y all that was required on a
suitable draught of water, it was essential that the "Bruce" should be
built of steel, but in view of the severe structural and local
stresses to which she must inevitably be subjected when at sea, it was
necessary to afford adequate stiffening and means for preventing
penetration or abrasion by ice. Hence the frames are more closely
spaced than is usual in vessels of her size, numerous web frames
associated with arched supports at the main deck and adjacent to the
waterline are fitted throughout her entire length, and a belt of
3-inch greenheart planking, with a steel sheathing over it at the fore
part of the vessel, is further provided. Indeed, throughout the
vessel, every precaution has been taken with a view to insure her
efficiency and safety when running swiftly from port to port, while at
the same time the materials employed have been most wisely,
judiciously and economically distributed.

[Illustration: THE NEWFOUNDLAND AND NOVA SCOTIA PASSENGER STEAMER "BRUCE."]

The dimensions of the "Bruce" are 230 feet long, 32 feet 6 inches
broad, and 22 feet deep, her gross tonnage being 1250 tons. She has
been built with very fine lines, a considerable rise of floor, and
with a graceful outline, which gives her the appearance of a large
yacht. Our illustration shows the "Bruce" when running at a speed of
upward of 15 knots on the measured mile at Wemyss Bay. Not only has
the structure of the vessel been skillfully designed, but her internal
fittings are admirably arranged. It is really most interesting to note
with what ingenuity passenger accommodation of a somewhat extensive
character has been provided in so small a vessel. The "Bruce" has
berths for seventy first-class and one hundred second class
passengers, and the accommodation is of a very luxurious kind. The
berths are between the awning and main decks, where there is also a
special apartment set apart for ladies, and at the fore end for the
officers' quarters. Besides these a large and handsome dining saloon
is situated on the main deck, richly upholstered and fitted with
unique little window recesses, which besides adding to the appearance
of the apartment, furnishes additional dining accommodation. It is
done up in dark mahogany panels, fringed with gold. The chairs are
upholstered in blue morocco, and the floor is laid with a Turkey
carpet. All the other rooms are in dark polished oak. A large smoking
room is also provided on the