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for some time, and had progressed so far in its construction that it was whispered around there was to be a "launch." As a launch was something new to "Milanites," everything in the conveyance line was eagerly seized upon, and Saturday afternoon the road leading to the yard was covered with one continuous line of carriages, wagons, etc. At the time given for the launch to take place there was some five hundred people present to witness the schooner's "first step". As there was some two hours to wait after reaching the yard before the launch would occur, we took a stroll through the different buildings forming "Friesville," as it was called, with the following results: We found here a large saw mill, built by Mr. F., as also were all the other buildings here, especially for his purpose in building vessels, as he does not intend to stop with one, but proposes to proceed at once toward building another. This mill is supplied with most modern and approved machinery, saws, etc. The engine is one of "Blandy's" make, of Zanesville. This department is under the charge of J. E. Tompkins. Next in order stands the blacksmith shop, where our genial friend, James Black, holds sway. The job of iron work done on this vessel is one which reflects great credit upon Mr. Black, and fully convinces all that he is one of the very best mechanics. There are also on the yard, "dry houses," "Boarding houses," etc., each doing their respective work in the building. Having taken the routine of the shops, we now come to the schooner, as she sits quietly on the stocks, waiting for the word "cut." She is of very fine shape, painted white to her water line. The spars were not in, and so we give only a description of her "hull." Length of keel 192 feet Breadth of beam 34" Depth of hold 14-1/2" Promptly at five o'clock the word "all ready" was given by Mr. William Raynor, the "Boss Builder" of the job, and immediately sang out the word "cut." This was promptly obeyed and with one graceful slide she sat on the water and after one or two "side surges," she sat erect and proud on the water, amidst the deafening cheers of the crowd. As she had not yet been christened, "no colors" were displayed, and therefore for the present she is "unknown." Mr. Raynor, the foreman of the job, is a practical ship-carpenter of many years experience and deserves much credit for the able manner in which he has finished the job. He goes immediately upon the completion of this to another of 62