I was able, pointed out the means of remedying them with certainty in others, which the Gentlemen skilled in Mechanics seemed perfectly to comprehend, and to be satisfied of the truth which I again assert, that Watches made on my principles will endure a much greater motion and change of position than they can ever be subject to in a ship; and that they will not be affected by any degree of heat or cold, in which a man can live.
If any thing was meant to be concluded with respect to me by this experiment, either in point of property or reputation, common justice would have required that I should have had an opportunity of seeing the facts ascertained; and when such a trial was directed as put the result in the absolute power of a single person, that I should have been satisfied of his integrity, disinterestedness, and ability for the purpose.[1] I would not be understood to attack Mr. Maskelyne's knowledge of the theory of Astronomy: as for any thing I know to the contrary, it may be of the very first rate, espe-
- ↑ Would not Dr. Maskelyne himself, had the case been reversed, and had he had no interest in the particulars, have thought what passed at Barbadoes incompatible with his superintendence of the trial?—a remark which may be extended further by those who recollect that in Parliament any member is expected to withdraw from a question involving his own private concerns; yet John Harrison never found the benefit of this decorous sentiment at the Board of Longitude, where his personal enemies instead of absenting themselves, had effrontery enough to take the lead against him.
