From the Rolls-Royce experimental archive: a quarter of a million communications from Rolls-Royce, 1906 to 1960's. Documents from the Sir Henry Royce Memorial Foundation (SHRMF).
Letter discussing progress and issues with various Bentley projects, including the 'Corniche' and 'Embiricos' models.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 146\5\ scan0139 | |
| Date | 20th April 1939 | |
| 1245 To Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer} Derby Levallois Sr.2/ET.20.4.39 Dictated 19.4.39 Further to the telephone conversation I had with you this morning, I hereby confirm that the progress on the Paulin "Corniche" Bentley is such that there should be no difficulty in having the front ready for inspection on the 1st May. I take this opportunity of informing you that this car is beginning to look very nice and I think that all and sundry will be pleased with the first effort. Although the chassis is being fitted with a very spacious body, the ensemble nevertheless appears very thoroughbred, which after all is what we have been trying to achieve. The next point is how many cars will be required for the Motor Show. I presume one in Paris and one in London for the Stands and a demonstration car in Paris and one in London, in other words 4 cars would therefore be necessary. Would you please confirm this as soon as possible. Of course, the final decision can only be taken after you have inspected the car on 1st May, but we should not like to have to hurry things too much in order to get the cars ready for the Motor Show. Your telegram to Punt received this morning explains the position with regard to the shock absorbers. Will you send the roll rod connections or other parts in order to complete the under cowling, as Paulin who I saw this morning is anxious to have this part. Would you send it, if possible, by air mail. In future models, we will have seriously to consider the position of the gear and brake levers as, owing to the width of the car, these are out of place. Surely, on this type of car, it would be better to have a central gear shift? With regard to Embiricos' Bentley, he is delighted with the performance, but cannot use the car, owing to an extraordinary front end shake, similar to a high speed wobble, which lasts over more than 20 Kms. (from 112 to 140 K.P.H.). We have checked everything, but cannot get rid of this feature and Paulin, who has been asked to help in the matter, definitely states that it is due to having suppressed his radiator mounting. It is therefore urgent that we should receive all the bits and pieces to put the car back into its former state, as it is quite impossible to use it at present. Furthermore, the gear box has more or less fallen to pieces and, before you receive this, you will be au fait with the numerous replacement parts we require. Please do your best to accelerate delivery as the owner is now really getting very angry. Coming back to the roller steering question, I am glad to note that we are now receiving delivery of 100% rollers. There | ||