Letter from Timothy Hackworth, Soho Engine Works, Shildon to unknown recepients

Soho Engine Words, Shildon
Durham 16th Sept 1843
Gentlemen,
My son John W. Hackworth has been thoroughly instructed in the Locomotive Department and perfectly understands the Construction of every part of the Locomotive Engine; He is a married man without issue. –

Few Men if any have had more experience than myself; for thirty years past I have been engaged in the Construction of Locoe Engines, and have seen the great advances that have been made. – The major part of my business habits for the last eighteen and a half years have necessarily been directed to the improvement of that mode of power – Fifteen of which I was manager and Contractor under the Stockton & Darlington Railway Co. – My Son of course has had the advantage of all my experience and has been superintendant in my works. –
Should my son be successful, I intend a younger brother of his to fill his situation in my own establishment.
I am, Gentlemen
With due regard
Yours most respectfully
Timothy Hackworth

PS When the race was run
upon the Liverpool & Manchester
Railway – I run a very good second. –
T.H