James Walker to Faraday   30 May 1848

My dear Sir

The breaking of strong wrought Iron pillars, exposed to the strokes of the sea, such as pillars for supporting Beacons, is a plague to us.- One of these that was fixed upon a rock off the Cornish Coast (the Wolf) was 9 ins in diamr. and all above High water, yet broke in 2 places after having stood several years. Great care was supposed to have been taken in the quality of the Iron & the workmanship yet in place of bending which good Iron ought to have done it appears to have broken short away.

Serious disappointment & expence is the consequence. Upon this detail arise two questions 1st. Is the quality of this Iron damaged by the Salt water? (I am aware that cast Iron is) & 2d. Can you suggest a preventive if the evil does exist?

I know you will excuse this trouble I thus give you[.]

I am my dear Sir Truly Yours | Ja Walker

Gt Geo St | 30th May 1848.

M. Faraday Esq | &c &c &c