METCALFE, Commander Steamship Belgic to Mes, April 7, 1875

Gentlemen: I am in receipt of your note, inclosing a copy of fog-signals proposed by the board of trade, and herewith beg to hand you my report on the same.

The signals A, B, C are very good, with the exception of the interval given, which, in my opinion, should not be longer than two minutes at the most.

The four following signals would, I think, be of great use in channels or rivers, as giving a system to the signals, with the exception of the last, which I think would be apt to lead to error, or be confusing. I do not think these signals would be of much service on the high seas.

If I might be allowed to suggest, I think it ought to be compulsory to have more uniformity in the size of bell, horn, and whistle for fog purposes, as these instruments may often be seen totally unfit for these purposes.

Yours, &c.,