OUR history begins before we are born. We represent the hereditary influences of our race, and our ancestors virtually live in us.

Everything connected with war and warlike exploits is interesting to a boy.

In 1854 I took out a patent for puddling iron by means of steam.

In order to keep pace with the influx of work I had to take on fresh hands.

Week by week my orders grew, and the flat of the old mill soon assumed a very busy aspect.

But my most favourite pursuit, after my daily exertions at the Foundry, was Astronomy. There were frequently clear nights when the glorious objects in the Heavens were seen in most attractive beauty and brilliancy.

From a very early period of my life I have derived the highest enjoyment from listening to music, especially to melody, which is to me the most pleasing form of composition.

In course of time the Brothers Cowper removed the manufacture of their printing machines from London, to Manchester. There they found skilled and energetic workmen, ready to carry their plans into effect.

My father was always anxious to give pleasure to his children. Accordingly, he took me one day, as a special treat, to the top of the grand old tower, to see the chimes played.

Time passed by. I had furnished steam hammers to the principal foundries in England. I had sent them abroad, even to Russia. At length it became known to the Lords of the Admiralty that a new power in forging had been introduced.