CHAPTER XI.

_STEAM NAVIGATION. THE ‘GREAT EASTERN’ STEAM-SHIP, FROM THE COMMENCEMENT OF THE UNDERTAKING TO THE LAUNCH._

A.D. 1851--1857. ÆTATIS 46-52.

Introductory Observations--The Australian Steam Navigation Company--_Statement of Mr. Brunel’s Project of a Line of large Ships_ (June 10, 1852)--Adoption of his Plans by the Eastern Steam Navigation Company--_Extract from a Letter describing the Scheme_ (July 1, 1852)--_Letter to J. Scott Russell, Esq., on the Form and Dimensions of the Great Ship_ (July 13, 1852)--_Report on Mode of Proceeding_ (July 21, 1852)--_Report on Enquiries Relating to the Draught and Form of the Vessel_ (October 6, 1852)--_Report on the Proceedings of the Committee appointed to consider Mr. Brunel’s Plans_ (March 21, 1853)--Tenders invited for the Ship and Engines--_Report on Tenders_ (May 18, 1853)--Preparation of the Contracts and Specifications--_Extracts from Mr. Brunel’s Memoranda_ (A.D. 1852, 1853, 1854)--_Letter on his Position and Duties as Engineer of the Company_ (August 16, 1854)--_Letter on an Article in a Newspaper_ (November 16, 1854)--_Report on the Undertaking_ (February 5, 1855)--Arrangements proposed for obtaining Astronomical Observations--_Letter to G. B. Airy, Esq., Astronomer Royal_ (October 5, 1852)--Appointment of Mr. William Harrison to the Command of the Ship--_Memorandum on the Management of the Great Ship_ (October 1855)--_Letter on the Duties of the Chief Engineer_ (March 19, 1857)--Suspension and Resumption of the Works.....289