Jacob Herbert to Faraday   14 September 1853

Trinity House, London, | 14th September 1853.

My dear Sir,

The Board is about to cause a Bell, of not less than one Ton, and not exceeding two Tons in weight, to be fixed at the South Stack Light House, near Holyhead,- and I am directed to say, that it would be satisfactory to the Elder Brethren, to be favored with your views, as to the form of Belfry which may be best adapted to receive it;- with reference to the great object of the propulsion of it’s sound, in the direction in which it is required to be heard, that is to say,- seaward.

In their recent visit to Ireland, the Elder Brethren observed, that, at some of the Light Houses in that Country, which are provided with Bells, a sort of Dome was erected over the Bell; and the communication of your opinion, as to the benefit which such an adjunct may afford in the conveyance of the Sound will be acceptable.

It is probable, that the use of Bells may become more general than at present, at the Light Houses belonging to this Corporation,- and it is desirable, therefore, that the manner of their Suspension should be carefully considered.

In making this communication, allow me to draw your attention to your Letter of the 24 March last¹, having reference to this subject.

I remain, | My dear Sir, | Your very faithful Servant | J. Herbert

M. Faraday Esq. | &c &c &c

Address: M. Faraday Esq. | &c &c &c | Royal Institution | Albemarle Street