Page:Popular Science Monthly Volume 50.djvu/362

346, and their privacy considered even when under strict supervision. The officers in charge can direct and control all operations from the central part of the vessel, and, being provided with separate toilet and disinfecting facilities, can return to their quarters or gain access to any part of the vessel without danger of conveying infection and without delay. Fitted with the combined apparatus, a boat containing the plant can be run alongside the suspected vessel, which can then be thoroughly cleansed, disinfected, and fumigated, the passengers and crew bathed, their clothing subjected to steam sterilization, and returned to them uninjured, and all baggage and bedding treated to a complete disinfection. The crew and attendants have their comfort and health cared for separately.

Under the direction of A. H. Doty, M. D., health officer of the port of New York, the old side-wheeler Ripple has been remodeled. She looks new from end to end, and under the name of James W. Wadsworth presents a very trim, businesslike appearance. Inside she is arranged to economize every available inch of space, and is finished in such a manner that no germs of disease can be left to lurk undestroyed.

The Wadsworth has a twofold duty to perform: the bathing and disinfection of passengers, crew, and baggage; and the cleansing, disinfection, and fumigation of their vessel.

The passengers and crew and their effects are transferred to the disinfecting boat for treatment, and their vessel is thoroughly disinfected before they are permitted to return to it.

To effect this work with rapidity, there are several separate processes, each with its own set of apparatus, conveniently located. Each or all can be operated from the central part of the vessel, where the officer in charge of the disinfecting processes is stationed.