This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1876. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER VII. I SAID that the length of the "Great Eastern" exceeded two hectometres. For the benefit of those partial to comparisons, I will add that it is a third longer than the " Pont des Arts;" in reality this steam-ship measures 673 feet at the load water-line, between the perpendiculars; the upper deck is 680 feet from stem to stern; that is to say, its length is double that of the largest transatlantic steamers, its width amidships is about 71 feet, and behind the paddles about 107 feet. The hull of the "Great Eastern" is proof against the most formidable seas; it is double, and is composed of a number of cells placed between the deck and hold; besides these, thirteen compartments, separated by water-tight partitions, increase the security against fire or the inlet of water. Ten thousand tons of iron were used in the construction of this hull, and 3,000,000 rivets secured the iron plates on her sides. The "Great Eastern" draws 30 feet of water with a cargo of 28,500 tons, and with a light cargo, from 20 to 30 feet. She is capable of receiving 10,000 passengers, so that out of the 373 principal districts in France, 274 are less populated than this floating sub-prefecture with its average number of passengers. The lines of the "Great Eastern" are very elongated; her straight stem is pierced-with hawse-holes, through which the anchor-chains pass; no signs of dents or protuberances are to be seen on her finely-cut bows, but the slight sweep of her rounded stern somewhat mars the general effect. From the deck rise six masts and five funnels. The three masts in front are the "jigger," and the "fore-mast," and the "main-mast." The last three astern are the "after-main-mast," "mizen-mast," and "after-jigger." The fore-masts and the main-masts carry the schooner-...