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228 much as seventeen tons. Mr. Fairbrother's skill as a sailmaker was demonstrated in the snug fit and judicious proportions of his sails; he also stood well for the signal, and had all ready, and started directly as it was given; this gave him the lead at the outset. The St. George, Captain Gunston, however was an excellent sailer, clean built and carried spanking sails, she also was steered with judgment and pressed very close upon Captain Fairbrother's quarter. The Amelia carried away her bowsprit below Westminster bridge and the others gave up before they had reached so far. The contest was then confined to so few competitors that many would have thought the attraction considerably lessened. The Duke of Manchester's cutter, however, and several other gentlemen's boats were out, and from the first to the last of the race the weather was so inviting and the craft so numerous that the Thames could be walked across at some places by stepping from boat to boat. Captain Fairbrother continued his superiority to the end and came in at half-past eight, and the St. George ten minutes later. All the most fashionable part of the company, which was very numerous, then finished the day's pleasure by going to Vauxhall Gardens."

July 20, 1807, the contractors of the State Lottery gave a cup valued at £50, which was sailed for by the following yachts: Mercury, Captain Astley; Olive Branch, Captain Deacon; St. George, Captain Gunston; Daphne, Captain Bowyer. They started from Blackfriars Bridge at 5, and were