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

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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