J. H. Smith, Report of J. H. Smith Special Railway Commissioner, upon the Administration, Organisation and Working of the Natal Government Railways (London: Waterlow & Sons Ltd, 1903).

The system of platelaying adopted by American Engineers, which is almost universal over their 200,000 miles of Railways, is that known as the 'broken' joint. Although engineers in different countries have divergent views as to the merits of the plan, it cannot be gainsaid that American engineers have an extensive experience, and that they are quick to grasp the value of any system which will improve the road. It has been successfully demonstrated in America that the derailment of engines and vehicles is far less than was formerly the case, and that the running of the trains is much smoother and more agreeable to passengers. At the present time all steam pumps used in connection with the watering arrangements are maintained by the Locomotive Department. They should be under the care of, and maintained by the Engineering Department. Any electrical pumps should be maintained by the Electrical Department.