WCP4311

[1]

[October 1871]¹

We, the undersigned, having for some time past, watched with considerable interest the progress of the controversy between MR. HAMPDEN² and MR. WALLACE, respecting the result of a trial on the Bedford Canal³, which took place in the early part of last year, touching the shape of the surface of that and all water in general, feel that it is time that such an important question should no longer be left to the legal opinions which one of the said parties seems so persistently to rely on; but that a Committee of the friends of truth and fair play should be formed who would no longer permit MR. HAMPDEN to bear the whole brunt of this controversy, but will take such steps as shall secure both parties a greater freedom of discussion as to the real merits of their respective theories; and, without prejudice or partiality, enable us to decide as to the true facts of the case. It is regarded as a suspicious circumstance that whereas, from the very commencement, MR. HAMPDEN has been most urgent and importunate for the fullest and freest investigation of facts, the other side has been equally persistent in resisting and opposing all such practical tests as might in any way disturb the verbal decision of MR. WALSH⁴. We consider that either side has at any time, a right to insist on an appeal to facts, in spite of any number of previous decisions; and also that Lawyers, simply as such, have no more to do with the actual merits of the case, in a scientific point of view, than a body of Astronomers or Geologists would have in an abstruse question of law.

The public interest in the subject is rapidly extending; and it is naturally asked — why the friends on one side should so suspiciously ignore all references to the dispute? If MR. HAMPDEN is, after all, proved to be wrong, we shall most unreservedly confess it; but, at the same time, the attempt to confine it to the interminable uncertainties of the law, is as prejudicial to the interest of the one as to the honor of the other. It is wholly and entirely a scientific subject, and in no sense whatever, one of a private or personal character.

The impression seems prevalent that MR. HAMPDEN is quite alone in his views; this is far from being the case. We are not ashamed to admit that his opinions deserve the most attentive consideration. They are by no means novel, and some of the greatest geniuses of their respective ages have entertained precisely the same ideas. But in saying this, we by no means intend to avow ourselves as blind partizans [sic] of the plane theory; our alone object is to eliminate the truth, and to secure for MR. HAMPDEN the fair play which is every Englishman's birthright.

We are most willing to give the greatest consideration to every practical argument which can be urged on the other side; but it is as derogatory to science as unfair to the parties themselves that it should resolve itself into a mere personal squabble or arena for legal strife. MR. HAMPDEN has most consistently repudiated such a mode of arbitration, and we hereby pledge ourselves to sustain his efforts to secure a practical solution of this important problem.

We recommend all who feel any interest in or wish for further particulars on the subject of the controversy, between MESSRS. HAMPDEN and WALLACE, to procure a Report⁵ just issued by MR. CARPENTER⁶, of the "Bedford Level" Survey. Few will fail to regret that such an unsatisfactory settlement should have caused so much annoyance to both parties concerned. The Pamphlet⁷ will be forwarded on application to MR. HAMPDEN, 3, Oxford Terrace, Chippenham, Wilts.

We shall be pleased to receive the Names of any Gentleman who will interest themselves in this subject, and aid us in eliciting and establishing the truth.⁷

Signed by 17 Men of honor.