Lives of Boulton and Watt. Principally from the Original Soho Mss. Comprising also a history of the invention and introduction of the steam engine

CHAPTER VI.

Chapter 672 wordsPublic domain

Glasgow in 1754--The Glasgow tobacco lords--The early clubs, and social habits of the merchants--Watt’s master--Leaves Glasgow, and proceeds to London on horseback--Is placed with a mathematical-instrument maker--His progress in learning the trade--Frugal living in London--Danger from pressgangs--His infirm health--Returns to Scotland--Refused permission to begin business in Glasgow--Gains asylum in the College--His workshop there--Makes musical instruments--His various reading and studies--Intercourse with the professors--Intimate relations of Watt with Robison--Robison’s estimate of Watt 96–116