V -Memoir of fleeming Jenkin

In this chapter of the “Memoir of Fleeming Jenkin,” Jenkin recounts a particularly arduous journey at sea that involved struggles with illness, a difficult transfer to shore, and issues with a telegraph cable short by sixty yards making it incapable of reaching the shore. Despite these challenges, Jenkin and his crew managed to make a significant advancement by connecting the cable to the telegraph station, enabling the first messages to be sent to London and Lowestoft on October 3rd. The importance of this accomplishment is highlighted by the personal note Jenkin adds about the messages sent, including the first one by Miss Clara Volkman to Mrs. Reuter, using a unique method facilitated by Mr. Varley. Although the success was substantial, Jenkin describes his inability to fully enjoy the moment due to his weakened state caused by pain and fever.

Furthermore, Jenkin introduces the 1869 cruise on the GREAT EASTERN, expressing regret that he can’t provide more details for the sake of the ship, which by then had already become legendary. He lists the key members of the staff for the mission, indicating their significance to future stories related to the GREAT EASTERN. The list includes notable figures such as Theophilus Smith, Leslie C. Hill, Lord Sackville Cecil, and Sir James Anderson among others, with Captain Halpin leading the ship. This sets the stage for anticipated adventures and technical feats aboard the vessel, hinting at the detailed and possibly groundbreaking telegraphy work that lies ahead. Jenkin’s portrayal of these events and people provides a compelling glimpse into the early days of undersea telegraphy and the challenges they overcame.