CHAPTER XV.
JAMES NASMYTH.
Traditional origin of the Naesmyths Alexander Nasmyth the painter, and his family Early years of James Nasmyth The story of his life told by himself Becomes a pupil of Henry Maudslay How he lived and worked in London Begins business at Manchester Story of the invention of the Steam Hammer The important uses of the Hammer in modern engineering Invents the steam pile-driving machine Designs a new form of steam-engine Other inventions How he "Scotched" a strike Uses of strikes Retirement from business Skill as a draughtsman Curious speculations on antiquarian subjects Mr.Nasmyth's wonderful discoveries in Astronomy described by Sir John Herschel.