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Prefatory In submitting this work to the public a few explanations are required. The general principles of classifying vessels have not been changed, but some modifications, the result of long experience, have been introduced. All numbers have been omitted in the classification, for the reason that they greatly increase the chances of errors, and under the present arrangement they are not at all essential. The star (*) has also been omitted, as it has caused much ill feeling without a compensating benefit. It has been considered just and necessary to introduce an intermediate or half-class (AE) between the first and second classes, in which new vessels falling short in some particular of the requirements for "A" and vessels rebuilt entirely new from the bottom with new or nearly new outfit, can be placed. It is also proposed to give "A" vessels which were extra fastened, etc. and salted down to the peaks when built, the benefit of this class for two years after the expiration of their original five years. The second class is designated by "E," the third by "B." All vessels in the above classes are eligible for carrying grain. The designation of the fourth class is "L" and vessels so classed are considered doubtful for grain cargoes. The fifth class is distinguished by the letter "C", representing vessels fit only for carrying lumber and similar cargoes; and "O," the sixth and lowest class is intended for vessels which are entirely unseaworthy. On the following page will be found a comparison of the two scales of classing, by which it will be readily understood. The barges are in three classes, "A," "B," and "C." Those if "A" and "B" are eligible for grain; and those in "C" are fit only for lumber and similar cargoes. Their capacity in bushels of wheat is also given. As the currency fluctuates so much it was felt to be impossible to fix on any scale of values in that medium which would be long of any use. The values, therefore have been calculated on a gold basis, and however great the fluctuations in the currency might be it will only be necessary to add the premium to the value in the Register to arrive at the value in United States currency. It is not to be supposed that the actual selling values are assessed in this work, that being a matter between the seller and purchaser, depending as it does on many circumstances beyond the cognizance of any Marine Inspector, such as the desire or necessity to sell, the inclination or ability to buy, the opinion of future ruling of freights, rates of wages, etc. etc. All that is intended therefore by inserting the values in this Register is to aid Underwriters and insurers in fixing a value in the policy of insurance. Great efforts have been made and expense incurred to make this work as far as possible, a reliable record. It is therefore hoped that it will meet with the approval and liberal patronage of Underwiters and the commercial community. ROBERT THOMAS