Seasoning on the China Station

The USS Saginaw's future role included the protection of trade with China, Japan, and India, and the enlargement of commercial intercourse, no small task for the gunboat. The Saginaw had been constructed for service in East India Squadron and it was intended would in some measure supply the latter's pressing needs. While answering other purposes of the squadron, she could, it was hoped, be particularly useful in suppressing piracies, as her light draught would enable her to reach the retreats of those who commit them.

The USS Saginaw's future role included the protection of trade with China, Japan, and India, and the enlargement of commercial intercourse, no small task for the gunboat. The Saginaw had been constructed for service in East India Squadron and it was intended would in some measure supply the latter's pressing needs. While answering other purposes of the squadron, she could, it was hoped, be particularly useful in suppressing piracies, as her light draught would enable her to reach the retreats of those who commit them.