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PREFACE.
I was engaged for seven years on the construction of the Severn Tunnel, and during this period many visitors inspected the works. Mr. Bentley happened on one occasion to come down from London, and, after spending the best part of a day on the works, appeared to be much interested by what he saw. Indeed, very shortly after his return he wrote to me to ask that I would place upon record some account of the construction of the Tunnel.
I was particularly occupied at the time I unwisely acceded to this request. Writing a book proved to me a more arduous task than a year’s superintendence of the Tunnel itself.
I am reluctant to say anything about myself, but I am told it is desirable to give some brief account of my career.
