THE JOHN BROWN STEAMER.
Rev. Dr. Flickinger was also empowered to contract for the John Brown steamer, and visited England last December, on his way to Africa, spending some days in conference with ship builders relating to the kind and size of vessel needful. Before closing the contract, however, he decided to examine the depth and width of the rivers upon which it was to be used and other matters involved in its success in connection with the Mendi Mission. Upon his return to England in May, he contracted with Mr. Edward Hayes, of Stratford, for the construction of the steamer. It is to be 60 feet long, 12 feet beam and 7 feet deep amid ships, draft of water 3½ feet, speed from 7 to 8 miles per hour to carry 15 tons cargo besides coal for running two days, and to have cabin accommodations for seven persons and room for the crew in the forecastle. It is to be of the best of iron and material throughout. Its engine will be 36 horse-power and of the most substantial kind, and the boiler of ample size and strength, adapted for wood or coal. It is to be finished in the early autumn and to cost £1,777. To this must be added about £300 for transporting and putting it in order for use, or a little above $10,000 in all. We trust that unpaid pledges to this Association for the steamer will be forwarded to us without delay.
We call attention to the communication in this number from Rev. W. C. Pond, Superintendent of our Chinese missions. The magnitude and importance of his work will, we hope, stir the hearts of our friends to liberal contributions in its behalf.