PREECE, Sir William Henry (1834-1913). Electrical engineer & administrator.
Autograph Letter Signed to the Editor of the New York Times, 3 pages 8vo, Penrhos, Carnarvon, 5 October 1907. Expressing a marked lack of faith in 'the commercial practicality of Wireless Telegraphy across the Atlantic' and admitting that, should he prove wrong, 'no one will more cheerfully congratulate Mr Marconi'.

'... I do not feel inclined to send any message until I feel quite assured that it will really be sent by atheric waves and not by submarine cable.'

When Marconi first appeared in England, Preece befriended and encouraged him. His later scepticism, however, resulted in his failure to secure government control of Marconi's patents, and brought him stern criticism.
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