GLENDELL, Commander Steamship Republic to Mes, April 3, 1875

Gentlemen: In reply to your note of the 1st instant, inclosing copy of signals proposed by board of trade to be used by steamers and sailing-vessels during fog, the signals A, B, and C, I understand are compulsory, and I do not think can be improved upon.

With regard to the additional signals, one short blast, “I am porting,” and two short blasts, “I am starboarding,” are the signals already in use in American waters, both in fog and clear weather; and, I am of opinion, are all that are necessary; the other signals as to caution, &c., would, perhaps, cause confusion, as each vessel should at all times be taking care.

I would suggest in particular, in narrow waters, that all sailing-vessels when running should be obliged to carry a light of some kind over the stern, as I have on several occasions nearly collided with them when going the same way, in consequence of no lights being visible.

I am, &c.,