Of the good effects arising from a well-regulated system of inland navigation there can be no doubt; but at the same time it should be recollected, that in most instances these effects must be produced by slow and gradual means. There is probably no canal in Great Britain to which this observation may be applied with greater propriety than the Kennet and Avon. The difficulties to be encountered have sometimes been so great, as to present a very unpromising appearance as to its ultimate execution; but they have all been surmounted by the skill, perseverance and good management of the persons to whom its affairs have been entrusted. It was opened on the 28th of December, 1810, for public accommodation; and, when considered in connection with the other works which are now carrying on in the western counties, it promises to continue one of the most profitable concerns of the kind in this part of the united kingdom.
KENNET RIVER.
2 George I. Cap. 24, Royal Assent 21st September, 1715.
7 George I. Cap. 8, Royal Assent 23rd March, 1720.
3 George II. Cap. 13, Royal Assent 15th May, 1730.
As the interests of this navigation are merged in those of the Kennet and Avon Canal, in consequence of the provisions of an act obtained by that company, it will not be necessary to do more than recite the three acts obtained as above; the first is entitled, An Act to make time River Kennet navigable from Reading to Newbury, in the county of Berks. The second, An Act for enlarging the Time for making time River Kennet navigable from Reading to Newbury, in the county of Berks. A third act was obtained in the 3rd of George II. entitled, An Act for making the Acts of the Second and Seventh of his late Majesty's Reign, for making the River Kennet navigable from Reading to Newbury, in the county of Berks, more effectual. By these acts, the proprietors of the Kennet River were empowered to demand a rate of 4s. per ton on goods of every description conveyed thereon, but the Kennet and Avon Canal Proprietors, since they purchased this work, have only charged a rate of l½d. per ton per mile.
