Details
Autograph letter signed ("most affectionately your dear Father M. I. Bl.") to I. K. Brunel ("My dear Isambard"), one page, 8vo, Nov. 26th 1841.
Expressing satisfaction that the approaching shield has become visible from the Wapping shaft, and that the frames are as true to line as the plan drawings specified. Also explaining that the shaft is being given temporary timber supports at the areas which will be affected by the join, while flooding, which is "easily" controlled by a single pump, will be stopped once the tunnel and shaft are fully connected.
"Finley says he will be ready on Wednesday next -- The Directors will therefore have what they want ---- 8 frames are now seen from the Shaft the full height and breadth -- viz 22F x 24. They are as true, on the Level and perpendicular line, as in the Drawings -- Timbers are now being applied to those parts of the Shaft that may require stability untill the structures are completely connected. The influx in the shaft does not exceed what one Man can easily pump up -- The general influx from the east Arch continues the same. We shall stop it when the structures are well united."
Expressing satisfaction that the approaching shield has become visible from the Wapping shaft, and that the frames are as true to line as the plan drawings specified. Also explaining that the shaft is being given temporary timber supports at the areas which will be affected by the join, while flooding, which is "easily" controlled by a single pump, will be stopped once the tunnel and shaft are fully connected.
"Finley says he will be ready on Wednesday next -- The Directors will therefore have what they want ---- 8 frames are now seen from the Shaft the full height and breadth -- viz 22F x 24. They are as true, on the Level and perpendicular line, as in the Drawings -- Timbers are now being applied to those parts of the Shaft that may require stability untill the structures are completely connected. The influx in the shaft does not exceed what one Man can easily pump up -- The general influx from the east Arch continues the same. We shall stop it when the structures are well united."