Chapter 11

ROBERT STEPHENSON'S RESIDENCE IN COLOMBIA AND RETURN--THE BATTLE OF THE LOCOMOTIVE--THE "ROCKET."

Robert Stephenson mining engineer in Colombia--Mule 193-220 journey to Bogota--Mariquita--Silver mining--Difficulties with the Cornishmen--His cottage at Santa Anna--Longs to return home--Resigns his post--Meeting with Trevithick--Voyage to New York, and shipwreck--Returns to Newcastle, and takes charge of the factory--The working power of the Liverpool and Manchester Railway--Fixed engines and locomotives, and their respective advocates--Walker and Rastrick's report--A prize offered for the best locomotive--Conferences of the Stephensons--Boiler arrangements and heating surface--Mr. Booth's contrivance--Building of the "Rocket"--The competition of engines at Rainhill--The "Novelty" and "Sanspareil"--Triumph of the "Rocket," and its destination