SHIPPING AND TRADE 95 In 1782, eighteen packets sailed from Falmouth for the West Indies and America. Up to 1823 the packets had sailed under contract between the General Post Office and the commanders, who received their appoint- ment from that establishment and engaged to provide, equip, and man a proper ship for the purpose, for a sum of ^1800 per annum. These vessels were from 180 to The St Vincent's Anchor, Falmouth 210 tons register. But after 1823 the a b ve system was changed, for the service was placed under the orders of the Admiralty instead of the Post Office; and as vessels were wanted they were supplied by men-of-war. In 1827 thirty-nine packets left Falmouth; in 1834 six steamers were employed. But in 1850 Falmouth ceased altogether to be a packet station. This was
