The file comprises correspondence, sent (and received) by the Engineer to the Humber Conservancy Board (Arthur Ernest Butterfield), to/from Earles Shipbuilding and Engineering Company Limited, the Marine and Works Committee of the Humber Conservancy Board, and the Humber Pilot’s Office. It is concerned with various problems with the construction, launch, and operation of the pilot cutter 'Pilot' (No. 549). These difficulties relate to the boiler check valves, the steering gear, the fitting of safety rails and stanchions, and the casting and fitting of a new bronze propeller (to improve the speed of the vessel).

The file also includes: safety certificates for the boiler, details of chains and iron stock on the vessel, and a specification for the vessel. It also includes a speed card and chart showing the results of a 'measured run' of the vessel, which was carried out near Sunk Island on 28 October 1908.