| Description | Written on headed paper from the Patent Wood or Fibrous Slab Company, Limited, 15 Wellington Street, North Strand, London. 'London' has been crossed through and replaced with 'Staines'. The letter explains that Mr Miles has taken with him back to London all the details relating to the bulkheads for the Great Eastern as well as other items relating to the ship's fixtures. Claxton expresses his certainty that Miles will send the papers on to Brunel but in the meantime he is writing to say that Mr Bidfield will call on Brunel along with his best man and explains that they are searching for a clever foreman for the joinery work. Claxton gives details on the progress that has been made with the bulkheads and promises Brunel that he will soon see some examples of the fibrous slabs which have been constructed in a particular way to give a good surface. The letter also confirms that the Fibrous Slab Company have received the first orders and sizes for the saloon of the Great Eastern and will have them ready to send off with a day's notice. |