| Description | Written from 18 Duke Street, Westminster, London. The letter complains that many of the iron plates currently being used on the Eastern Steam Navigation Company's ship are larger and heavier than were initially agreed upon which, when extrapolated to the number of plates needed for the whole ship, could have significant effects on the weight of the ship, the cost of materials and a reduction in the quantity of cargo the ship can carry on voyages. The letter requests Russell instantly set in train steps to remedy the problem, which Brunel sets out. Brunel also calls attention to the fact that the rate of fixing and riveting the plates is not as fast as it should be and requests that Russell take steps to remedy this otherwise Brunel will not be action that month's payments to Russell. |