Democratic Sentinel, Volume 18, Number 48, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 14 December 1894 — ASKS FOR MORE SHIPS. [ARTICLE]

ASKS FOR MORE SHIPS.

Secretary Herbert Is of the Opinion that the Navy Should Be increased. The most important recommendation made by Secretary Herbert in his annual report is that Congress authorize the construction of three great battle ships of about 10,000 tons displacement each, to cost,-exclusive of armament, not exceeding $4,000,000 each, and twelve torpedo boats of from 100 to 300 tons each, at the discretion of the' Secretary, to cost not exceeding an average of $170,000. Since his last report five splendid ships have been added to the naval list, three of which are capable of speed in excess of twenty-one knots, while two of them are the fleetest cruisers in the world. The five vessels are the Marblehead, 18.44 knots; Columbia, 22.80; Olympia, 21.69; Montgomery, 19.056; and Minneapolis, 23.076. One important change of naval policy is noted in connection with the advertisements for three new torpedo boats soon to be issued. The Secretary says that no speed premiums will be allowed on these boats; that the premium system undoubtedly had its advantages when adopted, but the department is now convinced that the time has come when, with the experience gained, it may with profit be abandoned. The report shows the number of torpedo boats now on hand in foreign countries is 1,283, and the number building 182. Great Britain has 175 on hand and 64 building, while France is even better off with 214 on hand and 41 building. Of seventeen countries enumerated not one has less than 22 of these boats, while the United States, with more coasts and ports than any nation, has but six, count-

ing those yet to be built. After calling attention to the urgent n?ed of legislation for the relief of the personnel of the navy, the Secretary recommends that the enlisted force be increased by 2,000 men. In conclusion the Secretary submits estimates for the next year aggregating $27,885,914, exceeding the current appropriation by $5,495,193, caused mainly by the necessity of paying for vessels now under contract. It is stated that after this year the appropriations on this score will rapidly diminish, falling from $13,259,393 next year to $750,000 in the following year.