Faraday to Roderick Impey Murchison   4 December 1855

Royal Institution | 4 Decr. 1855

My dear Sir Roderick

Dr Arnott¹ & I have been over the Museum building this morning², very carefully:- have seen the drawings, papers &c; and have had I think, no great difficulties in forming our opinions:- I now give you mine. In regard to the asphalt as used at the building, i.e considering its mixed condition, its position and small quantity; I find no reason to be alarmed at it. I do not see how, either by lightning or otherwise, from external causes, it could be a source of fire to the building; nor, if the building itself were on fire in any part, do I think it would tend to spread fire to other parts. I see no objection to its use as it is now applied.

As to the hot water pipes; we examined certain of the spaces and passages, in which those of one of the hottest arrangments are placed. I saw no signs of their ever having been overheated; and, if the precautions which are given as instructions to the man in charge are attended to, I see no reason why the heat should ever rise to a dangerous point. The spaces where the pipes pass, seem to be well guarded; as they ought to be. I understand the arrangements have been in use many years; and yet I am told that no signs of scorching, either of dust, brooms cloths, pieces of wood, paper or other such substances have appeared any where: Of course I can give only a limited opinion for I cannot tell what may be, that I have not seen. But in regard to what I have seen (and there was no variation) there was nothing which raised in my mind any doubt of the good and safe action of the arrangements.

I spoke of the lightning arrangements to Mr. Denison³ the Clerk of the works; he will tell you, what I said should be done.

I am My dear Sir Roderick | Ever truly Yours | M. Faraday

Sir Roderick Murchison Bart | &c &c &c