The history of the first locomotives in America. From original ...

EXPLOSION OF "BEST FRIEND." 155
accident occurred at a switch, wMcli is explained by
Mr. Allen, the chief engineer, and which called for a
new order from the directors, which we will insert as
an illustration of our remarks in the case of the explo-
sion:
" To Elias Hoeet, Esq., Pkesident—
" Charleston, May 14, 1831.
"Sie: I hasten to communicate the causes which produced the
accident of yesterday afternoon. It originated in the wild derangement
of the tongue, which guides the wheel through the
turnout, by some ill-disposed person, and was rendered injurious to
the car by the imprudent speed allowed by those who had the
management of the engine—the tongue having been nailed to its
proper position, but was made loose by removing the fastening,
and was probably shaken from its place by the speed with which
the engine and one car had preceded the one injured. Directions
have been given to pass the turnout at moderate speed, and the
attention of the person in charge to be constantly kept on the road
in advance of the engine.
" Respectfully, your obedient servant,
"HoEATio Allen."
Extract from the minutes, July 3, 1831, in reference
to the order ahove alluded to by Mr. Allen
" Hesolved, That in future not over twenty-five passengers be
allowed to go on each car. That the locomotive shall not travel
at a greater speed when there is attached:
" One car and passengers at fifteen miles an hour.
" Two cars and passengers at twelve miles an hour.
" Three cars and passengers at ten miles an hour.
" And that directions be given to that efiect."
The foregoing will no doubt draw a smile upon the
faces of engineers and railroad-men of the present day.
It only serves to show the crudeness of railroad experi-
ence, at that early day, of locomotives.
The following letter from Mr. Nicholas W. Darrell,
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: