For a 5.5" lathe the bed was of massive proportions, heavily ribbed between the walls and carrying a Vee and flat for the saddle and another Vee and flat for the No. 3 Morse taper tailstock. It was manufactured from a seasoned iron casting that was first rough machined to break the external skin; this was followed by a series of heat treatments to relieve internal stresses before final machining. The bed was then hardened and finally ground to its finished dimensions. A detachable gap was offered as an option..
The Models designations for the various beds were:
1124P Plain bed 24" between centres
1124G Gap bed 24" between centres 
1140P Plain bed 40" between centres 
1140G Gap bed 40" between centres 
1324P Plain bed 24" between centres 
1324G Gap bed 24" between centres 
1340P Plain bed 40" between centres 
1340 G Gap Bed 40" between centres.. 

Only a single wall, with overhung gears, but still a neatly-engineered, easy-to-use and strong apron. More details of these lathes can be found HERE.