the lugs lowered, dipped, and hoisted, was one of the prettiest sights of the season.

The second regatta witnessed the début of the two latest additions to the 30-ft. class—the 'Curtsey' and 'Yum Yum.' The 'Curtsey' proved herself the best boat of her year.

It was during this year that the new A, B, C classes were, for the first time, given a prominent place in the regatta programmes. These severally were supposed to include the full-blown racer, the out-of-date racer, and the ordinary cruiser. The idea was to try to create a method by which all yacht-owners might have an opportunity of joining in yacht racing. The system proved only a partial success, and the real gainers by the innovation, if there were any, were the sailmakers, who were kept employed, owing to many an 'old box' requiring spinnakers and other light muslin quite foreign to their original sail-plan.

The fourth regatta of the season took place away from the port, and off the new watering-place, Lee-on-Solent. The principal course started from over an imaginary line lying between the committee vessel and a flagstaff at Lee-on-Solent, round the north-east and east Middle buoy, the west Middle buoy, round the Bramble buoys, omitting the Thorn, Calshot Lightship, and Hill Head buoy, to pass between the committee vessel and shore, leaving all marks on the starboard hand; three times round.

On July 25, the first club match round the Isle of Wight took place. It was open to all yachts of 9 tons and upwards in the B and C classes. Two of Fairlie's old clippers came out in new feathers for this race, the 'Neptune' and 'Fiona'; and the former not only in this, but in many another thrash round a course during this and the following seasons, kept well in the van and showed that age had in no way been detrimental to her speed. The Royal Regatta was again held off Bembridge on August 8, when for the 10-tonners' prize the 'Queen Mab,' and in the 5-ton class the pretty 'Cyprus,' showed their wonderful weatherly qualities. The day is one that will long be remembered by those who took part in the trips round the Nab. The course, for all the classes from 5 tons and upwards, was from an imaginary line between the committee boat and H.M.S. 'Speedy,' round the Warner Lightship, the Dean Tail buoy and Nab Lightship, leaving all to starboard, to finish between the committee vessel on the port hand and the 'Speedy'; twice round. The weather was boisterous, with half a gale of wind blowing from the southward and westward. There was a nasty cross sea off the Nab, which frightened more than one hardy salt from making a start, and the owners of the 30-ft. yachts did their best to have their course shortened. The only accident, which might have turned out disastrous, was the capsizing of the 'Elma,' when making a board off the Nab Lightship. She was, however, righted, bailed out, and one by one all her crew got on board.

'Neptune,' cutter, 50 tons. Built by Fife, 1875.

Midship section

The next year (1886) exhibited a still further advance in the well-being of the club. The number of regattas during the season was increased from eight to ten, exclusive of matches and the annual Royal Regatta, which this year took place at Stokes Bay. Numerous new and old yachts were added to the club tonnage, for the B and C classes began to fill, and many a forgotten old heroine was made to come out and don her long-left-off racing suits. Of those which thus appeared all spick and span were the 'May,' 40 tons; 'Foxhound,' 35 tons; 'Veronica,' 92 tons; 'Terpsichore,' 38 tons; 'Leander' and 'Nadejola,' twenties; and 'Naiad' and 'Lily,' old Mersey tens. Of the new yachts the 'Hyacinth' was the fruit of the new classification, as she was designed and built by Mr. Arthur Payne, to race in the B class. This was the last year that any yachts were built to the 25-ft. and 21-ft. classes, the 'Verena,' 25 ft., and the 'Minima,' and 'Volador,' 21 ft., being the last that were laid down on the stocks.

The number of members up to this date had been steadily on the increase, so that by the end of the year the list had reached over 600. Since the club had started in 1880, over 73 regattas and matches had been held, and more than 2,600l. given in prizes—a past history such as few, if any, of the older clubs can show.

In 1887 the Yacht Racing Association rating rule came into force, and though some races were provided for the 25-ft. class, still the main racing was among the A, B, and C and rater classes. The 'Thalassa' and 'Stella' were the first representatives of the 2½-raters, the 'Sybil,' 26 tons, and 'Mary,' 25 tons, coming out to wrest the prizes from the 'Hyacinth.'

The next year it was found quite impossible to suit all owners so as to fill every event on a programme. This was owing to there still being a tonnage class, A, B and C, the new rating and the length classes. The consequence was that only seven regattas came off during the season, exclusive of the Royal Regatta, which was again held at Bembridge. During the season of 1888, the question of shifting keels was brought before the club committee, and a hard fight was made to have them abolished. There was the same curious assortment of classes as in the preceding year, because the rating rule had not as yet taken hold of the yacht-racing public.

By 1889 so great had become the popularity of the club and the demand for membership that it was decided to raise the annual subscription to 2l. 2s., with an entrance fee of 5l. 5s. for non-yacht-owners, and 2l. 2s. for yacht-owners. The rating classes had now come into full swing, and the season started with a match for 20-raters, unique, in that it brought together no fewer than five newly launched competitors, viz.: the 'Chiqueta,' 'Dragon,' 'Ghost,' 'Siola,' and 'Velzie.' By the third regatta eight 2½-raters were ready for the fray, seven of which were new boats that season—'Cock-a-whoop,' 'Cosette,' 'Humming Bird,' 'Madcap,' 'Nadador,' 'Heathen Chinee,' and 'Musume.' Among the 10-raters were the old 5-ton flyer 'Doris,' now swelled out to meet the more modern school, 'Fantan,' 'Dis,' 'Decima,' and 'Ethel.' The new 'Blue Belle,' 'Tar Baby,' and sometimes the 'Thief,' formed the 5-rating class.

The event of the season was the handicap race for the Cup given by the Queen, which took place on August 10. It was open to yachts of 20 tons and over, and 17 started. The course chosen lay to the eastward, from an imaginary line between the flagstaff on the Spit Fort, and the committee boat, round the Nab Lightship, west buoy of the middle and committee vessel, leaving all on the starboard hand, to finish between the committee vessel and the Spit buoy. There was a strong south-westerly breeze blowing all day, which suited the large yachts well, and some of the finest sailing of the year was witnessed by those who were fortunate enough to follow the race.

Nothing of note occurred during the 1890 period of the club's history. The match which took place on August 2, for yachts rated at 40 tons and over, was the most successful of the season, for it brought together all the large cracks of the year, viz. the 'Iverna,' 119, 'Thistle,' 120, 'Valkyrie,' 76, and 'Yarana,' 72. The 5-rater class proved a very full one, the leading yacht architects sending out as representatives of their skill the 'Valentine,' 'Glycera,' 'Quinque,' 'Alwida,' 'Archee,' and 'Fair Geraldine.' The 2½-rater class received as new additions the 'Troublesome,' 'Babe,' 'Janetta,' 'Dolphin,' 'Camilla,' and 'G.G.' A class, however, which gave a fund of amusement, and was allowed a place in the club's programmes for the first time this year, was the ½-rater. No fewer than ten little boats formed its racing fleet, and were always ready to cross the line whenever a prize and race were offered them.

In 1891 these mosquitoes had a Champion Cup presented to them by Mr. Blair Cochrane, and eleven started at the third regatta of the season for this trophy, which was won by the little 'Kittiwake,' the 'Coquette' coming in second. Another new class, for 1-raters, was started this year, but only four competitors composed it, among them being the 'Kelpie,' 'Samœna,' and 'Unit.' The Royal Regatta was held at Wootton Creek on August 8, and the annual race round the Island was perhaps the best race of the season. It will be seen that, after the rating rule came into force, racing among old cast-offs found no further favour in the eyes of the community, and as an example of the modern programme, the following on the next page, which is that of the Royal Regatta, is a very good specimen.

Of the sailing committee, which has done so much good work, there are names that have appeared on its list as serving members almost from the time a sailing committee was first formed. Capt. Sutton, the honoured Vice-Commodore, and Mr. Gilman, the Hon. Treasurer, deserve first mention, as they have been office-holders from the foundation of the club, and Mr. Gilman's name appears in the earliest committee list. Admiral Hallowes and Major Bulkeley are next in order of seniority. Capt. Hayes, R.N., Messrs. Crampton and A. H. Glennie (the latter is the present Rear-Commodore) follow in order, while Capt. Nottage, Messrs. Flemmich, Laity, Walford, and Wildy bring up the rear. The membership of a sailing committee of such a club as the Royal Portsmouth Corinthian is no sinecure, and a man must be a keen yachtsman who will undertake the duties entailed.

'YARANA' (NOW 'MAID MARION').
72 tons. Designed by G. L. Watson, 1883.

ROYAL PORTSMOUTH CORINTHIAN YACHT CLUB

1891.