Note 126 — Chapter IX · STEAM NAVIGATION. THE ‘GREAT BRITAIN’ STEAM-SHIP. A.D. 1838—1847. ÆTATIS 33—42.

It is interesting, in connection with this subject, to mention the following circumstance. At Mr. Brunel’s recommendation, Mr. Humphrys consulted Mr. James Nasmyth as to the best means of forging the large paddle-shaft; as they could not get any manufacturer to undertake it. To accomplish this forging Mr. Nasmyth designed his steam-hammer, and though it was not then erected in Bristol, in consequence of the alteration of the form of the engines of the ‘Great Britain,’ it soon afterwards came into general use.