History of merchant shipping and ancient commerce, Volume 4 (of 4) by W. S. Lindsay

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