| Title | LSP, 8 May 1854 (in the hand of William Longsdon). It would be well to suspend opinions or judgement on everything and everybody and hear all.
Looks to WL [Longsdon] to unravel truth. Thinks may be some truth in charges against ..................... Has done all sorts of things without consulting anyone or informing English shareholders - such as opposing Grand T[runk] purchasing Erie and Ontario, commencing Sawnia branch, building steamers, incurring great liabilities for rolling stock. Is it true that Erie and Ontario purchase was studiously concealed? Then something is radically wrong. [last paragraph annotated: to see for minutes of proceedings].
Have association directors been consulted on all things board should know? American dividends can only be paid by following American system. Is it not desirable to appoint one good common Superintendent for Traffic and Locomotive business confining Mr B's attentions to indoor business?
Writer has been engaged in negotiations for various contracts and agencies for raising capital for Railways in America and some of them in Great Western district - This had perfect right to do whilst unconnected with Great Western Line but having taken a responsible position, writer has written out to stop all negotiations in question. He is concerned so that he may have no interest inconsistent with duty.
On any questions affecting new lines or branches, William Longsdon, while offering independent advice to keep in mind that English shareholders have decided wish to abstain from all new branches or extensions for present, if to be done without serious danger from competition.
Will probably find Sir C C R. desirous of maintaining a good understanding with Great Western. co. which may facilitate settlement of existing questions. |