on monday, june 22, 1908, the "gatzert" and "spencer", both under full steam, raced past the british ship "crown of india". the swell created by the steamers nearly caused the ship to break free from its moorings. captain gilbert of the "crown of india" made a complaint to the port engineer, j.b.c. lockwood, who said that measures would have to be taken to prevent steamboat racing, as it was only a matter of time until a ship or the dry dock would be damaged. gilbert's complaint was discussed at a special meeting of the port of portland held on the afternoon of thursday, june 25, 1908.