17th February 1820, Thurlby Hall, Lincolnshire
Extract of a letter from Edward Ffrench Bromhead to Babbage
... I have fallen on a curious book, a collection of all the Almanacs published in 1745. They are very numerous and some very scientific, and I lament to say that the present survivors are the most absurd and astrological. It would be a capital speculation to publish a new almanac, selecting the best points of each. But I must contrive to let you see this piece of antiquity. ...
British Library Add Ms 37182 f308
January 5th 1821, Gray's Inn
Extract of a letter from Francis Baily to Babbage
re: Two Continental Ephemerides
Ephemeris of Bode for 1823 Jupiter Saturn
Ephemeris by Schumacher 1821 1822 Venus Mars
... These tables have not (as far as I can learn) appeared in England. Have the Board of Longitude been obliged (from lack of talent) to apply to a foreign source for their calculations? ...
British Library Add Ms 37182 f323
7th March 1821, Thurlby Hall, Lincolnshire
Extract of a letter from Edward Ffrench Bromhead to Babbage
the parent of the CPS [Cambridge Philosophical Society]. ...
Analysis, I have always considered Notation as the Grammar of Symbolic Language, which can have its false concords, barbarisms, and bad style, as well as any tongue descended from the dispersment of Babel. A work of this kind, if even only tolerably executed, would be of incalculable value as laying the Groundwork of system in what has hitherto been the production of caprice loosely regulated by accidental analogies. It will I trust be a magnum opus in your hands, ...
British Library Add Ms 37182 f350
12th May 1821, East Sheen
Extract of a letter from Dr Pearson to Babbage
... Indeed it is desirable, that corrections for the Greenwich stars should be calculated by different persons, and by methods independent of each other, for the purpose of ensuring accuracy; for a comparison of the results may detect errors that otherwise might have escaped notice. ...
British Library Add Ms 37182 f415
18th May 1822, Thurlby Hall, Lincolnshire
Extract of a letter from Edward Ffrench Bromhead to Babbage
make nothing of it, scarcely even in the simplest cases, I think I might by a machine like a 74 Gun ship construct a table of squares. I suppose you have discovered some new property of numbers. A machine for prime numbers would indeed be a discovery. ...
British Library Add Ms 37182 f419
8th June 1822, Gray's Inn
Extract of a letter from F. Baily to Babbage
... I trust you are making rapid progress with your new machine: I long to see some practical results. ...
British Library Add Ms 37182 f423
29th June 1822, Gray's Inn
Letter from Francis Baily to Babbage
My dear Sir,
Annexed is the extract from Prony, which I mentioned to you: and enclosed are two printed papers, one of which contains the account of the proceedings of the Astronomical, last meeting: and the other is Littrow's paper "done into English" by myself.
I trust you are getting on with your exposé and the valuable properties of your machine: and I sincerely wish you success through every stage of your progress.
Believe me
Yours Truly
Francis Baily
Nouvelle methode de Nivellement trigonometrique par M. de Prony 1822
Page 32 "Lorsque les grands tables calculées d'après mes methodes et sous ma direction, et que les gouvernment Français et Anglais doivent faire imprimer a fais commun, seront publiées, on aura, pour les calculs logarithmiques, des ressources bien superieures à celles qu'offrent les ouvrages dont je viens de parler."
[Translation: When the grand tables, which have been calculated according to my method and under my direction and which the French and British Governments have the duty to print jointly, are published, one will have for logarithmic calculations resources far superior to those other works of which I am just going to speak.]
British Library Add Ms 37182 f425
16th July 1822, Royal Military Academy, Woolwich
Letter from Olinthus Gregory to Babbage
Dear sir,
I beg to return you my best thanks for the copy of your letter to Sir Humphry Davy with which you have favoured me. The application of machinery to the purposes of computation, in the way you have so happily struck out, is highly interesting; and cannot fail, I should think, to be exceedingly beneficial. I trust that our valued friend Mr D. Gilbert, and some other friends to science who possess influence in high quarters, will exert it cordially on this occasion, and obtain an adequate grant from Government to complete and render extensively effectual the whole of your curious inventions.
I have just received two or three more pamphlets from that strange fellow Wronski. I thought he had quitted England; but I suppose he remains till he has completely effected the ruin of Nolan, as he did that of a Banker in Paris, who became his friend, patron, and supporter there about four years ago.
I have the honour to be
yours very faithfully
Olinthus Gregory
British Library Add Ms 37182 f427
22nd July 1822, St. Thomas'
Letter from W.R. [Lyall?] to Babbage
My dear Sir,
I have to apologise for not having acknowledged immediately the receipt of two copies of letter to Sir H. Davy which you sent to me.
I have read the letter through with great satisfaction, though of course there was little in it that I had not before heard you say, in conversation. However, the letter itself is, I think exactly what you intended it to be.
The next step, is to get it reviewed. I will see that it shall have due notice in the British Critic- by due, I mean early notice, but the Quarterly is the great object. If you can procure one of your scientific friends to prepare an article, there will be no kind of difficulty in procuring its insertion.
Believe me, my dear sir
Yours very sincerely
W. R. [Lyall?]
British Library Add Ms 37182 f431
20th August 1822, Thurlby Hall, Lincolnshire
Extract of a letter from Edward Ffrench Bromhead to Babbage
... It is my impression that you are much to blame if you put yourself to any trouble or expense in forming one of the larger Engines, it ought to be done at the charge of the Literary world, and I need not say how anxious I am that something of the kind should be set on foot. A memoir in the Phil. Trans. containing the particulars of your method will give all the force you ever can procure by it. Napier and Newton did not increase their Glory by making Rods and Reflectors. ...
British Library Add Ms 37182 f433
n.d. [probably April/March 1823], Thurlby Hall, Lincolnshire
Extract of a letter from Edward Ffrench Bromhead to Babbage
It would have been more just, and would have had a better effect, that you should have thrown out the principle, and a committee of scientific men taken it up. You should have two courses in view, on the Parliamentary Inquiry, 1st a remunerative grant, such as were granted to Dr Jenner and many others, 2ndly an annual grant of 5 or 10 thousand a year to the Board of Longitude, for scientific purposes. Either of these would be carried but you will find it hard to persuade Parliament to address the Crown for the manufacture of a machine. The addresses for printing the National records and Chronicles are almost the only cases in point. I shall mention the Business among my friends who may be in Parliament. ...
British Library Add Ms 37182 f435
22nd Aug 1822, Royal Society
A letter from Stephen Lee to Babbage
Dear Sir,
On the other side is the copy of a letter which I received a few days ago from Earl Stanhope in answer to one which I had written to him respecting an invention of his father's for solving arithmetical questions by machinery. The letter itself will explain the delay which occurred and gives a very satisfactory answer as to what extent Lord Stanhope's invention is likely to interfere with yours.
I am yours
very truly
Stephen Lee
British Library Add Ms 37182 f436
29th July 1822, Carlsruhe
Copy of a letter from Lord Stanhope to Stephen Lee
Sir,
I have been favoured with your letter and beg that you will excuse the delay which has occurred in answering it in consequence of my absence from England. The Arithmetical Machines which were invented by my father (not as has been stated "a short time before his death"; but about the year 1777) are now in my possession. One of them is for addition and subtraction -but in performing those operations by the machine as much time and attention is required as by the ordinary mode. The other machine multiplies by turning a winch in one direction and divides by moving it in the contrary manner, but there are some particulars in the mode of working it which I do not intirely comprehend and which were not understood even by a mechanician who lived many years with my father. I never considered these machines as objects of utility but more of curiosity and you will perceive that they have no connection with the very ingenious machine which you mention. If you wish to see my father's Arithmetical Machines I can on my return to England have the pleasure of showing them to you.
I have the honour to be
(signed) Stanhope
British Library Add Ms 37182 f437
23rd August 1822
Extract of a letter from Dan Moore to Babbage
... Newton a globe maker in Chancery Lane and who has something to do with a scientific periodical publication called on me this morning to ask respecting your machine which he understood had been publicly exhibited at the Ast. Soc. His inquiry was made on account of a Dr _____ whose name I do not recollect and who had invented a machine for which he has a patent which he shewed you, you being introduced to the Dr by a Mr Bannister at the bar and from which it was understood you constructed your machinery and it was apprehended that your application of your machine might injure him. I told him the machine had never been shewn in public and only to select friends that of all the next I know nothing. This Dr's machine is confined to printing letterpress.
I should have introduced myself to you sooner. ...
British Library Add Ms 37182 f439
28th August 1822
Extract of the draft of a letter from Babbage to Dan Moore
... If you hear any more respecting Dr Church assure him that he need not be in the least alarmed at my infringing on his patent; both the object and the mechanism of my engine are as far as I am acquainted with his totally different.
I neither constructed mine from his nor will it execute the same things: if any further explanation will render him more satisfied I will give it when I return to London.
In the mean time if you will send the enclosed note to my publisher he will give you any number of copies of my letter you may require and I should be obliged if you would convey one to Dr Church. ...
British Library Add Ms 37182 f441
August 1822
Extract of the draft of a letter from Babbage to Biot
Sir Humphry Davy relative to some machines I have contrived for calculating and printing mathematical tables. I have ordered about a dozen copies to be sent to the Royal Institute [of France] addressed to several of its members with whom I have the happiness of being acquainted. As I was not able to direct them myself perhaps you will have the kindness to enquire if they have reached their destination and if they are not directed they were intended for the following gentlemen -yourself, M.Laplace, Delambre, Poisson, Boward, Arago, Humbolt, Legendre. I have been absent from London for some time and shall not return until October. I hope then to receive sufficient encouragement from Government to complete the machinery I have contrived; if as it is not impossible from the economical taste of the ministry I should not meet with support I scarcely think I shall be induced to sacrifice fortune as well as time to the construction of machinery however curious: unfortunately none of the members of our government have the least scientific taste or knowledge. ...
British Library Add Ms 37182 f442
1st Sept 1822, 10 Coates Crescent, Edinburgh
Extract of a letter from Dr Brewster to Babbage
... I have this moment received your letter, and have enclosed the Pages of an account of your Machinery which has been for some time printed off. You will see that I have availed myself of the information in your former letter, and have made a long extract from your letter to Sir Humphry Davy. When Sir Humphry was here he promised to send me a Copy of your letter, but it has not yet come, I fortunately got possessed of a copy from Profssr Wallace.
Had I known your wishes I would have printed the whole of the letter; and if you think the inclosed notice not sufficiently full, I shall have much pleasure in giving away additional information on the subject in [the] next Number. ...
British Library Add Ms 37182 f449
25th October 1822, Trinity College, Cambridge
Extract of a letter from George Peacock to Babbage
... I wish to see your letter: I have only seen the extracts from it which are given in Brewster. ...
British Library Add Ms 37182 f453
1st Nov 1822, Carnatic Office
A letter from Robert Harry Inglis to Babbage
Dear Sir
My absence from town for the summer has principally delayed my acknowledgements to you for your kindness in thinking me worthy of the Honor of a Copy of your "Letter to Sir H. Davy". I will only add that I value very highly such an attention from such a man; and that I have derived a new and curious gratification from it.
I have the Honor to be
Dear Sir
Yr very faithful Servt
Robert Harry Inglis
British Library Add Ms 37182 f454
12th November 1822, Gray's Inn
Postscript of Francis Baily's letter to Babbage
... P.S. Have you seen the British Critic for this month? there is a review of your letter to Sir H Davy, which I hope will work some good.
I think I have seen somewhere stated that in one of the editions of the Requisite Tables there are 3000 errors. If you think it of importance, I will ascertain the authority. ...
British Library Add Ms 37182 f458
Nov 1822, [Address: 5 Mincing Lane?]
Part of the draft of Babbage's Letter to Dr Brewster published in the latter's journal. See <MI>Babbage's Calculating Engines<D> by H.P. Babbage for full letter.
... and if the absence of all encouragement to proceed with the mechanism I have contrived shall prove that I have anticipated too far the period at which it must become necessary I will yet [del: confidently] venture to predict that the [del: constantly] a time will arrive when accumulating labor which arises from the arithmetical applications of mathematical formulae acting as a constantly retarding force [del: shall] must ultimately impede the usefull progress of the science unless this or some equivalent method is devised for relieving it from the overwhelming incumbrance of numerical detail.
I remain my dear sir ...
British Library Add Ms 37182 f460
9th December 1822, Académie de Dijon, France
Extract of a letter from d'Aumont to Babbage
... L'académie recevra avec un haut interêt le mémoire que vous lui annoncez de l'application de la mécanique à la construction et au calcul des tables. ...
[Translation: ... The academy will receive with much interest the memoir in which you announce the application of mechanics to the construction and calculation of tables. ...]
British Library Add Ms 37183 f5
29th January 1823, Trinity College, Cambridge
Extract of a letter from George Peacock to Babbage
... I am glad to learn that the machine has such distinguished visitors and sincerely hope that it will meet with such patronage, as may put it in efficient operation. ...
British Library Add Ms 37183 f7
20th February 1823, Carnatic Office, Manchester Building
R.H. Inglis to Babbage.
Dear Sir,
Lord Bexley will be happy to share with me on Saturday morng the pleasure of seeing your instrument. Unless therefore I should hear to the contrary from you, we will hope to be with you about Twelve o'clock.
I am, Dear Sir,
Yrs faithfully
Robert Harry Inglis
British Library Add Ms 37183 f8
Copy of a letter dated 21st March 1823 from J. W. Croker to Sir R. Peel copied by Francis Offley Martin [See letter from Francis O. Martin to Babbage in 1862, and also <MI>Croker Papers<D> by L. Jennings]
My dear Peel,
Mr. Babbage's invention is at first sight incredible, but if you will recollect those little numeral locks which one has seen in France in which a series of numbers are written on a succession of wheels you will have some idea of the first principle of the Machine which is very curious and ingenious and which not only will calculate all regular series but also arranges the types for printing all the figures. At present indeed it is more a matter of curiosity than use and I believe some good judges doubt whether it ever can be of any. But when I consider what has already been done by what are called Napier's bones and Gunter's scale and the infinite and undiscovered variety of what may be called the mechanical powers of numbers I cannot but admire the probability that important consequences may be ultimately derived from Mr. Babbage's principle. As to Mr. Gilbert's proposition of having a new machine constructed I am rather inclined (with deference to his very superior judgement in such matters) to doubt whether that could be the most useful application of further money towards the object at present.
I apprehend that Mr. Babbage's present machine which, however I have not seen answers the purposes which it is intended for sufficiently well and I rather think that a sum of money given to Mr. B to reward his ingenuity, encourage his zeal and repay his expenses would tend eventually to the perfection of his machine. It was proposed at the Board of Longitude to give him £500 out of the sum placed at our disposal for the reward of inventions tending to facilitate the ascertaining the Longitude but the Board doubted that the invention was likely to be practically useful to a degree to justify a grant of this nature.
I think you can have no difficulty in referring the matter to the Committee of the Royal Society of which although unworthy I have the honor to be one which by the assistance of its scientific members will give you the best opinion as to the value of the invention and when that is obtained it may be considered whether another machine should be made at the public expense or whether Mr. Babbage should receive a reward either from Parliament or the Board of Longitude.
Signed (J.W. Croker)
[Note added:] given to me [Babbage] by F.O. Martin
British Library Add Ms 37183 f12
16th April 1823, Gray's Inn
Letter from Francis Baily to Babbage
My dear Sir,
I think it would be very desirable to ascertain (previous to the meeting of the Committee) the exact points to which the Treasury have called the attention of the R. Socy. Because it will be proper, to save much time, to confine the Come. entirely to those points, and not (in the lawyer's phrase suffer them "to travel out of the record". If the Treasury have mentioned only the practicability and utility of the plan, I think that the labours of the Come. may be soon terminated. But perhaps you will pay particular attention to the terms of the request, when you hear the letter read tomorrow at the Council: and shape your measures accordingly.
I know not whether I may be chosen one of the Come. but if I should, I beg to inform you that I am going out of town on the 27th instant, I shall not return till the 5th of May: that is, I shall be absent from London the whole of the week after next.
When you are acquainted with the precise terms of the motion of the Treasury, I think that you should (entre nous) draw up the heads of such a report as would be borne out on examination: leaving the detail to be filled up by some friend at the Come. -but more of this when we meet.
I think I should endeavour to get our friend T put hors de combat: his deafness is a great objection to the communication of sentiments on such subjects.
Have you at all turned your attention to the application of your machine to the calculation of Life annuities? In practice, the lives are confined between the limits of 10 and 65 or 70: and I think that within that period the decrements of life are sufficiently regular to allow of the application.
Believe me
yours very truly
Francis Baily
Should I be chosen on the Come. I shall want to confer with you on many points prior to our meeting: I will fix an hour for that purpose.
British Library Add Ms 37183 f14
30th April 1823, Royal Military Academy, Woolwich
Letter from Olinthus Gregory to Babbage
My dear Sir,
I am greatly obliged by your invitation for Friday next. I have an engagement at Battersea on the morning of that day: but unless I am defeated in my my plans, I shall be able to reach you by three o' clock, or soon after. It will be highly gratifying to have an opportunity of inspecting your curious engine; and an hour or two of social intercourse afterwards, will, I am persuaded, not diminish the treat.
Believe me,
My dear Sir,
Yours very faithfully
Olinthus Gregory
British Library Add Ms 37183 f18
3rd May 1823, Chelsea
Marc Brunel to Babbage
Dear Sir,
I returned but yesterday from the North could not therefore attend the Committee of the Royal Society on your business; but if it is not too late you may rely upon my best exertions then in promoting the object of your application. Let me know in what way I can be of use and you may be assured I shall attend either in Devonshire Street or at Somerset House.
I am Dear Sir
Yours very sincerely
Marc I Brunel
British Library Add Ms 37183 f26
13th May 1823, Royal Military Academy, Woolwich
Letter from Olinthus Gregory to Babbage
Dear Sir,
I have received a letter from Mr Hume in reference to your ingenious machinery, with a request that I would give evidence on the subject before the Committee of the House of Commons. I am, in consequence, desirous to inspect the apparatus again, as well as to have a little conversation with you. On Friday morning next I shall be passing through London, and if it be quite convenient to you I will call upon you about 11 o'clock and tarry with you one hour. Do not trouble yourself to write, unless you have some other engagement.
Pray present my best compts to Mrs B and believe me
Dear Sir,
Yours very faithfully
Olinthus Gregory
British Library Add Ms 37183 f28
Friday 16th May 1823
Davies Gilbert to Babbage
My dear Sir
It is very important that in consequence of some blunder at the Royal Society the Secretary of the Treasury has not been able to bring down the papers and it cannot now be done till Wednesday.
Mr. Hume addressed me today in the House and stated that he had been making enquiries in all quarters about your machine and that perhaps he might call some Mathematicians from Scotland.
I shall return on Wednesday.
I am yours most faithfully
Davies Gilbert
British Library Add Ms 37183 f30
26th May 1823, Grays Inn
Francis Baily to Babbage
My dear Sir,
I have just seen Major Colby who wishes to suggest to you whether it would not be proper to get all the information you can, on the subject of former machines which have been constructed with a view to calculation.
As I have not heard you touch on this subject, and as I dare say it will be started by some country gentleman in the Committee, I would advise you to collect all the information you can on this point; and endeavour to show how far they went, and why they failed. He thinks you may learn something about these matters of Mr. A. Aiken at the Society in the Adelphi, and of Mr. Donkin; either of whom would, I am sure, assist you in your researches.
I send you the Condensation of my evidence, which I shall deliver in, when I am examined. I wish you to read it once and see whether I have ommitted any points. My object has been to make it a short as possible, and I hope in doing this, I have not clouded the subject. You will be good enough to return it to me, when you have done with it, in order that I may apply the file when necessary.
I trust you will be at the R.S. on Thursday to give Mr. Barlow a vote: I am sorry I cannot be there myself.
Believe me Yrs ever truly
Francis Baily
Ps. A celebrated mathematician who has seen your machine says that it would take as much time to make calculations with the pen!!! you see how difficult it is to lead the public.
British Library Add Ms 37183 f32
Wednesday Evening 28th May 1823
Letter from D. Gilbert to Babbage
My dear Sir
I have very unpleasant news to communicate.
To my great astonishment (although the delay in communication created some premonition) the administration have turned short round, and declared an extreme unwillingness to consent to encourage or assist any invention whatsoever partly occasion[ed] I believe by the large demands of London Bridge.
I believe it would be in my power to persuade them to reimburse any actual expense incurred since the matter has been in actual agitation: but that for the present I have declined doing.
I have mentioned this affair to the Solicitor Genl who has promised to look at your Machine tomorrow and then to look [at] my application. You must also exert yourself and get several persons to interpose with the Government.
Believe me
my dear Sir
I am ever most faithfully
Davies Gilbert
British Library Add Ms 37183 f33
5th June 1823, Pakefield near Lowestoft, Suffolk
Extract of a letter from Alfred Gautier to Babbage
... J'espère ... que votre nouvelle machine avance et que saurai le plaisir de la trouver finie à mon retour [à Londres].
[Translation: ... I hope .... your new machine advances and that I will have the pleasure of finding it finished on my return [to London. ...]
British Library Add Ms 37183 f35
6th June 1823, Astronomical Society, 55 Lincoln's Inn Fields
Note from J. Millington, Secretary of the Astronomical Society of London, to Babbage requesting his presence at a meeting of the Council of the Society on Friday 13th June 1823 at 3 o' clock.
British Library Add Ms 37183 f37
9th June 1823, Thurlby Hall Lincolnshire
Extract of a letter from Edward Ffrench Bromhead to Babbage
... I am very uneasy indeed, at not seeing Mr Gilbert's promised motion in your affair. What can be the cause? You will relieve me much by writing me an account of his progress or no progress. ...
British Library Add Ms 37183 f39
22nd June 1823, Astronomical Society
Note from John Millington to Babbage with resolutions of a meeting on 13th June 1823 of the Astronomical Society
At a meeting of the Council of the Astronomical Society of London, held at their apartments in Lincoln's Inn Fields on Friday the 13th June 1823.
The Council having taken into its consideration the advantages likely to arise to Astronomy from the important invention of Mr Babbage as communicated in his papers to the Society.
Resolved unanimously
That the Gold Medal of the Society be presented to Charles Babbage Esqre as a token of the high estimation in which it holds his valuable Invention of an engine for calculating and printing Mathematical and Astronomical Tables.
It was further Resolved
That all Medals awarded by the Council be presented at the Anniversary Meeting of the Society next ensuing such award; and that they be given to the Parties personally or to such proxies as they may appoint to receive them.
To Charles Babbage Esqre FRS &c. &c.
[Note:]
Sir,
I have the honor to transmit you the above copies of resolutions passed by the Council of the Astronomical Society of London and am Sir with the highest respect your very obedt servt
John Millington
Secty to the Astl Society
British Library Add Ms 37183 f43
18th June 1823, Royal Military Academy, Woolwich
Extract of a letter from Olinthus Gregory to Babbage
... I shall be glad to learn that the obstruction on the part of the Chancellor of the Exchequer, to which you alluded on Friday evening are removed: ...
British Library Add Ms 37183 f45
16th June 1823, Stamford Street
George Rennie to Babbage
My Dear Sir,
I have been so engaged with the London Bridge Bill in the house this night that I cannot accompany my Brother James as I wished to do. But if you will have the goodness to explain to him the nature of his duties I will make it a point to wait upon you or your Brother[-in-law] any day you will be pleased to appoint.
Yours
very obligedly
George Rennie
British Library Add Ms 37183 f47
22nd June 1823, 6 Leigh Street, Burton Crescent
John Millington, Secretary of the Astronomical Society, to Babbage
My Dear Sir,
Your knowledge of my many engagements will I trust plead some apology for my apparent neglect in so long delaying to send the inclosed official communication from the Astronomical Society [see above], and which I have much pleasure in now forwarding. At the request of Mr Davies Gilbert, I have also sent him a copy of the same.
The plainess of the direction on the inclosed letter will I am sure be a sufficient apology for my having broken the seal, nor was it untill I had read nearly to the end of it that I perceived it was for you, after pondering some time on the first page to know what I could have to do with the Royal Society of Edinburgh. I was absent from home when it arrived, and the whole of yesterday, or should have taken a more immediate opportunity of forwarding it to its proper destination.
believe me very sincerely yours
John Millington
[Note added by Babbage to the letter: At a meeting of the Council of the Astronomical Society of London, held on the 13th day of June 1823
The Council ...]
British Library Add Ms 37183 f49
24th June 1823, 10 Coates Crescent, Edinburgh
Extracts of a letter from Dr Brewster to Babbage
... I congratulate you on the Astronomical Medal, which I hope will be of use in your present prospects. ...
... I applied to the Council of the Royal Society here to petition Parliament to give you aid in constructing a large machine; but tho' they were very desirous to give every help, it was thought that they ought not to move in it unless application were made to them by yourself as a member of the Society. ...
... Joseph Hume wrote a letter to me and one to Professor Wallace on the subject of your application to Parliament requesting that we would state to him our opinion of the utility of your invention, and that we would give evidence before the house of Commons. I wrote the strongest letter I could in reply, and expressed a hope that Parliament would, for once at least, do something to encourage Science. ...
British Library Add Ms 37183 f53
6th July 1823, Park Lane
Duke of Somerset to Babbage
My Dear Sir
I am very glad that you and Mr Brunel will come, and obliged to you for taking the trouble to transmit my invitation to him. I am now going to ask you another favour i.e. that is a sight of your calculating Machine for a Lady who understands mathematics, and therefore takes a rational interest in these things. Mr Canning has expressed a wish to see it, and says he could come any day next week, and if you would favour us with an appointment, I should be happy to let her know.
I remain
My Dear Sir
Your faithful Servt
Somerset
British Library Add Ms 37183 f54
23rd July 1823, East Bourne
Davies Gilbert to Babbage
My Dear Sir
I have the pleasure and satisfaction of forwarding to you a copy of the Letter received this morning from Mr Lushington, informing me that the Lords of the Treasury have ordered a Warrant to be purposed for issuing the Fifteen Hundred Pounds.
I have not time to add more.
Believe me
Yours ever most faithfully
Davies Gilbert
British Library Add Ms 37183 f55
21st July 1823, Treasury Chambers
Copy of letter from Treasury to Davies Gilbert
[Reg No.] 15012
[Date of Meeting] 11/7 Treasury Chambers
21st July 1823
Copy
Sir
The Lords Commissioners of His Majesty's Treasury having had under their consideration the letter from yourself and Dr Wollaston, Vice Presidents, and several of the Fellows of the Royal Society, stating their opinion as to the correctness of the principles upon which Mr Babbage's Invention for the construction of Numerical Tables, is founded, I am commanded to acquaint you for the information of the Parties, that their Lordships have directed a Warrant to be prepared for issuing the sum of one Thousand Five hundred pounds to Mr Babbage to enable him to bring his Invention to perfection in the manner recommended.
I am
Sir
Your obedient servant
(signed) S.R. Lushington
[to] Davies Gilbert Esqr V.P.R.S. &c. &c. &c.
British Library Add Ms 37183 f59
23rd July 1823, Thurlby Hall, Lincolnshire
Extract of a letter from Edward Ffrench Bromhead to Babbage
... I have to thank you for your letter, and have waited in daily expectation, that I could congratulate you upon something however inadequate, being done by Parliament to remunerate you. I cordially hope that it is an ommission in the newspapers, not to have mentioned the circumstance. If the Session has passed over without noticing the subject, your Parliamentary friends are a pack of Rascals, but I earnestly hope to hear very soon a better account of the Business from you. I was always of opinion that it should have been pushed early. I can scarcely congratulate you on receiving the Gold medal of the Astronomical Society. They should have granted it earlier, and not brought forward others at the same time. For fear of delay, I expressly requested Herschel not to mention the subject to you as being in agitation, I knew time would be lost in ceremonial. He is a real good man, and I very much fear I like him better for that than for his Genius. Whatever else you do, I hope you will finish your memoir describing the mechanism of your instrument, there will be immortality in that, whether you can finish it or not. It would perhaps be judicious to keep your ulterior views of it, in a distinct memoir. You will find some interesting remarks on Stereotype, cements, etc. scattered thro' the article Printing in the new supplement to the Encyclopaedia Metropolitana. ...
... PS I shall be very anxious until I hear from you.
British Library Add Ms 37183 f62
n.d., Rue Sainte André des Arts, Paris
Extract of a letter from Pouillet to Babbage
... pour apprendre beaucoup de chose, dont votre admirable invention sera la cause ...
[translation: to learn many things, of which your admirable invention will be the cause ...]
British Library Add Ms 37185 f65
25th August 1823
A note from E. Ryan on a letter to Babbage from Rennie which he had opened
... Something in it might relate to your machine. ...
[Ed: it didn't.]
British Library Add Ms 37183 f72
Sept 1823
Copy of a paper written in Versailles July 10 1789, given to Babbage by Dugald Stewart, on a machine for multiplying a number of digits by any number, invented by Basil Lord Daer, Earl of Selkirk.
British Library Add Ms 37183 f82
26th Oct 1823
Extract of a letter from Pouillet to Babbage
... Nous sommes ici fort impatient d'avoir de vos nouvelles et quelque nouveaux detailles sur votre bell invention. Lorsque j'en ecrivis à Mr De Prony, ma lettre fit une grande Rumeur dans toute L'Académie Des Sciences, il fallaît toute de l'Autorité de votre nom, et la confiance que mes amis veulent bien m'accorder pour faire saiser une chose si merveilleuse, faux cela les geomètres feraient rester increduler et le Reste de l'Académie ils y aurait rien compris. ...
[Translation: ... We here are very impatient to have your news and some more details on your wonderful invention. My letter to M. De Prony [on it] when read created a great noise throughout the whole of the Academy of Sciences. It took all the authority of your name and the confidence of those of my friends who wished to accord me well for it to be received, for it is such a marvellous thing. Even those who were mathematicians amongst us could only remain in a state of disbelief, and the rest of the Academy understood nothing at all. ...]
British Library Add Ms 37183 f84
8th November 1823, Gray's Inn
Extract of a letter from Francis Baily to Babbage
... I have just received a letter from M. Schumacher, wherein he requests me to give him some account of your machine, for insertion in his Astron Journal.
I can see no objection to this: but on the contrary think it may tend to confirm the faith of those who are not yet in the pale of your church: and I assure you there are many unbelievers still in the world.
However I would not do a thing of this kind without first consulting you on the subject. I think a notice, somewhat more enlarged than the one inserted in the Phil Mag together with a sort of abstract of the paper which I had drawn up for the Come of the House of Commons, would answer the purpose: and tend to diffuse more generally on the continent, a knowledge of the subject. I shall not however enter on it till I hear from you. ...
British Library Add Ms 37183 f91
23rd December 1823, Gray's Inn
Extract of a letter from F. Baily to Babbage
... If Schumacher's No. 46 is in English, I will send it for your perusal, but if in German (as I presume it will be) I suppose I need not take that trouble. ...
British Library Add Ms 37183 f95
Thursday Morning n.d. [probably 1823]
Extract of a letter from Davies Gilbert to Babbage
... I am this instant returned from Somerset whence I found your letter on the Table.
I have uniformly, as far as it lay in my power, exerted myself to promote the execution of the very ingenious and at the same time profound plans, that yours is no exception and I shall have just [as much] satisfaction in continuing the same course by communicating my applications to Government as by any other method that can be pointed out. ...
British Library Add Ms 37183 f99
Thursday n.d. [but almost certainly April/May 1823]
W. Brougham to Babbage
My dear Sir,
I saw my brother this morning and had some talk with him on the subject of your affairs. He says Robinson has got it into his head that 800 or £1000 will be the outside of what you will require and that he talked of advancing about 700 to 900 in the first instance. Now it will be highly expedient to advise the worthy chancellor upon this important point and therefore I suggested that you shd call upon him for the purpose of explaining that or anything else that might require elucidation. My brother said certainly, it was the proper course to follow and that if you did not find him disengaged when you called, to leave a note, begging him to name any time, when you might see him, upon the subject of the machine; the money must be asked on the grounds of what you have already spent, and what you will require for your operations during this summer. This will probably be granted to you immediately and it will be arranged so as to come out of the vote for Civil Contingencies -thus avoiding any of that enquiry into items which you will naturally wish to steer clear of. I think the sooner you call on Robinson, the better. There will be no impropiety in using my brother's name to Robinson, as he understands that the matter is to have my brother's support when it is mentioned in the House of Commons.
If I can be of any use to you, I hope you will not scruple to employ me.
Yours Ever
W. Brougham
British Library Add Ms 37183 f109
27th February 1824, Admiralty
W. [Parry?] to Babbage
My dear Sir
Lieutt Foster, who is about to accompany me as Astronomer &c., and who is much interested in everything mathematical, is very desirous of seeing your computing Machine. I meant to have mentioned this to you last night, but it escaped my memory. As I am just about to leave town for about ten days I have taken the liberty of requesting my friend Franklin to introduce Mr Foster to you at any time convenient to you; when if you will be kind enough to let him see the effect of a few turns of your winch, you will oblige.
my dear Sir,
Yours very truly
W. [Parry?]
British Library Add Ms 37183 f112
23rd March 1824, Park Lane
Extract of a letter from the Duke of Somerset to Babbage
... The progress of your arithmetical engines gives me great pleasure, and I shall read with interest the printed account you have sent me; at least I shall peruse it as far as I can, for I see in it some integrations, which are unfortunately a step beyond me in mathematics. ...
British Library Add Ms 37183 f114
March 13th 1824
Extract of a letter from D. Brewster to Babbage
... I hope you advance rapidly in the construction of your machine and that we can expect to hear of its being in operation. ...
British Library Add Ms 37183 f116
March 22nd 1824, Cranford, Middlesex
Herapath to Babbage
... The powers of your calculating machine are truly surprising. They appear to come up so closely to the marvellous, that I confess had I seen the same account under almost any other name I should have given it but little credit. I shall be one, among thousands I have no doubt, not a little glad to see our scientific tables receive the benefit of its application. ...
British Library Add Ms 37183 f121
26th April 1824, 10 Coates Crescent, Edinburgh
D. Brewster to Babbage
... It will give me the greatest pleasure to hear of the progress of your machinery whenever you have leisure. ...
British Library Add Ms 37183 f143
6th December 1824
Draft letter from Babbage to W. Whitmore Jr.
My dear Sir,
After bestowing much consideration on the proposal [del: which Mr ...] respecting the Crown life Assurance office of which Mr Hooper and yourself [del: proposed] wished I should undertake the management. I find that in the present state of my calculating engine the duties of that [del: take] occupy more [del: time] of my time than I am willing to divert from an object to whose completion I am most anxiously looking forward. I cannot therefore [del: accept/ at the ...] [del: avail myself of your kindness in suggesting me as ...] [del: for the ...] accede to the proposition you have so kindly made and have only to thank your kind friend for the good opinion of which it indicates.
[Del: with regard to the conversation we had on the subject ...]
I remain
My dear Sir
Sincerely Yours
CB
British Library Add Ms 37183 f144
29th Dec 1824, Trinity College Cambridge
W. Whewell to Babbage
Understand in the first place that this is an application about your machine and that therefore I am very sorry for the trouble I am giving you and desirous that you should treat the application in the way most convenient to you. I do not know whether you recollect a young man, a son of Col. Drinkwater, coming with me to view your invention. He is fully capable of comprehending it being in fact a man of great mathematical talent and ingenuity, and he carried away I believe a tolerably complete notion of your contrivances. But he has twice been applied to by Lord Minto to write him a description of the machine which he does not think he can do completely without another visit to it. Now if you are willing that he should satisfy his correspondent and can find time and opportunity to let him look at the apparatus for a few minutes he will feel the obligation. He did not presume to pay you a second visit on the strength of his first introduction so I have been induced to trouble you with a letter.
I hope your new machine is growing strong and active like a young giant. I suppose it must begin to feel its powers this time and to think about moving the whole solar system.
Remember me to Mrs Babbage and Believe me etc.
W. Whewell
British Library Add Ms 37183 f146 [misfiled]
May 8th 1826, Observatory
Extract of a letter from T.R. Robinson to Babbage
... I see from the Journal [of the Royal Society] that your Mechanic Notation has been read but except for that all you great folk seem asleep. ...
British Library Add Ms 37183 f159
16th February 1825, Passy-près-Paris, France
Extract of a letter from J. South to Babbage
... I am glad to hear the Machine goes on surely altho' slowly and shall be most satisfied when it is finished. ...
British Library Add Ms 37183 f171
20th June 1825, Passy-près-Paris, France
Extract of a letter from J. South to Babbage
... You will very much oblige me by shewing if you can, without great inconvenience, your Calculating Engine, to Monr Le Viscomte de Dreux Brézé, fils du Grand Maitre des Cérémonies de la Cour de France, who is desirous of seeing as many of the most interesting objects of British Ingenuity, as his stay in England will permit. ...
British Library Add Ms 37183 f198
13th November 1825, Plymouth
Postscript of a letter from George Harvey to Babbage
... I am quite glad to hear about the Comparison of your tables, and the printing of the French Logms. I hope the machine goes on well. When shall we see the Mechanical Notation?
British Library Add Ms 37183 f219
29th November 1825, Oxford
Extract of a letter from Buckland to Babbage
... I think your machine can tell us if it can. Pray set the Oracle to work [on a calculation for Buckland's wife on life assurance and interest calculations.] ...
British Library Add Ms 37183 f268
4th March 1826, Trinity College Dublin
Extract of a letter from Dionysius Lardner to Babbage
... I am not engaged in any direct pecuniary expense in the Journal. I however edit it quite gratuitously. I am a little suprised [part of line missing] the table of logarithms before the Machine is complete [part of line missing] repay you in a pecuniary form.
I have one favour to request whenever you have a few minutes leisure. It is this. Your Machine has excited great curiosity and inquiry among both learned and unlearned here and elsewhere. I have been requested by several persons to solicit your permission to write a popular description of it explaining the principle on which it is founded and in a general way the details of its action. Now I wanted in the first place [to] wish to know whether you would have any objection to a paper such as this being put into our journal (having previously submitted to your own inspection) and if not whether you would have the goodness when you have a few spare moments to remind me of the manner in which the successive add the several increments in ascending from the constant difference to the original function or rather the number to be tabulated. Of course I mean this in a very general way, a minute description being intirely out of the question. Also I do not exactly know the adjustment which changes from time to time the value of the constant difference. If you think however that sufficient hints to enable me to draw out the desired paper could not be given in a very short time and with little trouble, do not go out of [part of line missing] account of it.
I should be glad to have the papers already published by the Ast Soc whenever you may find it convenient to send them.
British Library Add Ms 37183 f271
18th March 1826, Observatory Dublin
Extract of a letter from Brinkley to Babbage
... I have long hoped that when your machine is complete you may be encouraged by Government to print tables that, by means of a short and easy computation would serve for verifying any logarithmic tables and adding if necessary figure to it to make 10 places or more. I think this might be done by tables of small extent to be completed by Tables of Differences properly prepared. ...
British Library Add Ms 37183 f274
8th April 1826, Trinity College Dublin
Extract of a letter from D. Lardner to Babbage
... Your hints about the machine are most interesting and I hope they (together with those you refer me to) will enable me to draw up an article on the subject. ...
British Library Add Ms 37183 f277
22nd April 1826, Trinity College Dublin
Extract of a letter from D. Lardner to Babbage
... I hope shortly to be able to draw up the paper I spoke of on your Calculating Machinery. ...
British Library Add Ms 37183 f299
1st July 1826, Trinity College Dublin
Extract of a letter from D. Lardner to Babbage
... I long to see your paper on Mechanical Notation. I got a glimpse of your plan in London last Autumn but only just enough to tantalise me. It perfectly astonishes me how you can accomplish such a variety of original inquiries. Robinson is remarkable for variety but then it is chiefly acquired knowledge, fed for the most part by the produce of the labor of others; you, however, supply your own materials. To do this in any one department has been generally thought of as a great exertion of intellect. ...
British Library Add Ms 37183 f322
28th August 1826, Tower of London
Extract of a letter from Tom Colby to Babbage
... my bars affords much a display of the labor of dealing with workmen through Tradesmen. ...
British Library Add Ms 37183 f355
4th November 1826, Tower of London
Extract of a letter from T. Colby to Babbage, addressed to Babbage at Trinity College, Cambridge and then redirected to Devonshire Street
... Your friends in London wish you ill success in your canvas at Cambridge. And I must confess that I think your presence in London till the machine is finished would be more desirable than a professorship which does not I fear hold out any adequate advantages. However you must know its value better than I do.
Brande has resigned the Secretaryship of the Royal. Rumour mentions Roget, Children and South as probable successors. I walked with the former last night: he assures me he has no intention whatever of accepting it, indeed that he could not do so without sacrificing his profession. It therefore struck me that the situation would suit you whilst your machine was in progress; and that being in London you would be ready for any thing which might turn up of a more agreeable nature. There can be no doubt of your success if you would accept the situation. The feelings of the people can be ascertained before you are even named as a person who would accept it. ...
British Library Add Ms 37183 f371
21st November 1826, Birmingham
Extract of the draft of a letter from Babbage to The Revd Dr Wordsworth, Vice Chancellor of the University of Cambridge. Re: Application for the post of Lucasian professor.
... During the last four years I have been occupied in the construction of an engine for calculating and printing mathematical tables. I am executing this work at the desire of the government and although in my first interview with the Chancellor of the Ex[chequer] I did not pledge myself to devote my whole time exclusively to this object I feel that the liberal and very handsome manner in which I was received at the Treasury would be but ill returned if I were to allow any other engagements to impede its progress. I have hitherto given up everything for this object situations far more lucrative although not none more honorable have been sacrificed and I should not wish to change these sentiments now that it approaching to a successful termination.
The thought and time which this has cost me will never be known: severe illness in my draftsman has delayed me much beyond my original expectations but my machinery and arrangement are now arrived at such a point as to admit of occasional absences of some duration without detriment to progress of the works. ...
British Library Add Ms 37183 f379
11th December 1826, Trinity College Dublin
D. Lardner to Babbage acknowledging receipt of paper on Mechanical Notation.
British Library Add Ms 37183 f387
15th December 1826, Geneva
Extract of a letter from Prévost to Babbage
... Vous savez la veritable interet que je prends a l'execution de votre machine calculatrice. Deux années encore, et vous laissez aux savans l'esperance de voie cette belle invention realisee. Je vous haite vivre assez pour etre temoin de saver de cette utile enteprise. ...
[Translation: ... You know the real interest which I take in the construction of your calculating machine. Two years have since passed, and you leave us little hope of seeing this beautiful invention realised. I beg you to live long enough to save this useful enterprise from [oblivion]. ...]
British Library Add Ms 37183 f428
13th January 1827, Ordnance Map Office Tower of London
Colby, Lieutenant Colonel King's Engineers, to Babbage acknowledging receipt of 250 copies of the Logarithmic tables on behalf of the Survey and paying £100 for them.
British Library Add Ms 37184 f92
24th October 1827, Downing Street
Edward Drummond, Private Secretary to Lord Goderich, to Babbage
Sir,
I am desired by Lord Goderich to acquaint you that he has read the letter, from Mr Whitmore put into my hands by you this morning and I am to express his Lordships regret that you should have felt any scruples about leaving England, under the circumstances which make it so desirable that you should do so: and I am to assure you that Lord Goderich would be very sorry should you for a moment hesitate to give yourself that relaxation which he sincerely hopes may be of service to you.
Lord Goderich desires me to add that he begs you will not give yourself the trouble to call upon him again, unless you have other reasons that make you wish to see him.
I have the honor to be
Sir
Your obed Servt
Edward Drummond
British Library Add Ms 37184 f102
1827[?]
H. Drinkwater to Babbage
Dear Babbage
I shall come of course; in fact I now look upon myself as your regular "Master Merryman" whenever there is to be a great shew.
My father is much obliged to you for the opportunity of seeing the Beast, but he does not feel quite well today, and it is doubtful whether he will be able to go out tomorrow.
Yrs very Truly
H. Drinkwater
I will join you at Clement's about 11 AM mean solar time
British Library Add Ms 37184 f114
February 29th 1828
Extract of a letter from William Wolwryche Whitmore to Babbage, addressed Poste Restante Rome.
... On the receipt of your letter to Lord Goderich requesting an interview with him upon its purport my object was to get from him an acknowledgment of the promise made by Government at the time you undertook the machine to indemnify you for the expence to which you would be subject by its completion. It was under disadvantageous circumstances that I entered upon this subject with him as I was ignorant of the precise nature of the promise made to you at the time. All I could do was to take for granted and argue accordingly. I did not find him very cordial about it. He did not like to admit that there was any understanding at the time the 1500 was advanced that more would be given by government and all I could prevail upon him to do was to state, if referred to by the Treasury, that the subject had been mentioned to him and that he had sanctioned an advance of money to begin it. Under these circumstances I do not exactly know how I ought to proceed and I will not take any further steps till I hear from you about it. Economy is now so much the order of the day that I should despair of obtaining any pecuniary aid from Government at present. But I should hope that when money is more plentiful and the machine is completed we might be more successful. I will however do whatever you wish me in the present stage of business. ...
British Library Add Ms 37184 f156
6th December 1828
Drafts of letters from Babbage to the Duke of Wellington and to the Chancellor of the Exchequer. Statement relative to the Calc. Machine.
My Lord Duke,
I enclose for your Grace's consideration a statement relative to a machine contrived by me some years since for computing and printing Mathematical [deleted: Astronomical] tables. I have only to observe that having no experience in such communications I may possibly have infringed those forms which are usual in such occasions. Allow me therefore whilst I represent your Grace's attention to the subject to hope that such inadvertancies may be attributed to any cause rather than to a want of respect.
[Insert:]
Finally Mr Babbage begs leave to point out to his Grace the Duke of Wellington Mr Herschel having the best means of judging the utility, present state and probable execution; but should his Grace wish to have any other information on that subject Mr Babbage will be more than ready to afford every facility to any method the Duke of Wellington may think right to propose.
I have the honour to be
your Grace's
very obedient Humble servt
C. Babbage
6th the reply of Mr Herschel (marked D) to an Anonymous attack on Mr Babbage during his absence explains the present state of the machine.
Sir,
As I am aware you take an interest in everything that relates to the University of Cambridge. I have taken the liberty of sending to you a copy of a statement relative to a calculating machine which I have forwarded to his G the D of W. I am anxious to have some speedy decision on this subject and most ready to give any further information respecting it, should such be deemed necessary.
I regret that I am unable to send the printed paper referred to as the only copies I can procure accompany the original statement.
I have the honour to be Sir,
your very obedient servant
CB.
Sir,
In accordance with a suggestion of Lord Goderich I forward to you for his G the D of W a statement relative to my calc. engine. I should be very much obliged could you allow me a few minutes conversation on the subject when your other occupations will admit. I leave town for Cambridge early on Saturday morning next and return on the Saturday following but would if necessary return at an earlier day.
I am Sir,
your Obdt Servant
C Babbage.
Insert:
A. Paper printed by H of C, Mr. B's Calc. Machine
B. Mr Colebrooke's Speech
C. Mr Baily's Discussion
D. Times Newspaper 19 Aug 1828, Mr Herschel's letter.
[Note:] Sent to the Duke of Wellington
British Library Add Ms 37184 f160
18th December 1828
Extract of a letter from Colonel Sabine to J.F.W. Herschel
... The Treasury has written to the RS requesting an opinion of Coun. for Mr Babbage's machine, advanced as it now is, is likely to realise Mr Babbage's views. I suppose W Gilbert will appoint a committee to draw up a reply for pr [2 unreadable words] this committee cannot do otherwise, or so will, as to look to you.
I hear nothing of a Council next thursday and therefore suppose there will be none till the Thursday following. ...
British Library Add Ms 37184 f163
16th December 1828
Draft of Statement of the Circumstances re the Calculating Machine drawn up by Charles Babbage
On the 1st April 1823 a communication from the Lord's Coms of his Ms Treasury (see printed paper No. 2) was made to the President of the RS [Deleted: a committee of that body was appointed to exam...] requesting that that body would report to Ld the opinion they entertained of the merits and utility of a machine for calculating and printing mathematical tables, invented by Mr Babbage.
On the 1st May 1823 the Royal Soc communicated to the Lords Com of HM Treas the report of a committee they had appointed to investigate the subject which stated (Insert and see N[o.]3).
Shortly after this report Mr Babbage waited on the Rt Hon F. Robinson now Lord Goderich the Chancellor of the Exchequer with the view of ascertaining whether it was the wish of the Government that he should construct a larger machine and one which would also print the results it calculated. Mr Babbage apprehended that such was their wish and in the course of the interview with which he was honoured the Rt H the C of Exch stated this principle:
'That the government were unwilling to make grants of money to any inventions however meritous because if they really possessed the merit claimed for them the sale of the article produced would always be the best reward to the inventor.'
'That the present case was an exception and that it was apparent that the construction of such a machine could not be undertaken with a view to pecuniary profit arising from the sale of its produce and that as the tables it was intended to produce were peculiarly valuable for nautical purposes it was deemed a fit object of encouragement by the Government.'
It was proposed in the present instance to make a grant to Mr Babbage of 1500 which was taken from a certain fund in the Civil List.
Mr B particularly wished that application should be made to the Rt H L G relative to this interview lest he should have been incorrect in any part of this statement.
The impression which remained on Mr B's mind from this interview was that whatever might be the labor and difficulties of his undertaking he should not be obliged to suffer pecuniary loss from it and it was in the firm conviction of this that he has relied during the many difficulties he has encountered.
The Machine has required a longer time and greater expense than was anticipated and Mr B has already expended about £6000 in this object.
The work is now in a state of considerable forwardness and numerous and large drawings of it have been made and much of the mechanism has been executed and many workmen are occupied daily in its completion.
This expenditure has (with the exception of the 1500 already alluded to) been supplied at considerable inconvenience from Mr B's private means and under these circumstances it is hoped that a further grant may be made to enable him to complete the undertaking.
Remarks:
It may be enquired why Mr B has gone on during five years without making any further application. Several of Mr B's friends had at different times urged him to apply for a further grant, to which at those times he replied that resting confidently on the ultimate repayment he wished not to make such application at a period of public difficulty and that he thought it better to wait untill the completion of the machine. But he did at those times communicate with the Rt Hon L G through his private sec thinking it his duty as he had received a grant of public money to show to the Government that he really was occupied in carrying on the construction of the calculating machine.
The expenditure having exceeded what Mr Babbage then anticipated the continuance of it from his own private means would not only be attended with great sacrifice but the additional anxiety this created would be highly unfavorable to that state of mind most fitted for the performance of this and of his other scientific duties.
Of the Utility and Present State of the Calculating Engine
It is with considerable reluctance that Mr Babbage is compelled to speak of himself with reference of this subject but he feels that it would be unjust to his G the D of W as well as himself should he fail in this application from ommitting to state any circumstances which might enable his G to judge of the validity the importance of this invention and of its probable completion and utility and he therefore begs leave to suggest:
1st That these points were on examination admitted by the Government in the year 1823.
2nd They are supported by the report of the Committee of the R.S. See paper marked a No 3.
3rd They are confirmed by the circumstance of the Astron Soc of London awarding him their first Gold Medal for the contrivance of the Calc. Engine. See paper marked B.
4. The application of the engine to astronomical calculations is discussed by Mr Baily in the paper C, which has been reprinted in an astronomical journal on the continent.
5. The circumstances of the University of Cambridge having during Mr Babbage's absence in Italy and unsolicited by him appointed him to the chair once filled by Newton sufficiently marks the opinion of that body.
6. the reply of Mr Herschel marked D to an anonymous attack on Mr B during his absence.
British Library Add Ms 37184 f165
Draft Letter from Babbage to Lord Goderich
My Lord,
I enclose a copy of the statement which I have forwarded to the D of W and the C of Exc and hope that what I have stated accords with your own recollections of the subject.
I have been unable to procure duplicates of the printed papers referred to.
Accept my best thanks for the advice with which you favored me and believe me.
Your Lordship's very Obedient Servant
C. Babbage
British Library Add Ms 37184 f191
13th January 1829
Extract from Letter from Davies Gilbert to Babbage
... I did not know about the last part of the references from the Treasury. I shall come to London tomorrow and I hope to see you on the day following.
We cannot, I presume, have a Council till Thursday 22nd: but in the meantime Mr Herschel like will I presume take an active part on the Committee, and may make preparations for bringing matters before the committees on the week following before another Council ...
British Library Add Ms 37184 f192
19th January 1829, 52 Stamford Street
Extract from letter to Babbage from George Rennie.
Rennie had invited Babbage to view some new machinery.
... I don't pretend to rival your admirable specimen of machinery ...
British Library Add Ms 37184 f194
19th January 1829, 18 King Street, St James'
Letter from Lord Ashley to Babbage
Dear Sir,
I have heard that the subject of your calculating engine is to be discussed at the Royal Society on Thursday next. If you would give me the pleasure of your company at dinner that evening you would meet Mr Herschel Mr Baily and some others from whom you might [Unreadable: learn the outcome?].
British Library Ms 37184 f247
4th April 1829, Great George Street
Letter from Richard Penn to Babbage
My Dear Sir,
I had a long conversation with Mr Donkin yesterday. He will with much pleasure see Mr Clement. Mr Donkin enters fully with your view of the subject. He thinks that abstract of an account which Mr C has furnished to you is quite insufficient and he only delays going to Clement till he knows whether or not you would yourself like to have a conversation with him (Donkin) first. I think that I have explained everything to him but it would perhaps be as well that you shd yourself see how far he is in possession of all your your feelings.
Yours very truly
Richd Penn
I will arrange a meeting for you if you please.
British Library Add Ms 37184 f249
Tuesday 8th April 1829
Draft of Letter from Babbage to Brian Donkin.
My Dear Sir,
I have just seen Mr Penn who seems to think it desireable that I should have some conversation with you previous to your visit to Mr Clement. Will you do me the favour to name some time which may be convenient to you and I shall be happy to meet you whenever you may appoint. I returned from Cambridge last night and was therefore unable to see Mr Penn or get his letter sooner.
I am Dear Sir
Yours faithfully
CB
I shall be at the R.S. tomorrow evg and at the Astronom Soc on Friday night.
British Library Add Ms 37184 f252
11th April 1829
Copies of Letters from Babbage to G. Rennie and B. Donkin
To G. Rennie
My Dear Sir,
As you were so kind to offer to assist in examining the bill for work done to my Calculating Engine. I shall feel much obliged if you will communicate with Mr Donkin on the subject. I enclose some notes of the points to be considered and hope you may be able to find an early opportunity as Mr Donkin goes to France in course of ten days.
Yours very faithfully
C Babbage
to B. Donkin of 6 Paragon, New Kent Road
My Dear Sir,
I enclose my notes as to the Calc Machine. I have written to Mr Rennie and have sent him a copy. I hope he will be able to appoint an early day.
I have hitherto in conversation with Mr Clement always treated the work as my own private property for two reasons first I thought his charges might be more moderate than if they were paid by government and secondly I did not feel myself quite authorised to state the contrary. Since I have been acquainted with the result of my letter to the Duke of Wellington and the report of the Council of the R.S. I can scarcely continue to consider this to be the case.
I send another bill relating to the machine except two articles which I wish you would look over. The rest is charged at £77-4s. It was agreed for at £50 but Mr C assures me that he has only charged the cost price to himself. I believe you are perfectly aware of my feelings towards Mr Clement he is a most excellent workman and draftsman and ought to be well paid.
Believe me
My Dear Sir
Yours V. faithfully
CB
British Library Add Ms 37184 f254
11th April 1829
Copy of notes sent to Mr Rennie and Donkin
Mem. respecting the Calculating Machine and the Charges for its Construction
1. To whom do the tools belong?
2. To whom do the patterns belong?
3. To whom do the drawings belong?
4. At whose risk is the machine tools and drawings?
5. Ought they to be insured and by whom?
6. How are they to be secured against any creditors of Mr Clement?
8. Ought not Mr C to engage not to make another such machine without my permission?
7. How is the actual amount of work now done to be ascertained in order that it may be known what has been added at the next settlement.
Remarks
The machine when complete may perhaps have cost £12000 and many years of my own labor.
[Deleted: Mr Clement will have been paid for his labor and it appears to me to be ...]
When it is completed it would be possible in twelve months to make another such at an expense of perhaps two [Deleted: or three] thousand pounds.
It would be manifestly a great injustice to the contriver of such a machine at whose sole risk it was made that any other should be made by the same workman and with the same tools.
British Library Add Ms 37184 f256
13th April 1829, Paris
Extact from Letter to Babbage from Edmund Head
... How is the machine? ...
British Library Add Ms 37184 f258
13th April 1829, Stamford Street
Letter from G. Rennie to Babbage
My Dear Sir,
I have duly received your note and its enclosure. I shall
write to Mr Donkin to request him to appoint a day for communicating with me on the points in question.
Believe me to become
very sincerely yours
G. Rennie
British Library Add Ms 37184 f260
14th April 1829, Great George Street
Letter to Babbage from Richard Penn
My Dear Sir,
Since receiving your note I have received my Enquiries about the £1500 and hope to be able tomorrow to make a satisfactory report.
Yours very Truly
Richd Penn
British Library Add Ms 37184 f264
16th April 1829
Letter from Edward Walpole to Babbage
My dear Sir,
I am happy to inform you, that I have this day procured Mr Goulburn's consent to an issue of £1500 to you out of Civil Contingencies.
I am not aware that any difficulty will arise to prevent your receiving the above sum on Saturday by applying to Mr Sargent at the Treasury.
Believe me
My dear Sir
Yours very Truly
Edward Walpole
British Library Add Ms 37184 f266
22nd April 1829, No. 6 Paragon, New Kent Road
Copy of Report of Messrs Rennie and Donkin
Dear Sir,
Mr Rennie and myself have had a conference with Mr Clement this morning upon the subject of his Bill for the Calculating Machine, and the questions in your note respecting the same.
With regard to the Bill delivered, Mr Clement says, he only meant it as information to you, of what the amount of a more detailed Bill would be, and he promised us that he would immediately set about preparing an account from his Books containing his charge for materials and Time, or Labour employed upon the machine for every week since the Commencement to the present time.
Question 1st To whom do the Tools belong.
Answer- To Mr Clement. Mr C says that all the Lathes have been made at his own expence.
Question 2nd To whom do the patterns belong.
Answer- To Mr Babbage.
Question 3rd To whom do the Drawings belong.
Answer- To Mr Babbage.
Question 4th At whose risk is the Machine Tools and Drawings.
Answer- The Machine, Drawings, and Patterns are at Mr Babbage's risk, the Tools at Mr Clement's.
Question 5th Ought they to be insured, and by whom?
Answer- They ought, and by the respective Owners.
Question 6th How secured against Mr Clement's creditors?
Answer- This is a legal question, which we cannot answer.
Question 7th How is the amount of work now done to be ascertained, in order that it may be known what has been added at the next settlement?
Answer- To describe the present state of the machine and parts in their unfinished state would be very difficult. Would it not be better for Mr Clement in future to deliver Mr Babbage weekly, or Monthly Bills?
Mr Babbage may procure a description of the present state of the machine.
Question 8th Ought not Mr Clement to engage, not to make another Machine without Mr Babbage's written permission?
Answer- Mr Clement declines doing so.
Mr Clement says the large drawing board cost him £50, and that Mr Babbage may have it at that sum, or that he, Mr Clement will keep it.
We learned from Mr Clement that neither his House, Shop, Tools or Stock are insured, we would therefore recommend that you lose no time in insuring your own Property.
With regard to the Security against Mr Clement's Creditors, altho' it is desirable, I do not think you need be under much apprehension, as I have always understood that Mr Clement was a very careful and prudent Man.
Mr Rennie and myself are of Opinion that Mr Clement's Bill for the Slide Rest etc. should be allowed.
I am Dear Sir
Yours most respectfully
Bryan Donkin
May 9th 1829
Dear Sir,
This Letter at the above date, was left at Mr Rennie's for his approval, but unfortunately he has been absent, and I have but this morning received it back again.
I am Yours Sincerely
Bryan Donkin
British Library Add Ms 37184 f272
24th April 1829
Note from Mr Stewart of the Treasury to Babbage desiring copy of letter to the Duke of Wellington
Mr Stewart presents his Complts to Mr Babbage and requests that he will be so good as to furnish him with a copy of his official letter to the Treasury of the 11th Dec last relative to the machine invented by him for calculating and printing Mathematical Tables.
Treasury
PS None of the enclosures to the official letter are required by Mr Stewart.
British Library Add Ms 37184 f274
Copy of Note from Babbage to Mr Stewart of the Treasury enclosing copy of letter to the Duke of Wellington
Mr Babbage presents his Compliments to Mr Stewart and encloses a copy of his letter and accompanying statement addressed to his Grace the Duke of Wellington which he presumes is the paper alluded to by Mr Stewart.
Mr Babbage believes that it was dated 6th Dec 1828.
British Library Add Ms 37184 f275
Note from Mr Hoblyn about payment of £1500
30th April 1929, Treasury Chambers
My Dear Sir,
If you will come to me tomorrow with a Blank Receipt for £1500 I hope you will not return Empty.
Yours Truly
Mr Hoblyn
British Library Add Ms 37184 f279
Letter from J. South to Babbage
Sunday Morning 3rd May 1829
Dear Babbage,
Lord Ashley has seen the Duke of Wellington, and has spoken to him about your Engine. He (Ld Ashley) dines with us today at six. Beaufort and Baily have also promised to come. Perhaps if you have not anything better to do you will join us.
Yours truly
South
British Library Add Ms 37184 f281
Great George Street
Letter to Babbage from Richard Penn of Great George Street re Clement and his Money
My Dear Sir,
I am truly sorry to hear of the annoyances to which you are exposed by the conduct of Mr Clement. These annoyances great as they may be would have been much increased if the settlement now proposed had been deferred to a later period.
I feel scarcely qualified to advise on such a subject but it appears to me at first sight that (as Mr Clement has chosen by his offensive conduct to forfeit all claim to that liberality on your part which disposed you at first not to question the amount of his charges but merely to require the particulars of them) your best course would now be to force the matter to a more hostile arbitration. I cannot but think that if you should do so, Mr Clement's low cunning will be defeated because I conceive that under such an arbitration he would not be allowed to charge both for his own time, and also a Trademan's profit on the articles, and I am sure that an investigation made in this spirit would greatly reduce the amount of his charges; and shew that you purchased paid for everything which is now done. A conclusive settlement made now seems to be absolutely necessary for your future comfort in this business, and I would Advise you to speak to Mr Warburton on the subject.
Yours Faithfully
Richd Penn
I suffer so much from cramp in my fingers that I have been obliged to dictate this to an amanuensis.
British Library Add Ms 37184 f283
6th May 1829, Treasury Chambers
Copy of a letter from J. Stewart to Secretary of Royal Society
Sir,
The Lords Commissioners of His Majesty's Treasury having had under consideration your letter dated 16 Feby last enclosing copy of a resolution of the Royal Society, with a report of a Committee relative to Mr Babbage's Calculating Engine I have it in command to transmit herewith copy of their Lordship's minutes of the 28 Ultimo on the subject.
I am sir
Your obedient Servant
J.Stewart
Extract from Treasury Minute Dated 28th April 1829
Read a letter from the Secretary of the Royal Society dated 10th February last, transmitting a copy of a resolution by the President, and Council of the Royal Society, on a report of the Committee on Mr Babbage's Calculating Machine, who were desired to consider the question referred by this Board, to the Royal Society whether the Progress made by Mr Babbage in the construction of his machine confirms their former opinion that it will prove adequate to the important object which it was intended to attain.
My Lords read again the former Papers on this subject, and refer to the Minute of 11th July 1823 directing, upon grounds stated therein that the sum of £1500 should be paid to Mr Babbage to enable him to bring this machine to perfection.
My Lords observe by the report of the Committee composed of persons most capable of judging that on the best estimate, they can give, three fifths of the work necessary to complete this machine has been accomplished, and on the assurance of Mr Babbage, which they as Practical Mechanics see no reason to doubt, they state that £6000 has been already expended by Mr Babbage on this undertaking.
On these grounds My Lords are of opinion that they are fully justified in directing a further payment of £1500 to Mr Babbage to enable him to complete the machine by which such important benefit to Science may be expected to result, and they are pleased to direct Mr Sargent to pay to Mr Babbage fifteen hundred pounds accordingly out of any money in his hands on account of Civil Contingencies.
British Library Add Ms 37184 f287
7th May 1829, Park Lane
Duke of Somerset to Babbage
My Dear Sir,
After reading the two Reports, I can not entertain any doubts of the practicability of your plan; and indeed I must admit the moral certainity of your finally completing the engine. Whether you will ever be remunerated, or indeed indemnified is a question of some anxiety. The object now seems to be, to make such an arrangement as may relieve you from this messy feeling, and at the same time secure the Government as to the ultimate completion and success of the undertakings, for this purpose I should be disposed to consult, not merely men of science, but some person conversant with the obligations contracted between the Government and persons who undertake, for its service, anything peculiarly arduous and difficult. For the Government will never consent to incur a risk, in order that you may enjoy security; even though it may be willing to relieve you from embarassments by making timely advances.
I should be most ready to see either Mr Herschel or Dr Fitton upon this subject, and I need hardly add that I feel disposed to forward your very novel and ingenious designs.
I remain
My Dear Sir
with much regard
your faithful sevt
Somerset
British Library Add Ms 37184 f289
Friday Evening 8th May 1829
Letter from JFW Herschel to Babbage
Dear Babbage,
Tomorrow morning we are going out very early to see an invalid friend of Mrs H's but shall be at home before 11. I mention this as your matter of calling as early as 10 o'clock.
On the whole thinking of what happened this morning I see reason to congratulate you -at least on the new approach of a definite state of mind- any result is preferable to the worry in which you have been kept, except the sacrifice of character and from that you are secure from what will happen. Mr Penn spoke like a man of ? and ? and I don't see what better can be done than what he suggests.
I am exceedingly anxious to know the result of your conversation with Mr Whitmore.
Your Mighty etc
JFW H
British Library Add Ms 37184 f291
29th May 1829
Statement of Account as at 9th May 1829 Clement to Babbage
Debits
Mr Charles Babbage to Joseph Clement
For Labour, Materials, Drawings etc for the Calculating Machine
The amount up to the 1st Jany 1829 £4631 - 12 - 0
from the 1st Jany to 9th May £ 730 - 12 - 8
Total £5362 - 4 - 8
The expence of the stand of my large Drawing Table, having been included (by Mistake) in the account I last delivered to you amounting to £ 50 - 5 - 2
Which deducted from the above makes the amount
£5311 - 19 - 6d
Received in part payment £3260
Ballance due 9th May 1829 £2051 - 19 - 6
Credits
Mr Charles Babbage to Joseph Clement
By Cash received at the Bank of Praids & Co on Mr Charles Babbage's account, in part payment for the Calculating Machine.
£3260
21 Prospect Place Southwark 29th May 1829
Footnotes to above added by Babbage:
1) 28 Apr 1830 £8653 or £8654
2) of a sum of five thousand three hundred and eleven pounds 19/6
British Library Add Ms 37184 f293
9th May 1829, Manufactory Blue Anchor Road Bermondsey
A letter from Bryan Donkin's Son to Babbage
Sir,
I was desired by my father this morning to send you the inclosed copy of a letter which he had drawn out in order to send it to you on the 22nd of April or as soon after as he could procure Mr Rennie's approval thereto. Mr Rennie misunderstood my father's letter and imagined you had really received a copy of the inclosed, when it was sent to him to sign. Mr R under this impression left town and only returned on Thursday night when he discovered his error and sent back my father's draft of his letter, acquiescing in its contents.
My father begged me to apologise for not sending to you his signature to the inclosed and writing to you in person but he only received the original draft of his letter from Mr Rennie this morning about a quarter of an hour previously to setting off for the continent which consequently prevented him from doing so.
Apologising for the delay which has so unfortunately occurred with Mr Rennie.
I am Sir
your most obt Serv
John Donkin
British Library Add Ms 37184 f295
9th May 1829 Bernard Street
PM Roget to Babbage
Dear Babbage,
I have obtained permission from the President of the Royal Society to give you a copy of the Treasury minute lately sent to the Council relating to your calculating engine.
ever yours sincerely
PM Roget
[Note: Babbage changed address during May 1829 from 5 Devonshire Street to 1 Dorset Street.]
British Library Add Ms 37184 f299
Saturday 9th May 1829
A letter from WW Whitmore to Babbage
Dear Babbage,
I have received your note with letter and s(tatement) for Lord Goderich. I do not very clearly see the point to urge with him and I should be glad to see you before I send the letter that I may be more fully aware of the point sought for in that interview. I will fairly [2 words unreadable] very unwilling to take any step in the business without previous concert with a few of your friends. Could we not meet. That is Dr Fitton, Herschel, Mr Penn and any other you may wish on Monday or Tuesday morning to talk the matter over before any steps are taken. I do not mean this meeting to be of the more general and extended character which I foresee must take place before a final decision is come to but more of one in which we may talk the matter over and [word unreadable] out come distinct time and proceeding. There are several considerations which strike me in requesting an interview with Lord Goderich, which I should like to have an opportunity of consulting others of your friends upon before I took that step. I am sorry I cannot dine with you tomorrow as I am engaged to Tooke.
Affectionately
WW Whitmore
British Library Add Ms 37184 f301-305
Ms of the meeting of Babbage's Friends Sunday May 12th 1829
See Babbage's Calculating Engines by H.P. Babbage for full transcript of this meeting.
British Library Add Ms 37184 f306
12th May 1829
Copy of letter from WW Whitmore to JFW Herschel
My Dear Sir,
I enclose you the answer of the Duke of Wellington to my letter appointing us to be with him at 12 tomorrow. Will you have the goodness to call upon me on your way at 11 at 33 Bury Street.
WW Whitmore
British Library Add Ms 37184 f307
12th May 1829, London
The Duke of Wellington presents his compliments to Mr Whitmore and will be happy to see him tomorrow at twelve o'clock.
British Library Add Ms 37184 f308
12th May 1829 52 Stamford Street
A Letter from George Rennie to Babbage
My Dear Sir,
I was sorry not to have been in town when you called. when I arrived on Friday last I found a note from Mr Donkin requesting to know whether I had received a copy of our joint agreement with Mr Clement settled between us before we left London and to be sent to you. It occurred to me therefore on receiving Mr Donkin's letter that he had not sent the agreement to you I therefore sent him my copy on Friday last. Dr Fitton called yesterday about it and informed me that there had been some misunderstanding between you and Mr Clement since we saw him and from what Dr Fitton said I concluded that you had not received the report. This therefore must be owing to a misunderstanding between us.
However I shall be most happy to see you any morning it may be convenient for you to favour me with a call from 11 to 1 o'clock here as I am not able to get so far as Devonshire Street and if the Duke of Wellington is to see the Machine I am of opinion that he ought to be taken to the workshop as it is there he will have the opportunity of appreciating its merits far more than seeing it elsewhere.
Believe me to remain
my faithfully yours
George Rennie
British Library Add Ms 37184 f310
Expences incurred on the Calculating Engine
Expences to end of 1824
These are to be found in book (A) ... £ 600 0s 0d
Expences to end of 1827
These are to be found in book (B) ... £ 521 16s 9d
Mr Clement's bill to 1st Jan 1829
... £4775 15s 3d
Expences since 1827 not yet precisely known but probably under £200.
[Subtotal] £5897 12s 0d
Expenses to present time estimated from those of last 15 months about ... £ 800 0s 0d
Total Expended ... £6697 12s 0d
Recd from Treasury ... £3000 0s 0d
[Net] ... £3697 12s 0d
Paid by Mr Babbage ... £ 600 0s 0d
... £ 521 16s 9d
To Mr Clement ... £3260 0s 0d
[Subtotal] ... £4381 16s 9d
[Total Expended] ... £6697 12s 0d
Owing by Mr Babbage ... £2315 15s 3d
British Library Add Ms 37184 f311
May 1829
Another Copy of the Statement of the Expenses of the Calculating Machine
Expenses incurred on the Calculating Engine
Expenses to end of 1824 The details are to be found in Book (A)
... £ 600 0 0
Expenses to end of 1827 in Book B ... £ 521 16 9
Mr Clement's bill to 1 Jan 1829. This includes £144 3 3 for tools
... £4631 12 0
... £ 144 3 3
-----------
... £4775 15 3
Expenses since 1827 not yet precisely known
probably under ... £ 200 0 0
Probable expense up to May ... £ 800 0 0
Total Expended ... £6697 12 0
Recd from Treasury ... £3000 0 0
-----------
[Net] ... £3697 12 0
Recd 7 Aug 1823 ... £1500 0 0
April 1829 ... £1500 0 0
-----------
Recd from Treasury ... £3000 0 0
Paid by CB ... £ 600 0 0
... £ 521 16 9
[to] Clement ... £3260 0 0
-----------
[Total] Paid by CB ... £4381 16 9
... £6697 12 0
-----------
Owing by CB ... £2315 15 3
British Library Add Ms 37184 f314
22nd May 1829 India Board
Lord Ashley to Babbage
My Dear Babbage,
I have seen the Duke's private secretary he has not been given [a copy of the paper/letter] forwarded to you but he thinks that the Duke of Wellington in all probability [will] refer the case to the Chancellor of the Exchequer. This delay seems to me that the matter will be taken into serious consideration.
Believe me
Truly yours
Ashley.
British Library Add Ms 37184 f317
25th May 1829
Note from Babbage to Clement [see account above]
Mr Babbage requests Mr Clement will send him the amount of expenses incurred on the Calculating machine from the 1st of Jany 1829 up to the day on which the work ceased.
British Library Add Ms 37184 f337
8th June 1829, Park Lane
Duke of Somerset to Babbage
My Dear Sir,
Your Success always gives me pleasure, and I am very glad that the Duke of Wellington will see the machine. If he should understand it, he must be a much greater Mechanician than I imagined him to be, and if he should comprehend its uses, he must have more science than what usually falls to the lot either of a soldier or a statesman. So that I apprehend he must take a great deal upon trust, or else your end will not be answered. You seem to think your wishes very moderate, when you wish for nothing else than that it may be completely understood. Now I consider this as altogether hopeless. And when Dr Young could ask, "What is the use of a table?" I think you may expect to hear a great many more impertinent questions, before your machine is finished.
I saw Mr Brunel yesterday, and he spoke with admiration of the accuracy of the workmanship, which, he said, surpassed everything that he had seen even from the hand of Troughton. This is much to the credit of your workman, with whom I am still very angry; but Mr Brunel thought it best to make some kind of compromise with him.
I should have called in Dorset Street instead of writing this long letter; but I heard you were at Cambridge superintending an election committee; and as I was uncertain when you would return I thought it best to write.
I remain etc.
Somerset.
British Library Add Ms 37184 f346
Extract of Letter from RH Inglis to Babbage
... Two reports on the subject of your machine certainly the most extraordinary effort of the imagination of science and its magic, which has been exhibited in any age. ...
British Library Add Ms 37184 f358
1st July 1829, Bridge Street
Letter from MI Brunel to Babbage
My Dear Sir,
When will you call upon us or tell us in any way how you are going on. We feel for the success of your distinguished labours and therefore wish to know whether we can forward your views.
Believe me etc.
MI Brunel.
British Library Add Ms 37184 f369
13th August 1829, Dorset Street
Draft of Letter from Babbage to the Duke of Wellington
My Lord Duke,
On the 6th December 1828 I had the honour of communicating to your Grace a statement respecting a "machine for calculating and printing mathematical tables" which I had contrived, and by the desire of his Majesty's government expressed to me in 1823 I had begun to construct.
In December the Lords Commissioners of his Majesty's Treasury having applied to the Royal Society for their opinion "whether the progress made to etc." a committee was nominated and in consequence of the investigation and report made by that committee the Lord's Commissioners of the Treasury directed a payment to be made to me of £1500 (1).
The Committee having stated that £6000 the sum at that time expended by me, when compared with the progress of the work was not unreasonable (2): I felt considerable uneasiness at finding that the Treasury minute (3) whilst it admitted that fact allowed me a sum which added to that which I had formerly received amounted to only one half of what I had actually expended upon the work: and when I looked forward to the probable time which in the opinion of the most competent judges (4) would be required for its completion that uneasiness becomes greatly increased. Upon the mature opinion of my friends it was decided that two of them Mr Wolwryche Whitmore and Mr Herschel should request the honour of an interview with your Grace: for the purpose of endeavouring to make such arrangements as should relieve me from all anxiety, except such as must necessarily attend the progress of so new and difficult an undertaking: feeling fully as they did the reasonableness of the wish expressed in the concluding paragraph of the report of the Council of the Royal Society (5) to which I beg leave to call your Grace's particular attention. I can not let this opportunity pass without expressing any acknowledgements for the readiness with which that application for a personal interview was accepted to by your Grace.
After some weeks Mr Wolwryche Whitmore applied to the Right Honble the Chancellor of the Exchequer to learn at what time he might expect your Grace's answer upon the subject of that application: and he was informed that it was your Grace's intention to examine personally the progress already made in the construction of the machine.
From this communication I experienced considerable relief arising from my own conviction that your Grace would find that the means taken to accomplish my object were adequate to the performance of the end proposed. Strengthened by the fact that all the most eminent Engineers in this country who have done me the honour to bestow their time and attention in examining the progress already made fully concurred with me in that opinion.
The current Expenditure of the work amounts to about £40 per week and this I have deemed it prudent for the present entirely to suspend until your Grace's decision shall be known to me. I feel that however deeply I may suffer from the anxiety of the situation in which I am unfortunately placed: the claims upon your Grace's time are too numerous and too important to justify me in intruding without an absolute necessity for doing so: nor should I again have addressed your Grace at the present moment, had I not thought it my duty to call your attention to a circumstance with which it is scarcely possible you should be acquainted.
The various and extensive series of mechanical engines chiefly lathes expressly made for the construction of such a machine, which prepared are all technically called tools, and are referred to in the report of the Committee (6) now occupied much time and expence in their preparation. Though constructed expressly for the work these are it is intended by custom of the trade the property of the Engineer and should they no longer be employed upon the Calculating Machine, he will of course dispose of them or convert them to such other purposes as may be most advantageous to himself: so that should the construction of such a machine be ever hereafter contemplated the time and expence of again reaching the point at which I am now arrived might be a fatal impediment to the undertaking.
Such are the circumstances which have rendered it my duty again to address your Grace: and I beg to add that pecuniary profit to myself from such a machine was considered as impossible in my interview with the Chancellor of the Exchr at the commencement of the undertaking in 1823 (7): my own opinion on this point had been previously stated in another paper printed by order of the House of Commons in the same year (8): that for six years I have bestowed unwearied attention upon this subject to the almost total neglect of every other occupation: that I have expended a large sum of money from my private property, not half of which has yet been repaid: and that I now await not without anxiety yet with great confidence the time when your Grace shall have liaison to examine into this subject.
I have etc.
CB
PS with list of references [referred to above by numbers]
British Library Add Ms 37184 f375
13th August 1829
Babbage in a draft of a note to Mr Drummond
Mr Babbage presents his compliments to Mr Drummond and will feel greatly obliged if he will lay the documents mentioned in the list before the Duke of Wellington at the same time that he puts into his Grace's hands the enclosed letter relative to Mr Babbage's Calculating Engine.
1 Dorset Street
Manchester Square
13 Aug 1829
British Library Add Ms 37184 f381
20th August 1829
Extract of a letter from Dr Brewster to Babbage
... I am confounded at what you say about the behaviour of Government. I earnestly hope it will be otherwise. A petition from men of science shd be drawn up to prevent much disgrace from falling on the Country. I wish I could be of any use to you. Mr Brougham surely could give you great assistance. ...
British Library Add Ms 37184 f388
Extract of a letter from Thomas John Hussey of Chilsehurst to Babbage
joint which you seemed to think rather complicated is this. The motion of the parts are uniform in circles. Some of those circles move [unreadable word] obliquely, therefore as ellipses. Therefore the motions etc. ...
British Library Add Ms 37184 f392
2nd Oct 1829
Extract of letter from Thomas John Hussey to Babbage
... As you have some influence in the printing of the Transactions of the Astronomical [Society's Journal], do get it improved. The typographical errors are disgraceful. How many more errors than 70 there are in one paper of Dunlop's we have not yet had time to determine. The truth is that except in your Table of Logarithms, printed figures are nowhere to be trusted. We know it to our cost. ...
British Library Add Ms 37184 f396 [Misfiled]
4th October 1827, Dudmaston
WW Whitmore to Lord Goderich (Babbage's Copy)
My Dear Lord,
I have been requested by my Brother-in-Law Mr Babbage to address you respecting his present situation. I need not remind your Lordship that he is engaged in constructing a machine for calculation and that under your auspices while Chancellor of the Exchequer a sum of money was advanced to him from the Treasury to enable him to complete this invention. Owing to its complication and the difficulties necessarily attendant upon the adjusting machinery to so delicate an operation together with the repeated impediments to the progress of the work arising from the ill health of the able engineer who superintends the workmen a considerably greater length of time has been employed in this undertaking than was at first contemplated and it will require still much [deleted: some months] to complete it. Unfortunately circumstances have recently occurred tending to create a further delay and it is with respect to them that I am now reduced to trouble you. There are the very heavy afflictions to which the death of four of Mr Babbage's nearest relations within the space of a few months has exposed him. He has lost his Father, two children and his wife within that period and the suffering he has undergone and is still exposed to on account of these heavy calumnities, especially the fact make both himself and his friends anxious that such alteration as change of scene can yield should be afforded to him. He feels however a scruple as to absenting himself from England for any considerable period on account of the obligation he has taken upon himself and the receipt of public money to complete without delay the machine to which I have alluded and he would especially lament the [deleted: necessity] postponement of its completion without informing your Lordship of the circumstances to which the postponement is to be attributed. The detail would be to him painful in the extreme and I have therefore willingly undertaken the task of communicating the melancholy situation in which he is placed. Your Lordship, well convinced that you will fully sympathise with his sufferings and make allowances for a delay deplored by none more than by Mr Babbage but which a due consideration to his health renders indispensably necessary.
It is Mr Babbage's intention to wait upon you before he leaves England.
I remain My Dear Lord
Your Obedient and Faithful Sevt
W W Whitmore
British Museum Add Ms 37184 f398
A letter from Davies Gilbert to Babbage. Practically unreadable but interested in the progress of Babbage's Machine.
British Museum Add Ms 37184 f400
5th Oct 1829, Downing Street
Drummond to Babbage
Mr Edward Drummond presents his compliments to Mr Babbage and has received his letter. Mr Drummond did not fail to deliver Mr Babbage's letter to the Duke of Wellington who referred it to the Chancr of the Exchequer.
Mr Goulburn has mentioned the subject of it more than once to the Duke, who has not been able to fix the moment at which he could call at Mr Babbage's House from the incessant pressure of business, which occupies His Grace's time whenever he comes to London.
Mr Drummond has however this day seen Mr Goulburn who will try to fix a day for the Duke's visit: at all events Mr Babbage shall hear further from Mr Goulburn or Mr Drummond when the Duke comes to London on Wednesday next.
[Note added by Babbage:] Recd Tuesday the 6th October 1829 at 10½. The messenger explained that he had endeavoured to find my residence last night and had not succeeded.
British Library Add Ms 37184 f404
7th Oct 1829
Babbage to Drummond
Mr Babbage presents his comp to Mr Drummond and would feel obliged by being informed whether he has received a letter for the Duke of Wellington accompanying a note which Mr B addressed to him on the 13th Aug. Mr B having remained in town since June in the daily expectation of the Duke of Wellington appointing a time to examine his Calculating Machine would feel particularly obliged if Mr Drummond would ascertain whether there is any probability of such an event taking place in the next three weeks as in case if the negative Mr B will take that opportunity of leaving town for a short time.
Dorset Street 7 Oct 1829.
British Library Add Ms 37184 f405
13th Oct 1829
Babbage to Mr Drummond
Mr Babbage presents his compliments to Mr Drummond and presumes to the pressures of public affairs has prevented him from receiving any communication from himself or from the Chancellor of the Exchequer.
Mr Babbage regrets that having business which he can no longer neglect he has been obliged to leave London for a short time: but he will return immediately on receiving any intimation of its being convenient to his Grace the Duke of Wellington to examine the state of the Calculating Machine.
A letter will reach Mr Babbage if addressed to him at the Old Bank Worcester untill Saturday 17th.
After that which date at WW Whitmore Esq MP Dudmaston Kidderminster.
Dorset Street Manch Sq
13th Oct 1829
British Library Add Ms 37184 f412
16th Nov 1829 London
Drummond to Babbage
Sir,
I have had the Honor of receiving your Note of this day, and am desired by the Duke of Wellington to acquaint you that His Grace will have the pleasure of calling upon you on Thursday next, at about 12 o' clock at noon, to inspect the calculating Machine unless unavoidably prevented. His Grace is really very sorry that it has not been in his power to come before, and that the delay should have put you to any inconvenience.
I have the Honor to be Sir
Your Obedient Humble Servant
Edward Drummond
British Library Add Ms 37184 f413
16th November 1829
Babbage to Mr Drummond
Mr Babbage presents his compliments to Mr Drummond and will feel obliged by his communicating to the Duke of W that having returned to London and Mr B will be happy to attend him in examining the Calc Machine whenever His Grace may find it convenient to fix the time.
Dorset Street
Manchester sq.
16 Nov 1829
British Library Add Ms 37184 f415
17th November [1829]
A letter from Babbage to Edward Walpole
Dear Sir,
The Duke of Wellington will I understand be accompanied by the Chancellor of the Exchequer when he examines my Calculating Machine next Thursday.
Perhaps Lord Ashley may also be present. Will you have the kindness to enlighten me on a point of etiquette. Would there be any impropriety in my asking a friend of mine who well understands the machine to be present? My reason for wishing it is, that I have several times found that such assistance rendered my explanations more clear to those who visit the machine for the first time. I rather apprehend from Mr Drummond that it would be correct, but I should be glad to avail myself of your experience in a matter of which I have very little. I shall do my utmost to communicate all the information I can and whatever may be the result I look forward to the final decision as one which must at all events relieve me from the daily anxiety to which during the last twelve months I have been subject.
I remain,
My Dear Sir,
Yours Faithfully
CB
To Edward Walpole
British Library Add Ms 37184 f417
18th November 1829 Downing Street
Walpole to Babbage
My Dear Sir,
I am quite certain that both the Duke of Wellington and Mr Goulburn will approve of your friend being present tomorrow at your house. Wishing you all the success which you deserve.
Believe Me,
My Dear Sir
Yours Very Faithfully
Edward Walpole
British Library Add Ms 37184 f419
18th November 1829
Joseph Clement to Babbage demanding payment
21 Prospect Place
Southwark
Novr 18th 1829
to Charles Babbage Esq
Dear Sir
It is Now upwards of six months since you informed me that you should be prepared to settle my account in about ten days, or fortnight; since that time I have scarce had the pleasure of seeing you.
You now impose on me the unpleasant task of demanding the money on you. I therefore request that you will not exceed ten days (from the above date) in settleing my account with you.
An early answer will much oblige.
Yours Verly Truely
Joseph Clement
Babbage's Note on the verso of f420
The true state was thus Clement asked for payment about six months since. I said I must submit the bill to Messrs Rennie and Donkin previous to payment. Messrs R&D said the bill was not properly made out and ought to be more detailed.
They communicated this to Clement who promised to give it in detail and he told me (this day 18 Nov 1829) that he had begun it at that time.
After about 2 months I wrote to request to know the expense incurred 1st Jany 1829 to the time the work ceased.
Clement in about 2 wks called on me and said that he had discontinued to make out detailed bill because he thought from my letter that I did not want it. I told him that my letter implied nothing of the kind and I desired him to continue it and communicate with Messrs R&D.
The day after the letter of 18 Nov 1829 I saw him and he then for the first time told me he declined making such bill because it is not the custom of engineers to do so.
I requested him to communicate this to me through Messrs Rennie and Donkin.
British Library Add Ms 37184 f421
20th November 1829 Downing Street
Henry Goulburn to Babbage
£3000 with direction about the making of the Machine.
Note [by Babbage] this letter although dated 20 Nov was delivered at my house at 10½ am on Monday the 23 Nov 1829.
Dear Sir,
The Duke of Wellington and I have recommended to the Board of the Treasury to make a further payment towards the completion of the Machine which you were so good as to shew and explain to us yesterday and their Lordships have in consequence directed a payment of £3000 to be made to you, Professor Babbage.
Their Lordships herein have thought it right to suggest that the machine should be so arranged that in the event of any failure in the printing department of it the calculating part should nevertheless be perfect and available. I apprehend that this will be the case under any circumstances but as it is considered perhaps erroneously that failure if it take place at all will take place in the more complicated part of the Machinery it has appeared desireable to the Lords of the Treasury to secure under any circumstances the perfection of that part which effects the calculation.
I have the honor to be Dear Sir
Your Most obedient Humble Servant
Henry Goulburn
Note added by Babbage: State that no part of the moving force is transmitted through the Calc part to the ...
British Library Add Ms 37184 f426
24th Nov 1829
Babbage to the Rt Honbl H Goulburn
Dear Sir,
I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter (of the 20th Nov) which reached my house this morning informing me that his Grace the Duke of Wellington and yourself had recommended to the Board of Treasury a further payment towards the completion of the Calculating Machine and that the Lords of HM Treasury had in consequence directed a payment to be made to me of 3000.
Before however I receive that sum I wish to offer to your consideration some arrangements calculated to expedite the completion of that work which I shall submit to you in a short time. I cannot however allow myself to lose this occasion of expressing my thanks for the patient attention which his Grace and yourself did me the honor to bestow on my very imperfect attempt to explain a complicated machine nor of assuring you that any suggestion relative to its improvement will always meet with my most serious attention. I feel happy in being able to offer an explanation which I trust will appear satisfactory to the L of T in answer to the wish expressed by the L (of the Treasury) that the failure of the printing part if it should occur should not interfere with the success of the calculating part. I did at the commencement of the machine decide that the printing and calculating parts should be kept as distinct and independent as circumstances would admit and in the drawings already laid down the power which is transmitted to the printing machinery does not in any one instance pass through the Calculating machinery to the printing part. The only work which the calculating part has to do besides the friction of its own parts is to bend a few springs. It is perfectly passive at those intervals between two calculations when the other part of the machine is printing from it. And when the machine is completed the motion given to the [deleted: two parts may if required] printing part by the first mover may if required be cut off by the removal of a few screws.
It may perhaps occur to you that this explanation is in contradiction to a question which the D of W did me the honor to propose whether it would not be possible to make the calculating part first and add on the printing part after. My reply was that in my opinion such a course would be very inexpedient and would probably double the expense.
The mode adopted in constructing such a machine is first to draw accurately all the moving parts and then to draw on the same paper all the framework which is necessary to support and connect them. In the first of these processes all the invention of the machine is made but the second which is also a matter of considerable difficulty cannot, it is obvious, be undertaken untill the first is fully decided upon. These two stages being completely drawn I consider the great difficulty overcome and the larger portion of the expense incurred and it would then be possible to make and put together the calculating part and the whole of the framing with out making and putting up the whole of that which belongs to the printing part. On the otherhand the printing part is not contrived and fully drawn and if that framework only is made which is necessary for the calc part is imagined and executed it would in all probability be necessary to throw away not merely the whole of the frame work but even some portion of the calculating part itself if it should be required to add such a machine a printing part.
It was to this latter view of the question that my answer to the observation of his Grace was directed for in the former course which will naturally be pursued to a certain extent -the difference in time and expense between executing those parts of the machine which are entirely independent of the Calc part and leaving them untill that part of the Great frame work is put together would be comparatively triffling.
I have thus perhaps at the hazard of being tedious endeavoured to explain my ideas on the subject to which the L of HMT have directed my attention for I feel it due to the confidence with which the Government have honored me in entrusting to me a large sum of public money not merely to employ my best endeavours in completing the machine but also to endeavour to remove all those doubts which it is most natural and reasonable to suppose must arise in the minds of all but except best professional engineers who have themselves studied the present state of the machine.
I have the honor to remain Dear Sir
Your Obedient Humble Servant
CB
British Library Add Ms 37184 f430
25th November 1829
Babbage to Lord Ashley
My Dear Lord Ashley,
I send you a long letter but a very true one. Perhaps you could help me in getting these arrangements made if you think as I hope you will that my requests are reasonable. I have separated this note merely that you might make any use of the longer one which you thought conducive [constructive?] to the end I propose.
Believe me
Yours Faithfully
C. Babbage
British Library Add Ms 37184 f432
25th November 1829
Babbage to Lord Ashley about future arrangements of payment for Machine
My Dear Lord Ashley,
I cannot apply to any one more capable than yourself to assist me with advice relative to the mode in which I should represent to the Government the arrangements I wish to suggest relative to the future construction of the machine. You are perhaps aware that in consequence of the examination at which you were present and which was particularly gratifying to me the Lords of the Treasury have ordered a further payment to be made to me of 3000 towards the completion of the machine.
I will shortly state my case and trust to your kindness to lead me to the desired result.
The person I have employed for several years (Mr Clement) is a most excellent draftsman and an able workman, he has been constructing the machine for me and into his head I have for several years been conveying all my ideas on the subject of the machine and he is consequently in full possession of them. At several periods during this interval he has been so ill as to be in a state of the greatest danger and I cannot describe to you the anxiety with which in such circumstances I have on coming within sight of his house strained my eyes to see if the windows were closed; and I, by his death, deprived of the result of years of anxious labor. Much of that labor is now fixed in drawings which it would require much time to make another person fully understand and much of the machinery is already executed still much remains in his mind ready to be produced and it is clearly of the greatest advantage to the progress of the machine that this should continue under my direction to execute it.
On the otherhand since he has known that I have the pecuniary assistance from Government I have found greater difficulties in my communication with him; and I am much displeased with several parts of his conduct.
In the payment of his bills I have thought it my duty to government not to trust entirely to my own opinion of the reasonableness of his charges but availing myself of the kindness of the members of the last Com of the RS appointed to examine the machine. I requested Mr Rennie and Mr Donkin two professional engineers to examine Mr Clement's charges and report to me their opinion of their propriety observing to them that such labors attended with such loss of health as he had experienced deserved to be well remunerated.
I have therefore of course not paid his full demand and wait untill I am sanctioned by the report of the engineers. I was also induced by another motive to adopt this course as it avoided all discussion between Mr C and myself relative to a settlement of accounts which might possibly have betrayed him into irritation of temper a state very unfavourable to his receiving my instructions relative to the machine.
I must also acquaint you other circumstances. I have in the course of the advances I have had occasion to make been obliged to sell prpoerty which cannot be replaced on the same terms and have also expended very considerable sums which although of great advantage in procuring for me mechanical knowledge I cannot and never had any intention of charging to the machine. I am therefore although repaid the greater part still less in a condition to make any large additional advance without great inconvenience and sacrifice. I mention this with no view of making any claim. I had a great object of ambition and was willing to make great sacrifices but I could not ask your advice without giving you full possession of the case.
There is another subject on which I must touch. You are aware in common with many of my friends in what a state of anxiety and irritation I have existed for the last ten months. None of you can have regretted it more than I yet this very irritation was heightened by the feeling that I was wearing away existence not, in the fever of excitement which discovery always produces which if it shorten (the term of) life condenses in those moments more than the pleasures of years but that I was wasting it on what may be called the moral difficulties of the machine -difficulties which perhaps the very constitution of my mind rendered me as incompetent to contend with as it seems to have rendered it fatally susceptible of them as a source of disquiet. the cause of these difficulties is a subject to be approached with some delicacy. I cannot conceal from myself that much of them has arisen from the changes in the Governemnt of the country and perhaps [deleted: some is to be attributed] from my own fault in not requesting at the outset from the then Chancellor of the Exch some more distinct understanding and some written document which would place me in a similar relation to his successor. [deleted: I cannot however] Sincerely as I should regret on public grounds any change in the heads of the administration and feeling grateful to the Duke that he afforded me the advantage of adding his opinion to those already expressed at the utility of the machine I still must confess that my anxiety in this ground would to a certain extent paralize my exertions. What therefore I wish to suggest to Government is
1st That the machine should be considered as the property of government.
2nd That Mr Rennie and Mr Donkin or any other fit persons should be appointed by Government to examine from time to time that the charges made by Mr Clement are consistent with the work he has executed and that those charges should be defrayed by Government.
3rd That under these circumstances I should entirely direct Mr Clement as I have hitherto done.
The advantages of such an arrangement I need scarcely point out. Government would be the possessor of the machine and it would be free from risk should Mr Clement have any creditors.
the circumstances of my not having to discuss with Mr Clement the value of the work done would render any differences between us improbable and his knowledge that the inspectors were appointed by government would enable them to exercise proper control over his charges.
Whilst the freedom from the responsibility of having to pay large sums of public money added to the removal of [deleted: all] uncertainity as to the future funds would relieve my mind from all [deleted: sour] causes calculated to distract its attention and I should be enabled to devote all my energies to complete the machine.
As to the best mode of making the suggestions [deleted: I shall greatly obliged by your] I feel that you could do it far better than myself or at any rate that you could give me the best advice on the subject.
I remain my dear Lord
Yours very faithfully
CB
Dorset Street Manchr Sq 25 Nov 1829
Inserts:
There would also occur another collateral advantage. During the present application I have been compelled to suspend for nearly nine months the progress of the machine and should not perfect understanding with government be now established such an event might again take place. It is evident that this is not merely injurious by delaying the completion but that it risks its final execution by the chance of the death of those who almost possess the complete knowledge of it.
[before last paragraph]
... in the way most likely to be favourably received by Government I feel ...
British Library Add Ms 37184 f445
3rd December 1829, Treasury Chambers
Geo R. Dawson to Babbage
24/11 6th Divn
Sir,
I am commanded by the Lords Commissioners of His Majesty's Treasury to acquaint you, with reference to your memorial, that My Lords have directed Mr Sargent, of the office, to pay to you the further sum of £3000-- to enable you to complete the Machine which you have invented for the calculation of various Tables, but I have to intimate to you that in making this additional payment, My lords think it Extremely desireable that the Machine should be so constructed that if any failure should take place in the attempt to print by it the calculating part of the Machine may nevertheless be perfect and available for that object.
[to] -Babbage Esq-
I am Sir
Your Obed. Servant
Geo R. Dawson
British Library Add Ms 37184 f451
13th December 1829, Downing Street marked 'Private'
Copy of Note from the Chancellor of the Exchequer, H. Goulburn, to Lord Ashley
My dear Ashley,
I had not an opportunity of speaking to the Duke of Wellington on the subject of Mr. Babbage's letter to you untill yesterday. The Duke agrees with me in thinking that we could not adopt the course which Mr Babbage has pointed out consistently with the principle in which we have rendered him assistance in the construction of his Machine and without very considerable inconvenience.
The view of the Government was to assist an able and ingenious man of science whose zeal had induced him to exceed the limits of prudence in the construction of a work which would if successfull redound to his honor and be of great public advantage. It was no part of our intention to divest Mr Babbage of the machine or by transferring the property in it to Government to place him in the situation of a Government Agent acting under the instructions of the Treasury. To adopt this course would as it appears to me be neither to Mr. Babbage's advantage nor to that of Government. It would be in many respects particularly objectionable as applicable to other cases in which Government have contributed towards without undertaking to conduct scientific improvements. We feel ourselves therefore under the necessity of adhering to our original intention as expressed in the minute of the Treasury which granted Mr Babbage the last £3000 and in the letter in which I informed him of that grant.
Yours ever my dear Ashley
Most truly
Henry Goulburn
British Library Add Ms 37184 f455
15 December 1829
Babbage's Remarks to Lord Ashley on Mr Goulburn's Letter
Mr Goulburn appears to think I began the Calc Machine and then applied to Lord Goderich for assistance.
The fact is that the small machine which the Duke of Wellington and himself saw, was finished and seen by hundreds of persons before my interview with Lord Goderich. And it was in consequence of verbal communications between several of my friends and various members of the government and subsequent to the printing by order of the House of Commons of several papers relating to the machine that I waited on Lord Goderich to know the wishes of Government.
This fact appears also by my printed letter addressed to the late Sir Humphrey Davy in the concluding paragraph of [deleted: is as follows] my opinion of the making a machine as a matter of speculation is spoken of as
[Deleted: I have now arrived at a point where success is no longer doubtful. It must however be attained at a very considerable expence, which would not probably be replaced, by the works it might produce for a long period of time, and which is] "an undertaking I should feel unwilling to commence, as altogether foreign to my habits and pursuits."
I have no hesitation in declaring that having finished the first small mahcine which clearly established the invention I had no idea whatever of undertaking that which is now so far advanced at my own risk and with my own means and had I not seen Lord Goderich the present machine never would have been commenced.
I having already suffered so much from the want of a sufficiently clear understanding I hope I shall be excused in not advancing further untill I perfectly understand the nature of the position in which I am placed.
Supposing I receive the £3000 lately given by the Treasury minute I shall have received £6000 from Government and have spent up to 9th of May £6628 4s 8d on the Machine.
Under these circumstances what are the claims which Government have on the Calc Machine or on myself.
[Deleted: to what extent] Is it expected by the Government that I should continue the machine at my own private expence and to what further extent?
The plan which I suggested through Lord Ashley was certainly not such a one as with my present experience I should propose or accede to, if I had now to commence the undertaking: but in the great difficulties in which I found myself it appeared to me that all the sacrifices it would cost would be on my own part.
15th Dec 1829 Dorset Street [No.] 1
British Library Add Ms 37184 f457
15th December 1829 India Board
Lord Ashley to Babbage
My Dear Mr Babbage
I have received the enclosed from Mr Goulburn. You will see that he takes a very wrong view of the position in which you have been placed after your conference with Lord Goderich. This must be explained to him. Let me see you soon.
Yours Very Truly
Ashley
British Library Add Ms f459
Babbage to Lord Ashley
My dear Lord Ashley
From the manner of Mr Goulburn's note to you of the 13th he appears to think that I commenced the machine on my own account that pursuing it zealously I expended more than was prudent and then applied to government for aid.
If this be the correct view of the case the conduct of the government has been most liberal and it would be unreasonable and indelicate in me to press for any further explanation of their intentions.
But a short reference to papers and dates will confirm my own positive declaration that this never was for one moment, in my apprehension, the ground on which it stood.
2nd the small machine which was seen by the Duke of Wellington and Mr G was completed prior to my interview with Lord Goderich and is referred to in the 1st Report of the R.S. [Deleted: in the letter from the Sec of the RS to Mr Harrison dated 1 May 1823].
1st In my letter relative to the machine addressed to Sir H Davy dated 3 July 1822 and reprinted by order of the H of C.
[Deleted: I have expressed my opinion there against undertaking] I have expressed my opinion upon the idea of making [deleted: as a matter of] on my own account as a source of profit. It is "an undertaking I should feel unwilling to commence as altogether foreign to my habits and pursuits."
3rdly My interview with Ld G was in June or July 1823 and the present machine was only commenced in consequence of it in fact even after I had received the first grant of £1500 (dated 7 Aug 1823).
Having thus shown that the light in which Mr G views this transaction is founded in some misconceptions and knowing that the view I had proposed does not altogether meet with the approbation of the government [deleted: that it is of the greatest importance to me to be acquainted completely with the nature of the situation I am ...] [deleted: I have therefore ...] May I [deleted: therefore] request you to enquire of him (Mr Goulburn) the facts to which I have now called your attention will not induce him to reconsider the subject but in case Mr Goulburn should decline my alteration which I can scarcely anticipate it is of greatest importance to me to know the opinion of the government on the contingent questions which I have enclosed.
I feel much indebted for your kind assistance in this affair and my only regret it should have occupied so much your time.
Ever Faithfully Yours
C. Babbage
16 Dec 1829 Dorset Street
[Deleted: supposing I receive the]
Expenses up to 9th May 1829 when the work ceased 6628
Two grants of £1500 each 3000
----
3628
By Treasury Minute Nov 1829 3000
_____
628
Supposing Mr B receive the £3000 last given what are the claims which Government have in the machine. Or on Myself?
Does Mr B owe the £6000 or any part of that sum to Government?
If this is answered in the negative
Or is the portion of the machine now made as completely my [his] property as if it had been entirely paid for with his own money?
Is it expected by government that Mr B should continue to construct the machine at my [his] own private expense and if so to what extent in money?
Supposing Mr B should decline resuming the machine whom do the drawings and parts already made belong?
British Library Add Ms 37184 f461
18th December 1829, Whitehall Place
G. Rennie to Babbage
My Dear Sir,
Not having heard either from Mr Clement or you relative to the arrangement of the former accounts and proceeding I conclude that you have either been out of town or unable to attend to them. I am now completely recovered and ready to give my services and assistance whenever you please and if I can be in any way instrumental in releiving your mind from a portion of its troubles and anxiety I shall be most happy to do so.
A person of the name Parkhurst called on me yesterday with a letter from Rome stating that he had brought over a Genoes who had after ten years labour succeeded in in perfecting a calculating machine for merchants accounts and that Dr Roget had seen it and it would in no way interfere with yours. I replied that I could not see it on account of my having been concerned in yours and to this resolution I certainly shall adhere unless I have your sanction. Mr Parkhurst lives at Number 4 Norfolk Street [Strand?] where the machine is to be seen.
Your early answer will oblige.
Yours Ever truly
George Rennie
[to] Charles Babbage Esq
PS I saw Dr Roget last night when he confirmed Parkhurst's statement.
If you are not otherwise engaged on Christmas Day we shall be happy to see you at Dinner at ½ pt 6.
British Library Add Ms 37184 f463
18th [or 19th] December 1829
Babbage to Mr Clement
Sir,
Since I was last at Prospect Place I have had a conference with Mr Rennie. I have already explained to you my reasons for wishing that all communications between us relative to the accounts should pass the medium of that gentleman and Mr Donkin. I was in hopes ere this that you would have seen one or other. Mr Rennie is usually at his office in Gt Stamford Street between 12 and 2 and if you send in your name he will see you whenever you may find it convenient to call or which would perhaps be still better you could write to either of those gentlemen and state the circumstance which you mentioned to me.
I am Your Obedient Servt
C Babbage
Dorset St Manchr Sq 18 Dec 1829
British Library Add Ms f464
19th December 1829
Babbage to Rennie
My Dear Sir,
I see in every line of your very kind note that you are fully aware of the annoyance which is almost the necessary fate of all great undertakings.
I have had since I saw you some discussion with goevrnment which it appears to me will not be speedily terminated and I am inclined to believe that the result must be my giving up the machine.
However Mr Clement has worked well and notwithstanding that I am disatisfied with some part of his conduct he ought to be paid liberally. I have not yet accepted the sum last proposed and shall probably pay him from my own means. I have written to desire Mr C will either see you and Mr Donkin or write to you and I do hope that at a moment (and will take advantage of it) at which you appear to have some leisure.
I do not think you need have any scruple about seeing the machine of which you speak although perhaps I might myself. It appears to me that the unconquerable difficulty of all such cases of a machine is that each num must be entered separately.
Many thanks for your kind invitation for Xmas day -only children have returned for the holy days and I cannot at present separate myself from them on that day they dine with Grandma. I should otherwise have been glad of that opportunity of becoming better acquainted with Mrs Rennie.
Believe me
Ever Sincerely Yours
C Babbage
British Library Add Ms 37184 f465
28th December 1829, Whitehall Place
Rennie to Babbage
My Dear Sir,
I was very sorry to hear by your note of the 19th that matters were not turning out so favourably as you wished. But I do also hope for the sake of Science for your own fame that you will look at the affair with calmness and discretion. If you receive the grant mentioned it is quite clear you will have the less to answer for out of your own funds and if the machine answers rely on it then with little difficulty in obtaining all you have disbursed and a surplus also and if you will make due allowance for the situation of the ruling and responsible parties you will I think do right to accept their offer. It would be a thousand pities that you should abandon your great undertaking on trivial grounds and therefore I think you are bound to deliberate well ere you think of abandoning what has cost so much trouble to arrive at.
Mr Clement called yesterday when I had a conversation with him respecting his claims but could not arrange anything definitely with him. Should you decide to continue your operations. Pay the balance and then come to a fair understanding with him as to labour materials etc. The great error appears to me to be that you in the first instance have paid and acknowledged his mode of charging and that he has not or will not tender any specific bill of charges whereby to judge the justice of them. And in a case like yours what has no precedent it is difficult for any man of business to say what is or what ought to be right. If I therefore were in your place I should endeavour to arrange the best terms with Government and than with Mr Clement and leave the rest to the merits of the case.
I remain
Yours Very Truly
George Rennie
British Library Add Ms 37185 f1
4th January 1830
Lord Ashley to Babbage
My dear Mr Babbage,
I had quitted London bef. the arrival of a [note/letter?] from the Chancellor of the Exchequer, I am to have an Interview with him on my return. I hope to be in town on Tuesday Evening.
Believe Me
Truly Yours
Ashley
British Library Add Ms 37185 f3 [Misfiled]
n.d. Monday [possibly written during July 1830 after Babbage's Report no. 1 to the Chancellor of the Exchequer]
Lord Ashley to Babbage
Pray send me an Estimate of the Expenses immediately necessary to procure a fit situation for Clement and the Engine.
You have said nothing in your expose about the unhealthiness of the country in the vicinity of Clement's Residence.
Yours Very Truly
Ashley
I have seen the Chancellor.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f7
9th Jan 1830, India Board
Lord Ashley to Babbage
Dear Mr Babbage,
I have this day seen Mr Goulburn. Your paper remains in his hands. I have hopes of a favourable Decision.
Yours respectfully
Ashley
British Library Add Ms 37185 f8
9th January 1830
Babbage to B. Donkin Esq.
My Dear Sir,
I wish to have an opportunity of consulting you respecting the machine. Will you have the kindness to name anytime which may be convenient that I may either call on you or meet you. My only engagement in the morning is on Tuesday next.
Yours Faithfully
CB
British Library Add Ms 37185 f10
10th Jany 1830
Babbage to Lord Goderich
My Lord,
The communications I have had with the Government relative to the Calculating machine are I hope about to be terminated in a way which will enable me to continue its construction [deleted: of that machine]. Previously however to their final decision I understand you will be applied to by the Chancellor of the Exchequer relative to the interview with which you favored me in 1823. As the circumstances was deeply interesting to me perhaps your Lordship will pardon me if I recall to you some expressions which may otherwise naturally [deleted: have] escaped a memory occupied by so many affairs of greater importance.
I stated the object of my visit to be to ascertain whether it was the wish of the government that I should construct a larger machine and one which would also print the results it calculated. Anxious to know the light in which the government viewed it I remarked that you must be applied to almost daily by a multitude of quack speculators wanting rewards for their inventions to which your Lordship observed that the opinions of the most competent persons in the country had been taken and you were satisfied from those opinions that mine was not of the kind I had alluded to and that on account of the expense in its construction it was not calculated to become a source of pecuniary profit.
I felt much gratified at the manner in which you proposed either to have a Committee of the H of C in the subject or that a sum of money should in the first instance be granted from Civil Contingencies. The lateness of the session was the ground for choosing the latter.
The matter was as you have justly observed on another occasion left in a certain measure indefinite and I have never contended that any promise was made to me. My subsequent conduct was founded on the impression left in my mind by that interview. I always considered that whatever difficulties I might encounter it could never happen that I should ultimately suffer any pecuniary loss.
I apprehend that Mr Goulburn wishes to ascertain from your Lordship whether from the nature of that interview it was not reasonable that I should have such an expectation.
I beg to enclose a printed copy of the report of a Committee of Engineers on the subject of the present state of the machine.
I have the honour to be
Your Lordships
Very Obedt Humble Servt
CB
British Library Add Ms 37185 f12
Jan 11th 1830
Smedley to Babbage
A letter about two articles Babbage had promised for the Encyclopaedia Metropolitana, viz The Calculus of Functions and the Geometry of Situations. Plus
few things will give me more pleasure than to hear good tidings of you. Harvey short time since told me that at last the wheels of the machine had received some oil. I hope enough was sent to prevent any future apprehension either of friction or even of creating of myself, a deaf hermit, aloof from the world and pent in my books. ...
British Library Add Ms 37185 f21
23rd Jan 1830
Babbage to Clement
Sir,
Your refusal to furnish me with any of the particulars of your bill renders it necessary that I should adopt some mode of satisfying myself of its correctness. Arbitration or a suit in one of the courts seem to be the only means of deciding the question. Having myself little reason for preferring one more than the other of those courses I request you will choose that which you think most advantageous to yourself. I shall be at Cambridge for a short time and hope when you have decided to have a written communication from you on the subject.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f42
8th February 1830
Babbage to Lord Ashley
I have just seen Mr Clement who presses for a speedy settlement of his account for the Calc Mach and it is quite reasonable that it should be settled. I of course have not paid him his entire demands untill I should have the authority of professional persons on the fitness of the charges.
Feeling (in my view of the case) that I am paying public money I am naturally anxious that I should have some authority for it.
It would however be unjust to Mr Clement to refuse to settle the account and I have therefore promised to give him an answer in a fortnight. My answer must be if I should then be in the same uncertainity in which I now am with respect to the intentions of government that it must be referred to arbitration to settle.
I need not remark to you that this step will be ill calculated to maintain those feelings which are almost essential to the progress of the machine or that I fear that it may produce differences between Mr Clement and myself.
If it ever has occurred to you or been suggested by others that I might in such circumstances employ another artist I will only remark that although you know something of the anxiety I have experienced about this machine it is but a small part of what it has cost me and I declare that nothing but an overpowering necessity should induce me again to go through all the labor I have experienced in making Mr C fully acquainted with my views. The progress of the machine has now been suspended for nine months and the difficulty I now state to you is only amongst the inconveniences I have consequently experienced which (might have been avoided by an earlier)
[Letter not finished; presumably not sent.]
British Library Add Ms 37185 f49
12th February 1830
Dr Brewster to Babbage
A letter which is largely unreadable but which is about how the patent laws were a great check to Science, and that laws of patents and the laws of property were incompatible.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f57
16 February 1830 Merchant Tailor's Place [or Hall?]
J. Demole [Clement's lawyer] to Babbage saying Clement accepts Arbitration and nominates H. Maudslay as his Arbitrator.
Sir,
Mr Clement has requested me to communicate with you professionally upon the subject of your Letter to him of the 23rd Ulto.; wherein you express your willingness to leave it to him to determine upon the course to be accepted to satisfy you as to the correctness of his Bill, and he desires me in reply to say that he wishes the matter to be referred in the usual way to the arbitrament of 3 Engineers of eminence, one to be chosen by each party and the third by the two so first chosen.
He proposes Mr Henry Maudslay of Cheltenham Place, Lambeth, on his part, I request that you will at your earliest convenience favor me with the name of the Gentleman to be appointed by you.
He feels assured that your desire as to see this matter fairly and properly adjusted and therefore hopes that you will lend your aid to bring it to as speedy a conclusion as possible.
In the mean time, I will prepare a draft of the necessary arbitration Bond, which shall be submitted to you for approval.
I am Sir,
Your Obedt Humble Servt
J Demole
British Library Add Ms 37185 f59
18 February 1830, Great George Street
Mr Penn to Babbage advising the latter to use Donkin as Referee
My Dear Sir,
I am truly glad to find that your mechanical affairs are now in a fair [chance?] of Settlement. I have been for many years very well acquainted with Mr Maudslay and I am thoroughly satisfied that he is a much honourable and impractical minded man. I feel quite sure that you cannot do better than to name Mr Donkin on your part. They have frequently met before on nearly similar occasions; and the high character of both parties and their Equal knowledge of the subject, seem to ensure a quick conclusion.
I remain My dear Sir
with greatest regard
Sincerely Yours
Richd Penn
In the improbable case of their not agreeing, I should think Mr Brunel of all others the fittest as an Umpire.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f64
19 February 1830, Dorset St, Manchester Square
Babbage to Bryan Donkin requesting him to be Babbage's Arbitrator
My dear Sir,
Mr Clement has chosen that his bill shall be decided by arbitration and he proposes Mr Maudslay as the arbitrator in his part.
To this I have no objection and only hope that you will allow me to have the advantage of your knowledge and will permit me to name you as the arbitrator on my part. I have not yet spoken to my attorney Mr Few on the subject but shall do so when I receive your answer. If your experience should induce you to offer any suggestions relative to the conditions of the Arbn. bond I shall be glad to attend to them.
I remain my dear Sir
Sincerely Yours
C. Babbage
British Library Add Ms 37185 f65
20th February 1830, No 6 Paragon New Kent Road
Bryan Donkin to Babbage
Dear Sir,
In answer to your letter of yesterday relative to Mr Clement's business, I have no other objection to urge against being appointed as your referee in this case, but that of having already given my opinion as to the value of the work done for your Machine, but as yours is the only interest likely to be affected by that opinion, and as you know what it was, I leave you to decide the propriety of naming me as your arbitrator, at the same time assuming you [will] it will be my anxious endeavour that the arbitrators should come to an equitable decision.
The only suggestion I can offer that you should avoid as much possible making it a special reference that it should be quite general for all matters in dispute, that the expence of the reference and award should be at the discretion of the arbitrators, that the arbitrators have the power of appointing an Umpire, and of extending the time for making their award.
Perhaps you will not think it too much trouble when your attorney shall have prepared the Draft of the Arbitration Bond, to let me have sight of it.
I am Dear Sir
Yours Very Truly
Bryan Donkin
British Library Add Ms 37185 f69
24 February 1830
Memorandum of Interview of Lord Ashley with Chancellor of the Exchequer, noted by Babbage
Lord Ashley, interviews:
Government would not pledge themselves to complete the machine.
Govt were willing to declare the machine their property.
Govt were willing to advance 3000 more than that already granted.
At the end when it is completed they were most willing to attend to my [Babbage's] claim for remuneration.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f70
24th February 1830
Note written by Babbage
Mem -Ld A said the Chn of the Exch would when the machine was finished either place any [claim/demand?] for remuneration I might make before the Treasury or House of C.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f71
24 February 1830
Notes by Babbage entitled Copy of Propositions
That Government would appoint persons to ascertain the proper payments to be made to Mr Clement as the work proceeds and that they would cause those payments to be made.
That the expenses already incurred by Mr Babbage in constructing the machine should be repayed to him.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f74
24 February 1830, Merchant Tailor's [Place/Hall?]
Letter from J. Demole, Mr Clement's Attorney, to Babbage
Sir,
Not having been favored with a reply to my Letter to you of the 16 Feby Inst. I am directed by Mr Clement to repeat my application to you to name an Arbitrator, in order that his claim against you may be forthwith adjusted and settled.
I am Sir,
Your Obedt Servt
Jm B Demole
British Library Add Ms 37185 f78
26 February 1830
M I Brunel to Babbage
My Dear Sir,
I congratulate you on your favorable prospects as to the completion of your Machine.
Allow me however to suggest to you to adopt such arrangements with the maker as to render your situation quite independent and comfortable. You have it now in your power so to do, use it at your discretion. I should go partly by the custom of the trade and partly by your discretion.
Sincerely Yours
M I Brunel
British Library Add Ms 37185 f86
11th March 1830, India Board
Lord Ashley to Babbage marked Private
My Dear Mr Babbage,
I have seen the Chancellor of he Exchequer who approves your scheme. He requests that you will send him a short memorandum Explicating of your Bills in this matter and mentioning the kind offers of your Friends Messrs Maudslay and Donkin; It is merely pro forma; the Chancellor of the Exchequer will then write to these Gentlemen to intimate the approbation of his Majesty's Government.
I hope all is settled. I wish you every success from the bottom of my heart.
Very Truly yours
Ashley
British Library Add Ms 37185 f96
19th March 1830
Letter from Babbage to Rt Honble H Goulburn about Donkin and Maudslay
My dear sir,
Understanding from Lord Ashley that is the intention of government in conformity with my proposition, to name two engineers to examine from time to time the accounts to be delivered for the construction of the Calculating machine and having ascertained that Mr Bryan Donkin of the Grange Road Bermondsey and Mr Henry Maudslay of Westminster Engineers are willing to undertake this duty I beg leave to recommend those gentlemen because I think them most competent to determine whether the charges made for the work as it proceeds are fair and reasonable: and I also feel that their professional experience will relieve me from much difficulty and enable me to give a more undivided attention to the completion of the machine.
I remain
My dear Sir,
Your very faithful servant
C. Babbage
[deleted:18] 19 March 1830
British Library Add Ms 37185 f98
20th March 1830
Extract of letter from Babbage to Nathaniel Bowditch, USA
... I trust that my temporary absence from London and the great difficulties I have had in inducing the government to place my Calculating machine on a proper footing will be admitted as my apology for not writing at an earlier time. The construction of a large machine is now going on under my direction for the government and will probably be completed in three years. ...
British Library Add Ms 37185 f103
25th March 1830
Extract of letter from F. Lunn to Babbage
quoted the cases of Babbage's machine and Beaufort's £100 for six years' survey on the coast of [Caramania?]. ...
British Library Add Ms 37185 f105
29th March 1830, Downing Street
E. Walpole to Babbage
Sir,
I am desired by the Chancellor of the Exchequer to acquaint you, with reference to your letter of the 19 Instant, that he has requested Messrs Donkin and Maudslay to inspect and certify the propriety of the accounts presented to you by Mr Clement for the construction of the machine in which you are engaged; with a view to relieve you from the anxiety which you might feel on this point.
I am Sir
Your Obedient Servant
Edward Walpole
British Library Add Ms 37185 f133
Post Marked 27 April 1830
Extract of letter from F. Lunn to Babbage
... A misgiving has come over my mind about a passage in your book [Decline of Science] of which I cannot remember the final settlement. It is where I thought you might state that English Government had never much encouraged science but that you must state your remark not to apply to the present government only: and that you ought to name their conduct about the machine with some praise though I know you do not give them much at heart. Th reason is plain that not to do so will seem ungrateful and no abstract question will make you so many enemies. Besides that in reality you do not I know wish specially to say good or ill of the present administration. ...
British Library Add Ms 37185 f206
2nd June 1830, 88 St James Street Pall Mall
Extract of letter from Dr Lardner to Babbage
... I shall be glad however as soon as convenient to get your observations on the Calculating machinery with a view to an article on that subject. ...
British Library Add Ms 37185 f225
15th June 1830, Cateaton Street
Extract of Letter from J.L. Prevost to Babbage
to the completion of your machine. ...
British Library Add Ms 37185 f229
16th June 1830
Extract of a letter from Brewster to Babbage
... 4. Is your machine going on or is it stopped by withdrawing of the former allowances? ...
British Library Add Ms 37185 f242
24th June 1830, 54 Regent Street
Dr Dionysius Lardner to Babbage
My Dear Babbage,
I have been for some time in the agonies of a change of residence and am not yet settled. I have looked at your papers. It will be necessary for you to give me a list of all the papers, memoirs and documents which have been printed respecting the machinery and the mechanical notation.
As soon as I shall have attentively examined these it will be necessary for me to visit the machinery twice or thrice for half an hour each time to prevent my brains being muddled to taking in too much at once.
After I have been thus properly crammed I shall attempt something.
every yours
Dion: Lardner
British Library Add Ms 37185 f258
8th July 1830
Letter from Babbage authorising Joseph Clement to continue
machine
Sir,
I request you will continue to execute the drawings and machinery for the Calculating machine under my superintendence.
C.B.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f261
12th July 1830
Extract of letter from Dr Brewster to Babbage
... I am much indebted to you for your obliging letter and its enclosures. My copy had previously given to the printer but in the process I shall avail myself of your information. I had taken care not to command you in anyway in mentioning the calculating machine. ...
British Library Add Ms 37185 f263
13 July 1830
Letter from Babbage to the Rt Honble the Chancellor of the Exchequer urging removal of the Engine
Sir,
I beg most earnestly to call your attention to necessity of having some place in which the Calculating machine may be completed and to the great importance for ensuring its success that it should be placed as near as possible to my own residence. In the accompanying report I have stated the grounds upon which this opinion is founded.
I have the honor to be
Your very Obt Humble Servt
Charles Babbage
British Library Add Ms 37185 f264
13th July 1830
Report No. 1 on Mr Babbage's Calculating Machine
The plans and contrivances for the calc mach are executing under my direction by Mr Clement who has been employed for many years in making the drawings and executing the work of the machine and who is the only person at all acquainted with it, and able to carry it on. From the opinion of the most eminent engineers on the progress already made and from my own experience of its nature and of the means at my disposal I feel justified in stating my own perfect conviction that nothing can render doubtful the full success of the whole of the machine I have planned [deleted:except] provided
1st My own Life )continue during the
2nd the life of Mr Clement )next few years
1st my own death would not in my opinion prevent the machine from being completed (provided Mr Clement remained alive). It would only cause considerable delay and might perhaps diminish the usefull application of the machine during a few years after its completion and prevent for a time the extensive application which I have imagined for it.
2nd To preserve the life of Mr Clement is of the first necessity towards its completion.
It in the event of his death would be extremely difficult if not impossible to find any other person of equal talent both as a draftsman and mecanician who could devote his whole time to the construction of the machine.
If it were possible to discover such another person it has cost Mr Clement many years of unremitted attention to acquire his present knowledge of it and I might add that my own health is not such as render it probable that I could again go through the tedious labor of communicating instruction when the stimulus of invention which supported me through it would have ceased.
Under these circumstances every thing which can shorten the time of constructing the machine diminishes the risk of its failure. I have therefore thought it my duty earnestly to call the attention of the government to the following facts.
1. My residence is situated at the northern extremity of Manchester Street Manchester Sq. The whole of the drawings, tools and machinery are at present at the workshop of Mr Clement near the Elephant and Castle a distance of about four miles.
2. Mr Clement although at present in good health is subject to continual attacks of low fever which have hitherto impeded his exertions at several intervals in each year and he has just recovered from an illness of considerable danger.
3. In the present situation of the machinery I cannot visit it more than once in a day and consequently I am obliged to continue from four to six hours working with Mr Clement at the plans. This continuance of exertion to a person in his state of health is very injurious whilst an equal or perhaps a longer time might safely be devoted by him provided I could attend to him at several different periods in the day and not interfere with his regular hour of dinner in the middle of the day and not make him work too immediately after that meal.
4. In the event of my own health failing for a time much greater delay would arise if the machine is at a distance than if it were close to my own residence.
5. Mr Clement has lately called my attention to the fact that he has not on his own premises any place in which he can commence putting together the machine and the time is nearly arrived when it becomes necessary to have some situation in which that can be conveniently done.
6. The machine must necessarily be put together in some place immediately contiguous to the workshops in which it is to be made and when put together cannot be removed without the greatest difficulty. It will then be necessary for me to give the most constant attention to it in order to instruct other persons in its proper use and to find out its full powers.
Under these circumstances and also considering the very great delay caused by its present situation, the inconveniently small size of the room in which the drawings are, and the necessity to have a place to put the machine in, I beg to suggest that it is of the greatest importance to the completion of the machine that the whole of the tools, drawings and parts of it be [deleted:immediately] removed to some situation in the neighbourhood of my own residence.
Charles Babbage
1 Dorset Street, Manchester Sq 12 July 1830
British Library Add Ms 37185 f286
6th August 1830 Downing Street
Edward Walpole to Babbage
My dear Sir,
I am desired by Mr Goulburn to communicate to you the result of his consideration of the propositions contained in your letter of 13th Ulto. which I regret to acquaint you is not favourable to the views which you entertain.
Mr Goulburn does not consider it adviseable or even practicable to remove the Calculating Machine from the Neighbourhood of Mr Clement's where the materials and tools for its completion are all got together and to make a separate Establishment for it in the neighbourhood of Manchester Street.
He thinks therfore that it may be possible for you to make some arrangements at Mr Clements for putting the Machine together there, which the delay and inconvenience resulting from the distance of your present residence from Mr Clements may be to a degree obviated by other means than that of removing the Machine and its appurtenances from its present situation.
Believe me
My dear Sir
Yours Very Truly
Edward Walpole
British Library Add Ms 37185 f304
4th September 1830 Stover House, Devonshire
Extract of Letter from the Duke of Somerset to Babbage
...I am very glad to hear so good an account of your engines....
British Library Add Ms 37185 f336
7th November 1830 Stover House, Devonshire
Extract of Letter from the Duke of Somerset to Babbage
...I am very glad to hear that you have found another Draftsman [possibly C.G. Jarvis] who understands the machine; for when you had but one, your situation must have been one of great anxiety. It was like having a single copy of a work, which, if lost, would be irretrievable. ...
British Library Add Ms37185 f340 and f362/363
10th November 1830
Draft Letters to Chevalier Antinor, Florence on locks sending samples for the Grand Duke of Tuscany, including a set of combination locks, or 'alphabet locks' as Babbage describes them.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f376
15 Dec 1830 Downing Street
Wickham to Babbage
Mr Wickham presents his compliments to Mr Babbage and hopes to inform him that he is desired by Lord Althorp to say that he is extremely anxious to see his machine but that the [pile?] of Public business is so great at this moment that he fears he must delay his visit till after the adjournment of the House of Commons. Mr Wickham will send it to Lord A's [home?] at that time and Mr Babbage shall hear from him again.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f377
Saturday 18 Dec 1830, Downing Street
Wickham to Babbage
My dear Sir,
Will you be good enough to write as soon as you can a statement of the necessity you are under of seeing your money forthwith, and will you send it to the Honble J. Stewart Secretary of the Treasury.
Wickham
The letter itself may be written to Lord Althorp but on second thoughts it will be easier if you send it under cover to me say on Monday Morning and I will forward it to Mr Stewart. I shall see him at 10 am on Monday.
Believe Me etc Yours [W?] Wickham
British Library Add Ms 37185 f379
21st December 1830 Treasury
J. Stewart to Babbage
Mr Stewart presents his complts to Mr Babbage and requests that he will be good enough to call at the Treasury.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f380
21 Dec 1830
A letter from Babbage to Lord Althorp, Chancellor of the Exchequer
My Lord,
I beg to call your Lordship at this tim[e] to the annexed account of the expense of the Machine for Calculating and printing Mathematical tables by which it appear[s] that a sum of £ 597 -7s -11d remained due to myself upon the last account and that a further sum of nearly 600 has since become due to Mr Clement.
It is to the payment of this latter sum of £600 that I wish to call your Lordship's attention. Mr Maudslay one of the Engineer[s] appointed by the Government to examine the bills of Mr Clement having been unable from illness to attend to his report has been delayed and Mr Clement informs me should the money remain much longer unpaid he shall be compelled from want of funds to discharge some of his workmen an event which I need not inform your Lordship would be very prejudiced to the progress of the Machine.
Another point which I wish to submit to your attention when your Lordship shall have had leisure to examine personally the present state of the works is that since it is absolutely necessary to find additional room for the erection of the machine. It becomes a matter of serious consideration whether it would not contribute to the speedier perfection of the machine and also to economy in expenditure to remove the works to the neighbourhood of my own residence.
I have the honor to remain
Your Lordship's
Most Obedt Humble Servt
CB
Dorset Street Manchester Square
21 Dec 1830
[Footnote added by Babbage to above letter]: 3rd July 1831
It appears that the sum 597-7-4 stated in this letter ought to have been 592-4-8d; see annexed acct [not attached] CB.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f382
22 Dec 1830
M.I. Brunel to Babbage recommending Mr Jearrad
My dear Sir,
Disposed as Lord A is disposed, you should not lose this opportunity. Under this impression, on my part, I have called after I left you on the most respectable Surveyor and Builder in your Neighbourhood Mr Jearrad in Oxford Street.
Mr J will do in this business as appraiser do. or as an Agent in that him will do; and when he has received your instructions and made his Estimate I will see Lord A. It will result from this, that the Office [Official?] Surveyor will be referred to and between the two the matter will soon be adjusted to your satisfaction.
The question of building is now then the point on which Lord A expects a solution. Eminent as you are in solutions, you will not satisfy his L[ordshi]p so well as men who are eminent in the purchase of Brick and other materials. Chacun son metier et le troupeau est bien gardé.
Enable me to go next week to His L[ordship] while the recess gives him time to devote some of his time; and you will find me ready and truly at your command and to good purpose.
M.I. Brunel
British Library Add Ms 37185 f384
23rd Dec 1830, 260 Oxford Street
Charles Jearrad to Babbage
Sir,
Will you be good enough to let one of my people try over the dimensions, he will not be five minutes on the premises.
I am not without hopes of a successful negociation in East Street [now called Chiltern Street, W1]. And I think if that should fail John Mill whose lane is now quite another way would accommodate us with an Entrance from Paddington Street.
If so the Engineer's house might be thereabouts.
The bearer has been long in my employ and has been entrusted with fireproof buildings.
I am Sir Respectfully
Your Obedt Servt
Charles Jearrad
British Library Add Ms 37185 f385
23 Dec 1830 Treasury
Note from Mr Stewart to Babbage about stating the machine to belong to Government
Mr Stewart presents his Compls to Mr Babbage and in acknowledging the receipt of his Letter stating that the Calculating Machine is the Property of Government, Mr Stewart thinks it right to prevent misunderstanding to acquaint Mr Babbage that his Letter already received will be considered as an answer to an official Letter which has been written to him this day.
The Board will no doubt order the payment of the sum of £600 tomorrow.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f387
23 Dec 1830
Babbage to Mr Stewart Copy of Letter stating machine to belong to Govt. Babbage adds the note that this was done at the desire of Mr Stewart.
Sir,
In reference to a letter which I had the honor of addressing to the Rt Honble the Chancellor of the Exchequer dated 21 Dec 1830 in which I applied for a sum of money to defray the expenses of the Calculating Machine, I beg leave to state for the information of the Ld Coms of HM Treasury that I have always understood that at an interview which the Rt Hon Lord Ashley had with the Chancellor of the Exr on 24 Feb 1830 It was finally arranged that the Machine was the absolute property of Government and that all past as well as future expenses were to be defrayed by the Government.
I have the honor to be
Your Obedt Servt
C Babbage
British Library Add Ms 37185 f390
Friday Dec 24th 1830
Lord Ashley to Babbage re Royal Society and Committee
Dear Mr Babbage,
I have settled your business with Lord Althorpe -he is patently of my opinion. I will refer the Case to the most distinguished Engineers. The Royal Society has neither the will nor the Capacity to do you justice.
We must not forget to call upon the Government to obtain this report stating expence. Perhaps Brunel and Donkin and some two more of your Friends would undertake to receive and answer the Government's questions, it is for the Cause of Science.
Yours Very Truly
Ashley
British Library Add Ms 37185 f394
24 Dec 1830 Treasury Chambers
Letter from J Stewart of the Treasury to Babbage requesting a distinct statement that the Engine is the property of Government.
[Ref no.] 21516 21/12 6th Divn
Sir,
The Lords Commrs of His Majesty's Treasury having had under their consideration your letter of the 21st Inst Requesting a further advance of £600 to defray the expence incurred in the construction of the Machine for calculating and Printing Mathematical Tables; I am commanded by their Lordships to desire that you will distinctly state to this Board that the Machine is the property of Government upon the receipt of which statement My Lords will forthwith direct the further advance of £600.
I am Sir
Your Most Obedt servant
J. Stewart
British Library Add Ms 37185 f396
31st Dec 1830 Treasury Chambers
Letter Stewart to Chas Babbage Esq with the Order for £600
[Ref No.] 21785 24/12 6th Divn
Sir,
The Lords Commsrs of His Majesty's Treasury having had under their consideration your letter of 23rd Inst further respecting the issue of the sum of £600 required for defraying the Expence attending the completion of the Calculating Machine invented by you; I am commanded to acquaint you that their Lordships have directed Mr Sargent of this office to pay the said sum to you.
I am Sir
Your Most Obedt servant
J. Stewart
British Library Add Ms 37185 f398
Dec 1830 ?
Wickham to Babbage
Dear Sir,
Lord Althorp will be very happy to see you tomorrow/Saturday/ at 11 am.
Truly
[H.W.?] Wickham
British Library Add Ms 37185 f419
no date 1830/1831? 16 Lambeth Terrace
C.G. Jarvis to Babbage
Sir,
I have thought of the spiral barrel you were speaking of the other day and no difficulty of any consequence has presented itself. I am anxious to name this because you might mention the barrel to others who might see some trifling objection and condemn it at once. I have also been thinking on the subject of patents which was new to me, but the more I think of it the more I find myself convinced of its complexity, and the danger there is of coming to a wrong conclusion respecting it.
I understand that it is proposed by Messrs Donkin and Field that the drawing of each article belonging to the Calc. Mache. should be numbered and the time expended upon that particular drawing noted down in a book. I do not see any useful purpose this can answer and I do not think I can submit to it. If they know that the quantity of paper covered is not by any means a measure of my assiduity or efficiency, and they must be convinced that no one can judge of my exertions but the individual under whose immediate observation I am employed. My keeping an account of my time in this manner, therefore, seems to me like writing my own condemnation. I could not explain to Messrs Donkin and Field that the greater part of the time charged was expended in considering the propriety of adding a "hair breadth" to the head of that screw, or taking a "thirty-second" off that boss; they would know that these things were of no consequence whatever to the efficiency of the thing itself, and not being acquainted with me would most probably doubt the truth of my statement. The goodness of a machine depends upon the soundness of the principles upon which it is constructed; and although a man who does not know enough of the Science of Mechanics to ascertain the magnitude and direction of a force resulting from two other forces whose directions are different may be a very good tool-maker, we call upon him for too much when we expect him qualified to arrange and construct a new and complicated machine. It should be borne in mind that the inventor of a machine and the maker of it have two distinct ends to attain. The object of the first is to make the machine as complete as possible. The object of the second -and we have no right to expect he will be influenced by any other feeling- is to gain as much as possible by making the machine: and it is his interest to make it as complicated as he is permitted to make it. I am fully aware how far these observations may do me injury. But they are made, sir, -whether well or ill-judged- for your good: and if you choose to destroy me with my own weapons I leave you to seek your reward from your own feelings.
These considerations and others which I do not think proper to commit to paper have almost determined me to leave Mr Clement. In the expectation of doing so I will take this opportunity of suggesting what appears to me to be improvements
1. A dead stop for the barrels; without which they will be very liable to overrun when the number of springs urging them forward is much greater than those retarding them.
2. That the inclined planes for the barrels be cut so that the barrels may be dressed in any way whatever which may be done easily.
I Must observe that I can see no advantage in allowing 6 turns of 1st axis for every calculation as Mr C proposes doing; all he wishes may be done by the barrels.
I am Sir,
Very Respectfully
Your Obedient Servant
C.G. Jarvis
British Library Add Ms 37185 f421
Saturday 4 Feb [1831] Lin[coln's] Inn
W. Brougham to Babbage
My dr Sir
The Chancellor has just sent to me to desire me to tell you that he is obliged to be with the King tomorrow at 2 and with the attg [Guard?] at one preparatory to seeing the King so that he much fears it will be out of his power to attend at the Exhibition of your machine. He regrets this extremely
[? ?] W. Brougham
British Library Add Ms 37185 f422
Tuesday n.d. Grosv[eno]r St.
Isabella [?] to Babbage
My dear Sir
I can hardly tell you, how very much I thank you for recollecting my curiosity abt your most miraculous machine. I think it can hardly have required the pains you know I have taken to convince you that it points of Science I am unworthy of the trouble you have more than once expressed and [?] as willing to take to announce my conceited [?] with the proviso that I am not to be considered as [?] at my [? ?] in the smallest possible to [?]. I shall not [? ? ? ?] your good natured offer of letting me view the wonders of your engine I hope you will not think I am putting upon your offer if I tell you my brother Henry is now in town. And if you will let me bring him I shall be really obliged to you. At present he cannot accept of your kind invitation but if a little while hence you call at [?] perhaps you will propose a day convenient to you and admit us both. May I request you will tell your mother, that I thank her much for looking out for me at the R. Institution where had I been able to attend I shd anxiously have sought her patronage, but circumstances have been unkind and have prevented me from going at all.
Pray believe me
My dr Sir
Very truly yours
Isabella [?]cken
British Library Add Ms 37185 f428
2nd January 1831
Instructions from Babbage to Messrs Jarrad Surveyors
1. After examining the workshops tables drawings &c at Mr Clements and conferring with Mr B Mr Clement and Mr Donkin if necessary so as to acquire a general view of the nature and relative position of the buildings required to ascertain whether the yard or any part of it now occupied by Mr Rice and abutting on the Northern end of Mr Babbages garden is fit and can be obtained and if so on what terms.
2. I this cannot be had Mr Jarrad is requested to state whether any other position [deleted equally convenient or at all] in the immediate neighbourhood can be found and procured which is convenient for purposes required.
C.B.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f431
6th January 1831
Copy of Jearrad's report of survey no. 1
Report of Survey in consequence of Mr Babbages Instructions to ascertain the possibility of obtaining desirable Ground or Premises for his Calculating Engine and the necessary appendages thereto belonging in the Neighbourhood of his Residence No. 1 Dorset Street Manchester Square.
Jany 6th 1831
The undersigned surveyor after duly examining the present workshops tools and drawings &c for the construction of Mr Babbages calculating Engine and conferring with Mr Babbage Mr Clements Engineer and others for the purpose of acquiring a correct view of the Nature and relative position of the Buildings required, first proceeded to inspect the Cow Yard adjoining Mr Babbages Garden and fronting North by an Entrance Gateway on Paddington Street. This site was considered Eligible on Account of its Locality. On enquiry the premises were found to be let to Mr Rice for 21 years at a rent of £150 per Annum but attainable only under the following difficulties Vizt
"By purchase of his Lease
"By compensation for loss of Trade and removal
"By purchasing all the Sheds and Buildings on the premises
and which would be useless everyway for the purpose wanted
Considering then the heavy outlay which would be required before any beginning could be made in the contemplated Erections This site was abandoned as a matter altogether too expensive for Mr Babbages views on the subject.
Another site was then endeavoured to be found in the Neighbourhood but although the undersigned made every enquiry and is intimately acquainted with the whole of that portion of Saint Marylebone and having also the aid of much Interest the accommodation has failed to be obtained.
At the same time he begs to suggest there is ample space for the object in the western part of Mr Babbages own Grounds.
Signed Charles Jearrad Surveyor
No. 2 Baker St, Portman Square
British Library Add Ms 37185 f433
3rd Jan 1831
Babbage to W. Wickham Esq. proposing mode of arranging removal
Dear Sir
Allow me to suggest to you the following course (if it is admissible) as likely to expedite the removal of the Calculating Engine.
I have ascertained that Messrs Brunel Donkin and Field would if applied to be perfectly willing to act as a Committee. If therfore the Chancr of the Ex were to write to them requesting their opinion of the necessity of removing the Calc Eng to the neighbourhood of my residence they would in a few days make a report and then the Treasury would have at one view before them.
My application to have the Engine removed
The report of a Surveyor in the fitness of a proposed situation
3. A report from the Engineers of the necessity and reason for that necessity should they so decide
From these data [a] decision would be immediately formed that it is important to have the engine removed and in that case a surveyor and Engineer (perhaps Mr Donkin) in the part of Government might be authorized to arrange and carry into effect the plan.
I remain
My dear Sir
Yours Faithfully
Chs Babbage
British Library Add Ms 37185 f435
4 Jan 1830 [1831!!]
M.I. Brunel to Babbage
My dear sir,
You are quite at liberty to modify, improve alter and do what you please with the inclosed which I would address to Lord Althorp unless you have a more eligible plan. Send it back if you approve of the propriety and I will immediately comply. If you think differently, let it be consigned to the fire place.
I am Sincerely Yours
M I Brunel
British Library Add Ms 37185 f437
Jan 7th 1831 Adam's Valley, Manchester, Jamaica
Extract of Letter from Alex Forbes to Babbage
... I had for some time before the receipt of your kind present a great desire to write to you. I expected to see some public account of your invention of the Calculating Machine as applied to actual use. Perhaps you have found a longer time necessary for perfecting all the apparatus; or you have discovered improvements on your original plan but I hope no insuperable difficulty has occurred in the completion of any individual part. ...
British Library Add Ms 37185 f438
10th Jan 1831
Babbage's Instructions to Messrs Jearrad No.2
Instructions to Messrs Jearrad & Co Surveyors
Messrs Jearrad are requested to prepare an estimate of the buildings requisite to accommodate the Calculating Engine and for the workshops which it requires and for the alteration of the residence for the Engineer supposing them erected in that part of Mr Babbage's property pointed out by Messrs Jearrad.
Also to give an estimate of the annual value of Mr Babbage's house in East Street which will be required for that purpose and of his Coach House and six stall stable which must be destroyed and also of the value of the plot of ground and surrounding walls which are necessary for the proposed buildings.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f439
11 Jan 1831
M I Brunel to Babbage
My dear Sir,
I have just seen Lord Althorp who, it is evident, has not understood your plan of establishment near you. His L-p urged the necessity of the machine being removed and pointed out the British Museum, alledging that Mr Babbage might be induced to take a nearer residence to the Museum. But when I mentioned that you had a spacious plot of ground quite convenient close to your own garden, he then said we must buy it. I then told him that I had suggested the idea of calling in a surveyor for the purpose of realising the plan of a convenient arrangement which might soon be in a state for his Lordship's consideration; or for reference to the Government's Surveyor.
I told his Lordship that an estimate would be in readiness in a few days, if required.
It is evident that nothing can forward your object better than a decided plan and an Estimate with it. I should advise you to avail yourself of the good disposition of H L-p while he is still disengaged. He will not be able to attend to you when parliament meets.
Sincerely Yours
M I Brunel
British Library Add Ms 37185 f443
15 Jan 1831
Jearrad's Plan of Building and Report sent to Babbage
Copy of Messrs Jearrad Survey No. 2
Report of Survey on the premises situate at the back of Mr Babbage's dwelling house No. 1 Dorset Street Manchester Square consisting of a large garden and extensive enclosure and a certain Messuage and stabling connected therewith opening into an adjacent st[reet] for the purpose of purposed Erections for his Calculating Engine and the lodging of the Engineer &c.
January 15th 1831
After due investigation and admeasurements the enclosed piece of ground belonging to and abutting East on Mr Babbages garden connected West with a messuage fronting on East Street South on Dorset Street and North on Mr Rice's Cow Yard it was ascertained that the piece or parcel of ground was fully adequate for the purpose. The total area on the ground plan is about 468½ off 100 feet each Superficial admitting of a ready communication with Mr Babbages house and capable of containing conveniently the accommodation required Vizt A range of workshops for tools a forge room a calculating room and the calculating engine room with Ingress and Egress for the workmen East Street way And Apartments over for the Engineer.
The plot of ground with its approaches will more fully appear on inspection of the Sketch subjoined.
Signed Charles Jearrad Surveyor
No. 2 Baker Street Portman Square
[Plan attached]
British Library Add Ms 37185 f445
17th Jan 1831, 2 Baker Street, Portman Sqr.
Jearrad's Estimate sent to Babbage
Dear Sir,
I beg to send you the papers, relative to the projected ground plot and have the drawings necessary for the Buildings Ready when Required.
My Estimate turns out as follows:-
Calculating room )
Engine room )
Forge room ) Value to £2250
Workshops )
House over Entrance for Engineer )
& Sundry other matters to compleat)
The house as a Rental with 6 stall stables and Coach-house as follows:-
House 31 . 10 . 0
Stables 31 . 10 . 0
Coachhouse 12 . 0 . 0
85 . 0 . 0 [Corrected by CB to 75.0.0]
Add for Ground 50 . 0 . 0
With present
Walls at a Rent _____________
£135 . 0 . 0 [Corrected by CB to £125]
Should you require any detailed particulars I will furnish them forthwith.
I am
Dr Sir
Your Obedient and faithful servant
Charles Jearrad
British Library Add Ms 37185 f447
19th January 1831
Copy of letter from Babbage to Ld Althorp enclosing plan for moving machine
My Lord,
I beg to enclose for your consideration the accompanying Reports respecting a situation for the Calc. Engine and the buildings necessary for it from Messrs Jearrad and Co. the surveyor whom I had directed to look out for a situation and to make the necessary estimates. As I had instructed the Surveyor to make full allowance for every probable expense I presume the total amount cannot exceed the sum of £2250.
I shall be happy to wait on your Lordship or on any Committee which you may think fit to appoint to communicate further details of the plan.
I have the Honor to be My Lord
Your Lordship's very obedient Humble servant
CB
British Library Add Ms 37185 f450
Sunday 23rd Jany (1831/1842/1848?)
[?] H F[itton?] to Babbage
My dear Babbage,
There are still so many repetitions and obscure passages which left the Duke's command through Ld Ashley. More than important that you may steer in and out, if you choose. I most strongly urge you leaving out the £2000 per annum at the end! And as Peel cannot make any difficulty, I should advise you to send him a revised copy, as soon as you can, as if a friend can exchange it for you, by asking him, and get back that you have sent. [?] [?] are really hardly readable especially about the Analytic question. And wd certainly not do for distribution as it is.
Your W.H.F. [??]
British Library Add Ms 37185 f454
31st Jan 1831
Babbage to Bryan Donkin to ask him to audit Accts.
My dear Sir,
The continued illness of Mr Clement has prevented him from making up his account for a longer time than usual and I have consequently been obliged to advance money for him to carry on the Engine work as none is issued to me untill the Treasury have recd the report of the Engineers who audit his accounts.
It would therefore relieve me from some inconvenience if you could arrange with Mr. Field an early opportunity for examining them.
I hope that the period is now approaching when the termination of the labor you have so kindly executed may be looked forward to and that in eighteen months or two years we may expect to produce some calculated results.
I remain My dear Sir
Very sincerely Yours
C.B.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f455
20th Jany 1831
Draft Copy of a Report respecting Mr Babbage's Calculating Engine by Babbage sent to Wickham
The object of the present report is to prove the necessity of removing the apparatus and tools to the immediate neighbourhood of Mr. Babbage's residence and to point out the method of accomplishing that object.
The advantages arising from such a removal are:
[Deleted: 1. (The personal convenience of Mr B) the greater control he would have of it and the longer time which he could then devote to it.]
2. The additional time he could in such circumstances devote to it and the greater control he would have over the [deleted: engineer] persons employed.
[Deleted: The immediate security from fire of the drawings and of the machine when completed. Although the personal inconvenience of superintending a complicated machine at a distance is considerable and although that the inconvenience must necessarily increase as that machine approaches its completion and although it becomes much greater when the machine is working it may not be of itself sufficient grounds for its removal.]
Reasons mentioned under the second point resolve themselves into a question of economy. The distance of the machine from Mr. B['s] residence (about four miles) causes a loss of between two or three hours of his time everyday [deleted: in going [in passing] and repassing and although that time is not an expense to the [machine] the time during which he can be present each day is thus diminished and consequently his power of aiding by his own observations the Engineers in forming an opinion of the fairness of Mr Clements charges.]
Consequently the work cannot proceed as fast as it otherwise might.
Also it is now impossible for Mr B to assist the appointed Engineers to examine the bills by offering any opinion respecting the time actually employed by the men.
3rd The multitude of drawings [deleted: which comprise the history of improve... have occupied years to make] ought not to remain exposed to the hazard of fire for it should be observed that no insurance could compensate for their loss nor could any money replace those labors which have occupied many years of Mr B and Mr C's lifes to bring to their present state.
If these remarks are just they apply with greater force to the engine itself. If there is [deleted: the case with drawings] it is much more [deleted: so with regard to the machine itself] and when to these considerations the following are added:-
In the course of a few months it will become absolutely necessary to rent some house adjoining to Mr Clement (if such can be procured and of course the choice must be very restricted) -to build a place to set the machine up in and then when it is put in action it must be again taken to pieces for it is quite impossible that at such distance Mr B can superintend it working.
As Mr B conceives that it will not be allowed to remain a singular toy but be employed actually producing tables it seems probable that the course which is now suggested would at all events be that ultimately adopted.
1. If the Engine is at or near Mr B the following advantages will arise-
a much greater power of superintendence
a greater control over expenditure
By Mr B being enabled much more frequen[tly] to show it to men of Science and engineers ma[y mean] suggestions may arise of great importance.
Also Mr B's friends and men of science being much more conversant with its principles and detail there will be much less risk of its utility being impededed [by/through] the death of its contriver.
Mr B would therefore submit that a committee which he understands it is the intention of your Lordship [Lord Althorp] to appoint should state in there report whether the reasons which Mr B has alleged or any other which they may perceive do not render the removal almost a matter of necessity.
In the mean time he trusts he has shown in the above report in case their report should be in the affirmative sufficient reasons to induce and in case Ld A should concur in the measure then he would suggest that as some difficulties have arisen on the part of Mr Clement It would be more economical to authorise him to appoint Mr Donkin conditionally to arrange the terms of the removal with Mr Clement with whom some difficulties have occurred and to assist the Surveyor whom the Government may appoint in instructing him as to the nature of the building required.
As a previous step Mr B has employed a surveyor of great [knowledge] acquaintance with the district in which Mr B resides to examine a[nd] look about for a commodious situation and to make some rough plans if necessary alterations and he has no doubt if Mr Donkin and a Surveyor on the part of Government are authorised to confer with Mr Jearrad the surveyor alluded to that in a few days they will be able to submit such a plan and estimate of expence as will enable the government by having all the facts before them and the expense in one side and the advantages and saving on the other at once to decide on the propriety of the move.
In naming a committee to Report on the present state of the Machine the sufficiency of the means for its completion and the propriety of its removal It may be observed that the mathematical principles have already been admitted to by two Com. of the R.S. (and are also universally known and admitted amongst persons conversant with mathematics as stated in the first paragraph of the report of Feb 1829 see appendix F [Ed: not attached]) Mr B therefore suggests that practical engineers themselves intimately acquainted with the manufacture of machinery of a similar kind are most competent judges and that as the time of such persons is very valuable and that they have given their services gratuitously; and also as small committees do more work than large ones the following gentlemen might be named
Mr Brunel
Mr Bryan Donkin an Engineer who has himself contrived and improved several valuable machines who was employed professionally in making printing machinery at Somerset House and who has in conjunction with Mr Maudslay gratuitously given his services to Government in examining Mr Clement's accounts.
Mr Field the partner of Mr Maudslay The ill health of the latter gentleman alone has induced me to suggest the sacrifices of so valuable a name but his aid might unfortunately from the state of his health be given at very great personal inconvenience.
With respect to authorising Mr Donkin to arrange the removal between Mr Clement and the Government I would suggest that whatever might be his willingness to act gratuitously the expense of his usual professional charge of five g[ui]n[ea]s per day during the few days he would be occupied by it would be amply repaid by the economy of the arrangement his knowledge and experience would suggest.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f459
23rd January 1831?
Babbage probably to Mr Wickham
Dear Sir,
I enclose a sketch of a report which contains the information I wish to put into Lord Althorp's hands relative to the removal of the Engine. From my unacquaintance with official forms I may have taken a liberty in suggesting the names of a Committee or in other points but I shall be most happy [deleted: when his Ldship is acquainted with the substance] to put it into any form which may be deemed more proper [deleted: and shall feel obliged [by] your aid]
I remain
Yours faithfully
CB
British Library Add Ms 37185 f462
4 Feby [1831] Downing Street
Wickham to Babbage
Dear Sir,
I have received Lord Althorp's permission to send you the enclosed which will I hope be sufficient for your purposes.
Very [? ?]
Yours [?]
Wickham
British Library Add Ms 37185 f463
4th Feb 1831 Downing Street
Wickham (pp. Lord Althorp) to Bryan Donkin asking for his opinion on removing the machine.
Sir,
I am directed by Lord Althorp to request that you will have the goodness to send him your opinion as to the necessity of removing Mr Babbage's Calculating Engine from the present situation to the neighbourhood of his own residence, and I am to inform you that a similar request has been forwarded to Messrs Brunel and Field, who will probably be good enough to meet you on the subject and to make a joint report with you.
Lord Althorp would not have intended to give you this trouble had he not been given to understand that you were not unwilling to undertake the task.
I have the honor to be Sir
your Obedt Servant
Henry L. Wickham
British Library Add Ms 37185 f469
10th Febr 1831
MI Brunel to Babbage
My dear Sir
Will you send me Lord Althorp's letter which was left with you last night by Mr Field as I cannot find my own.
I have sent my observations to Mr Field that he may proceed and see Mr Donkin as early as possible to close this business.
Sincerely yours
MI Brunel
British Library Add Ms 37185 f473
15 Feb 1831
M.I. Brunel to Babbage
My Dear Sir
I send you the letter with a copy of it. I have signed one which you may forward for the signature of the other parties.
Poor Maudslay died this morning.
I am very truly yours
M I Brunel
British Library Add Ms 37185 f474
Tuesday Evening [recd 16 Feb 1831]
C.G. Jarvis to Babbage
D[ear] sir,
Without feeling particularly anxious as to the result of your deliberations upon the subject we discussed this morning I am extremely solicitous that no misconception may exist as to my motives or meaning.
I think you seem to consider that I left Mr Clement impressed with the opinion that he must have me back on my terms; or, in other words that I wished to take a few like advantage of his having omitted to enter into a regular agreement as to the time of my remaining with him. In this you must pardon my saying you do not do me justice. The case was precisely as I explained it to you this morning: nor should I have thought of engaging for 12 months at the salary you mentioned.
I am informed that Mr Walkup received above 3 guineas for the same number of hours for which I this morning expressed my expectation of receiving 3½ guineas. Mr Clement did not think that more than he deserved.
I am Sir
Very Respectfully Your Obedient Servant
C.G. Jarvis
British Library Add Ms 37185 f476
ca 15th February 1831 ? C/O Mr Burrs, 16 Lambeth Terrace
C.G. Jarvis to Babbage
Sir,
Having left Mr Clement I deem it necessary you should know the reason of my leaving as the same cause if not counteracted will prevent Mr Clement retaining any one of talent as an assistant; delay considerably the completion of the machine, and greatly increase the cost of it. These effects I conceive important to you as the inventor of the machine.
The case then is this. The parties who are appointed to inspect and sign Mr Clement's accounts refuse I am told, to sanction his paying his draughtsman more than they pay theirs.
Now this would be just if the talents required were in both cases the same but I beg to submit that this is by no means the case. Draughtsmen under ordinary circumstances have little more to do than copy drawings; or, if they have a new drawing to make it is of some machine that has been made over and over again, and the motions of which are common and easily understood. Any thing which requires superior abilities is entrusted to the head of that department who is commonly a partner.
But your machine is new; the movements are new and many of them necessarily complex, which renders it difficult to arrange their parts so as to produce the exact measure of effect that is desired. They are in short such, that unless a man is tolerably well acquainted with the scientific part of mechanics, he cannot arrange to advantage nor can he measure their effect unless he knows more of mathematics than is known by the generality of mechanical draughtsmen.
Whatever ability, however, is required of or possessed by the individual employed; however well qualified he may be to assist in arranging, drawing, and describing the parts of the machine; he must be content with the same remuneration that is received by a mere drudge, for no other reason (if I may judge from what I have been told) but because a few individuals who have no interest in your machine, find it convenient to keep those in their employ at low salaries; and deem it their interest to prevent as much as possible any one whose employment is at all similar deriving greater emolument from his exertions.
But I beg I may not be misunderstood. I do not mean even to insinuate that an efficient assistant is absolutely necessary, because I am sure Mr Clement is completely master of the knowledge to make every arrangement. Nor do I mean to say that an ordinary draughtsman could not arrange the parts under Mr Clements direction, or that such draughtsman could not measure their effect by repeated trials. But I do mean to say that with an efficient assistant Mr Clement would get on much better, much faster, and much more agreably to himself; and that if that assistant proceeded upon principle, he would be much more serviceable than if he depended upon repeated experiments, for ascertaining by persevering industry, the correctness of his opinions. But such an assistant will not be content with the salary of a mere mechanic.
As for myself I expected when I went to Mr Clement that as soon as I had proved myself possessed of what I knew must be the necessary qualifications I should meet with an adequate reward; but finding this was not to be the case, that I was not to have near what the draughtsman formerly employed received, and that of all those employed on the machine I alone was ill paid; I became indifferent to the employment and have now given it up.
I have to request that this communication may be strictly confidential. And I also beg of you to be good enough to excuse any familiarity of style which this letter may perchance exhibit, for rest assured, sir, although I may not attend to punctilios, I am fully conscious of the deference due to your superiority, natural, acquired, and accidental, ever
Sir,
Very Respectfully,
Your Obedient Servant
C.G. Jarvis
to C. Babbage Esq F.R.S. Etc.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f479
Saturday 19 Feb 1831 posted One o'clock
C.G. Jarvis to Babbage
I received your letter last evening and saw Mr Clement this morning. We differed on one subject only -salary. Mr Walkup was paid 3£ 4/- per week. It is acknowledged I am more useful than he was notwithstanding I am offered 3£ 3/- which I at once refused.
But I proposed to halve the difference between 3 and 3½ guineas, or to return to Mr Clement for 3£ 8/3 per week; which he declined answering until he had communicated with you, and I agreed to wait until Monday Evening next for your decision.
I am, Sir,
Very Respectfully
Your Obedient Servant
C.G. Jarvis
British Library Add Ms 37185 f483
22nd Feb 1831, Paragon
Bryan Donkin to Babbage
Dear Sir,
I enclose the letter from Ld Althorp.
Should the R. Society request my attendance on the Committee I shall make a similar reply to that intended by Mr Brunel.
I am my dear Sir,
Yours very Sincerely,
Bryan Donkin
British Library Add Ms 37185 f487
23rd Feb 1831 Royal Society Apartments
James Hudson Assistant Secretary to Babbage
Sir,
I am directed to request the favor of your attendance at a Meeting of the Committee for considering a Letter from Mr. Stewart, of the Treasury, relative to your application for an additional grant of money for the construction of your Calculating Engine: to be held to-morrow /Thursday/ at 4 o'clock.
I have the honor to be, Sir,
Your obt Servant
James Hudson Assistant Secretary
British Library Add Ms 37185 f488
Feb 1831
Babbage's notes for the Committee of Engineers [Brunel, Donkin and Field?]
Mr Babbage begs to call the attention of the Committee to the following reasons which induce him to urge the removal of the Calc Engine to the immediate neighbourhood of his own residence.
1. The great loss of Mr Bs time in going daily (often for months together) a distance of about four miles to the workshops where the Engine is constructing.
2. The consequent necessity of making Mr Clement (who has suffered much from ill health) work for too many hours successively during the time Mr B is present to direct.
3. The great impediment which often arises when Mr Babbage is working at his own house from not having his drawings at hand. The consequence of this has been that he has repeatedly been obliged to lay aside trains of enquiry at times when his mind was [deleted: most] in a peculiarly fit state for pursuing them.
4. The [deleted: Superinten ...] attention [deleted: requisite for the ...] which must be bestowed upon the Engine will become greater as it approaches near its completion and when finished it will require months of the most constant and unceasing attention for Mr Babbage himself to learn all its powers and to teach them to others.
It is perfectly impossible that this can be done at a distance from his own residence.
5. The parts of the Engine already [deleted:made] executed and the numerous drawings are not insured. These ought to be placed in a fire proof building for they could not be replaced by money.
6. The Engine must be put together on a foundation of masonry every part being levelled with the greatest care and all dirt and dust being carefully excluded. As Mr Clement has no room in his own premises [deleted: for this purpose] it will shortly become necessary to rent some adjoining premises and to build a room for this purpose.
7. [rewritten and stuck over original paragraph] A plot of ground adjacent to Mr B garden [deleted: exist on which Messrs Jearrad] has been surveyed by Messrs Jearrad who have given plans and estimate for the requisite buildings. The advantages of adopting site would be that the same room in which the engine is built might be used for it when completed and the workshops which [deleted:were] to be built for its construction would become useful for the residence of those who superintend it.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f512
25th March 1831
Babbage to the Rt Hon Chancellor of the Exchequer requesting him to appoint Mr Field as arbiter in place of Maudslay and asking him to consider removal of the Engine and workshops.
My Lord,
The death of Mr Maudslay who had been requested by Government in conjunction with Mr Donkin to examine the charges made by Mr Clement for the construction of the Calculating Engine having recently occurred, it becomes desireable that some other engineer should be found who may be willing to supply his place.
Mr Clement has represented to me that Mr Field the partner of the late Mr Maudslay is willing to undertake that service and as I had previously considered him to be the fittest person to be associated with Mr Donkin for that purpose I have no hesitation in recommending him to your Lordship [deleted: to that purpose].
I beg also to call your L's attention to the circumstance that it is more than three months since the last ex[aminatio]n of Mr Clement's accounts and that as soon as the Engineers have examined them a further sum of money will be due to Mr Clement [deleted: for which] I have no money belonging to the Government in my hands to meet.
May I also request as soon as the pressure of public business will admit the consideration [of] your Lord[shi]p to the question of removing the Engine to the neighbourhood of my own residence.
I have the honor to remain
your Lp's Obt Servt
CB
British Library Add Ms 37185 f513
Document dated March 26th 1831, but Copy made 7th April 1831
Report of Royal Society Committee, received by Babbage 8th April 1831
The Committee appointed by the Council of the Royal Society to consider the letter of Mr Stewart respecting Mr Babbage's Calculating Engine, dated "Treasury Chambers, Decr 24.1830" and its enclosure, being (the copy of) a letter from Mr Babbage to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, dated, "Dorset Street, Decr 21.1830." -be to report as follows.
That agreeably to the request of the Lords Commissioners of His Majesty's Treasury, they have inspected the machine and enquired concerning the progress that has been made in its construction and whether the work is proceeding in a satisfactory manner and without unnecessary expense; and what further sum may probably be necessary for completing the Engine.
The various parts of the machine appear to have been executed with the greatest possible degree of perfection as to workmanship; and they find, on enquiry, that the two Engineers appointed by their Lordships to certify that the work charged for, has really been executed, have before certifying, to that effect, taken a methodical account of the time(s) occupied by the chief engineer and workmen and the work executed, and of the parts of the Machine completed up to the passing of the first account, and of the time employed up to the passing of the second account.
They find that one of the Engineers appointed by the Treasury to certify as to charges of Mr Clements, namely Mr Maudslay, is dead; and they recommend that another Engineer, conversant with the execution of Machinery, should be appointed in his place.
They have taken into their consideration a recommendation which they find contained in the enclosure of Mr Babbage, vizt "whether it would not contribute to the speedier perfection of the Machine, and also to economy in expenditure, to remove the Engine as well as the workshops, from the place where they now are, to some other place in the neighbourhood of Mr Babbage's residence.
They are of opinion that for better securing the property in the drawings and engine to their owner, the Government, it is time that the same should be removed to premises which either actually belong to, or can be conveyed to, the Government.
That, for the further security of the drawings and Engine, they should be deposited, with as little delay as possible, in premises which are fire-proof. That some site of ground must be very shortly be provided, in which a base of substantial masonry must be constructed for setting up the machine; and that, for the reasons before stated, it appears desirable that the period for deciding on such site of ground should not be delayed.
That they concur in the following reasons which have induced Mr Babbage to urge the removal of the Engine to the neighbourhood of his own residence; which are -1st the great loss of Mr Babbage's time in going daily (often for months together) to the workshops of Mr Clement, a distance of nearly four miles from Mr Babbage's own house. -2nd the great impediment which often arises when Mr Babbage is occupied at his own house, from not having his drawings at hand. The consequence of this has been that he has repeatedly been obliged to lay aside trains of enquiry at times when his mind was in a peculiarly fit state for pursuing them. -3rd the attention which must be bestowed on the Engine will become greater as it approaches near its completion:- to which they beg to add, the better control which, from Mr Babbage's constant inspection when residing close to the Machine, would be exercised over the Engineer. That they have examined the plot of ground adjacent to Mr Babbage's garden, which Mr Babbage holds on lease for an unexpired term of 50 years, and that the plans and estimates for the buildings to receive the Engine and Drawings, and the workshops for completing the construction of the Engine, as prepared by Messrs Jearrad have been submitted to the Committee.
That they are of opinion that the site of grounds, and the plans of Messrs [Jearrad] are well calculated for the purpose intended; *[and that if Mr Babbage would consent to assign to the Government for a nominal rent, and for the remainder of his term, or for such stated term as may be agreed on, a lease of the said premises for the purpose proposed], such an arrangement would be eminently conducive to the speedy and economical completion of the Machine; as well as to the effectual working and employment of the same, after it shall have been completed.
[Note in pencil added by CB: part of paragraph marked above thus * " This has been ommitted in the Report which will be sent in by the R.S."]
That, as to the sum which may probably be necessary for completing the Engine, they attach hereto the Estimate of Mr Brunel, who states, "That having taken into consideration the erection of the proposed shops, the removal of the Machinery, the accommodation for it and also for the maker; having also taken into consideration the further completion of the Drawings and the ultimate accomplishment of the Engine until it is capable of producing plates for printing, tho' he feels confident that the sum of £8,000 will be ample to realize the objects that are contemplated, he would nevertheless recommend that the Government be advised to provide for the sum of £12,000 by way of estimate; and that the yearly sum required, exclusive of the sum requisite for the Buildings and removal (say £2,000) will not exceed from £2,000 to £2,500."
British Library Add Ms 37185 f519
March 1831 ?
Copy of the Report of the Engineers (Brunel, Donkin and Field) on the Issue of the Removal of the Engine to the Right Honorable Viscount Althorp
My Lord,
In compliance with your Lordship's request that we would "send you our opinions as to the necessity of removing Mr Babbage's Calculating Engine from its present situation to the neighbourhood of his own residence" we beg leave to state that we have conferred with Mr Babbage on the subject and concur in a opinion that it is necessary to remove the Engine to the immediate neighbourhood of his residence.
The reasons which have induced Mr Babbage to urge of its removal are so much in coincidence with those on which are [? our] opinion is founded that we shall take leave to repeat them for Your Lordship's perusal.
"1st The great loss of Mr Babbage's time in going daily (often for months together) to the workshops of Mr Clement, a distance of nearly four miles from Mr Babbage's own house. 2nd The great impediment which often arises when Mr Babbage is occupied at his own house, from not having his drawings at hand. The consequence of this has been that he has repeatedly been obliged to lay aside trains of enquiry at times when his mind was in a peculiarly fit state for pursuing them.
3rd The attention which must be bestowed on the Engine will become greater as it approaches near its completion and when finished it will require months of the most constant and unceasing attention from Mr Babbage himself, to learn all its powers and to teach them to others.
It is totally impossible that this can be done at a distance from his own residence.
4th The parts of the Engine already executed and the numerous drawings are not insured. These ought to be placed in a fire proof building as they could not be replaced by money.
5th The Engine must be put together on a foundation of masonry every part being levelled with greatest care and all dirt and dust carefully excluded.
As Mr Clement has no room in his own premises, it will shortly become necessary to rent some adjoining premises, and to build a room for the purpose.
6th A plot of ground adjacent to Mr Babbage's Garden has been surveyed by Messrs Jearrad who have given Plans and estimates for the requisite Buildings.
The advantage of adopting that site would be, that the same room in which the Engine is set up, might be used for it, when completed; and the Workshops etc to be erected for its construction would become useful for the residence of the persons superintending it."
It is our Opinion also that, for motives of economy and of the time necessary for completing the Engine as well as of the expences attending the same; that the Engine the plans and all the explanatory papers relating to it, should be removed to a place of safety particularly against fire and as near as possible to Mr Babbage's residence, that all loss of time and labour, on his part, may be avoided and where his more frequent attendance would be secured.
The site of the Buildings for the reception of the Engine and for the Workshops proposed by it Mr Babbage we think in every respect eligible as affording him, at all times, the readiest access to the work in progress and as tending greatly to lessen the liability to errors on the part of the Workmen as well as promoting a greater degree of diligence among them and in the end lessening very materially the expence and shortening the time required for the completion of the Engine.
We have the honor to be My Lord
Your Lordship's Most Obedient humble servants
------- [not signed]
-------
British Library Add Ms 37185 f523
12th April 1831
Minutes of the Royal Society Council
Resolved that this report be received and adopted with the exception of that part in the last paragraph but are commencing with the words
"and that if Mr Babbage would consent to assign to the Government for a nominal rent ... after it shall have been completed."
and concluding with the words
"after it shall have been completed"
subject to the explanation of Mr Brunel.
Copied on same page as above
28th July 1831
A letter was read from Mr Stewart dated 11 July 183? Treasury Chambers addressed to the Secry stating the the Engineers employed to examine Mr Babbage's Calc Machine were not nominated by the Board of the Lords Com of HM Treasury and that if the Royal Society deem it adviseable that another engineer in place of Mr Maudslay deceased should be employed the Lords of the Treasury would wish to leave the selection of a fit person to the R.S.
resolved that Mr Stewart be informed that the Council consider the report they have already made relating to Mr Babbage's Calculating Engine as final on their part, and that they have no wish that the matter should again be referred to by any engineer but in compliance with their wish they name Mr Rennie for that object.
Note added by Babbage above two items were extracted and copied 17 Feb 1836.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f524
20 Jan 1831 Council of Royal Society
The following letter addressed to the sec[retary] from J. Stewart Esquire and enclosing a letter from Mr Babbage to the Chancellor of the Ex[chequer] was read out.
Sir,
The Lords Com of H.M. Treasury having had under their consideration a letter from Mr. B dated 21st Inst enclosing an account of the expence which has been incurred in the construction of the machine for calculating and printing mathematical tables amounting to the sum £7192-4-8 and requesting an advance of £600 to defray a part of that expence; I am commanded by their Lordships to refer you to the Rep[ort] of the Council of the R.S. dated 16 Feb 1829 which entirely satisfied their Lordships of the propriety of supporting Mr B in the construction of this machine and to state that advances to the amount of £6000 have been made on this account and that directions have been given for a further advance of £600. I am also to transmit a copy of Mr B['s] Letter of the 21st Inst and to acquaint you that the Machine is the property of Government and consequently my Lords propose to defray the further expence necessary to its completion. I am further to request you will move the Council of the R.S. to cause the machine to be inspected and to favor my Lords with their opinion whether the work is proceeding in a satisfactory manner and without unnecessary expence and what further sum may be necessary for completing it.
I am sir,
Your most obedt servt
J. Stewart
Then follows [says CB] my letter of 24 Dec 1830 and a copy of expenditure.
[The Council of the RS] Resolved that the consideration of this letter be referred to a Comm[ittee] to consist of the same members who were appointed on a similar occasion on the 22 Jan 1829 with the add[itio]n of Mr Lubbock and Mr Troughton.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f525
14 April 1831 Treasury
J. Stewart to Babbage
Dear Sir,
I understand from Mr Spring Rice that you are desirous that the Calculating Machine should be removed without delay to a more proper Site.
If you will write officially to the Treasury to that effect I will immediately attend to your Letter.
You had better define in some measure the extent of accommodation which will be required.
Yours Faithfully
J. Stewart
British Library Add Ms 37185 f526
15th April 1831 Office of Woods
Mr Aiken presents his compliments to Mr Babbage, and in consequence of a Communication which has passed between the Chancellor of the Exchequer and the first Commissioner of Woods (Lord Duncannon) on the subject of procuring a site for Mr Babbage's Calculating Machinery more immediately in the neighbourhood of his present residence than that now occupied, Mr Aiken is desired by Lord Duncannon to introduce Mr D. Burton to Mr Babbage in order that he may confer with him as to the means of completing that object in mind, and the probable expense which would be thereby incurred.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f527
19th April 1831, 6 Spring Garden
Decimus Burton to Babbage
Note from Mr Burton enquiring whether [as CB says] I am willing or unwilling to dispose of My interest in the Ground and House in East Street
Sir,
For the purpose of enabling me to make a report, for which I am called upon by the Commissioners of H.M. Woods etc as to the eligibility of obtaining on the part of the Crown, a site for the erection of buildings to contain your Calculating Engine I request you will have the goodness to inform me, whether you would be willing to dispose of the whole of your interest in the premises No. 30 East Street, Manchester Square, and in the vacant plot of ground behind the same and adjoining the Garden attached to Dorset House as explained by the accompanying plan, and in this event, I should be obliged by your stating the terms.
I am Sir,
Your most obedt Servt
Decimus Burton
British Library Add Ms 37185 f529
19th April 1831 Dorset Street
Babbage to Decimus Burton with the Answer that Government may purchase
Sir,
In reply to your letter of this morning enquiring whether I am willing to dispose of my interest in the premises No. 30 East Street and the plot of ground adjoining the garden behind my house in Dorset Street explained by the plan forwarded by you that if it shall be found desireable for the government I shall be willing to grant a lease either on the terms mentioned in a report of Messrs Jearrad which is in the Office of the Chancellor of the Exch[equer]; or that I shall be willing to let it at such a rent as yourself or any competent person whom the Com of H.M. Woods and Forests may think fit to appoint shall think to be its fair value.
I am Sir,
Your most Obedt Servt
C.B.
British Library Add Ms 37185 f531
19th April 1831 Dorset Street
Babbage to Jearrad to ask about mistake in his letter quoting the £135 rent
Dear Sir,
In the estimate you gave me annexed to your second report I find a discordance of ten pounds in the amount between the Sum of the several items and the total.
The Estimate is as follows £ s d
Rent of House in East St 31 - 10 - 0
Six Stall Stable 31 - 10 - 0
Coach House 12 - 0 - 0
Gr[ound] R[ent] of ground and walls 50 - 0 - 0
------------
£ 135 - 0 - 0
Will you have the goodness to inform me whether this arises from an error in the adding up or from a mistake of 50£ instead of 60£ in copying out your original estimate. As I propose seeing Mr Burton tomorrow morning may I request an answer before ten o'clock.
Your Obedt Servt
C. Babbage
British Library Add Ms 37185 f541
20 May 1831, 6 Spring Garden
Decimus Burton to Babbage informing him that the Treaty for the Ground has been approved by the Treasury.
Dear Sir,
I am happy to inform you I have recd notice that the Treasury approve of a treaty being entered into with you for the ground behind your premises, and I will have the pleasure of communicating again immediately after my return to town on Tuesday.
Yr dear Sir
Very faithfully
D. Burton
British Library Add Ms 37185 f555
Wednesday 15 June 1831, Regent Street
Dionysius Lardner to Babbage
Dear Babbage,
You are very kind to remember me. Of course I shall be delighted to be with you and have another opportunity of studying the engine.
ever yours
Dion. Lardner
British Library Add Ms 37186 f1
1st July 1831, 6 Spring Garden
Decimus Burton to Babbage to enquire terms
[Note to Bearer of Letter: Wait!!]
My dear Sir,
As I am desired in the last communication from the Office of Woods "to report the terms and conditions on which the premises behind East Street belonging to you may be obtained either upon a lease for the whole of your term or by purchase of your entire purchase therein." I must beg of you to inform me per letter addressed here by bearer, if possible, whether you are willing to sell your entire interest in the premises, and if so, on what terms.
I have already your terms on which you are willing to let the property. My plans and estimates of the proposed buildings are quite ready, and I only delay sending them to the Office of Woods untill I receive your reply.
I am, Dear Sir,
Yours Most faithfully
Decimus Burton
British Library Add Ms 37186 f3
1st July 1831
Babbage to Decimus Burton
My dear Sir,
In answer to your application relative to the sale of the premises [deleted: behind] in East Street and the ground behind. I wish to state that I am not willing to sell my whole term therein but that I am quite willing to grant a lease during the whole continuance of the term I possess as stated in my former letter.
I remain my dear Sir
Yours faithfully
C.B.
British Library Add Ms 37186 f4
1st July 1831
Babbage to Decimus Burton to state Terms
My dear Sir,
I send you the official answer to the question. Would it not be proper [deleted: right, as the right of way was not mentioned at ...] to state to the Coms of W & Fr that the right of way you suggested was not [deleted:mentioned] known to me untill after the former letter and was not assented to in that letter.
I rem[ain etc]
[CB]
British Library Add Ms 37186 f5
5th July 1831
Babbage to J. Stewart with letter for Lords of Treasury with respect to Mr Clement's accounts
My dear Sir,
I enclose [deleted: an account] a letter to the Lords of the Treasury respecting the Calc. Engine in which if you see any thing that ought to be attend[ed to] I should be glad to avail myself of your advice. As Mr Clement is not a man of large Capital I have been obliged to advance him money to prevent his discharging his men who must be paid weekly. You will perceive that I am now in advance nearly £1000 and although [deleted: it would certainly be] this is not unattended with considerable inconvenience to me I feel that the present administration are so aware of the importance of Engine and desirous of removing the difficulties under which I have labored that I should be unwilling to press for its repayment at an inconvenient moment.
I remain my dear Sir,
Yours Faithfully
C. Babbage
British Library Add Ms 37186 f6
5th July 1831
Babbage to Lord Commissioners of the Treasury
[Note: 25th July 1831 crossed out with note in red saying that this must be 5 July 1831, see Mr Bs previous letter to Mr Stewart of this date and Mr Stewart's answer dated 6th July.]
My Lords,
I have the honor to state for your Lordship's information (of the Lords Comms of H.M. Treasury) that I have received the account of work executed and the prices charged by Mr Clement for the Calculating Engine [deleted: whose construction I am superintending and that of Mr ...] from the 27th Nov[em]ber 1830 to the 18 June 1831 and that the accounts have been examined by Messrs Donkin (the engineers appointed by the Government) who have certified that the amount stated £1431-14s-5½d is correctly charged.
As circumstances had prevented the Engineers [deleted: from examining the accounts at periods of three months] making an earlier report of the amount due, Mr Clement applied to me for money to enable him to pay his workmen and I felt it right for the public service to advance him at different times sums of money to the amount of £370 this added to the sum of £592-4s-8d (which it appears [deleted: was due to me] by the last statement of accounts contained in a letter addressed to the Rt Hon the Chan[cello]r of the Ex[chequer] dated 21 Dec 1830) makes a sum of £962-4s-8d now remaining due to me.
I have the honor to submit on the opposite page the present state of the accounts and to request your Lordships will be pleased to give such directions as you may deem expedient respecting the payment of the sums due.
I have the honor to be
My Lords
Your Lordships'
Very Obt Humble Servt
C.B.
5 July 1831
Babbage to Lord Comms of HM Treasury Statement of money due £1949-17s-1½d
Balance of money which Mr Babbage had advanced remaining unpaid 21st Dec 1831 [mistake should read 1830]
£ 592 - 4s - 8d
Mr Clement's charge for work done to Calc Engine 9 May 1830 to 27 Nov 1830
£ 525 -18s - 0d
Note in my letter 21 Dec 1831 to Chancr of the Ex the estimate for this work was £600
Mr Clement's [deleted: bill] charge for the work done to the Calc Engine from 27 Nov 1831 [should read 1830] to 18 June 183[1]
£1431 -14s - 5½d
[Total] £2549 -17s - 1½d.
Recd by Treasury order 24 Dec 1830 £ 600
[Net Owing to CB] £1949 -17s - 1½d
British Library Add Ms 37186 f8
6 July 1831 Treasury
J. Stewart to Babbage marked private
My Dear Sir,
There can be no possible objection to your official letter of yesterday's date. I shall pay immediate attention to it.
Yours Very faithfully
J. Stewart
British Library Add Ms 37186 f14
13th July 1831 Treasury Chambers
J. Stewart to Babbage with Treasury order for £1000 and requesting accounts of expenditure of £6600
[Reg No.] 13178 12/7 Immediate
Sir,
Having laid before the Lords Commisioners of His Majesty's Treasury your letter of 5 instant enclosing a statement of the Sums due to you for advances made on account of the expenses of your Calculating Machine amounting to the sum of £1949-17s-1½d I have it in command to acquaint you that my Lords have directed Mr Sargent of the office to pay to you the sum of one thousand pounds to enable you to proceed in constructing the Calculating Machine and I am to desire you will transmit to this Board a detailed Account of the Expenditure which has been incurred in the construction of this Machine in respect of the following sums issued to you net for this Service vizt £1,500 £1,500 £3,000 and £600.
I am Sir
Your Obedient Servt
J. Stewart
British Library Add Ms 37186 f18
18 July 1831
Babbage to Lords Commissioners of HM Treasury
Explanation of the Accounts relative to the Calculating Engine
For several years at the commencement of the undertaking three rooms in my house in Devonshire Street were fitted up as workshops; in one of these was a forge. Two of those rooms continued to be devoted to the same purpose untill 1829.
During about three or four years many men were employed but subsequently only a few occasionally. Books were kept in each room in which to enter the sums paid both for labor and materials. In attending to the construction of the Engine many bills escaped being entered and it appears in some instances the Entries have been made without any sums against them. Other books smaller were kept for each workman in which the time he worked was noted each day and his payment at the end of the week. These books have not all been preserved.
Rec[ei]pts for materials [deleted: were filed in one of the workshops ...] [were] put in a drawer in each [deleted: the other] many of these were lost and it appears on the back of some of them used by the workmen for other memoranda of disbursements. [Deleted: the sums charged were the same as actually paid and no cha ...] No addition was ever made in the shape of profit but the sums charged were actually money paid away nor was any charge ever made for the rent of workshops.
It may be observed that since my removal from Devonshire St. I have let that part of my house which was devoted to workshops for 50£ annually.
Of the first sum of £600 the which was expended in material and labor only one of the books can be found; the lost one as far as I remember contained payments similar to the others to the amount of between three and four hundred pounds. The books marked A contains account of about £280; of the second item of £521-16-9 the whole of the accounts remain and will be seen in book marked B.
The sum of £5419-2-9 consists of two bills of Mr Clements one of £144-3-3 which was examined and approved by Messrs Rennie and Donkin the other of £5311-19-6 ex[amine]d and approved of by Messrs Donkin and [deleted: Field] Maudslay.
The two other sums of 525-18-0 and 1431-14-51<MS>/<MV>2 were also examined and approved by Messrs Donkin and Field.
British Library Add Ms 37186 f22
[Misfiled should be many years later]
Tuesday July 26 n.y.
J. South to Babbage
My Dear Babbage,
I am well informed that a certain reverend person, is very frequently with the Rt Honble the Chr of the Exchr at the Treasury at present. do you know any thing which he is concocting?
Yours Very Truly
J. South.
[The reverend person implied in this letter is presumably the Reverend Richard Sheepshanks. See Chapter XII Intrigues of Science in the volume entitled The Exposition of 1851]
British Library Add Ms 37186 f25
July 1831
Account of Expenditure in constructing Mr Babbage's Calculating Engine
Sums Received
Treasury 7th August 1823 1500 - 0 - 0
Ditto April 1829 1500 - 0 - 0
Ditto 3 Dec 1829 3000 - 0 - 0
Ditto 31 Dec 1830 600 - 0 - 0
Ditto 14 July 1831 1000 - 0 - 0
By Old Tools Sold 36 - 0 - 0
[Total]7636 - 0 - 0
Sums Expended
Expenses in Purchase of Materials and labor, wages etc. to end of 1824 600 - 0 - 0
Expenses in Ditto to end of 1827 551 -16 - 9
[This was inserted:] Note: These sums were expended in the experiments made in my workshops in Devonshire St. and consisted of a great variety of small payments as appear from the books kept in those workshops.
Payments to Mr Clement for work done to the Engine to 6th May 1830
5419 - 2 - 9
Payments to Mr Clement for ditto to 30 Dec 1830
525 -18 - 0
Payments to Mr Clement for ditto to 2nd July 1831 1431 -14 - 5½
[This was inserted:] Note: The bills for which these three payments had been made were examined and their correctness certified to me by the Engineer appointed for that purpose by the Government. Messrs Donkin, Maudslay and Field.
Miscellaneous Disbursements 77 - 1 -10
[Total] [deleted: 8575 -13 - 9½]
[retotalled and written] 8605 -13 - 9½
[Nett owing to CB] 939 -13 - 9½
British Library Add Ms 37186 f29
1st August 1831 Treasury Chambers
Messrs Speer and Brooksbank's notes on the Account of Expenses
Mr Speer and Mr Brooksbank present their compliments to Mr Babbage and with reference to the amounts recently transmitted by him to the Treasury for Expenses on Account of the Calculating Machine they take leave to submit the following remarks thereon, namely
The first Bill of Mr Clements for £144-3-3 or £107-3-3 to 25 March 1826 is not with the Papers transmitted neither is there any receipt for either sum -these documents should be furnished.
The last Bill of Mr Clements for £1431-14-5½ to July 1831, is accompanied with receipts on unstamp'd Paper, herewith returned for payments on account to the amount of £620. Receipts on proper stamps or one Receipt for the whole sum upon a 7/6 stamp should be produced.
The Sum of £56-5-0 part of £77-1-10 for Miscellaneous Disb[ursemen]ts is not accompanied with the authority for incurring the Expense or any receipt for the payment of the claim of Messrs R.W. and C Jearrad for the said sum of £56-5-0[;] before the amount can be admitted these documents should be produced.
It is observed that the Bills of Mr Clement are signed as "Examined" by messrs Donkin, Maudslay and Field, if any further Certificates as to the examinations by those Gentlemen are in Mr Babbage's possession they should be produced, and Mr Speer and Mr Brooksbank have to request that Mr Babbage will have the kindness to favor them at his earliest convenience with such further documents and observations on his part as may be necessary.
Treasury Chambers
1st August 1831
The Bill of Messrs R.W. and C. Jearrad for £56-5-0 is also herewith returned.
British Library Add Ms 37186 f33
5 Aug 1831
Babbage to the Treasury
Babbage's Notes on Messrs Speer and Brooksbank's remarks
Mr Babbage presents his comp[liment]s to Messrs Speer and Brooksbank and in reply [deleted: explanation] to their remarks on the account transmitted by him to the Treasury begs leave to offer the following explanations.
The first bill is for £144-3s-3d [deleted: was examined and approved by Messrs Rennie and Donkin see Report at end Marked E (towards the end)]
[Insert:] I am not aware how the doubt relating to the sum of £107-3-3 instead of £144-3-3 has [can have] arisen but might possibly explain it on looking at the accounts.
I do not know how the bill and Rec[eip]t have been mislaid [deleted: lost] but it appears probable from the accompanying copy of the former [deleted: which I ...] in my own hand writing that it has at some time gone out of my possession. I do not remember when I made the copy but send it with the pencil note as I find it.
With respect to the payment I find it in my bankers book and send their statement of having p[ai]d a cheque for £144-9-3 on the 2nd April 1830, the 6s being deducted from Mr Clement's bill as relating to some triffling reapirs made to some instruments of mine.
Of the last bill of Mr Clement 1431-14-5½ to 10 July 1831 820 is now paid and I enclose the rec[eip]t on a stamp. This includes in it the reciept for the sum of 620 to which Messrs S & B refer.
With reference to the sum of £56-5-0 charged in the miscellaneous payments as due to Messrs Jearrad for a survey of premises and estimates [deleted: valuations] I beg to make the following remarks.
1st The Cal. Eng had arrived at such a state that it was absolutely necessary to [deleted: purchase or rent some new pla ...] prepare a building to receive it.
2nd In Dec 1830 I applied to the Chan[cello]r of the Ex[cheque]r to remove it to my neighbourhood, almost the first question was 'What will the removal cost?'
3. I have no written authority [deleted: I did not think it necessary] for [I] considered the directions I had received from L[or]d Goderich when Chanc[ello]r of the Exch[equer] justified me in ordering a survey and estimate.
4. The estimates so made have been employed as the basis of C[the] report on the propriety of removing the Engine both by the R.S. and by [a] Com[mittee] of Engineers appointed by Government to consider the subject and the [deleted: drawings] plans and estimate are now in the possession of Government.
The reason why the sum of 56-5-0 is charged when it has not yet been paid is that I understood it to be the desire of the Treasury that the total expenditure to the present time should be stated and [it is] with the same view I have charged Mr Clement's last bill of £1431-14-5½ although only 820 is at present paid.
I have no other certificates of Messrs Donkin Maudslay and Field than those already produced [deleted: sent in] and have not succeeded in finding any other document which refer to the accounts. As the two accompanying reports of Committee of the R.S. relate in some measure to the expenditure I have enclosed them but shall feel particularly obliged if the [deleted: request that ...] latter in M[anu]s[cript] [deleted: can be] or a copy of it can be returned to me.
5 Aug 1831 [Signed] Charles Babbage
British Library Add Ms 37186 f42
14th August 1831 Allerly-by-Melrose
Extract of a letter from Dr Brewster to Babbage
... As you will be [Word unreadable: clamoured?] by the curiosity of every body [members of the British Association for the Advancement of Science] to give some account of "The Machine" I hope you will come in your "Carriage" and pacify this unquenchable curiosity. ...
British Library Add Ms 37186 f44 verso
15 August 1831 Dorset Street
Babbage to Messrs Speer and Brooksbank of the Treasury about the £144-6-3
Mr Babbage presents his Compliments to Messrs Speer and Brooksbank and encloses the receipt for £144-6-3 which had been lost. Should Messrs Speer and Brooksbank have liesure to allow Mr Babbage to look at the accounts he will endeavour to explain how the uncertainity respecting the two sums of £144-3-3 and £107-3-3 has arisen.
British Library Add Ms 37186 f59
31st August 1831 Treasury Chambers
J Stewart to Babbage
Lords of the Treasury Approve the Accounts
[Reg No.]16283 26/8
Sir,
Having laid before the Lords Commissioners of His Majesty's Treasury your Account in respect of sums issued to you to defray the expenses of the Calculating Machine I have it in command to transmit to you a copy of the Statement of the said Account for your information and I am to acquaint you that My Lords are pleased to approve thereof and I am to desire that Vouchers may be produced for all future payments and that the Accounts may be certified by Messrs Donkin and Field. A copy of Report of the Committee of the Royal Society is herewith returned as requested by you.
I am Sir,
Your Obedient Servant
J. Stewart
[to] Charles Babbage
Dorset Street Manchester Square
British Library Add Ms 37186 f61
31 August 1831
Statement of Account by Treasury
Statement of the Account of Charles Babbage Esq. in respect of Sums issued to him to enable him to proceed in constructing a Calculating Engine.
Charge:
The sum issued from the Exchequer out of Grant for Civil Contingencies on 7th August 1823
(minute 11th July 1823) ---- £1547 - 0 - 0
The following Sums paid by Mr Sargent out of Money impriested to him for Civil Contingencies pursuant to your Lordship's directions namely
1829 May pr Minute 29 April 1829 ---- £1500 - 0 - 0
1829 Dec 3 ditto 24 Novr 1829 ---- £3000 - 0 - 0
1830 Dec 31 ditto 24 Decr 1830 ---- £ 600 - 0 - 0
1831 July 14 ditto 12 July 1831 ---- £1000 - 0 - 0
The Sum stated to have been received for old tools sold
---- £ 36 - 0 - 0
[Total] ---- £7683 - 0 - 0
Discharge:
The Accountant [ie. CB, the holder of the Account] claims to be allowed the sums expended for the purchase of Materials, and wages to Workmen, to the 30th June 1823 ---- £ 600 - 0 - 0
He also claims to be allowed the sums expended for the like services from the 30th June 1823 to the termination of the year 1827 ---- - ---- £ 551 -16 - 9
The Accountant also claims to be allowed the sums paid to Mr Joseph Clements, Engineer, for works done to the Engine to the 6th May 1830 ---- - ---- £5419 - 2 - 9
Amount Continued [to next page in MS] [ ---- £6570 -19 - 6]
The Accountant also claims to be allowed the Sum paid to Mr Joseph Clements, Engineer, for similar works to 27th November 1830 ---- £ 525 -18 - 0
The Accountant has also claimed the amounts of a further Bill of Mr Clements, for similar works to 18th June 1831 for £1431-14- 5½d. The Bill of Mr Clements is produced certified 13 July 1831, exam[ine]d Bryan Donkin Joshua Field a Receipt for the payment of £820 on account of the Discharge of this Bill being produced the Accountant is entitled to credit for that amount
---- £ 820 - 0 - 0
The Accountant claims to be allowed for Miscellaneous Disbursements £77-1-10. A part of this sum consists of Messrs Jearrad for valuing the Accountant's House and Premises and Preparing Estimates of the expense of alterations etc. and which amounts to £56-5-0. The Claim however not having been yet paid, Credit cannot at present be given for the same, but the remaining part of the said Sum of £77-1-10 appearing to be for Coach hire and various incidental expenses is proposed to be admitted namely
---- £ 20 -16 -10
-------------
Discharge ---- £7937 -14 - 4
[less] Charge ---- £7683 - 0 - 0
-------------
In Surplusage ---- £ 254 -14 - 4
The sums to be provided for on the Account at the present time will in the event of this Statement being allowed by the Board be as follows
Sum in Surplusage pr this Statement ---- £ 254 -14 - 4
Amount of Mr Clements Bill to 18th June 1831 remaining unpaid
---- £ 611 -14 - 5½
Amount of Messrs Jearrad's Bill for Survey etc.
---- £ 56 - 5s- 0d
--------------
[Total] ---- £ 922 -13s- 9½d
Treasury Chambers
12th August 1831
[signed] Mr Speer and Stamp Brooksbank
With reference to the sum of £1547 issued to the Accountant on the 7th August 1823 we have to observe that £47 thereof was to pay for Fees etc attending the issuing to him of the net sum of £1500 and that having seen the Accountant subsequently to our having prepared this statement he has informed us that the said sum of £47 has not been considered as a payment made by him or as forming any part of the sums of £600 or £551-16-9 which is claimed as the amount of his Disbursements to the end of 1827 and which Sum of £47 will therefore [have] to be added to the above mentioned sum of £254-14-4 in Surplusage making the total amount in Surplusage £301-14-4.
British Library Add Ms 37186 f63
31st Aug 1831
Babbage to J. Stewart
Draft of a statement to Mr Stewart of the Treasury relative to making the workshops a permanent construction; copy of note about the buildings
Reasons for making the workshops necessary for the construction of the Calc. Engine permanent instead of temporary.
1st The Prop[o]s[e]d Workshops consist of two floors of each about 50 ft long, one being insufficient [deleted: the ground floor for heavy lathes the upper floor for the lighter ones]. It is essential for the perfection of the work that the lathes and tools should be fixed in a very firm [deleted: foundation] manner so as to avoid all shake consequently the floor must be of great strength and the walls which support it must be proportionally strong.
The difference of expense between a temporary and a permanent building can therefore [deleted: only] arise from the nature of the roof for the front which is almost entirely glass [which] is already a little expensive as the case admits.
2. When the Engine is completed but a small part of these workshops will be required for any repairs or alterations. It is however possible that the remainder may be found convenient for one or more of the following reasons.
The produce of the Engine will be engraved copper plates. The tables used by the public will be printed from them. The Government may think it right [deleted: to print off the ...] themselves to print the tables in which case the remainder of the (rooms) workshops would be requisite for copper plate presses, for storing up the plates and paper both printed and to be printed. [deleted: An objection may be urged against the policy of such a course [deleted: that it] on the ground that it will be cheaper for the governemnt to employ copper plate printers thanto execute the work themselves.
This objection which is correct as a general principle appears to me to be inapplicable in the present case from the following reasons.]
The expense of copper plate printing is much greater than that of letter press printing and as it is obviously the interest of government that the tables shall be sold to the public at the cheapest possible price it would perhaps be thought adviseable when the Engine is complete [deleted: worth their while to allow me to institute some experiments] to direct some exp[eriment]s to be instituted to ascertain [deleted: see] whether the species requisite for tables might not be altogether executed by machinery as letter press printing is. From an examination I have made into the subject I do not think this result improbable or the trial likely to be very expensive.
In the production [deleted: purchase] of an article already manufactured well and cheaply government may not be able to compete with individuals. but in improving machinery for the purpose of reducing the cost of the production of an article Government may do so successfully [deleted: the block machinery contrived by] Mr Brunel was paid for the contrivance of the Block Machinery by I believe one third of the saving it produced in the first year.
2. Another purpose [deleted:for which] the building may be required [deleted: is this][:] The Numbers which are to be placed in the Engine in order to direct it as to the nature of the tables it is to produce must be prepared by computer and it is perhaps not impossible that at some future period computing clerks may be employed under the direction of some skilful mathematician who may have the direction of the nautical almanac and thus reduce considerably the expense of its calculation.
3. After the ordinary and most useful tables have been calculated and printed I am not without hope that the Government amy be induced to let the Engine undertake some very extensive Logarithmic and trigonometric tables which whilst they will compensate for the importance of their service when employed for the diminished frequency of their use shall be worthy of being esteem a National work such as the tables that were computed about [deleted: forty] 35 years since by the order of the French Government but owing to the expense of printing have never yet been published. [Deleted: When it is considered that the great expense of making ...] This difficulty cannot now occur for the Engine [deleted: will] print a copper plate as fast as it computes the tables [deleted: and that such tables will ...]
Finally even though there are other unexpected uses which cannot now be foreseen should not occur [deleted: it would not render it ne...] more space necessary it appears to me that the additional expense of rendering the workshops permanent would be soon repayed as they might when not wanted for the Engine be let [deleted: out] to advantage more particularly [deleted: when it] as they abut on seven different houses in East Street and Dorset Street from any of which entrances might be made should it be required.
C. Babbage
Dorset Street
Manchester Sq
31 Aug 1831
British Library Add Ms 37186 f65
A note added to the previous item
An objection may be urged against the policy of this on the ground that [deleted: it is] individuals can always manufacture an article [deleted: more cheaply] at a cheaper rate than the public.
There are however exceptions to this principle. [deleted: when the expense of verifying determining the ...] Government have lately built extensive mills for manufacturing corn into biscuits, and it appears that the expense of verifying the goodness of purchased biscuits adds so much to their cost that it is cheaper for the government to manufacture them.
In the production .... [sentence not completed]
This reasoning seems applicable [deleted: on these grounds] for the present case. The expense V. [sentence not completed]
British Library Add Ms 37186 f66
1st September 1831
Babbage to J. Stewart
My dear Sir,
I send you the enclosed statement of the reasons which [deleted: I stated why] in my opinion render it inexpedient to make the Workshops for the Cal. Engine temporary buildings. I have not yet rec[ceive]d any com[munication]s from the Woods and Forest[s Commission] and shall be much obliged by your returning the paper with any suggestions for its improvement [deleted: that I may be enabled to if you think it will ...].
I remain
My dear Sir
Yours Faithfully
C. Babbage
British Library Add Ms 37186 f67
1 September 1831
Babbage to J. Stewart about the Workshops not being temporary (2nd Draft)
My dear Sir,
I send you the enclosed statement of the reasons which in my opinion render it inexpedient to make the workshops of the Calculating Engine temporary buildings. I have not received any Communication from the Woods and Forests and understand they have as yet had no [deleted: communication] directions from the Treasury, and shall feel much obliged if you will return the paper with any suggestions for its improvement.
I remain
My dear Sir
Yours Faithfully
C. Babbage
If you think the enclosed will be a proper statement for me to make when the Commissioners apply to me on the subject I shall be much obliged by your returning it with any Obs[ervatio]ns you may suggest.
Or if you should think it fit to be addressed immediately to yourself as an answer to the enquiries you made on the subject that course might save some time.
British Library Add Ms 37186 f74
Sept 4th 1831 Allerly-by-Melrose
Brewster to Babbage
... You really must not allow the Machine to keep you from York [and the first meeting of the British Association for the Advancement of Science]. I really go because you are going, and it would break my heart if I do not find you there ...
British Library Add Ms 37186 f76
5th Sept 1831 Treasury
J. Stewart to Babbage marked private
My Dear Sir,
I see no objection in the enclosed statement. The treasury letter to the Comm[issione]rs of Woods, referring back the plan, was sent to them about a fortnight ago.
Yours Truly
J. Stewart
British Library Add Ms 37186 f88
16th September 1831
Babbage to Decimus Burton
note added by Babbage: In reference to our conversation this morning and to Mr Cules[?] letter of 12 Inst. respecting the machine.
Dear Sir,
[deleted: In reply to your letter requesting me to state whether any alteration I consider it possible to make ...] Such alterations in the buildings, required for the Calc. Eng. as shall lead to a diminished expense in their construction and particularly with reference to those [deleted: first required] necessary for workshops. I beg to state that the accompanying paper [deleted: expresses] explains the grounds in which [deleted: I should deem] it appears to me to be inexpedient to make the buildings intended for the workshops of a temporary nature.
The only alteration which appears to me to be consistent with the object in view is to omit altogether the room for a forge and to substitute a portable forge in [one of] the lower floor of the workshop. In these circumstances the larger iron work must be sent out to be executed which might not be attended with any very considerable inconvenience.
I remain dear Sir,
Yours faithfully,
C.B.
Note: Copy sent 16/Sep/1831 to D. Burton
British Library Add Ms 37186 f86
16th September 1831, Allerly nr Melrose
Extract of a letter from Brewster to CB
... I am truly distressed at the possibility even of your not being at York. I do not admit the force of your reasons: there will be at least TWO good building months after your return; but even if you should be thus put to inconvenience, the great object to be gained by your presence at York deserves every sacrifice. The Reverend W Vernon Harcourt, late President of the York Society, and a man of station, of influence, of science, has taken the warmest interest in the establishment of a scientific association for carrying on all the great objects which we all have so much at heart. You will see by the following extract from his letter to me that he is a disciple of your own, and I am sure that we will not carry through this great object without you. ...
... On my knees I implore you to be at York. ...
British Library Add Ms 37186 f90
n.d.
Babbage to D.Burton
Sketch of conditions of letting ground
The reserved coach entrance to be 10½ feet wide in the clear.
The road-way to be lowered to a gradual slope to the end of the present stables.
The fittings up of the stables and coach-house to belong to Mr B.
A coach door-way to be made between Mr B's garden and the entrance.
As the roof of Mr. B's garden tool room must be removed and the room destroyed it is desired that the new roof be reaised six feet in order to give a small tool room above.
British Library Add Ms 37186 f97
23 September 1831
Letter from Babbage to Brougham declining a knighthood, The Order of the Guelph (a Hanoverian Order of Knighthood). Babbage had expected to be offered First Class membership of this order, instead he was only offered Third Class.
British Library Add Ms 37186 f101
29 Sep 1831
Babbage to the Honble James Stewart to ask for £922-13s-9½d
Sir,
May I request permission to refer to the state of my accounts as delivered to the Lords Coms of H.M. Treasury and examined on 12 Augt 1831 by which it will appear that the sum 922-13-9½ is due to me for advances made and claims remaining unsatisfied, I have to request that you will be pleased to move their Lordships to direct a sum to be issued to me sufficient to satisfy the above and to wards payment of current expenses.
I have the honor to be
Sir Your Obdt Humble Servt
C. Babbage
British Library Add Ms 37186 f104
4th October 1831 Treasury Chambers
J. Stewart to Babbage
Order to pay £1000
[Reg No.] 19114 30/9
Sir,
Having laid before the Lords Commissioners of His Majesty's Treasury your letter of 29th Ulto stating that the sum of £922-13-9½d is due to you for advances made and claims remaining unsatisfied on account of your Calculating Machine, and requesting issue of a sum sufficient to satisfy the above and towards defraying current expenses, I have it in command to acquaint you that My Lords have directed Mr Sargent of this Office to pay to you the sum of one thousand pounds to proceed in constructing the Calculating Engine.
I am Sir,
Your obedient Servt
J. Stewart
to Charles Babbage Esq.
British Library Add Ms 37186 f132
24 Oct 1831 Morley's Hotel
John Robison to Babbage
Extract of letter:
... I should have been very happy to have been admitted to see Mr Clements Workshops under your auspices, as I have long been aware of the great excellence he has attained as a mechanist. I regret my very limited stay in town will now put this gratification out of my power. ...
British Library Add Ms 37186 f139
30th September 1831 Allerly-by-Melrose
Extract of letter from Dr David Brewster to Babbage
... I had [hoped] in my volume on Natural Magic, in giving a sort of popular notice of the Calculating Machine, written to acclaim Sir Charles Babbage and I must insist upon your submitting to the [2 words unreadable] Table, and justifying my manuscript which I cannot think of altering ...
British Library Add Ms 37186 f183
26th December [1831?] 1 North Audley Street
Miss Edgeworth to Babbage
Miss Edgeworth's compliments to Mr Babbage. She is very sorry that she is quite unable to avail herself of his permission to see his machine this morning. She is so unwell as not to be able to leave the house. She hopes however that some other time that Mr B will have her in mind and that she may be more fortunate.
British Library Add Ms 37186 f186 [Misfiled]
n.d. [1831?] paper goes with M. Brunel's letter earlier that year
Notes by Mr Brunel to Babbage
The frequent communications I have had with Mr Babbage since he has been engaged upon the execution of his Calculating Machine have afforded me the opportunity of observing what inconveniences he is incessantly put to in consequence of the maker being so distant from him, and I readily conceive what must his anxiety be at not being able to be more frequently with him, not so much for what may relate to the manual execution, as for the combinations and dispositions that must be designed for a machine of so complicated a character.
It must further result from Mr. B's mobility to be frequently at Mr Clement (the maker) that there is no controul whatever on the time and occupation of the men. It must be obvious that nothing can be more objectionable than this very distant separation between the superintending and executing agents and that the objection will be still more felt [deleted: urgent] when the time comes for putting up the machinery for trying its movements, and for bringing all the parts to bear well together: then the training it to its various functions, must require a kind of education from the author.
It would result [deleted: likewise] from bringing the executive part on Mr Babbage's premises as has been suggested; that [being] open to the frequent inspection of Scientific men to whom Mr B will [would] have a great satisfaction in exhibiting and illustrating the powers of his invention, he may have the benefit of their suggestions and he may [thus] familiarise others with his views even before the instrument is entirely accomplished.
These considerations have induced me to urge Mr Babbage to provide as soon as possible such accommodation on his own premises as will enable him to realise all what is expected from him and in much less time (and at less expense) than by the present way of proceeding.
British Library Add Ms 37186 f196 [Misfiled ?]
Tuesday May [1831?] c/o Mr Humfrey's 14 Regent Square
R. Murphy to Babbage
My dear sir,
As I am staying in town for a day or two longer, and feel desirous to see your Machine for Calculations before my return to Cambridge will you be so kind as to let me know what day and what hour I might conveniently call on you for that purpose.
Yours Very Truly
R. Murphy
British Library Add Ms 37186 f198
Notes made by Professor Gazzeri [from Florence] in Italian
'Ricordi particolar &c il Sige. Professore Gazzeri'
1. name and address of Joseph Clement, Engineer, Prospect Place,
Lambeth, London.
2. name and address of Messrs [? &] Roberts & Co., Engineers of
Manchester.
3. description of an Italian calculating machine.
4. description of some telescopes.
British Library Add Ms 37186 f214
17th January 1832 Dulwich
Extract of Letter from Smedley to Babbage
... Let me thank you especially for providing me with an answer which henceforward will enable me to remove the misgivings of ignorant astonishment when I first here mention of the Calculating Machine. ...
British Library Add Ms 37186 f218
19th January 1832 Ordnance Survey Office Dublin
T. Colby to Babbage
My dear Babbage,
Private Wm. Gaffrey of the Royal Sappers and Miners has discovered a misprint on page 133 of your logarithms:
Column of differences
[should read] 59 9| 53 | instead of 58
Perhaps it may be an imperfect 3 but it resembles 8.
Yours Very Truly
Thos Colby
British Library Add Ms 37186 f228
30th January 1832 Royal Institution
Extract of letter from M. Faraday to Babbage
... Will you allow me to offer you a copy of my last paper. If you look at it I wish you would begin at the end. I am really anxious to obtain an opinion however vague from such a man as yourself or Sir John Herschell on the paragraphs 128, 129 at page 340. But do not go from more serious matter to it only take it up as recreation when you wish to forget the Engine. ...
British Library Add Ms 37186 f229
31st January 1832, 6 Paragon, New Kent Road
Bryan Donkin to Babbage
A letter in which Mr Donkin states that he would appoint a day to meet Mr. Field and examine Clement's Accounts.
My dear Sir,
I am sorry I have not been able sooner to comply with your request conveyed by your note of the 16th of this month. On the rec[eip]t of that note I was on the point of setting out for Huntingdonshire from whence I did not return till Saturday last. I have not since my return had an opportunity of seeing Mr Field but I hope in a few days to meet your wishes by obtaining an appointment with Mr Field on Friday or Saturday next.
I am my dear Sir,
Yours most sincerely,
Bryan Donkin
British Library Add Ms 37186 f252
15th February 1832 Bedford Row
John Taylor to Babbage
My dear sir,
I shall have great pleasure in meeting you on Sunday. Will you inform me where -whether at you house or Mr Clement's and when that is.
I will enquire about the price of Bar Iron.
Yours very Truly
John Taylor
British Library Add Ms 37186 f253
17 February 1832
Babbage to D. Burton about wallpaper
My dear Sir,
I return you the papers which Mr Clement has seen. he has chosen one the first (price unmarked) for the bedroom. He remarks that considerably better papers may be purchased for the price at which [they] are marked but of this I am no judge. Would it not therefore be better to allow him to paper the room or at least to postpone it untill the Engineers shall make arrangements with him about removing.
C.B.
British Library Add Ms 37186 f254
17th February 1832 Baff's Hotel
Extract of Letter from L. Foster to Babbage
... I have to thank you for Send[in]g me a copy of your intended publication which I will lookover at the earliest opportunity and I will also avail myself of the assessances of any of my friends whom I may think of. I regret that it will be out of my power to accept your kind invitation to breakfast and see your calculating machine on Sunday next as I am going to leave town this even[in]g or tomorrow Morn[in]g for a week but when I come up again I shall be most happy to avail myself of the first opportunity of your convenience to see it as I am very anxious to do so. ...
British Library Add Ms 37186 f273
23rd February 1832
Babbage to the Hon[ora]ble James Stewart with statement of the Accounts to 31 Dec 1831; amount due £1701-10s-5½d
Sir,
May I request you to lay before the Lord Com[mmissioners] of HMT[reasury the accompanying statement of the Acc[oun]ts relative to the Calculating Engine by which it appears that a sum of [deleted: £1948-1-10] 1701-10-5½ is now due on account of that work. The circumstance of Mr Clement having been confined to bed during the last 4 months has caused some delay in having his acc[oun]t examined by the Engineers and I have therefore been obliged to advance five hundred pounds to enable him to pay the workmen employed upon the Engine. May I therefore request you will be pleased to move their Lordships to direct a sum to be issued to me sufficient to satisfy the above and towards defraying the current expenses.
I have the honor to be, Sir,
Your obedt Servt
C.B.
British Library Add Ms 37186 f280
1 March 1832 Treasury Chambers
Messrs Speer and Brooksbank to Babbage to request receipt of £500 from Mr Clement Mr Speer and Mr Brooksbank present their compliments to Mr Babbage and having been directed by the Lords of His Majesty's Treasury to examine his Account for the Calculating Machine transmitted in his letter of the 23 Ulto they take leave to request he will be so obliging as to transmit to them the Receipt of Mr Clements for the Sum of £500 paid to him in part of his Bill to 31 Dec 1831 for £1725-12-4.
British Library Add Ms 37186 f295
March 19 1832, 16 Lambeth Terrace
C.G. Jarvis to Babbage
Sir,
It has been proposed to make the glass case come up to the printing columns thereby making the machine and its cover parts of each other, and to place the columns wider apart for that purpose.
To say nothing of the inconvenience and obstruction of light which this plan would occasion, it strikes me that its appearance would be as grotesque as that of a stuffed tiger the body of which was incased in glass, and the tail left dangling outside through a hole made for that purpose.
It is also proposed to form the frame with columns at the corners and an entablature at top, columns which we are accustomed to see supporting the heaviest weights stuck up to form a frame for a few square feet of glass which, visually, convey no idea of either weight or substance! The taste appears to me monstrous.
I proposed a light metal frame stiffened by ornamental open work above the glass, and completely independent of the machine.
Permit me Sir to draw your attention to the drop pins. It appears to me that one single error in a set of tables would throw everlasting discredit on the machine. If a drop-pin sticks many errors may be printed; and if by the jar of the machine &c it gets loose before the last calculation is printed (a thing very likely to occur while the drop-pins are dependent on springs) the plate would pass examination and be considered perfect.
I proposed drop-pins without springs to be both raised and lowered by the spiral axis.
I shall feel favoured by your not communicating to any third person that I have taken the liberty of addressing you. I am aware of the risk I run in so doing but I have no other way of communicating my opinions. In the hope you will excuse my thus intruding them.
Sir,
Most Respectfully,
Your Very Obedient Servant
C.G. Jarvis.
British Library Add Ms 37186 f299
29 March 1832
Babbage to D. Burton about anteroom and water closet etc.
Dear Sir,
In making a fit entry to the House for the Calc. Engine it is necessary to pull down privy and tool room belonging to me with which it would be inconvenient to dispense. I would therefore suggest that a[n] enlarged passage [deleted; small anteroom] should be made as in the plan which is now proposed which it will prevent the air of the calculating room from being chilled each time the door is opened and that the privy and tool room should be replaced adjacent to it.
In the plan referred to the tool room is larger than in the old one and a flat roof and room above is proposed [deleted: drawn] for these additions which I understand Mr. Cubitt add 45£ to the expense. I shall be willing to pay if the rest of the plan should be approved of by the Com[missioners] of HM W[oods] and Forests. The conversion of the privy into a water closet in which a [deleted: small] was hand stand might be placed and its connexion with the passage would be exceedingly desireable as affording a convenience to some of the many persons who will probably visit the Engine and if this alteration should be admitted I shall be willing to pay 10£ which is half the estimated expense. I am confident that if any of the Commissioners of HM W[oods] and Forest[s] had leisure to inspect the situation they would at once see the great advantage to the Engine House and agree with me that any smaller entrance would be inconvenient and quite unsuitable to the style in which the rest of the building has been executed.
You are aware I believe that I have undertaken to supply the folding doors at the end and also the stained and ground glass of the outer door of the passage.
29 March 1832
to D. Burton Esq.
I have not offered to pay for the whole expense of the Water Closet because as you know if I were to erect one myself it would certainly be more convenient for me to place it on the ground floor of my own house [deleted: which I could do and also make for myself a new tool house at a less expense than 55£]
British Library Add Ms 37186 f301
Babbage to Decimus Burton
Draft of previous item about alteration of entrances etc.
Dear Sir,
I have looked at the drawings for [deleted: the proposed] additions which I proposed of a flat roof and room above the entrance House for the Calc[ulating] Engine [deleted: to the fire proof room] and understanding from Mr Cubitt that they [deleted: will cost] can be executed for £45 additional.
[Deleted: I shall be happy to pay that for ...]
[Deleted: The converting of the intended privy into a water closet will in my opinion be a considerable advantage to by ...] The proposed will [deleted; render the Calculating room more] prevent [deleted: the great entrance] the Cal[culating] room from being chilled each time the door is opened and a smaller one would in my opinion be unsuited to [deleted: be inconsistent with] the other buildings. The conversion of the privy into a water closet in which a wash hand stand may be placed and its connexion with the entry would be desireable as affording a convenience [deleted: for washing and ...] for some of the many persons who will probably visit the Engine. If the reason for this alteration shall be deemed sufficient by the Commissioners of HM Woods and Forests I shall be willing to pay half the estimated expense of £20 and as well as to defray the whole of the additional expense of 45£ which the other alterations incur. I believe you are not aware that the estimate does not include the stained glass and ground glass for the outer door of the anteroom which I have proposed to pay for myself.
2nd letter to D. Burton
My dear Sir,
I send you a letter about the alterations which I hope will be carried into effect. If there is anything in it which should be better expressed pray let me do it. I have only offered to pay half the water closet because if I were to spend 20£ on [such a place] it would be far more convenient for me to put it on the ground floor of my own house.
Mr Clement is yet unable to get out of doors and I think it would be very desireable to have fires in his intended dwelling to make it dry as soon as possible for his health is of great importance to the success of the engine.
I remain My dear Sir,
Very Truly Yours
C. Babbage
British Library Add Ms 37186 f307
March 1832
Babbage to Treasury enclosing Rec[eip]t for £500 from Clement
Mr B presents his Comp[liments] to Messrs Sp[eer] and Brooksbank and encloses the receipt of Mr C[lement] for £500 [deleted: which although Mr B begs to observe;] Mr B wishes to explain the stamp[ed] receipt is dated this morning but the money was paid [as per] the periods stated on the back of the Rec[eip]t.
Dorset Street, Manchester Sq.
Mr B wishes to explain to Messrs S & B although the enclosed Rec[eip]t is dated this morning the money was paid to Mr Clement at the periods mentioned on the back of the rec[eip]t.
British Library Add Ms 37186 f310
3rd April 1832 Treasury Chambers
J. Stewart to Babbage
[Reg. no.] 5123 30/3
Sir,
Having laid before the Lords Commissioners of His Majesty's Treasury your Account in respect of sums issued to you to enable you to proceed in constructing a Calculating Machine. I have it in command to acquaint you that My Lords are pleased to approve of this account by which it appears you are in surplusage the sum of £475-18-3½.
I am Sir
Your Obedient Servt
J.Stewart
British Library Add Ms 37186 f330
12 April 1832
Babbage to D. Burton
My dear Sir,
I have seen the plans for the lobby privy and tool room and understand that when the Com of W and F have paid ten pounds towards defraying the alterations their buildings have rendered necessary that the expence to me will be £75 to which will be added a small sum about £3 for an arch above the cess pool and that I am to supply the glass for the door and folding doors for the end of the tool room. Will you therefore have the goodness to [deleted: direct] desire Mr Cubitt to execute this work.
Yours very truly
CB
British Library Add Ms 37186 f331
Evening 13 April [1831 or 1832?]
J. [Hazlett ?] to Babbage
Dear Babbage,
Your letter of yesterday date -just left here- mentions a "plan of the Engine House" but neither the one or the other has been left here.
On Sunday I shall be most glad to see you and if you can enjoy a dinner of Roast Beef in the company of Stokes, Turner, Jones, Calcott, Landseer and Hilton all artists except Stokes, I shall be most happy.
Sincerely Yours
J. Hazlett
British Library Add Ms 37186 f333
Thursday Evening 13 April 1832
CG Jarvis to Babbage
Sir,
Perhaps the enclosed very rough sketch may serve to explain my idea of what the case for the machine ought to be. It is composed of a light frame, 12 doors and a top. When the machine was to be taken to pieces the doors would be lifted off separately, then the top, and afterwards the uprights and bottom frame; all which would be done by removing a few screws. The case when taken to pieces would be much more compact than if it slid back on a railway and might be placed completely out of danger.
It is simple in construction and consequently cheap; and I think its fitness for the purpose it is for and its neatness of appearance would be pleasing, while at the same time there is nothing about it sufficiently remarkable to divert the attention from the more important subject of the machine itself, from which it is completely distinct.
The dimensions have received little attention but I think it would be found that narrower bars would be sufficiently strong. The doors are hinged at the points marked o on the plan and go completely back; those opposite the calculating end reach to the general platform. The rest to the floor.
I am Sir,
Your obedient Servant
C.G. Jarvis
Thursday Evening
PS The plan must be looked on as almost a first thought; for the matter seemed to me to be considered unimportant and I have not given it any consideration since I last mentioned it to you, until today.
British Library Add Ms 37186 f335
13 April 1832
Jarvis' Plan for the Casing for the Difference Engine
[See Figure]
British Library Add Ms 37186 f345
16th April 1832
C.G. Jarvis to Babbage
Sir,
My former letters have been concerning your affairs only, the present concerns my own; and I therefore owe you some apology for the intrusion.
I have been thinking that you will probably consider I ought to state my opinions to Mr Clement and not trouble you with them; and I feel I owe it to myself to inform you that whatever I have mentioned to you I have previously discussed with Mr C but without either of our opinions being thereby altered. Unfortunately almost every man feels a sort of paternal regard for his own plans; and if he happens to be constitutionally desired of anything like haste he will prefer the most hideous abortions of his brains to the most finished productions of any other mans. Perhaps this is my case; but if it is, I trust when you consider that the only inducement I have to interfere is the desire I feel to see what is in all probability the most elaborately finished machine that was ever constructed also the most elegant in its appearance, you will excuse the liberty I take.
I am Sir,
Very Respectfully
Your Obedient Servt
C.G. Jarvis
British Library Add Ms 37186 f351
18th April 1832, Greenhill Edinburgh
Extract of a letter from James D. Forbes to Babbage
... Obtained abundant sparks of electricity from a natural magnet ...
... I hope the machine thrives and that Clement is better. Have you begun to move it? ...
British Library Add Ms 37186 f356
21st April 1832 ½ past 2 Saturday
Extract from a letter Fitton to Babbage
... You are clearly overworked, and worried, and cannot do better than come to us, till Wednesday ...
British Library Add Ms 37186 f358
23rd April 1832
Extract of a letter from D. Brewster to Babbage
... I pray you to take care of yourself, and to need no more [word unreadable]. You live too fully for a sedentary acad[emic], and you must positively drink less wine if you mean to show the world the value of the quantity
The Book + The Engine
[book referred to is Babbage's Economy of Machinery and Manufactures]
If you do not they will make a poor figure in the following form
Book + Engine - Babbage
You must also attend daily to your prime vice. ...
British Library Add Ms 37186 f360
23rd April 1832 Allerly
Brewster to Babbage
My dear Babbage,
First I have corrected some mistakes in the notice of the Calculating Machine which I have put in my little volume on Natural Magic. I send the proof of parts which refer to it. I will comply at once if any correction or suggestion [is needed] and will meet anything of use.
As Mr Murray is printing 7500 copies of the volume, its circulation may be useful even in Kidderminster where you may be [taken?] for as a Magician.
Be so good as to return the proof in [words unreadable: course of parts?] or as the proof is if no one [words unreadable: he regards?] as much as they that occurs to you; I feel the proof to be fine.
I am My Dear B
Ever Most Truly Yours
D. Brewster
British Library Add Ms 37186 f362
23rd April 1832
Extract of letter from the Duke of Somerset to Babbage
... I am glad to hear of the progress of the building for the Engine ...
British Library Add Ms 37186 f369
29 April 1832 Treasury
Speer and Brooksbank to Babbage
Mr Speer and Mr Brooksbank present their Compliments to Mr Babbage and having been directed by the Lords of the Treasury to examine his accounts for the Calculating Machine, they take leave to return to him enclosed herewith the document purporting to be Mr Clement's Receipt for the Sum of £1,956-5-11½ in order that the signature of Mr Clement may be attached thereto.
[the date 29 April 1833 appears here and also a note added by CB "21 Sep
1832 1956-5-11½]
British Library Add Ms 37186 f372
1 May 1832
Babbage to the Treasury
Mr Babbage presents his compliments to Messrs Speer and Brooksbank and encloses Mr Clements rec[eip]t for 1956-5-11½ which is now signed together with a letter from Mr C stating that the Omission was accidental and that the amount [deleted: money] was paid at the date of the rec[eip]t. Mr B is sorry to have given Messrs S & B this trouble and hopes that the nature of the Engine with which he is occupied will in some measure excuse him for not having perceived the deficiency in the rec[eip]t. [deleted: for the informality ...]
British Library Add Ms 37186 f373
3rd May 1832
Extract of a letter from Babbage to C. Lyell
... 2nd that a machine not requiring touching up occasionally is better than one which requires frequent mending.
[This letter was copied by Henry P. Babbage 15th December 1878]
British Library Add Ms 37186 f395
No date Extract of a letter from Babbage to Sir J. Hobhouse of the War Office who had written to Babbage asking if he could solve a certain problem related to soldiers' pensions.
My dear sir,
It would have given me so much satisfaction to comply with any request of yours that I have spent the greater part of a night in looking over the papers which accompanied your note of 10th Inst. with the hope of sending an immediate answer to your enquiry; but I find that to do this with advantage to Government or satisfaction to myself would require perhaps a week's occupation. Beside the anxious attention constantly demanded by the Calculating Engine which as you are aware I am superintending for Government, I have on my table nearly 300 pages of proofs of a work on Political Economy resulting from the enquiries rendered necessary by that Machine and which I am exceedingly anxious to publish without delay. ...
British Library Add Ms 37186 f400
18th May 1832
Babbage to J. Clement to ask about the arrangements for his removal
Sir,
In compliance with instructions from the Treasury I have to request that you will inform me what arrangements you consider to be necessary for the removal to the new premises built by the Government in East Street and that you will endeavour to give an estimate of the probable expense of the removal.
I am Sir
Your Obedt Servt
C. Babbage
British Library Add Ms 37186 f401
18th May 1832
Babbage to J.Stewart requesting payment of £1701-10-5½ and the £250 more advanced to Clement
Sir,
By an account I delivered on the 23 Feb 1832 relative to the Calc. Engine it appeared that the sum of £1701-10s-5½d was due on the 31st Dec 1831; and that I had myself advanced £500 to Mr Clement. I have subsequently been obliged to advance £250 more. Allow me to request you will be so go[od] as to move the Lords of H.M. Treasury to direct the issue to me of the above sum of £1701-10-5½.
I have the honor to be Sir
Your Obdt Humble Servt
C. Babbage
British Library Add Ms 37186 f402
18th May 1832
Private Note from Babbage to J. Stewart
Dear Sir,
I find on referring to a copy of my letter of 23 Feb 1832 that I did request the payment of the £1701-10-5½d I subsequently received a letter from Messrs Speer and Brooksbank stating as far as I remember that there was a surplusage of about £500 but I have mislaid that letter. Possibly I ought to have applied again after that letter. I enclose an application which I will thank you to employ if it is in the right form.
I remain my dear Sir
Your Faithful servt
CB
British Library Add Ms 37186 f426
Thursday 21st May [1832?] Highwood Hill
Extract of a letter from Maria Fitton to Babbage
... I hope that you, and all your family are well and that your machine is in no danger of suffering from the exciting and uncertain state of public affairs. ...
British Library Add Ms 37186 f435
20th May 1832
Extract of a letter from C. Lyell to Babbage
... I met Col. Crackenthorpe in extascy about the machine, saying it made him feel indescribable humility etc, on Sunday ...
British Library Add Ms 37186 f444
31st May 1832
Babbage to Robertson, Editor of Mechanical Magazine
Mr B presents his compliments to the Editor of Mec Mag and begs to call his attention to two incorrect statements in that last number of his journal p. 114.
Mr B is not a member of the Guelphic Order: nor has he ever derived the slightest pecuniary profit from superintending the construction of the Calc. Engine which is the property of Government. It has on the contrary entailed upon him considerable expense and has occupied his time during nearly the whole time of the last ten years.
[This letter was subsequently printed in the Mechanical Magazine]
British Library Add Ms 37186 f449
2 June 1832 Treasury Chambers
J. Stewart to Babbage on the Issue of £1701-10s-7½d
[Reg. no.] 9062 29/5
Sir,
Having laid before the Lords Commissioners of His Majesty's Treasury your letter of the 18th May 1832 requesting a further issue of Money on account of your calculating Engine, I have it in Command to acquaint you that Mr Sargent of this office has been directed to issue to you the sum of £1701-10-7½ to enable you to defray the expenses of the calculating Engine.
I am Sir,
Your obedient Serv
J. Stewart
British Library Add Ms 37186 f457 [Misfiled]
4th June [1834?] Albemarle Street, London
J. Murray to Babbage
Dear Sir,
If by chance you meditate showing the wonders of the calculating Engine to any of your friends, on any Sunday within the next 3 weeks, would you allow me to solicit permission or to introduce to you an Artist from Saxony named Vogel, who, having had his curiousity excited by Dr. Lardner's Lecture is desirous of satisfying it by occular inspections and if possible by an interview with the originator. At the same time I should be glad to secure a similar permission for a Mr Nichol a friend of Prof[esso]r Jameson, who has made some curious research in the structure of fossil and recent woods, but who is at the same time capable of appreciating the wonders of the calculating machine. I hope you will excuse the liberty I take in making this request and only grant it if it is quite consistent with your convenience.
I am dear sir,
Very faithfully yours
J. Murray [Esquire/Junior?]
British Library Add Ms 37187 f1
July 4th 1832 Prince of Wales Hotel, Leinster Place
Christian Koch to Babbage
A letter enclosing a description of a 'Machine à Calculer' invented by Capt. J.F. Schierech at Frankfort.
British Library Add Ms 37187 f4
6th July 1832 Prospect Place Southwark
J Clement to Babbage
Sir,
In compliance with your request I enclose two memorandums relative to the arrangements which I think it will be necessary to make previous to my removing to East Street and carrying such of my tools as may be found convenient for the purpose of finishing the Calculating Machine.
I am Sir,
Your Obedt Servt
(signed) J Clement
To Charles Babbage Esq.
6th July 1832
Memorandum No. 1
Previous to removing my tools &c to the Premises in East Street I wish to have a lease of the premises for some certain time (say 2 3 or 4 years as may be determined upon) before the expiration of which, I shall not be required to quit the said Premises I must be allowed to carry on any other business on the said premises for which the tools I may have there may be adapted.
Expense of taking down Lathes Tools and Machinery in Prospect Place moving to East Street and fixing; taking down the said Lathes Tools &c. and removing them to Prospect Place, or wherever it may be found convenient at the expiration of the time specified in the Lease, efixing breakage, &c &c.
.... £350-0-0
Interest of money laid out on Furniture required for an additional House; and wear and tear of said furniture.
.... £130-0-0
[Ms here says 'turnover']
Compensation for having a divided business, keeping up an extra Establishment, conveyance to and from East Street &c &c per annum.
.... £660-0-0
Besides something in consideration of Rent, Taxes, Rates, &c &c which I may have to pay for the premises in East Street.
(signed) Joseph Clement
6th July 1832
To Chas Babbage Esqre.
6th July 1832
Memorandum No.2
Alterations to House in East Street
Mr Clement wishes that the following alterations should be made in the House in East Street which would contribute much to the convenience of his family.
Attic:
To be divided into two rooms by a partition, this would require one new door.
To have two closets with Shelves, one on each side of the fire place.
To have a small window in the partition between the attic and Stair case.
Bell to Kitchen
2nd Floor:
Closet and shelves next the fire place
Window into stair Case and small door below it
Room to be papered
Bell to Kitchen
[Ms says 'over' here]
Front Room 1st Floor
To be papered
The floor to be relaid as it is very uneven
A new chimney piece and stove grate.
Closet and shelves next window into Staircase
Window into Stair Case
Bell to Kitchen
Back Room
To be papered
Bell to Kitchen
Bell and knocker at inner House door
6th July 1832
To Chas Babbage Esqre
[Notes added to the above by CB in pencil:]
Gaslight in Calculating Room }
& Engine Room } 7 burners
Workshops
Street Passage
with metre
Coloring and painting throughout
Paired door inside and remove present door to outside Engine room.
British Library Add Ms 37187 f17 verso
Sketch and Notes in pencil in Babbage's Handwriting on the back of a letter bearing date 10th July 1832. Sketch appears to be a rough drawing of the Difference Engine "Eating its Own Tail" ie a sketch drawing showing the 'Oblique axes' transferring numbers from a lower difference column to a higher difference column:
[Editor's note: the number 687.5 appears to be 1/sin 5' of arc]
British Library Add Ms 37187 f25
14th July 1832
Babbage to the Honorable Mr Stewart enclosing Clement's Estimate
Sir,
I enclose for the information of the Lords Comms of H.M. Treasury a copy of the letter I addressed on the 18th May requesting him to inform me what arrangements he considered necessary for the removal of the Calculating Engine to the premises in East Street, and also the reply of Mr Clement and its inclosures and
I am sir
Your Obedt Humble Servt
C. Babbage
British Library Add Ms 37187 f28
July 16th 1832, No. 4 Clerkenwell Green
A letter from a J.C. Dennis to Babbage on why an experimental slide tool for a lathe broke when oil was applied. Reason, the oil permitted a deeper cut to be made. Dennis was much impressed by Babbage's lecture on machine tools and was especially pleased to have learnt how to cut a left-handed screw from right-handed dies. He was also thoroughly amused after having learnt how to punch a hole in glass; in the letter he comments that he tried it out and proved to himself that Babbage's method worked.
British Library Add Ms 37187 f40
21st July 1832 Treasury
Speer and Brooksbank to Babbage
Mr Speer and Mr Brooksbank present their compliments to Mr Babbage and if quite convenient to him, request that he will do them the favor to look in upon them at this office, on Monday, or Tuesday at any time between ½ past 10 and ½ past 3 on Either day -with the exception (on Tuesday only) of the interval between ½ past one and half past two.
[Note added by CB]: Messrs Speer and Brooksbank to ask to see me at Treasury. Went Tuesday; talked about mode of arranging removal of Clement.
British Library Add Ms 37187 f67
4th August 1832
Babbage to Mr Stewart
Sir,
I have the honor to transmit for the information of the Lds Comm of H.M. Treasury Mr Clement's bill for work done to the Calc Engine up to 30 June 1832 examined and its correctness certified by Messrs Donkin and Field Engineers appointed for that purpose and I have to request you will move their Lordships to direct the issue of a sum of money to enable me to discharge the amount.
I am Sir
Your Obedt Humble Servt
CB
British Library Add Ms 37187 f77
16th August 1832 Treasury Chambers
Speer and Brooksbank to Babbage about Clements receipt and acct of £1701-10-7½
Mr Speer and Mr Brooksbank present their Compliments to Mr Babbage and with reference to his Letter to the Lords of the Treasury of the 4 Inst transmitting a further amount of Mr Clements for work performed to the Calculating Engine to the 30 June last, they take leave to state that it will be desireable he should transmit an Account to the Treasury in respect of the sum of £1701-10-7½ directed by their Lordships on the 2d June last to be paid to him by Mr Sargent, accompanied with the Receipt of Mr Clement for the sum paid to him thereout.
British Library Add Ms 37187 f79
17 Aug 1832
Babbage to Messrs Speer and Brooksbank of the Treasury with Clement's Receipt for £1225-12-4
Mr Babbage presents his compliments to Messrs Speer and Brooksbank and encloses the rec[eip]t of Mr Clement dated 9 June 1832 for £1225-12-4 which Mr B omitted in his letter to Mr Stewart of 2nd June last. This sum added to £475-18-3½ which Mr Babbage was in surplusage as appears by Mr Stewart's letter of 3 April 1832 marked [Reg no.] 5123 30/3 amounts to £1701-10-7½ the sum directed to be issued to Mr B by the Lords of the Treasury on 16 Aug 1832.
British Library Add Ms 37187 f106
1 Sept 1832 Downing Street
H. Whickham to Babbage asking to see him about Clement's Proposal
My dear Sir,
I am very desirous of seeing you for a few minutes about the accounts delivered in for the machine. I am going out of town on Monday at 12 but if you could give me a rendezvous here tomorrow I should be very glad, or if you prefer it, I can come up to your house, but the earlier the better; If you are at home when this reaches you, pray be good enough to send an answer by the bearer, fixing time and place. If I cannot obtain to see you, Stewart will. Lord Althorp who has seen Clement's Bill thinks it is very extravagant and it is on that subject that I particularly wish to see you.
Most Truly
H. Whickham
My house is at 42 Charges Street
British Library Add Ms 37187 f 120
5th Sept 1832, 16 Lambeth Terrace
C.G. Jarvis to Babbage
I shall be much obliged by being informed whether Mr Clement's removal to East Street is still contemplated; and if so, when it is likely to take place. My reason for asking is this. If Mr C remains where he is I contemplate changing my lodgings; but if he moved It would make an alteration in my domestic arrangements as it is most probable I should not remain with him: I therefore take the liberty of making the enquiry.
I am Sir,
Very Respectfully,
Your Obedt Servt
C.G. Jarvis
British Library Add Ms 37187 f125
7th Sep 1832 Treasury Chambers
Stewart to Babbage
[Reg no.] 16205 1/9 6:Divn
Sir,
Having laid before the Lords Commissioners of His Majesty's Treasury the Bill of Mr Thos Clements Engineer, transmitted in your letter of 14th Ulto, for works performed for the Calculating Engine to 30th June last. I have it in command to acquaint you that My Lords have directed Mr Sargent of this Office to pay to you the sum of £1956-5-11½ to enable you to defray the expenses of the Calculating Engine.
I am Sir,
Your obedient Servt
J. Stewart
British Library Add Ms 37187 f134
14th September 1832 Treasury Chambers
J. Stewart to Babbage
[Reg no.] 13451 12/9 6 Dv
Sir,
I am commanded by the Lords Commissioners of His Majesty's Treasury to acquaint you that My Lords have had under consideration the memorandum drawn up by Mr Clements the Engineer whom you employ in constructing the Calculating Engine which was transmitted in your letter of 14th July last in which paper Mr Clement gives an Estimate of the expense of removing the Engine to the premises which have been erected for its reception, and also presses a personal claim for his own benefit on the ground of the loss and expense which a change of residence will entail upon him.
It appears by this Memorandum that Mr Clement desires that a Lease of the Premises may be given to him for three or four years, and estimates the expense of removal at the sum of £350 in which sum is included the expense of a second removal and fixing of tools etc. at the expiration of the time specified in the lease. He presses also a personal claim for £130 for interest on Money laid out in his furniture, and for wear and tear of his furniture and requires various alterations to be made in the House in East Street for his accommodation.
He also claims to himself an annuity from the Public of £660 per Annum with additions for rent,rates and taxes in East Street.
My Lords cannot but express their suprize that Mr Clements should have advanced so unreasonable a claim, which no doubt must have been quite unexpected by you, or you would have brought it under the notice of this Board when you recommended the removal of the Engine from Prospect Place to East Street, where a Building has been erected at a large Public expense. My Lords desire therefore that you will acquaint Mr Clement that his demand is considered by their Lordships unreasonable and inadmissable. My Lords are ready to defray the actual expense of the removal of the Engine and all the tools, not only the tools for which Government have paid, and which consequently are the property of the Public, but also all the tools and property which belongs to Mr Clement which he may wish to remove to East Street. If any trifling alterations in the Apartments in East Street are judged by the Board of Works to be reasonable for Mr Clement's accommodation, My Lords will sanction the expenses of making them. They will also be ready to defray the expense of removing Mr Clement's property from East Street, when the Engine is completed, and they will take into consideration the propriety of indemnifying Mr Clements for any actual loss which it may be clearly shewn he shall have sustained by the injury of his Property in the removal, if it should be necessary for him to reside on the Premises in East Street. But Mr Clement must recollect that £12,340 of Public Money has been expended on the Engine, the greater part, if not the whole, of which sum has passed through his hands, from which a very large amount of profit has accrued to him, and that his employment by you has constituted, and still continues to constitute, as My Lords are informed, the principal part of his business, and that he has not been restricted from using for his general business any tools for which the public have paid, and that the further expense of completing the engine will yield to him a considerable profit. Under these circumstances, My Lords cannot entertain Mr Clement's Claim for interest on the money laid out in furniture, and for wear and tear of it, or for any Annuity or addition to the profit he derives upon his accounts, My Lords would, however, suggest for your consideration whether it would not be a more economical and at the same time not a materially inconvenient arrangement, if Mr Clements were to continue to reside at his own house, in which case My Lords would not object to allow him two pounds per week to defray the expense of conveyance to and from East Street.
I am Sir,
Your obedient Servt
J. Stewart
British Library Add Ms 37187 f141
19th September 1832
Babbage to Clement
Sir,
I have received a communication from the Hon[ora]ble Mr Stewart Secretary of the Treasury in which he states by direction of the Lords of the Treasury some objections they entertain to the details of the plan you have proposed for the removal to East Street. I will call on Friday morning and will be happy if I can assist you in any way in removing those objections. I enclose a copy of the communication to me [deleted: from the Treasury]. I went to the Treasury this morning as I understand I shall receive the amount of your last bill tomorrow, if you will have a receipt I will pay it to you on Friday.
I am sir
Your Faithful Servt
CB
British Library Add Ms 37187 f143
Friday 21st September [no year]
Extract of letter from Fitton to Babbage
My dear Babbage
... I am sadly teazed by Mr Wilberforce's people here, and can imagine your sufferings from Clement. ...
British Library Add Ms 37187 f150
1st Oct 1832 Wolverhampton
Extract of letter from W.W. Whitmore to Babbage
... I am glad your machine progresses so much ...
British Library Add Ms 37187 f157
Friday 5th October [1832?], 3 Woburn Square, Russell Square, London
Extract of Letter from ? [Signature illegible] to Babbage
... Before I leave town [correspondent is on his way to India], that I am half distracted. Would to God it were otherwise; for the man does not exist who would feel greater pride and delight in witnessing the almost miraculous operations of your great Engine than he who writes these lines. But my days, nay my hours are counted as far as regards my continuance here; and thence not even an hour left to devote to witnessing the greatest triumph which the human mind ever achieved.
A small part of the Engine - 15 figures ! Good God what must be the whole power, when a small part only embraces such stupendous combination. With my heart and soul I do congratulate you on the occasion. May uninterrupted health and success attend your noble and unrivalled efforts.
British Library Add Ms 37187 f168
12th October 1832
Copy of a Letter written by Babbage which he intended to give to Clement as a set of hints for Clement's response to the Treasury
Sir,
I regret that the Lords of the Treasury should have considered the estimate I made of the expense of removing to East St. with the tools and the Calculating Engine as unreasonable.
In the event of that removal I wished to have a lease of the premises in order that I might not be unexpectedly obliged to quit them; a circumstance which might expose me to considerable inconvenience and loss, because it is very difficult at a short notice to find premises adapted for the use of my tools and apparatus.
It would be difficult to explain except to professional men, the inconvenience and loss to my business [deleted: consequent] arising from the removal but I believe if the question were referred to Engineers that I could satisfy them respecting its amount.
If it should be thought right I shall be willing to abide by the decision formed upon this point by the Engineers who have hitherto been appointed to examine my accounts.
British Library Add Ms 37187 f171
13th October 1832, Stover Devon
Extract of Letter from Duke of Somerset to Babbage
... My daughter Jane ... says that the part of the machine already constructed has answered beyond your expectations, and ...
British Library Add Ms 37187 f189
28th October 1832
Extract of letter from Duke of Somerset to Babbage
engine ...
British Library Add Ms 37187 f234
19th November 1832, Stover Devon
Duke of Somerset to Babbage
My dear sir,
I am very glad to hear of your successes both political and scientific, but much more of the last than the first; because there are a great many men, in this country, who will be returned to Parliament as well as yourself; but not one in the whole world who ever invented such an engine as yours. I could wish that Dutens were alive to see it. I dare say he would soon find out that Archytas or Archimedes invented such a thing, and made it calculate logarithms to precisely the same
number of decimals. It is really wonderful, what absurdities Dutens has imposed upon the world, and how many people there are ignorant enough to believe him. Pignatti, in his History of Tuscany, second chapter of the 1st Book, says that to Pythagoras belong the demonstration of the 47th Proposition of Euclid, and the law of Gravitation of the Planets towards the sun in the inverse ratio of the square of the distances. Pythagoras must have had a fine genius, to have found mankind ignorant of the former, and to have made them acquainted with the latter. He must indeed have had the Gift of Demonstration to have discovered and run through such a train of propositions as that which connects these two mathematical truths. In the margin, Pignatti quotes Dutens as his authority in these matters. I am glad that you find speaking in public not so difficult as you supposed. I have found it more difficult than I supposed, but I am convinced that a great deal may be done in it by great care and great practice. I am persuaded that, since our Reform, eloquence will have more say than before; and I cannot say that I regard this as one of the beneficial consequences of the measure.
I mean to stay in Devonshire some time longer, endeavouring to make some improvements in Totnes and Bridgetown. I shall be delighted, on my return, to see your engine in its working state.
I remain
My Dear Sir
Yours very faithfully
Somerset
British Library Add Ms 37187 f273
Thursday Night, 13th December [1832?]
Extract of letter from Fitton to Babbage
... Mrs Fitton and I were glad for you seemed to take the defeat [at the Finsbury Election], so quietly: and now you can give yourself undecidedly for a time, to the papers connected with the Engine. and which (papers) much of its usefulness and your own immediate credit will depend. ...
British Library Add Ms 37187 f298
December 27th 1832, 3 Gray's Inn Square, London
A letter from John Evans to Babbage on a method of extracting the cube root of a number.
British Library Add Ms 37187 f302
Draft of a letter from Babbage to the Duke of Somerset; copy which was sent is in the Bulstrode Collection, Buckinghamshire Archives, Aylesbury.
My dear Lord Duke,
I need scarcely assure you that the interest you take in the calculating Eng. is most gratifying to me. it is [deleted: however but] part of that unabated kindness which I have experienced for years and which I trust you know me well enough to [deleted: know/feel that] perceive is not the less deeply felt because it is but little expressed.
You have pointed out clearly the great source of the difficulty in my position between the Government on the one hand [deleted: and my ...] and the the engineer on the other hand. I quite [deleted: enter] agree with you about the probable feeling of the Secy of State or of the Treasury.
It is singular that I should not have perceived the full difficulty of my position untill the great mechanical difficulty was overcome. But I have since the execution of the part already completed been compelled to perceive that the [deleted: whole] discovery is too much in advance of the age to be appreciated and that amongst all civilised countries England is that which there exist [deleted: most] the greatest number of practical engineers who can appreciate the mechanical [deleted: skill which ...] part whilst at the same time it is of all others that country in which the governing powers are most incompetent to understand the merit either of the mechanical or mathematical.
The suggestion you [deleted: offer] throw out relative to making the interest of the engineer to finish the work as soon as possible is one deserving of the greatest consideration. I had already thought of it in case I should employ a new one but the [deleted: object?ion?] practical mode of effecting this is difficult and requires an examination of the detail (perhaps by engineers).
There exists one other difficulty and I am sure [deleted: that you did not overlook it] it could not have escaped you although you have not alluded to it -[deleted: my own feelings] I mean my own feelings.
Some years since I was forced to make up my mind to give up the Engine entirely before any thing had been executed by which the public could be convinced of its [deleted: utility] practicability at the same time I had resolved to repay the whole sum which the [deleted: public] government had spent upon it [deleted: which] then amounted to about £5000. I have not forgotten nor can I ever forget that circumstance and I confess that I am deeply indignant at the treatment I have experienced from the country.
Perhaps it is appointed by nature that those who [deleted: are supposed to] possess the envied power of invention are doomed to expiate it by being the victims of intense feelings. If so my expiation is complete [deleted: for I have little of feeling after both those of indifference to the point of my unjust country]. It has however [deleted: and perhaps the public neglect] had the effect of making me cherish more [deleted: dearly] highly those marks of private esteem which I meet with from my personal friends.
Believe me
My dear Lord Duke
Very sincerely yours
C.B.
British Library Add Ms 37187 f394
16th Jany 1833 Greenhall Edinburgh
Extract of letter from James D. Forbes to Babbage
... If you have time I shall be very glad to have a line from you not about Politics but about the Calculating Machine. ...
British Library Add Ms 37187 f406
Saturday 2nd February 1833
Extract of a letter from WH Fitton to Babbage re 3rd Edition of the Economy of Machinery and Manufactures
... As to the passage relating to the machine I have made my observation. The algebraic part, of course, I suppose to be right but, of course, it is to me, and will be to most of your readers a great mystery but this you as author intend [words illegible but the gist is: and you know there is no thing as such a notion as to please as points of peculiarity of the Engine's power, in a shortened point of view.]
British Library Add Ms 37187 f408
February 3rd 1833, Allerly
Extract of a letter from Brewster to Babbage
... I am delighted to hear of the success of your Machine, and this is of much less import -your Book I shall be most happy to receive a Copy of the 3rd Edition. My little vol on Nat. Magic has gone thru' an edition of 6500 and a second is now in the market, but this does not serve me. ...
British Library Add Ms 37187 f431
February 25th [1833?]
Extract of a letter from Revd F. Lunn to Babbage ... I now write to ask that you will be so kind enough next you have a machine party to find Lord Cawdor into it. I fancy it is the least trouble to you to put it into this shape so I said you will post him a note when such a party takes place.
Earl of Cawdor 74 South Audley Street, Grosvnr. Sqr. ...
British Library Add Ms 37187 f437
4 March 1833
M I Brunel to Babbage
My dear Sir,
I shall do myself the pleasure of breakfasting with you on Wednesday next viz the 6th at your hour of ten.
Your stoppage the other day did not lessen the perfect confidence I have in the machine. I shall be glad to have a little to say as to the future proceedings before I see Lord Althorp.
au-revoir
M I Brunel
British Library Add Ms 37187 f439
6th March 1833 6 Spring Garden
Decimus Burton to Babbage
The Treasury have applied for information whether the whole of the works for the Buildings for your Calculating Engine are completed.
Before I make my reports I should be glad to see you on the subject. Can you favor me with a call this friday morning before 12 or I will attend your appointment, if that day would be inconvenient to you.
I am Dear Sir,
Yrs Very faithfully
Decimus Burton
British Library Add Ms 37187 f447
17th March 1833, 4 Seymour Place
Extract of letter from JC Robertson, Editor Mechanics Magazine, to Babbage
... I shall endeavour to make amends. I have in the meanwhile copied into last Saturday's magazine the very interesting note expecting the progress made with the Calculating Machine.
I feel exceedingly obliged in regard to the portrait and can well allow for the reluctance which Mrs Babbage [CB's mother] feels to part with the painting in her possession for even the short period necessary to copy it. ... [This portrait appears as an engraving in the May 1833 issue of Mechanics Magazine.]
British Library Add Ms 37187 f453
26th March 1833, 31 St Georges Road Southwark
Joseph Clement to Babbage
Sir,
After what passed between you and I on Wednesday last respecting settling my account. You then said that you could not pay me as you had not received the money from Government: I said that I had nothing to do with Government respecting the Calculating Machine -that you were the only person that had given me any orders respecting the calculating machine -that you were the only person I had made my accounts out to and the only person who had paid my accounts that you were responsible to me for all expence incurred on the machine up to the present time - and that it would be impossible for me to proceed much further without money. Your answer was that for the future you would never advance or pay me a single shilling on your own account respecting the machine.
Now after that declaration I do not think that I should be justified in proceeding any further with the calculating machine until some one is made responsible to me for the work that may be done hereafter. I therefore gave notice the following morning to all men employed on the calculating machine that I should not be able to employ them after this week as there was a misunderstanding between you and me. Now if it be a misunderstanding I hope for the sake of my men and the machine that you will be pleased to take the earliest opportunity of arranging things in a more satisfactory manner.
I remain,
Dear Sir
Your Obedient Servant
Joseph Clement
PS I should have written to you sooner had my health permitted
To C. Babbage Esqe.
British Library Add Ms 37187 f456
27th March 1833
Babbage to J. Stewart?
Sir,
[Deleted: I beg to enclose for the information of the Lords Comm of HM Treasury the account of Mr Clements] I beg to enclose for the information of the Lds Commrs of HM Treasury Mr Clements receipt for 1956-5-11½ for work done to the Calg Engine up to the 30th June 1832.
This account has been examined and approved by Messrs Donkin and Field the Engineers appointed for the purpose by the Chancellor of the Exchequer.
May I request you to move their Lordships to direct the issue [deleted: to me] of that sum [deleted: from] for the payment of Mr Clements bill.
I have the honor to be
Your Obedt Humble Srvt
CB
British Library Add Ms 37187 f457
28th March 1833
Babbage to J. Stewart? marked Private
My dear sir
I find I can do nothing with Mr Clement not even get a written answer to my letter I have tried in vain for many months.
Under these circumstances I have written the letter No. 2 but I should be glad to put it into any other form that you may think more expedient. In the mean time the Engine does not go.
I will call at any hour you may find convenient.
I remain Dear Sir
Yours faithfully
C. Babbage
Dorset Street
28 March 1833
British Library Add Ms f458
28 March 1833 [Date about 20th Sept 1832 deleted]
Babbage to J. Stewart
Sir,
In reference to your letter of the 14 Sep 1832 in which you convey to me the observations of the Lds Comm of H.M. Treasury upon the demands of Mr Clements for removing with his tools to the buildings in East St for the purpose of completing the Calcg Engine I have to state that I was perfectly unprepared by my previous circumstances for [the] a demand which appeared to me so extravagant -that on receipt of that letter I immediately wrote to Mr Clement to acquaint him with the view taken by their Lordships [deleted: and do propose to suggest either to be pleas ...] that I have conferred with him repeatedly upon the subject of removing the Engine and the drawings and such tools as may be necessary for its completion to the Fireproof Buildings in East Street -That I have urged him to reply to that letter and that ultimately he has refused even [deleted: declined] to write a letter to me to state
that he declines giving me any answer.
In my last interview with Mr Clement I stated that I should wait a few days before I communicated [deleted: this] on the subject with the Lds of H.M. Treasury in the expectation that in further consideration he may write to me.
At that interview he asked for payment of his last bill to Dec 1832 and stated that he could not carry on the construction of the Engine much longer with out a further supply of money. I replied that I should forward his account to the Treasury with an application for its payment and that on receiving the [deleted: money] amount I should immediately pay it over to him but that in future I should not make any advance from my own private means as he was well aware I had hitherto been in the habit of doing.
I have received no answer as to the question of the removal but I have received a letter from Mr Clement in which he informs me that he [deleted: shall] has given notice to his workmen [deleted: that] employed on the Calculating Engine that he shall not employ them after this week as there is a misunderstanding [deleted: between] respecting it.
Under these circumstances I have to request [deleted: further in...] the Lords Coms of HM Treasury will be pleased to give me instructions how I am to proceed.
Whilst it is my painful duty to communicate to their lordships these difficulties I am happy to [deleted: inform the ...] state that I have had a portion of the Engine amounting to fifteen figures or about one eighth [part] of the Calculating part put together so as to form a small engine.
British Library Add Ms 37187 f463
Monday April 1st 1833, 19 Upper Grosvenor Street
F.O. Martin to Babbage
Dear Babbage,
My sister is anxious to avail herself of your good natured offer to let her see the Machine. I leave town for [Lemoins?] on Monday and therefore should not be able to come next week so if you will let her take a peep during the present I will come with her whenever you like. I think I twig
DUx = (ed/dx-1)n.Ux
Ever Truly Yours
F.O. Martin
British Library Add Ms 37187 f465
3rd April 1833
Bryan Donkin to Babbage
My dear Sir,
Since I last saw you, Mr Field and I have had another interview with Mr Clement. He yet however pertinaciously demands that either yourself or the Treasury become responsible. This being the only question with him of any difficulty now; I apprehend my mission with him is at an end.
Ought I not agreeably to Mr Stewart's request communicate the result to that Gentleman?
I am yours very sincerely
Bryan Donkin
British Library Add Ms 37187 f480
13 April 1833 Paragon
Bryan Donkin to Babbage
Dear Sir,
I called at the Treasury on Wednesday last and informed Mr Stewart of Mr Clements determination; Mr S expressed his opinion that their Lordships would concede the point and would most probably give Mr Clement an order to proceed with the Machine under your directions, as also for the money to be paid immediately to him, the warrant being made payable to him.
Mr S said he would inform me of their Lordships decision; but I have not yet heard from him nor have I said any thing to Mr Clement. I took the liberty of telling Mr S that I thought such an arrangement would be the most agreeable to you.
I am,
Yours most sincerely
Bryan Donkin
British Library Add Ms 37187 f???
Thursday 18th April [1833] Park Lane
Extract of a Letter from the Duke of Somerset to Babbage
... I wrote an answer to his Royal Highness yesterday, and accepted his invitation, which, I apprehend, must preclude my coming to your party on the 27th though I am always gratified to see your engine exhibited and propose some day to offer some little experiments in series, in order to try its powers. ...
British Library Add Ms 37187 f503
25th April 1833, 6 Paragon
Bryan Donkin to Babbage
My dear Sir,
I yesterday saw Mr Stewart at the Treasury. He informed me that he had had a conference with their Lordships relative to the recognition of Mr Clements and the result is that they have no objection to allow the money to be paid to him.
To pave the way for this being properly arranged Mr Stewart recommends that Mr C should through you solicit the returning of his offensive letter, at the same time requesting that all future payments for work done to the Calculating Machine should be made to himself as also the amount of the Bill now before their Lordships. Mr C should also in his letter to you state that on this being done he is willing to proceed with the work where it is and that the several parts of the Machine as they are finished shall be deposited in the building prepared for their reception at your house.
Should you feel any repugnance to communicate this to Mr Clement I will assisted by Mr Field undertake it for you.
I am very much obliged by your kind invitation for the 11th May for myself and son and will if well enough have much pleasure in waiting upon you.
From my son's account of the derangment of the Machine, I suspected that it must have arisen from some such cause as you have detected.
I am my dear Sir,
Yours most sincerely,
Bryan Donkin.
British Library Add Ms 37187 f508
28th April 1833
Babbage to Bryan Donkin
My dear Sir,
I shall feel much obliged if you and Mr Field will make the communication [deleted: of] to Mr Clement respecting the views of the Treasury for I could [deleted: have] not [deleted: communicate with him] speak to him on that subject without in some degree expressing my feelings and this would not contribute to the progress of the Engine.
Is the letter to which you allude as the one to be withdrawn that of Mr Clement to me of 26 March 1833 informing me that he has given notice to his workmen to discontinue the Engine or is it the original demand of 600 a year and other unreasonable terms. I presume it is the last letter.
With many thanks for your kindnesses in this affair I remain
My dear sir
Sincerely yours
C. Babbage
British Library Add Ms 37187 f516
May 1st 1833, 16 Lambeth Terrace
C.G. Jarvis to Babbage
Sir,
I hope I do not presume too much upon you the kind feeling you entertain towards me when I solicit the favour of a letter of introduction to the Messrs Rennie if you can oblige me in this matter I shall esteem it a great kindness.
I am Sir
Very Respectfully
Your Obedient Servant
C.G. Jarvis
British Library Add Ms 37187 f520
May 3 1833, 16 Lambeth Terrace
C.G. Jarvis to Babbage
Sir,
I am greatly obliged by your permission to refer to you and flattered by your confidence in me. I also feel favoured by your hint respecting the Calculating Engine and hope it will soon be resumed in a manner that will ultimately give satisfaction to all parties. I must however observe that one practical mechanic of talent and ability is sufficient to superintend the finishing of the machine; and that talent and ability ought to be possessed by the head of the practical department.
I am Sir
Very Respectfully
Your Obedt Servant
C.G. Jarvis
British Library Add Ms 37187 f524
Tuesday 7th May [1833?], Park Lane
Duke of Somerset to Babbage
My Dear Sir,
Having collected a few questions, to try your engine, I could come any day after Thursday, at almost any hour you like. My questions are mostly very simple. They result from equations developed, and require tables, in which I have taken care not to exceed six figures, so as to be quite within the compass of your present engine. But I have a considerable variety. The answers will some be integral, and some decimal or fractional. The differences will sometimes be very small, and sometimes very large. After all my trials will not be very great, and a more profound mathematician might propose something that would put the powers of the engine much more to the test. But I shall like to see it will perform, and the time it will take to do it.
I remain
My Dear Sir
Yours very truly
Somerset
British Library Add Ms 37187 f525
Thursday 9th May [1833?], Park Lane
Duke of Somerset to Babbage
My Dear Sir,
Monday at twelve o'clock would suit me very well, and , if I hear nothing to the contrary, I shall conclude that you approve it.
In the series, which I have prepared, I have supposed two progressions, and never more. One of these is, in many cases, only the Cardinal numbers, beginning with unity. The common difference, in the other progression, is sometimes some thousands, and sometimes only a small fraction. I have never gone beyond five figures in either progression.
I remain
My Dear Sir
Yours Very Truly
Somerset
British Library Add Ms 37187 f534
13 May 1833, 31 Prospect Place Southwark
Joseph Clement to Babbage [Written by someone else; signed by a very shaky hand]
Sir,
As several difficulties have presented themselves in the removal of my Establishment to East Street, and as I am anxious to finish the Calculating Machine, I beg to be allowed to proceed with it under your direction as heretofore at my own Manufactory, the parts as finished being removed to the Fire Proof room in East Street. I shall therefore feel obliged by your returning my letter and memorandums of July last proposing terms of removal etc etc.
As you have expressed a great reluctance at having the Accounts passed through your hands I shall feel obliged to you if you could obtain the permission of the Lords Commissioners of the Treasury that in future those payments be made to me direct.
I am Sir
Your Obedt Servt
Joseph Clement
British Library Add Ms 37187 f538
Saturday 18 May [1833?], Park Lane
Duke of Somerset to Babbage
My Dear Sir
Wishing to see a little more of your engine, I would come next week, if you would allow me, any day after Monday, and about twelve o'clock. The numerous tables, you had in books which you had selected, would be an object of interest. I have also deduced some from equations regarding a comparison of the two thermometers, those of Reamur and Fahrenheit. The equations are simple, and yet the tables are curious, on account of the uniformity which they maintain for a certain way, and then a change which seems inconsistent with this uniformity.
A more extensive acquaintance, with the application of algebra to Physical Science, would probably lead to many tables that would be interesting.
I remain
My Dear Sir
Yours very truly
Somerset
British Library Add Ms 37187 f539
20th May 1833
Babbage to Hon[ora]ble James Stewart
Mem[orandum note ] [on reverse] - This letter was sent one week after I had rec'd Mr Clements letter I had in the mean time been twice to the Treasury and had been unsuccessful in finding Mr Stewart at leisure.
C.B.
Sir,
I enclose for the information of the Ld Com of HM Treasury a copy of a letter from Mr Clement requesting to be allowed to proceed with the construction of the Calcg Engine.
I wish to explain to their Lordships [deleted: the] my reason why [deleted: am] I anxious that the future payment should not pass through my hands. The circumstance of sums of money appearing in the annual estimates as issued to me for the construction of the calculating engine has given rise to an opinion that I have received [deleted: them] that money as payment for my services in constructing the engine, whereas in point of fact I [deleted: am merely the] have merely paid over to [the engineer] the money so received to the persons employed [deleted: to] in making [deleted: the engine] it.
I am Sir
Your Obdt Humble Servt
C. Babbage
20th May 1833
Dorset Street
British Library Add Ms 37187 f544
24 May [1833?]
Duke of Somerset to Babbage
My Dear Sir,
Should you be at leisure either Wednesday Friday or Saturday in next week, about twelve o'clock, I would come and take another view of your engine. Last Tuesday I had a headache, and was unwell, as perhaps you perceived; but I always keep my engagements if I can, though I suffered for it the next day, being the worse for want of repose. I am afraid you often feel the same want in a greater degree.
I think there should be kept some record of what things your engine, in its present state, will execute, and what it will not, likewise of what it does in part but fails to do completely, and in these cases how far it proceeds. We might thus obtain a concise view of its powers, a sort of synopsis that might save some trouble in its future application.
I remain;
My Dear Sir
with great regard
Your's very truly
Somerset
Park Lane
Friday 24th May
British Library Add Ms 37187 f549
29th May 1833 Treasury Chambers
J. Stewart to Babbage
[Reg. Nos.] 9626
9883 24/5
Sir,
I am commanded by the Lords Commissioners of His Majesty's Treasury to acquaint you that they have caused Mr Clements accounts for charges and expenses in constructing the calculating engine to the 31 December 1832 to be examined in this office and my Lords having had under their consideration your letter of the 20th May 1833 requesting that the payments due to Mr Clements should in future be made to him direct and not thro' your medium and transmitting a letter from Mr Clements requesting that he be permitted to complete the engine at his own premises and remove the several parts as they are finished, to the new Fire Proof Building in East Street under your charge, I have it in command to acquaint you that My Lords approve of the plan for completing the Engine suggested by Mr Clements and I am to request that you will cause every part of the Engine to the Fire Proof Building under your own charge at the earliest period after each part is completed, and My Lords further request you will acquaint Mr Clements that they will direct future payments to be made to him direct; and that as soon as they shall be informed that all the drawings not in use and all the parts of the Engine, which can be removed without preventing the progress of the Work, have been deposited in the Fire Proof Building, My Lords will direct payment to be made of Mr Clements accounts to 31st December 1832 and give authority for proceeding with the Work.
I am
Sir
Your Obedient Servt
J. Stewart
Treasury Chambers
29th May 1823
British Library Add Ms 37187 f552
30th May 1833
Babbage to Mr Clement
Sir,
I enclose a receipt of yours for £1956-5-11½ which has been returned to me from the Treasury because it has not your signature. I [deleted: know not by what accident] suppose you accidentally [deleted: you] omitted [deleted: the] to sign it and I request you will now do so and return it by my servant and that you will also send me a note stating that I paid you the money at the time mentioned in that receipt in order that I may prove to the Treasury that I caused no delay in making the payment.
I am sir
Your obedt servt
C.B.
British Library Add Ms 37187 f555 verso
ca May 1833
Copy of a letter from Babbage to probably the Under Secretary of the Treasury
marked private
My dear Sir,
I have just seen Mr Clement and finding he will call at the Treasury to morrow I think it desireable to recall to your memory one of the Main Points respecting the Removal of the Engine.
I think it highly desireable that the Drawings should be completed in East Street and the Working drawings only sent to the workshop and that Mr Jarvis who is as well acquainted with them as either Mr Clement or myself should be employed by Government to complete those drawings in East Street under Mr C.'s [Mr B.'s?] directions; but Mr C should pay Mr Jarvis and receive the same profit as usual.
The Advantages of this plan are that,
1st All the most important drawings will at once be free from danger
2ndly That in case of difficulty with Mr Clement we are much less dependant on him.
3rdly If Mr C or myself die it would be most important to have Mr Jarvis
4ly I should be much better acquainted with the Engine I have contrived than it is possible at my present distance; my memory [deleted: all] though not bad cannot retain all the relations of 20 or 30 thousand pieces of matter.
Mr Clement will object that it is inconvenient to him; he does not consider that I have suffered a similar inconvenience for nearly 10 years. Mr C will say it will produce delay and expence. I am more interested than any individual in completing the work and I believe it will accelerate instead of delaying it. The additional expence of his journeys will not be much.
Allow me to suggest to you to press Mr C on this point supposing Mr B to make no alterations from the present design. In what time is it probable that it will be finished? I have repeatedly tried to arrive at his opinion and I think as the work now stands he ought to be able to form (not an exact) but an approximate [deleted: answer] conjecture.
I remain My dear Sir
yours faithfully
(signed) CB
British Library Add Ms 37187 f556
About [deleted: 26 May and Early June] 1st June 1833
Babbage to Mr Clement
Sir,
I have communicated the content containing the new plan for [deleted: carrying ..] future construction of the Cal Engine and your letter of 31 May to the Lords Com of the Treasury and I have received a letter from their Secretary [deleted: informing me that ...] [deleted: their] My Lords approve of the plan for completing the Engine suggested by Mr Clement and I am to request that you will cause every part of the Engine to be removed to the fire proof building under your own charge at the earliest period (after to end of Mr Stewart's letter ...).
If Monday next is not an inconvenient day I will call on you in the morning in order to [deleted: confer] arrange with you the readiest means of [deleted: an] following out this plan and of resuming the work.
Should you be engaged on that day [deleted: be in ...] I shall be obliged by your naming some other morning [deleted: as it will be more convenient that I should ...].
I am Sir
Your Obdt Servt
CB
Dorset St
Manchester Sq.
British Library Add Ms 37187 f557
4th June 1833
Babbage to Bryan Donkin
My dear Sir,
I have communicated to Mr Clement the enclosed extract of a letter from the Treasury. Yesterday I had a conference with him most unsatisfactory to myself. He wishes to have your examination of his accounts up to the time when he discontinued the work; these are prepared. It now appears that Mr C will not move a drawing or portion of the engine untill all his demands are actually paid a plan with which I am confident the Treasury cannot agree.
I shall be much obliged if you and Mr Field [deleted: make it] find a convenient opportunity of seeing him on the subject. With many apologies for this troublesome mission.
Sincerely Yours
C. Babbage
4 June 1833
Dorset St
British Library Add Ms 37187 f562
June 8th 1833, London
Duke of Wellington to Babbage
Dear Sir,
You were so kind as to propose to me to pay another visit to your Machinery. Would you allow me to attend you on Tuesday at one o'clock in the afternoon and let me know the exact direction of the place to which I am to go in the Borough.
Ever dear Sir
Your most faithful Servant
Wellington
[to] Charles Babbage Esq
No1 Dorset Street
Baker Street
British Library Add Ms 37187 f565
24th June 1833
Lord Denbigh to Babbage
My dear Sir,
Lady Denbigh had already forestalled your kind intentions with respect to Prince George, having given him as a birthday present in March a copy of your Book suitably bound. Prince George told me the other day that he had not yet had time to read it, but that he shd do so now with accented interest after having made your acquaintance and had the advantage of your explanations in person of the various machinery which he saw on Friday. I have therefore returned your note to Mr Knight.
I am suprised to hear that you derived advantage as well as pleasure from the Hall at St James and shall hope soon to become expert a mechanic as you are, from the additional advantages which I am in the way of obtaining in that respect from my situation at Court!!
I beg however that you will wait till I have actually this Colossus of Science which I have now only in prospect before you make the honourable mention of me that you propose to your Scientific Society, of which I am at present so utterly unworthy.
Believe me [words unreadable: ? in haste ??]
Denbigh
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