CHAPTER VI.

_THE ATMOSPHERIC SYSTEM._

A.D. 1840--1848. ÆTATIS 35--43.

Preliminary Observations--The South Devon Railway--Description of the Atmospheric System--History of its Introduction prior to 1844--_Report by Mr. Brunel, recommending its Adoption on the South Devon Railway_ (August 19, 1844)--Examination of this Report--Mr. Brunel’s Evidence before the Select Committee on Atmospheric Railways, 1845--History of the Application of the System on the South Devon Railway, 1844-1848--_Report on State of Works_ (August 28, 1847)--_Report on Causes of Failure_ (August 19, 1848)--Abandonment of the System, September 1848--_Note_: Comparison of Stationary and Locomotive Power.....131