An item reported that the British shipyard Messrs. Yarrow&Co. at Poplar built for account of the Chinese government a torpedo boat with as dimensions 128 x 13 and a displacement during the trial somewhat above the 70 tons. The hull was divided in 10 compartments due to the use of 9 watertight bulkheads. Each compartment expect for the two at the ends were fitted out with a hand pump and a steam ejector for pumping away the water with a capacity pf 40-to tons hour. Fitted out with a large Locomotive boiler with copper firebox and brass tubes surrounded by coal bunkers as a manner of protection. The accommodation for the officers was located in the aft part consisting of 2 cabins, saloon and pantry and even a separate lavatory. The armament consisted of two [fixed] torpedo tubes below the turtle deck although just able to fire straight forwards. Furthermore was one torpedo tube placed on a mounting aft and 2 quick firing guns and 4-six barrelled Gatling guns aft. Electrically lightened. During the official trial in the Lower Hope below Gravesend in the presence of the Chinese admiral Lang was during six runs (3 with and 3 against the tide) a maximum speed of 23,882 knots and during the two hours run maximum 22,94 knots. During the trials armed and in sea-going trim. Able to turn in a circle with a diameter of twice her length. It was possible to steer her from the steam steering gear placed in the conning tower (situated between the turtle deck and the funnel) or if needed from the separate wheel and gear aft.(1)
Note
1. The Tso I, a first class torpedo boat built in 1887 with as dimensions 39,01 x 3,81 x 1,91 metres or 128 x 12.6 x 6.3 feet and a displacement of 90 tons. The crew numbered 25 men.
