"Why," he wrote to Stephenson's partner in the patent, "it is the greatest wonder of the age, and the forerunner, I believe, of most important changes in the modes of travel in the kingdom."
A few weeks later he made another visit to Killingworth, taking his two sons with him. "Puffing Billy" was at work, as usual.
The boys were frightened at the sight of the snorting monster; but Stephenson encouraged them to mount, with their father, and see how harmless and manageable the monster was.
The second visit was even more gratifying than the first.
"Mr. Stephenson," said James, "is the greatest practical genius of the age. His fame will rank with that of Watt."
Mr. James lost all hesitation now about speaking his mind. "Puffing Billy" had driven the backwardness out of him, and he was willing, at all hazards, boldly to advocate rail-roads and the steam-horse. No more tram-roads; steam or nothing. This was in 1821.
Mr. James entered heart and soul into the new idea of the age. On his return to Liverpool, it was everywhere his theme; and wherever he had influence, he tried to stir up men's minds to the benefits and blessings puffing out in "Puffing Billy."
THE VISIT TO "PUFFING BILLY."
Stephenson rejoiced in such a friend. It was just what he and "Billy" most needed—somebody to introduce them into the great world. And Stephenson and his partner offered him a share in the profits of whatever business he could secure to them.