Dangers of Atlantic Navigation—Collision of _Arctic_ and _Vesta_,
1854—_Arctic_ founders—Loss of _Pacific_, 1856—Renewed exertions
of the Collins and, also, of the Cunard Company—Launch of the
_Persia_—Collins line relinquished, 1858—_Scotia_—Her great
strength and speed—_Russia_, first Cunard iron screw-steamer,
1862—_Bothnia_ and _Scythia_, 1874—Their construction, outfit, and
cabin accommodation—Vessels now owned by Cunard Company—Comparison
of _Britannia_ and _Bothnia_—Cunard Company never lost a
life nor a letter during thirty-five years—Reasons—Value of
punctuality—Admirable discipline in their ships—Regulations of the
Company—Most disasters may be prevented by foresight—Success depends
on fitting means—Cunard line shows what can be done