|
|
STEPHENSON, Robert (1803-1859). Civil engineer. Autograph Letter Signed to his colleague T[homas] E[lliott] Harrison, 2 pages 4to with integral address-leaf (seal-tear affecting only a few words), 30 May 1832. Informing his engineer about the rough passage of the London and Birmingham Railway Bill through Parliament. Terrific opposition from both landowners and the vested interests of the canal and coach companies made the passage of the Bill particularly difficult. It was passed by a large majority of the Commons on the 1st of June 1832 (as reported by Stephenson in a postscript to the letter), but was then thrown out by the Lords, and did not ultimately pass until the next session. 'Our opponents have admitted the correctness of our plans & levels indeed one of them (McNeil) said the plans and levels were unexceptionable. The only thing they bring against us is the Estimate and they have worked exceedingly hard at that part of the subject. Their estimae was made up to 3½ million that is 1 million more than ours - but their extravagance is very apparent and I am persuaded the Committee is favourable to us. ...'
| |