"Mr. Robert Fox, jun., informed me the other day that you had the sole direction of the work at Plymouth. Had I known it at the time you were at Scorier I should have communicated to you my ideas relating to the application of machinery there; but until a few days since I had an idea that the young Mr. Fox was about to take an active part in the management, which I now find was never his intention, only he very much wishes to have an experiment tried to see to what extent an engine was capable of performing as against men. An engine is now preparing for that purpose."
"Sir,
"Camborne, February 24th, 1813.
"On my return from Padstow this evening, where I have been for the last fortnight, I found your letter of the 11th inst. respecting the getting an apparatus ready for the Plymouth undertaking. Before I set about it I wish to see you and Mr. Fox, and will call any day you may appoint. Waiting your reply,
"I remain, Sir,
"Your very humble servant,
"R. Trevithick.
"Mr. Robert Fox, Jun., Falmouth"
After three months of experimental scheming, without a thought of keeping his inventions secret, Trevithick for a moment became worldly wise, and asked for a written agreement before sending his locomotive boring engine to the breakwater.
[Rough draft.]
"Mr. Fox,
"Camborne, 14th March, 1814.