Eugene Klapp, M. Am. Soc. C. E. (by letter).—The injury done to the piers, as reported by Mr. Payne, is not to be wondered at. The pier was primarily built for a yacht landing, and, on account of the shoal water conditions, excepting at extreme high tide, it was mostly to be used by tenders and launches from larger yachts. It was thought that at high water the large steam yachts might be able to come alongside.
Provision was not made for tying up to the dock a heavily loaded brick scow and allowing it to remain there through rough weather.
The building of the secondary fender piles, during the temporary use of the dock for unloading building material, will doubtless prevent further damage.