BURLEIGH, Chief Officer Steamship Republic to Mes, April 2, 1875

Gentlemen: In accordance with your request, I herewith give my opinion on the fog-signals proposed to be used on board of steamers.

I think that steamers under way should make one prolonged blast of the whistle, but that three minutes is too long an interval. Two minutes would be about one blast for every half-mile, when going full speed; and if there was much wind, that is quite as far as the whistle would be heard.

With reference to the steering-signals, I would propose that in the event of two ships meeting, if one should make a steering-signal, it should be repeated by the other, to show that she understood it and would act upon it.

I would further propose that the signal, “take care,” be dispensed with, and substitute for it, “keep your course; I will keep my course.”

This signal would be useful between sailing-ships and steamers.

I think the steering-signals will be of great use when navigating a ship in narrow waters.

I am, &c.,