Victoria Water Works fitted in a manner. in a very satisfactory manner.
I know nothing further of the Firm.
The most desirable course is doubtless that recommended by the Brown agents to Sir A. & Rogers in their letter dated 16 January last, viz. to obtain Tenders from two or three well-known Manufacturers and accept the lowest.
In forwarding Estimates I recommend the Form which supplies Materials in the most satisfactory manner, as such information may be of use to the Brown Agents in selecting from whom to order what is required.
With regard to the third point mentioned by His Lordship, I may explain that I purposely abstained from giving any detailed specifications or drawings of the required Sluice Valves, as it was proposed to submit the whole scheme for the Water Works to Mr. Rawlinson, who would be far better able than I am to point out the most suitable class of Sluice Valves for the service. The Drawings supplied by me and forwarded to Mr. Rawlinson point out the proposed position of the Sluice valves and their depths under water, which I apprehend is the only local knowledge which will be required.
I may explain that the Sluice valve 2.8 x 2.4 was to replace the one on the existing dam, and therefore not shown on the Plans, as I have succeeded in repairing the old one; this will not now be required.
The Brown Agents in their letter to yourself dated 10 November last, giving cover to Mr. Rawlinson's Report, state that they were about to obtain authority for procuring the required Iron Work for the Reservoir. They also state that Mr. Rawlinson was prepared to furnish any additional information, had this been applied for; the delay (which, however, in view of the temporary stoppage of the Waterworks, has been of no consequence) would not have taken place.
I may mention that when I received instructions some time back to price approximately the articles mentioned in my requisitions, I understood that it was with a view only of ascertaining whether or not the requisition would exceed £100, in which case the sanction of the Secretary of State became necessary.
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