Handwritten letter to Messrs Moule & Gore from Mr Ludlow Bruges

Sept 2nd 1845
Dear Sirs

I am informed of the Melksham Turnpike Meeting on the 9th by your letter and regret that my absence from home will preclude my attendance. As regards the subject of the Railway passing the North Road on a level I return the opinion before & expressed that it will be so just an obstruction to the thoroughfare that it is not be permitted. Gates must be always closed across the Road [underlined] to be opened only when [underlined] and for such time [underlined] as the guard stationed there may think safe; and when trains are expected though probably much after time [underlined] the Public must be detained until the expected train has passed or been accounted for. The possibility of express trains would from their necessity be more inconvenient. With respect to a Bridge it is simply a question of expence, not to be …… in such a case. The execution of the work presents no difficulty but is perfectly practicable at an easy direction. Mr Phillips informed me he had looked to that point and was satisfied that the ascent would not exceed under any circumstances 1 in 20.

I am Dear Sirs
Yours faithfully
JM Ludlow Bayes

Messrs Maule & Gore

PS Although I have mentioned above a gradient of l in 20 the Trust should adhere to the agreement if more favourable.