City of Richmond to Ernest S. Inman, February 24, 1875

Dear Sir: Having read over copy of letter from the board of trade, dated 19th instant, I have the honor of submitting my opinion with regard to sound-signals.

I have had several years’ experience of the system worked in American waters, namely: one short blast, “I am porting;” two short blasts, “I am starboarding.”

These signals have been frequently used on board the company’s steamers under my command when entering and leaving New York Harbor, and I am quite satisfied they have in many cases prevented collision with other vessels. In my opinion, nothing could be more simple of application, and I should be much pleased to see the plan adopted in British waters in all weathers.

In reference to the other signals, three short blasts, “I am taking care,” and four short blasts, “I am going full speed astern,” my opinion is that if these signals were adopted they would have a tendency to complication, and to a certain extent do away with the simplicity of the two first signals. I would also respectfully submit that if the “port” and “starboard” signal is attended to, the two latter signals will never be required.

I have, &c.,