used for loading, the rapidity of firing would be increased, as it would require only once ramming home with a short rammer; indeed carronades might be loaded without the use of a rammer by this invention; and all accidents by fire being left in after spunging, be entirely prevented. The cylinder may be used for shells and hot shot. The saving of cordage and powder by the use of the cylinder would be very considerable. Should your Lordships consider these suggestions deserving of trial, and would recommend Lord Melville to remove me from an irksome life, which I have endured since my being wounded in 1813, by honoring me with an appointment, I should be proud to carry them into execution at my own expence. I have the honor to be, &c.
“To the Right Hon. the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty.”
“Sir,– I have received Mr. Barrow’s letter of the 7th instant, acknowledging the receipt of my letter, requesting to be acknowledged as the author of the new system of directing a broadside of a man-of-war to one focus; and I have again to beg you will move the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to cause my claim as the original inventor of this improved mode of firing to be examined into, and to award me that credit for the invention to which I feel I am so justly entitled. I am, &c.
“To the Hon. George Elliot, Admiralty.”
“Sir,– With reference to your letter of the 27th ultimo, renewing your claim to an invention for concentrating the fire of a ship’s broadside, I am commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to acquaint you, that although their Lordships have ordered Mr. Kennish[1] to be paid a sum of money, it was not awarded to him on account of any new system of directing a broadside of a ship of war to a given focus, but for the invention and purchase of an instrument made at his expence, as well as to cover his personal expenses while attending the experiments on board the Excellent, by an order from their Lordships. I am, &c.
“Sir,– I have received your letter of the 4th instant, in reply to my letter of the 27th ultimo, requesting their Lordships to refer to the plans I had the honor to transmit them for concentrating a ship’s broadside, long before Mr. Kennish or any other person made any proposal on this subject; and to beg their Lordships to admit that I was the original inventor of this “new mode of concentrating the fire of a broadside.”
- ↑ Carpenter of the Hussar frigate.
