1. We are of opinion that the labours of Mr. Babbage, firstly on his Difference Engine, and secondly on his Analytical Engine, are a marvel of mechanical ingenuity and resource.

2. We entertain no doubt as to the utility of such an engine as was in his contemplation when he undertook the invention of his analytical engine, supposing it to be successfully constructed and maintained in efficiency.

3. We do not consider that the possibilities of its misuse are any serious drawback to its use or value.

4. Apart from the question of its saving labour in operations now possible, we think the existence of such an instrument would place within reach much which, if not actually impossible, has been too close to the limits of human skill and endurance to be practically available.

5. We have come to the conclusion that in the present state of the design of the engine it is not possible for us to form any reasonable estimate of its cost, or of its strength and durability.

6. We are also of opinion that, in the present state of the design, it is not more than a theoretical possibility; that is to say, we do not consider it a certainty that it could be constructed and put together so as to run smoothly and correctly, and to do the work expected of it.

7. We think that there remains much detail to be worked out, and possibly some further invention needed, before the design can be brought into a state in which it would be possible to judge whether it would really so work.

8. We think that a further cost would have to be incurred in order to bring the design to this stage, and that it is just possible that a mechanical failure might cause this expenditure to be lost.

9. While we are unable to frame any exact estimates, we have reason to think that the cost of the engine, after the drawings are completed, would be expressed in tens of thousands of pounds at least.

10. We think there is even less possibility of forming an opinion as to its strength and durability than as to its feasibility or cost.

11. Having regard to all these considerations, we have come, not without reluctance, to the conclusion, that we cannot advise the British Association to take any steps, either by way of recommendation or otherwise, to procure the construction of Mr. Babbage’s Analytical Engine and the printing tables by its means.