Page:Report from the Select Committee on Steam Carriages.pdf/194



Mr. Joseph Gibbs. 19 August, 1831.  What should you suggest as the standard of weight?—I have not turned my attention to that part of the subject, but I will do so if it is wished.

Are you aware what the average weight carried in vans is?—I have made inquiry from van proprietors, and find that they frequently carry six tons, including the weight of the van, but the average weight is about four tons, and the width of their wheels is from 2⅛ inches to 2½ inches.

Do you anticipate that steam will be applied shortly for the purpose of conveying goods in vans?—I believe it will; I contemplate the putting some vans on the road to be worked by steam.

Will such Carriages be on four wheels or on any greater number?—I think it probable that they will be on a greater number than four wheels, from six to eight wheels.

What do you conceive to be the maximum weight that ought to be placed on a wheel of three inches width?—One ton and a half ought to be the utmost limit. 



are you?—An Engineer.

Have you had the superintendence of Sir Charles Dance's Steam Carriage?—Yes, I have.

On what road does it run, and how long has it ran on that road?—It was running regularly from the 21st of February to the 22d of June inclusive.

During that period has any accident occurred?—Yes, by the breaking of the axletree.

Mention the nature of the accident?—We supposed it broke, in consequence of an unusual quantity of stones laid down upon that part of the road that was 