so that the duplex vessel would in these instances have to be taken
apart in the same way as in a branch canal.

The saving to be effected by constructing a canal on this principle,
as compared with a canal of one uniform section throughout, must be
considerable, and the advantages of the arrangement are apparent.

The appended figures will further illustrate the arrangement. Fig. 1
shows two separate semi-barges ready to pursue their journey
independently. Fig. 2 shows two semi-barges coupled together ready to
be "folded up" by means of ropes and specially constructed
windlasses--their lateral water compartments having previously been
filled. Fig. 3 shows the duplex vessel after the "folding up"
operation just described; and Figs. 4 and 5 show the cross section of
two loaded semi-barges as outlined in Figs. 2 and 3.

These Figs. 4 and 5 will also serve to illustrate the manner in which
sacks and loose produce should be loaded. Fig. 4 also shows the filled
water compartments, and the effect of their weight in making the boats
lean toward each other.

The materials most suited for this new style of vessel will be iron
and steel such as generally used in the construction of canal and
river vessels.

The new ship can be moved by any motor or driving implement, nor could
there technically a great difficulty be found for making the boilers
move on a quadrant-like rail base in the shape of a circle segment's
quarter, or for building a double screw steamer by combining two
single screw propellers.