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 from G.E.T. Eyston discussing preparations and a potential entry for the Le Mans race.
| Identifier | ExFiles\Box 160\3\ scan0268 | |
| Date | 19th February 1939 | |
| 1379 G.{Mr Griffiths - Chief Accountant / Mr Gnapp} E.{Mr Elliott - Chief Engineer} T. EYSTON. WHITEHALL 1996. 50, PALL MALL, S.W. 1. 19th February 1939. CONFIDENTIAL. W.A. Rowbotham Esq., Messrs Rolls Royce Ltd., DERBY. Dear Rm.{William Robotham - Chief Engineer}, I have reflected about Le Mans, and I think that you probably expect to hear from me about this, particularly in view of my driving the Bentley on the road circuit at Montlhery last week. I have every reason to believe that it would be worth while preparing two saloon cars forthwith, and if the trials were satisfactory to have them in the race. I would be prepared to throw my weight into this business, in whatever capacity you think fit. I could, for instance, offer to organise and supervise the effort and test the car. I probably could do better work if I did not drive in the actual Race, but I have Charlie Dodson and S.C.H. Davis to name two for that, if we can come to a decision now. I think if you are contemplating Le Mans for publicity purposes we should start in on the job forthwith, as there is no time to be lost. Tests should be done on the road circuit at Montlhery at once with the engines, transmission and brake gear you contemplate using. Arrangements should be made to produce two streamlined saloon bodies on the lines of the "record-breaker" with something different in the way of windscreens and ventilation. Subject to a satisfactory 24 hours trial on the Montlhery road circuit and 12 laps of the Le Mans Course itself, and subsequent satisfactory strip, then I would suggest preparing two cars for Le Mans for serious business. As you know, this Le Mans Race has to be tackled whole-heartedly or left alone. We can economise in cost in many directions from experience in these matters, and naturally you must decide now to throw your whole weight into the affair if you decide to go ahead. | ||