It was hard work to keep the vessel afloat; indeed, we never expected her to remain above water.

New leaks broke out every day; the engine pump gave way; the bridge broke down; three compartments filled at night; except the cabin and front compartment all was flooded; and in a few days we were assured by Rowe that "she can't be worse than she is, sir." He and Hutchins had spent much of their time, while we were away, in patching her bottom, puddling it with clay, and shoring it, and it was chiefly to please them that we again attempted to make use of her.

We had long been fully convinced that the steel plates were thoroughly unsuitable.

On the morning of the 21st the uncomfortable "Asthmatic" grounded on a sandbank and filled.

She could neither be emptied nor got off.