Life of James Watt. With a memoir on machinery considered in relation to the prosperity of the working classes ... To which are subjoined, historical account of the discovery of the composition of water / by Lord Brougham; and eulogium of James Watt, by Lord Jeffrey.

  • Arago, F. (François), 1786-1853.
Date:
1839
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: Life of James Watt. With a memoir on machinery considered in relation to the prosperity of the working classes ... To which are subjoined, historical account of the discovery of the composition of water / by Lord Brougham; and eulogium of James Watt, by Lord Jeffrey. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    biographer. Such has been the nature of my reflections while studying the life of James Watt, and while collecting the kind communications of the relatives, the acquaintances, and the friends of the illustrious mechanist. That life, devot- ed to labour, to study, and to meditation, fur- nishes none of those striking events whose re- cital, thrown with a little address among the de- tails of science, tempers their dulness. I shall, however, relate it, were it for no other reason than to shew in how humble a sphere were ela- borated those mighty projects which were des- tined to elevate the British nation to an unheard of height of power ; and I shall endeavour more particularly to characterize with minute accuracy those splendid inventions which will for ever as- sociate the name of Watt with the steam-engine. I am well aware of the disadvantages which at- tend this plan, and am prepared for the criti- cism: “ We expected an historical eloge, and have heard only a dry and barren lecture.” If my discourse, however, be comprehended, I shall willingly submit to the reproach. I shall do my best not to fatigue your attention, remembering that clearness constitutes politeness in a public speaker.