STEAM NAVIGATION. 81

water-wheel revolves in a space between them. She is rigged withtwo stout masts, has two bowsprits and jibs, and four rudders.”*

Had Mr. Fulton been wholly unacquainted with the peculiar con-struction of the Dalswinton boat, already referred to, this would cer-tainly have been a very remarkable coincidence.

We now reach the period which brings us to Practical SteamNavigation in Europe. On the 18th of January, 1812, Mr. HenryBell, of Helensburgh, completed the construction of a vessel namedthe Comet, of 30 tons burden, which was effectively propelled by aSteam engine driving two paddle-wheels on each of her sides. Theengine was estimated at three horses’ power; and the dimensions ofthe vessel were 40 feet in length, and 10 feet 6 inches in breadth.

The following circular, issued by Mr. Bell, will best explain hisintentions with respect to this vessel:

“ Steam Passage Boat, the©‘ Comet, between Glasgow, Greenock,and Helensburgh, for passengers only.

“ Tag Subseriber having, at much expense, fitted up a handsomevessel to ply upon the river Clyde, between Glasgow and Greenock,to sail by the power of wind, air, and steam, he intends that thevessel shall leave the Broomielaw on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sa-turdays, about mid-day, or at such hour thereafter as may answerfrom the state of the tide; and to leave Greenock on Mondays, Wed-nesdays, and Fridays, in the morning, to suit the tide.

“ The elegance, comfort, safety, and speed of this vessel requireonly to be proved to meet the approbation of the public; and theProprietor is determined to do every thing in his power to meritpublic encouragement.

‘“ The terms are, for the present, fixed at four shillings for the bestcabin, and three shillings the second; but beyond these rates no-

SZ

* Colden, p. 229.

1809.

1812.