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 VIII.

Chapter 881 wordsPublic domain

Watt’s introduction to Dr. Roebuck--Begins business as surveyor--Surveys canals--Partnership with Roebuck in the engine--Difficulties in constructing the engine--Watt’s visit to Kinneil--A patent determined on--Watt’s despondency--Continues his improvements--Learns German--Correspondence with Dr. Small--Specification of patent lodged--Watt erects a trial engine--The washhouse behind Kinneil--The engine completed--Its defects--Roebuck’s embarrassments--Watt accepts engagement to superintend canal works--Employed in various surveys--Designs Hamilton Bridge--Supplies plans for dock and pier at Port Glasgow and harbour at Ayr--Illness and death of Mrs. Watt--Dr. Roebuck’s ruin--Turning point in Watt’s fortunes 138–158