Page:Inland Transit - Cundy - 1834.djvu/93



and that of being overturned is greatly diminished. It is difficult to control four such horses as can draw a heavy carriage ten miles per hour, in case they are frightened, or choose to run away; and for quick travelling they must be kept in that state of courage, that they are always inclined for running away, particularly down hills, and at sharp turns of the road. In steam, however, there is little corresponding danger, being perfectly controllable, and capable of exerting its power in reverse in going down hills.'

"Steam has been applied as a power in draught in two ways: in the one, both passengers and engine are placed on the same carriage; in the other, the engine carriage is merely used to draw the carriage in which the load is conveyed. In either case, the probability of danger from explosion has been rendered infinitely small, from the judicious construction of boiler which has been adopted.

"The danger arising to passengers from the breaking of the machinery need scarcely be taken into consideration. It is a mere question of delay, and can scarcely exceed in frequency the casualties which may occur with horses.

"It has been frequently urged against these carriages, that, wherever they shall be introduced, they must effectually prevent all other travelling on the road; as no horse will bear quietly the noise and smoke of the engine.

"The committee believe that these statements are unfounded. Whatever noise may be complained of, arises from the present defective construction of the machinery, and will be corrected as the makers of such carriages gain greater experience. Admitting, even, that the present engines do work with some noise, the effect on horses has been greatly exaggerated. All the witnesses accustomed to travel in these carriages, even on the crowded roads adjacent to the metropolis, have stated, that horses are very seldom, if ever, frightened in passing."

The committee conclude their report by the following summary of propositions, of the truth of which they state that they have received ample evidence:—

1. "That carriages can be propelled by steam on common roads at an average rate of ten miles per hour.

2. "That, at this rate, they have conveyed upwards of fourteen passengers.

3. "That their weight, including engine, fuel, water, and attendants, may be under three tons.

4. "That they can ascend and descend hills of considerable inclination with facility and safety.