| Description | Written from Lewisham. The letter encloses several ideas for Brunel to consider in relation to the failed launch. Penn's ideas are: connecting two windlasses together to ensure that the slide at each end of the ship would be equal; substituting smooth, un-rimmed wheels for the crank handle which would give greater command and reduce accidents; and using, if Brunel intends to conduct the launch by degrees, a worm wheel well secured to the windlasses as well as breaks. Penn also suggests that the bearings are too tightly fitted which is causing potentially excessive friction. |