Most of The Engineer's readers were aware that launches driven by oil engines had been made for some time Messrs. Priestman Bros., and that barges propelled by oil engines had been at work for some time on the Manchester Ship Canal Works. In early June 1892 Priestman Brothers had had one of their launches (length, 36ft.; beam, 7 ft 3 in.; depth 4ft. 6in.) on exhibition in the Thames, running to various parts up and down the river fro the Westminster and other piers to demonstrate the more positive aspects of using oil.