«Linville and the Keystone Bridge Company became involved with the design and construction of a bridge over the Mississippi at St. Louis in 1867. James Eads had been selected as the Chief Engineer for the bridge on March 23, 1867 and had proposed a three-span arched bridge built with steel. In 1866 the Federal Government ruled the bridge should have one span with a clearance of 500 ft or two spans of 350 ft with a clearance of 50 ft at the center of the span above high water level. Eads presented his first design with a center span of 515 ft and two side spans of 497 ft. At this time Eads had never built a bridge, especially one of this size. Carnegie was very anxious to land this job for the Keystone Bridge Company. J. Edgar Thomson and Thomas Scott, two of Linville’s main supporters suggested that Linville be named as a consulting engineer for the project. Eads and the bridge company had little choice in the matter if they wanted the support of the Pennsylvania Railroad men, and Linville was appointed in early May 1867. Carnegie encouraged Eads to show his plans to “the one man in the United States who knew the subject best—our Mr. Linville”
(Carnegie 1920). He met with Eads shortly after and after reviewing the plans Linville told Carnegie “the bridge if built upon these plans will not stand up; it will not carry its own weight…I cannot consent or imperil my reputation by appearing to encourage or approve of its adoption. I deem it entirely unsafe and impracticable, as well as in fault in the quality of durability”
(Carnegie 1920). Carnegie responded “Well Captain Eads will come to see you, in talking over the matter explain this to him gently, get it into proper shape, lead him into the straight path and say nothing to other.”
(Carnegie 1920).»