could be passed. But on the other hand should the cable sound away and the extension to core be found to be sound good respond fairly with the original tests, it would be passed and the extension duly recorded, Then the future extensions due to fair wear* and tear (daily deterioration) should be fairly gradual, and any extension beyond the normal quarterly extension, due to wear and tear (which could be soon ascertained by monthly inspections of the cable, and by recording the extensions regularly and accurately) would at once show that something was wrong, and consequently call for immediate attention and investigation. At present there is nothing to show whether the cable is really stable or unstable, the tests hitherto made being useless for that purpose, consequent on the omission to record the extension of the cable when tested, or to record from time to time the gradual extensions due to ordinary wear and tear.
I am of opinion that the Boilers, Engines, Winding gear and the Brakes of each should be tested annually as heretofore and that the Frame way and Telegraph should be inspected (annually) at the same time. I am also of opinion that each new cable on being laid down, should be tested before being used. That the test strain of about 14 tons should be applied to each end.