13 MAY 1854, Page 13

The Royal Albert screw steamer of 131 guns was launched

today at Woolwich ; having been named in due form by the Queen. The dock- yards, the craft on the river, and the Essex shore, were black with the multitude of people collected to see the spectacle ; which was all that the most English heart could desire. The threatening clouds broke away, the view was admirable, the whole ceremony went smoothly. Her Majesty succeeded in breaking the baptismal bottle after two in- effectual attempts ; the First Lord of the Admiralty hilariously supporting her on the right, while the royal namesake of the vessel stood by his con- sort on the other. The supports having been removed, after some delay, the immense ship slid into the water with the utmost ease. Never was a ship launched more successfully.