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born in Massachusetts, was engaged in business in New York till 1853. He conceived the idea of a submarine telegraph across the Atlantic, and formed the New York, Newfoundland and London Telegraph Company, consisting of Peter Cooper, Moses Taylor, Marshall Roberts and Chandler White. The necessary rights for fifty years were obtained, and communication was secured in 1858, but the cable proved worthless after a few weeks. The Atlantic Telegraph Company was formed and attempts were made with the "Great Eastern" in 1865 and 1866, the last of which was completely successful. For this great achievement he was honored both at home and abroad. After this success he was active in improving the rapid transit system of New York.