This pamphlet appears to have had some connection with means for giving publicity to the formation of a public company for carrying out the great design on a sufficiently large and remunerative scale. The author, or editor, was James Rollock, who here flourishes in a poetical vein, observing, “After the Act of Parliament, there is here set down a Latin Elogium, and an English Panegirick, both of them composed through duty and gratitude by an ancient servant of his Lordship’s.” He afterwards adds: “This ancient servant of his Lordship’s, hath for forty years been an eye witness of his great ingenuity, indefatigable pains, and vast expences in perfecting for publique service, not onely this most Stupendious Water-commanding Engine, but likewise several other rare, useful, and never formerly heard of Mathematical conclusions, of which he hath owned a Century, and thereunto I refer you: though this alone were enough to eternalize his Name to all Ages and future times.”
The “Definition” given in the pamphlet agrees with that which has already appeared in the “Life, Times, &c.,” pages 224, 225, from another source, and is here stated as follows:—
“The Engine consisteth of the following Particulars;
“1. A perfect Counterpoize for what Quantity soever of Water.
“2. A perfect Countervail for what Height soever it is to be brought unto.
“3. A Primum Mobile commanding both Height and Quantity Regulator-wise.
“4. A Vicegerent or Countervail supplying the place, and performing the full force of a Man, Wind, Beast, or Mill.
“5. A Helm or Stern, with Bitt and Reins, wherewith any Child may guide, order, and control the whole Operation.
“6. A particular Magazine for Water, according to the intended Quantity or Height of Water.
“7. An Aquaduct capable of any intended Quantity or Height of Water.