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Literature.

An Essay on Hydrographical Engineering, as appli cable to Floating Sea Barriers, Harbours, Batteries, Coast Defences, and Naval Fortifications. By Captain ADDERLEY SLEIGH, K.T.S., F.R.S.L., &c. With Illustrations. London: Peller, 31 Poultry; and Stanford, Charing Cross. 1859. WHEN we inform the reader that this work consists of only 58 pages of large leaded type, in a green paper wrapper-that its "illustrations" are lithographs from some of the roughest pen-andink sketches that we have ever seen-and that the main topic of the whole is a certain invention of the author's-he (the reader) will scarcely be induced to pay for it the sum of ten shillings, which Captain Adderley Sleigh modestly asks for it. We cannot look at this pamphlet without being instantly reminded of a work which, a short time since, passed under the notice of ourselves and our readers-Mr. Calver's pamphlet on the "Wave Screen" (J. Weale, 1858). The objects of both pamphlets are identical inasmuch as they were both written in advocacy of certain forms of sea barriers; but Mr. Calver's is not only the sounder, and in all respects the better book, but it is also, by very much, the cheaper of the two. There is also a great difference between the structures recommended by these two officers. Captain Sleigh advocates floating, Mr. Calver fixed, breakwaters: the former would incline their surfaces; the latter would make them vertical. There is much to be said in favour of, and much against, the plans of both. But there can be no question as to the relative capabilities of the two writers to discuss the subject. Captain Sleigh moves over the surfaces of many things. He was once in the Royal Navy; subsequently he joined the Land Transport Corps; now he is in neither. He is, moreover, the author of "A System of Mili tary Portable Telegraphic Communication;" also, of a treatise on the "Nautical Re-organisation of the Mercantile Marine, and Manning the Navy by Voluntary Enrolment;" also, of a brochure on The Amazon, or Suggestions for Preventing the Loss of Steam Ships;" also, of a set of "Climatic Statistics of Great Britain," &c., &c. He has now alighted upon batteries, harbours, coast deiences, and so forth. We could scarcely expect anything very sound, or very profound, from such a source; and the pamphlet before us shows that if we had expected it, we should have been disappointed. With Mr. Calver the case is wholly diferent. He is by profession an hydrographer, and has for many years been the Admiralty Surveyor on the East Coast of England. His work answers to our knowledge of him.

Proceedings of Societies.

ROYAL AGRICULTURAL OF ENGLAND.

July 6-Monthly Council; the Duke of Marlhorough, President, in the chair. New members were elected. The usual monthly report of the Finance Committee was received. The thanks of the Council were voted to the Finance Committee for their past

services.

Mr. Thompson, Chairman of the Journal Com

mittee, reported :

1. That in class III., Essay on Steam Cultivation, the prize of £25 is awarded to the Essay bearing the motto "Faint but pursuing," and on the seal being broken Mr. J. Algernon Clarke, of Long Sutton, was declared the author.

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IX. Any other agricultural subject
4. The reprint of Dr. Lang's prize Essay on Potatoes
is now laid on the table, and recommended to be
sold at the following prices:-

1d. each, or 6s. per 100 to Members of the Society.
1d. each, or 9s. per 100 to Non-Members.
Lord Leigh, chairman of the General Warwick
Committee, presented the report of the Committee
in reference to details connected with the Warwick
meeting. Mr. Pain was elected one of the Stewards
of Show-yard receipts in place of Lord Portman, who
will be unable to attend.

soluble in fuming nitric acid, while ordinary nitric O acid and dilute nitric acid produce a similar re-action on both. In no one case can there be said to be a decided difference. Further experiments were made by dissolving similar quantities of gutta-percha and gum in equal portions of naphtha and turpentine respectively, and after pouring the solutions from the sediment, allowing them to evaporate at the ordinary temperature of the atmosphere. After standing to evaporate the solvent, the gutta-percha in each case had returned to its original condition, while the gum was soft and sticky, except when submitted to a considerable degree of cold, when it became brittle and friable as at first. From these results it will be seen that the gum alone could not be used for similar purposes to which gutta-percha is applied. Experiments were made in order to ascertain how far the gum could be mixed with gutta-percha without interfering to any great extent with the properties of the latter, and mixtures were made containing 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, From an examination of these mixtures it would appear that from 20 to 30 per cent. of the gum may be added to the gutta-percha without any material difference being noticed in the mixture to the gutta-percha alone. But it is necessary to observe, that these mixtures have not been put to the test of sunlight, air, &c., which are known to decay gutta-percha more or less, according to the nature of the gutta-percha (gutta-percha not being a perfectly definite substance) and the time it may be exposed, as their application may have to extend over some years before a result could be obtained of any value.

Various communications were laid before the

Council, and it was decided what replies should be 50, 60, and 70 per cent. of the gum and gutta-percha. given thereto by the Hon. Secretary.

Our Weekly Gossip.

The Surgical Instrument Committee, which had just been appointed and organised at the time of the last report, has commenced its labours; and its various Sub-Committees, into which it has been divided, have prepared a complete catalogue of the instruments and apparatus employed for the investigation and treatment of disease. This list, drawn up under the direction of the several Sub-Committees, awaits now the formal sanction of the General Committee previous to its being published. Such a catalogue has long been wanting in the profession.

THE civil service estimates for the year ending March
31st, 1860, are now in the hands of Parliament and
the public in a printed form; and they certainly
furnish information interesting to the latter who
have "to pay," if not to the former who voted, the
prescribed amount. Taking the estimate for the
Royal Mint, we find that it presents a rather favour-
able aspect as compared with that for the last finan
cial year, and a marked improvement in comparison
with those of former years. Last year the amount
required to defray the expenditure of the Mint,
including coinage, was £36,639; this year it is
£35,052 5s. 3d.; giving thus a reduction of £1,586
14s. 9d. Sundry variations in the details of the two
estimates go to account for this difference. For
instance, last year, under the head of "extraordinary
expenses," were the charges for a new forty-horse
power steam engine, a pair of rolls, &c., amounting
to £2,745. This year "extraordinary expenses
The Artistic Copyright Committee of last year
are set down at nil. The loss, too, on silver coin having made its report, embodying the principles
withdrawn from circulation for recoinage, which in
upon which an amendment of the law of copyright
sinks to £9,600. There is a saving, too, in the item requirements of the public on the one hand and of the
1858-9 amounted to the average £10,000, this year in works of art should be based, as likely to meet the
of wages of artificers in the die department, caused artist on the other, it became the duty of the
by a diminution in their numbers to one half, of Council at once to endeavour to procure the passing
£512 28. 4d.; whilst as regards the same class of of an Act of Parliament to secure such an amended
workmen in the coining department, a reduction is law of copyright. With that view a small Com-
shown to the extent of one man, and £41 12s. wages.mittee, as an executive, over which Sir Charles East-
Then, as set-offs to these prunings down, come items lake, P.R.A., consented to preside, was appointed,
of additional expenditure in the shape of £5,000 for and numerous meetings having been held, a Bill was
the expenses of silver coinage against £3,000 for the settled which it was hoped would have been before
previous year; the ever-growing salaries of certain the Legislature during this Session of Parliament,
privileged officers, and other more trifling matters, but the unexpected dissolution of Parliament,
leaving in the end the aggregate saving as shown and the consequent interruption of business, has pre-
above. The expenses for coining gold and copper are vented the subject from being investigated at present.
put down at the same sum for both years, namely, The Council, however, will still use their best exer-
£6,666 and £1,500 respectively.
tions to bring the matter before Parliament at the
earliest time possible.

From the Annual Report of the Society of Arts we
gather interesting intelligence respecting the opera-
tions of the several committees appointed by that
Society in furtherance of scientific and artistic objects.
The Gutta Percha committee has met several times,
and is carrying out systematically its experiments.
The Committee have had under their consideration
the properties of the substance called "Pauchontee,"
an Indian gum, alluded to in the Council's report of
last year as the produce of a tree of the same genus as
This substance has been carefully analysed and ex-
that from which the true gutta-percha is produced.
perimented upon, and a report as to its nature and
properties has been sent, as requested, to the Indian
Government. For this report, and the experiments
and analyses, the Society are indebted to Mr. Dugald
Campbell, one of the members of the Committee.
From this report it appears that at the ordinary
temperature it is hard and brittle, but upon the
addition of heat, such as that caused by friction in a
mortar, it becomes sticky and viscid, and when once
this condition is reached, it does not after the lapse of
several days assume its original consistence. When
boiled with water, it becomes of a reddish brown
colour, rendering the water turbid and slightly
saponaceous. Experiments were made with a view
to compare the properties of the gum with those of
gutta-percha. For this purpose, the comportment
0 of each, when brought into contact with various
chemical re-agents in similar conditions, was parti-
cularly noticed, and the results are shown in a table
accompanying the report. With some of the re-agents,
the behaviour of the gum is precisely similar to that
of the gutta-percha, while with others only a slight
similarity is to be observed. Both seem to be nearly

2. That in class VII. none of the Essays are con-
sidered worthy of the prize.
3. The following list of the subjects for prize Essays
for 1860 is recommended to the Council:-

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III. Alterations advisable in farm manage-
meat, in land of different qualities, by
low price of grain and high price of
IV. Late improvements in dairy practice 10 0 0
V. Proper office of straw in a farm... 10 0 O

meat

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The Council of the same Society have had under their consideration the best means of rendering the action of the Society available for obtaining and diffusing among the public of this country informa tion in reference to the productions, resources, and capabilities of the Colonies, and with that view a Committee was appointed early in the session to take charge of the subject. That Committee commenced its labours by seeking and obtaining the aid of the Society more fully to carry out its object. Sir Edward Secretary of State for the Colonies to enable the assistance as might be required, and, at the request of Bulwer Lytton at once consented to give such official the Council, called the attention of the Governors of our Colonies to the wishes and objects of the Society as expressed in a letter addressed to Lord Carnarvon, the Under Secretary, in which the Council state that the best measures for obtaining the object in view would be-1. That such Colonies as consider that the meetings and proceedings of the Society of Arts would at all serve to give publicity to their resources, and tend to increase the demand for their productions, should select some competent person, or existing Society in the Colony, to frame a complete statement of the points upon which it is considered that the public of the mother-country are not sufficiently informed. 2. That the individual or public body thus selected should at once be put in direct communication with the Society of Arts. 3. That the person or persons thus chosen should also designate, and obtain the consent of, some well-informed person in this country, either himself to read, at an evening meeting of the Society, the paper prepared in the colony, or to confer with the Council as to the best method of securing

The

their common objects. Further proceedings may be later indicated, or may arise from the steps proposed. Should any Colony consider that a different course of proceeding would better suit the peculiar circumstances of that Colony, the Society of Arts will be quite prepared to receive such suggestions. result has been that several of the Colonies are already in communication with the Society, and more will, no doubt, be added to the list before the Society resumes its meetings in November next, or when a sufficient time has elapsed for replies to be received.

Patents for Inventions.

ABRIDGED SPECIFICATIONS OF PATENTS.

THE abridged Specifications of Patents given below are classified, according to the subjects to which the respective inventions refer, in the following table. By the system of classification adopted, the numerical and chronological order of the specifications is preserved, and combined with all the advantages of a division into classes. It should be understood that these abridgements are prepared exclusively for this Magazine from official copies supplied by the Government, and are therefore the property of the proprietors of this Magazine. Other papers are hereby warned not to produce them without acknowledgement :STEAM ENGINES, &c., 2742.

BOILERS AND THEIR FURNACES, 2729, 2731, 2744. ROADS AND VEHICLES, including railway plant and carriages, saddlery and harness, &c., 2725, 2736, 2747, 2751, 2759.

SHIPS AND BOATS, including their fittings, 2721, 2752. CULTIVATION OF THE SOIL, including agricultural and horticultural implements and machines, 2734, 2748. FOOD AND BEVERAGES, including apparatus for preparing food for men and animals, 2755.

FIBROUS FABRICS, including machinery for treating fibres, pulp, paper, &c., 2727, 2741.

BUILDINGS AND BUILDING MATERIALS, including sewers, drain-pipes, brick and tile machines, &c., 2746, 2769. LIGHTING, HEATING, AND VENTILATING, 2739, 2740, 2764, 2768.

FURNITURE AND APPAREL, including household utensils, time-keepers, jewellery, musical instruments, &c., 2724, 2730, 2735, 2743, 2780, 2763, 2766.

METALS, including apparatus for their manufacture. None.
CHEMISTRY AND PHOTOGRAPHY, 2753, 2761.
ELECTRICAL APPARATUS, 2732.
WARFARE, 2762.

LETTER PRESS PRINTING &c., 2767.
MISCELLANEOUS, 2722, 2723, 2726, 2728, 2733, 2737, 2738,
2745, 2749, 2750, 2754, 2756, 2757, 2758, 2765, 2770.

2721. J. GRESHAM. Improvements in apparatus for preserving ships' papers, and other papers and writings, in case of the loss of, or accident to a ship whilst at sea. Dated November 29, 1858.

This consists in a buoy so constructed as not to sink in the event of its becoming water-logged, and to this end it is lined with cork between the cylinder and outside case. To distinguish it from other floating bodies it has raised conspicuously upon its surface a silvered globe. Patent completed.

2722. G. J. BENSEN, Improvements in cleansing or purifying animal charcoal after it has been employed by sugar refiners. Dated November 29, 1858.

Here the charcoal is placed in a vessel within which is a perforated false bottom; the charcoal is laid on this faise bottom in a layer of uniform thickness, and the liquid with which the washing is to be performed is run on to the surface of the charcoal. A partial vacuum is then produced by pumps or otherwise in the space between the bottom of the vessel and the under surface of the false bottom, and this causes the washing liquid to pass respectively through the layer of charcoal, which is thus cleansed. In a similar manner air may be drawn through the charcoal and steam may be blown through it by leading steam by a pipe into the space between the bottoms of the vessel. The charcoal may be afterwards revivified by burning. Patent abandoned.

2723. D. EVANS and G. JONES. Improvements in air pumps and water gouges. Dated November 29, 1858. Here a cylinder or barrel is used having three posts one near each end, and one in the middle of its length; within this barrel or cylinder two solid pistons are used which are fixed to the ends of their respective piston rods, one of which piston rods is hollow to admit of the outer piston rod sliding or working through it. These piston rods are worked by cranks so that the pistons alternately come towards and recede from each other. When they are coming towards each other the fluid between them is driven out at the middle part or opening, when they are receding from each other the fluid is driven out through the two end parts or openings, the middle part and the end parts alternately acting as induction and eduction ways. On the exterior of the cylinder or barrel is a valve box within which a slide valve is used capable of opening a way between the two end passages or parts and the main eduction way of the pump when the middle passages or part is acting as an induction way, and also capable of opening a way between the main outlet way of the pumps and the middle part or passages when the two end parts are acting as induction ways. The fluid is received into the valve box from whence it passes into the barrel of the pump, and is thence forced into the main outlet of the pump. When constructing a pump with two barrels, as described,

it is preferred to use only one valve box and one slide valve for the two cylinders. Patent completed.

2724. J. LUIS. A watch simplified with anchor escapements and rack, forming a double lever, catching in the (A communication.) pinion of its balance wheel.

November 30, 1858.

Dated

The mounting of this watch is composed of a pallet plate on which is fastened the whole machinery of the watch, and on the surface the ordinary dial work of a watch is placed. The stop is fixed on the axle of the winding-up wheel as well as the dial. On the face is placed the machinery of the watch. The pallet plate forms the principal part of the box, and it is furnished with two hinges to receive the back of the box and the rim of the glass. A tail piece, with its eye or ring, is added to the pieces above mentioned. A hollow part in the pallet plate receives the spring and serves as an immovable barrel arbor; a wheel placed beneath turns of itself; to the middle of this wheel a spring ratchet wheel is fixed by a round axle passing throughout it, and turning at soft friction. When the watch is wound up in the core hole, round which the spring winds, the two pieces being adjusted together, the rachet wheel catches in its wheel, and presents the opening where the key is placed to wind up the watch on the side of the dial. The watch can be made to wind up at the back if desired. Patent abandoned.

2725. J. Luis. A new railroad with continued supports splintered together without any wood being used. (A communication.) Dated November 30, 1858. This consists in replacing wood by iron in the construction of railroads. It has for principle the direct support of the rail on the ballast in its whole length, and to give it the necessary stability by adding to the bar an auxiliary surface so as to obtain the same size of surface for support as in the road having cross beams. This auxiliary surface is not manufactured in one single piece with the rail, but at the time of placing the rails it is bound with it by hooks and belts of iron. Patent abandoned.

2726. A. A. BURTON. A moveable face and handle for smoothing irons. Dated November 30, 1858.

smoothing iron, open at the top, having a toe or front coverHere the stone is a hollow box similar in form to the ing piece to hold the iron in it, and at the other extremity a loose swing handle which doubles over the smooting iron handle. Patent abandoned.

2727. A. MARKS. Improvements in the manufacture of braided articles. Dated November 30, 1858.

This consists in causing a core of wood (or other material which is too rigid to permit of its being wound on reels and passed over pulleys) to travel while the braiding threads are being laid on it, so as to allow the work to be produced at all times at or very near one point, whatever be the length of core employed. The core is placed in a tube passing through the centre of the table, and rising above it nearly to the point where the braid is formed, and as the braid is produced the core is drawn up out of the tube by a cord passing over a pulley placed over the centre of the table, at a distance above it greater than that of the largest core to be covered. This cord passes to a take-up motion, and the tube serves as a guide to the core to keep it central while the core is being drawn up. When the core is not sufficiently stiff to remain straight in its length while it is being braided upon, it is kept straight by being held in a state of tension by a weight or spring. Patent abandoned.

2728. D. THOMSON. Improvements in machinery for raising water and other liquids. Dated Nov. 30, 1858.

The inventor constructs a wheel similar to an overshot water wheel, but with each bucket covered throughout the greater part of its length, leaving only a mouth open for the entrance and exit of the water. These buckets descend into the water as the wheel revolves, and come up full of water or nearly so. At the upper part of the wheel the water is discharged into a trough which is placed to receive it. Holes or passages may be made for ventilating the buckets or allowing the air to escape and enter as the water flows in and out. The wheel may be made to discharge at the circumference, or at the side, or at both sides, as may be desired. When variations occur in the level of the liquid to be raised the wheel is mounted on a shaft which can be raised and lowered while still remaining in gear with the driving pinion, &c., and the receiving trough may also be raised and lowered when required. Patent abandoned.

2729. J. THow and T. M. HALL. Preventing the fusion of fire-bars in locomotive or other furnaces. Dated Nov. 30, 1858.

This consists in placing a small pipe running transversely under the heel of the fire-bars. In this pipe holes are to be drilled, one opposite to each space between the bars. On turning a cock with which this pipe is furnished, a jet of water will be thrown between the bars along their whole length, and the effect will be that the bars will be kept at a comparatively low temperature, and thus their fusion and all adherence thereto will be prevented. Patent completed. 2730. A. E. C. SCHEIDEL. Improvements in fastenings for belts, braces, garters, books, porte-monnaies, portfolios, pocket-books, invoices, writing and cigar cases, reticules, bags, and other similar articles or purposes. (A communication.) Dated Nov. 30, 1858.

On one side of a belt, porte-monnaie, &c., is fitted a clip, clasp, small case or recess, slotted, or with an opening in each side, or a double plate so connected as to have a groove on each side forming a shoulder piece, and on the end flap or other part of the belt, &c., is attached a frame or loop formed with cheeks, feathers, or tongues, or cut away at the inner sides so as to leave parts projecting inwards, which by moving the frame or loop, are caused to enter or slide into the slots or grooves in the holding piece to fasten the belt, &c., and are drawn out of such slots or grooves to nnfasten it. There are modifications included. Patent completed.

2731. G. Bocerus. Improvements in the construction of furnaces. Dated Nov. 30, 1858.

The inventor provides the furnace with lateral flues

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running parallel with the fire-place through which he conducts air to the back thereof, and the ends of these flues he closes with copper plates pierced with fine holes which form the communication between the air flues and the fireplace. The gases of combustion pass off by a central flue, which is bent round to take the circuit of the fire place, and is brought into close proximity with the lateral airflues. The air will thus be heated both by the direct heat of the fire-place, and also from the winding smoke-flue. Patent abandoned.

2732. W. E. NEWTON. Improvements in telegraphing and in telegraphic apparatus. (A communication.) Dated Nov. 30, 1858.

The object here is to produce an arrangement that shall not be susceptible to the changes of the weather, and that shall generate an amount of inductive electricity that shall answer all demands. The apparatus consists of an ordinary galvanic battery, using either one or more acids, a large inductive apparatus or coil, on Ritchie's or Rhumhorff's principle, and a simple arrangement for recording the signals. This arrangement consists of two metallic points approaching but not meeting each other on opposite sides of a strip of paper on which the signals are to be recorded. The paper is to be divided into two equal spaces by lines, and to be moved between the metallic points by clockwork, so geared as to move the paper forward the distance of one space at each beat or tick of the clock, and no more, and a single wire, either insulated or not, to convey the electricity. Patent abandoned.

2733. J. COLYER. Improvements in machinery and apparatus for cutting and shaping staves and other parts of casks. Dated Nov. 30, 1858.

This relates, first, to that part of stave-cutting called backing and hollowing. The blank to form the stave is fixed in a holder, so that it shall remain stationary during the backing, and that part of the wood intended for the outside of the cask is presented to a cutting tool so shaped as to give the required convexity to the back of the stave. The cutter travels along the stationary stave in a horizontal line, and is made to approach nearer to and recede from the stave to take off more or less wood as is necessary to give the bulge to the stave, by a guide rod or bar, the outer end of which is made to travel over a template Thus by varying the template the travelling cutter will cut the back of the stave to any bulge required. The hollowing of the stave is effected by the same machinery, the cutter being formed convex in lieu of concave. By using the same template all the staves will be backed to the same bulge. An arrangement of levers or springs ensures the same amount of tension on the belt which causes the cutter to rotate at every part of its travel. The holder for presenting the staves in the cutter has four arms radiating from a shaft or boss, and is provided with stops for retaining that arm, carrying the stave next to be cut exactly opposite the cutters. As soon as one stave is cut the holder is moved a quarter of a turn and a fresh stave is presented, and so on, whereby a continuous feed is maintained. Patent completed.

2734. J. COULSON. Improvements in threshing and dressing machines. Dated Nov. 30, 1858.

This consists, 1, in forming the springs or bars by which the shoes, riddles, and shog-boards of the shifting or riddling apparatus of threshing and dressing machines are suspended thicker at the ends than at the middle. The said springs or bars may be of wood or steel. 2, in forming the beating surfaces of the beaters of threshing machines

of a half-octagon form in section, three of the sides having oblique ridges or projections placed in opposite directions. Patent completed.

2735. A. STENGER. Improvements in the manufacture of cravats, braces, belts, and waistbands. Dated Dec. 1, 1858. This consists in manufacturing these articles in a braided form. They are made of silk, cotton, &c., in an ordinary braiding machine. Patent abandoned.

2736. R. H. Bow. Improvements in railwag chairs and fastenings. Dated Dec. 1, 1858.

This relates to an arrangement of railway chairs wherein the rail is held by three dead or fixed resisting surfaces, the retaining pressure upon which is brought into play by a fourth pressure arising from the action of a binding wedge or key, or otherwise. The three dead pressures are those of the pressure of the bottom of the rail upon the sole of the chair, the centre of the well of the rail against the top of the inner and lower jaw of the chair, and finally the pressure of the outer side of the upper flange of the rail against the outer and higher jaw of the chair. These three pressures are brought into action by the pressure of a key of circular or other transverse section fitting into and pressing against a corresponding concavity in the interior of the higher jaw of the chair on one side, and on the other against the outer side of the rail at the point where the lower side of the web joins the bottom flange. When the key or other binding and adjusting agent is driven into its place the pressure exerted by it binds the rail against the three resisting surfaces of the chair and holds it tight. The chairs themselves generally resemble the common form, but the inner jaw is only about half the height of the outer one, and the latter is formed with a shallow concavity running horizontally along its central position. Patent completed.

2737. J. LOACH and J. Cox. Certain improvements in ornamenting the surfaces of japanned goods, and which said improvements are also applicable to the ornamenting of certain other surfaces. Dated December 1, 1858.

This consists in forming ornaments from scraps of perforated zinc or other metal placed together so as to form the ornament desired whether on a round, curved, or flat surface. Over this the inventors lay on black japan or other coloured paint so as to imbed such metal ornament. After drying the whole is rubbed down and polished, when the metallic ornament will be defined by the contrast of its bright surface with the ground on which it is inlaid. In this state they paint certain parts of the metallic ornaments with transparent colours. Patent abandoned,

2738. E. JONES. An improvement or improvements in the manufacture of coke in ovens. Dated Dec. 1, 1858.

This consists in introducing air heated by the waste heat of the oven into the said oven during the process of coking. Patent completed.

2739. T. P. PURSSGLOVE. An improved pressure gauge for steam, gas, or other fluids. Dated Dec. 1, 1858.

This consists principally in the arrangement of a series of pairs of tubes, each tube forming in itself a mercury gauge similar to the one commonly known as such. Patent completed.

2740. R. LAMING. Implements in purifying gas, and in burning sulphuretted hydrogen, carbonic acid, and ammonia, or their compounds to profitable account. Dated Dec. 1, 1858.

The details of this invention are too voluminous for our pages. Patent completed.

2741. C. F. VASSEROT. An apparatus for printing with different colours thread to be applied to the manufacture of tortile fabrics. (A communication.) Dated Dec. 1, 1858.

The threads are rolled upon bobbins, and a certain number of bobbins is placed upon a bobbin holder, from which the threads pass through a comb divided according to the number of threads to be coloured at the same time. Immediately behind the comb are fixed two rollers which press upon the threads and conduct them between two evlinders, one of which, the printing cylinder, bears the design to be reproduced, and the other serves as a printing table. This last-mentioned roller receives its motion by a pinion mounted upon the shaft of the main pulley of the machine, and communicates it to the printing cylinder, which in its turn transmits it to two rollers which feed the cylinders with colour. After leaving the cylinders the threads are conducted upon a reel, the motion of which is regulated according to the speed of the machine. Patent abandoned.

2742. J. SAMUEL and J. NICHOLSON, Improvements in, and in connection with, marine and other steam-engines. Dated Dec. 1, 1858.

This was described and illustrated in No. 28, at page 25, of MECHANICS' MAGAZINE (New Series.) Patent completed. 2743. E. VINEY. An improvement in the construction of portmanteaus, desks, dressing-cases, despatch boxes, and ther like articles. Dated Dec. 1, 1858.

This consists in constructing portmanteaus, desks, dressing cases, &c., each with an envelope case or cover flexible throughout, or in part only, which cover slides in grooves at the sides or ends of the article, and either wholly or partially encloses the contents thereof. Patent completed. 2744. H. ADCOCK. Improvements in furnaces and apparatus for annealing wire. Dated Dec. 1, 1858.

Here the annealing pot or vessel is set in the centre of the furnace, and is partly protected by a casing of brickwork at its lower parts, but in place of having only one fire-grate, by preference three are constructed at equal distances apart, so as to apply heat more uniformly around the pot or vessel, the inner ends of the firegratings surrounding, or nearly surrounding, the pot or vessel. Patent completed.

2745. F. WARNER, J. DERBYSHIRE, and A. MANN. An improvement in the manufacture of cocks or taps. Dated Dec. 1, 1858.

Here a valve is suspended to or formed on the end of a tube of india-rubber. The other end of the tube is flanched so as to attach it to the body of the cock or tap. The spindle or screw by which the valve is pressed on its seat passes into the tube, which is shorter than the distance between the valve seat and point of connection of the flanch of the tube, so that the tube will require to be extended in Icagth to close the valve, and the tube will when released aid in lifting the valve from its seat. Patent completed. 2746. G. W. BALES. Improvements in apparatus for refaining doors, sashes, or frames, when shut or closed. Dated Dec. 1, 1858.

Here a plate is fixed to the edge of a door-sash or frame, or to the post or frame against or in which the same is hut or closed. Through this plate a hole is formed to admit of a portion of a sphere protruding through. The sphere or such-like bolt is contained within a tube or chamber at the back of the plate, which chamber is closed at its end, and between the end of the chamber and the back of the sphere a spring is applied, which constantly presses the sphere ontwards on the door-sash, or frame; or on the post or frame against which the same closes is another plate, having a hole to receive the protruding part of the sphere. By this arrangement the sphere has not only the capability of rotating, but also of receding, by which the door, sash, &c., may be opened and closed simply by pressure, and without otherwise acting on the sphere which acts as the bolt or retaining instrument. Provision may be made for fastening the sphere or bolt when shut and thus prevent it acting till unfastened. Patent completed.

2747. H. BESSEMER. Improvements in railway and other wheels and wheel tyres. Dated Dec. 1, 1858. This consists, 1, in the use in one wheel or tyre of two or more kinds of iron, or of two or more qualities of steel, or the employment or combination of iron and steel of any desired kind or quality in the formation of a wheel, or wheel tyre, by the process of founding. 2, in the use of molten iron of any desired kind, or of molten steel of any itable quality, or of iron and steel with other iron or steel in a heated and wrought or unwrought state in the manufacture or founding of wheels and tyres by centrifugal apparatus. Patent abandoned.

2748. S. NEWINGTON. Improvements in agricultural implements. Dated Dec. 1, 1858.

This invention is not described apart from the drawings. Patent completed.

1749. A. E. DAVIS and R. WRIGHT. Improvements in the manufacture of colouring matter for spirits and other liquids. Dated Dec. 1, 1858.

This relates to the manufacture of colouring matter from certain farinaceous substances, and from sugar or syrups made from the same. The materials are wheat, barley, Cage, rice, or maize. Patent ahandoned.

2750. P. FiscпAM. Improvements in the construction of ennealing kilns or ovens. Dated Doc. 1, 1858.

This consists in a mode of conveying cool air through pipes of earthenware, stoneware, &c., the ends of each two adjoining lengths being brought together within a length of larger pipe of the same shape or form, so as to allow for any contraction or expansion of the inner pipes, but at the same time to prevent the sand or material used from running into the pipe. These pipes are to be so arranged under the whole bottom or sole of the kiln and embedded in the sand or other material (under the open brickwork) as to allow the external air to pass through them freely when required, the ends of the pipes by which the air is admitted being furnished with slides or shutters to regulate the admission of the air, and the other ends opening into a shaft or chimney. Patent completed.

2751. L. BISSELL. Improvements in trucks for locomotive engines. Dated December 1, 1858.

This relates to a former patent dated the 5th of May, 1857, and consists in the use of a rigid truck frame, moving on a fixed centre, that is, located between the centre of the driving wheels and the truck wheels; this frame carries the journal boxes of the truck wheels, and sustains the forward end of the locomotive on double inclined bearing blocks resting on double inclined bearings on the truck frame. Thus two truck wheels can be used, in consequence of the fixed centre where the truck frame is attached to the boiler becoming a bearing point to steady and sustain the two truck wheels. Patent completed.

2752. J. LEWIS. Improvements in means for attaching sails to the yards of ships or vessels. Dated December 1, 1858.

This invention is not desribed apart from the drawings. Patent completed.

2753. E. L. BENZON. The manufacture of useful alloys of aluminium. (A communication.) Dated December 1,

1858.

The object here is the manufacture of useful alloys of alluminium by the decomposition of alumina, or the oxide of alluminium by means of carbon in the presence of, and in intimate contract with certain metals electro positive to alluminium (such, for instance, as copper, or iron, or their oxides), so as to cause the alluminium to combine with the electro positive metal and form an alloy. Patent completed.

2754. L. MACKIRDY. Improved combined bathing, washing, and water closet apparatus. Dated December 2, 1858.

This consists in combining a foot bath, body or sitting bath, shower bath, washing bason, and water-closet in one apparatus. Patent completed.

2755. L. MACKIRDY. Improvements in the manufacture of sugar. Dated December 2, 1858.

Here frames are used to receive the moulds, and these frames are either themselves mounted upon wheels, or have wheeled carriages provided to receive them, so that the moulds can with facility be brought to the heater to be filled, and removed to any convenient situation for drainage. Arrangements are also made to place the mould frames or carriages at a level or near the heaters, sufficiently low to admit of the liquid being directly run into the moulds by taps or spouts, and the discharge of each heater may be effected through two or more branchpipes or spouts arranged to fill two or more moulds at once. Thus if there are two moulds in each row in a frame the heater may be provided with the discharge branches, so that both moulds of each row may be filled simultaneously. The mould frames have printed studs or spikes upon which the apex apertures of the moulds are entered, and which studs thus serve to close the said apertures whilst the sugar remains liquid. When the time arrives for draining the sugar each mould is lifted off its stud or studs, and its apex is inserted in an aperture or socket, and the liquid drains off into a pan fitted into the bottom of the frame or carriage. Patent completed.

2756. J. ROGERS. Improvements in the manufacture of ropes, cables, cords, and lines. Dated December 2, 1858.

For electrical purposes, this consists in laying together longitudinally plaited or braided bands, or twisted cords or lines of hemp, flax, jute, cotton, silk, &c., around a core of wires, and binding the whole together by hitching, sewing, whipping, or plaiting over with wire, thread, cotton, silk, or other suitable material, and saturating the same with a composition composed of boiled oil, rosin, patent dryers, tallow, and pitch, tar, or dissolved indiarubber. These ingredients are mixed and boiled together. The mixture may be applied either in a hot or cold state. For other than electrical purposes a core of yarns, &c., is used. Patent abandoned.

2757. W. ROBERTSON and J. G. ORCHAR. Improvements in machinery or apparatus for winding yarns or threads. Dated December 2, 1858.

This relates, under one modification, to varying the spindle's rate through the frictional contact action of the circumferential edges of the frictional driving pulleys, with the lower frictional faces of the pulleys on the spindles. It also relates to a previous patent of the patentees dated 27th February, 1857, and consists in disposing the winding bobbin lower down on the spindle, and in an arrangement for gaining room for more spindles. Patent completed.

2758. J. TYSSEN. Improvements in obtaining and applying motive power. Dated December 2, 1858.

This consists in obtaining and applying motive power by compressed air and water combined and made to act upon a wheel enclosed in a case to prevent the water escaping before it has produced its effect. The compression of the air and water is effected in an air-tight vessel by the aid of force pumps or otherwise. In cases where the motive power thus obtained is not sufficient to work the pumps, a supplementary steam boiler and donkey engine are combined with the apparatus for that purpose. Patent abandoned.

2759. J. BAILLIE. Improvements in the construction of railway wheels. Dated December 2, 1858.

The object here is to make a wheel avoiding all the objections and defects of the chilled cast iron wheels cast in one piece, as well as those made against wrought iron or

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steel tyres, and to secure the advantages of the hard and durable chilled surface at the tread or periphery of the wheel, while at the same time the dangerous character of the chilled cast iron wheels (cast in one piece) is avoided. The invention is not described apart from the drawings. Patent completed.

2760. G. SPILLER. Improvements in knapsacks for military and other purposes. Dated December 2, 1858.

Here on the under side and near the centre between the front and back of the knapsack are placed two movable supporters, formed of metal or other suitable material, the same working upon joints, at their inner ends being provided with holes which take into eyes at the ends of the slings. The slings can be lengthened or shortened so that the knapsack can be raised or lowered by the wearer without in any way confining the arms. A pocket is also formed at the back of the knapsack opening with a flap at the bottom for placing in the great coat. The knapsack is of an oblong form, and worn in an upright position. Patent completed.

2761. M. HENRY. Improvements in manufacturing and revivifying bone black or animal charcoal, and in kilns and apparatus employed therein. (A communication.) Dated December 2, 1858.

For receiving bones to be carbonized or bone black to be restored, receivers are employed raised upon feet and fitted upon escape valves. The kiln in which the receivers are placed has a fire place at each corner of the sole, and is so constructed and provided with passages for the flames and products of combustion so that they may completely surround the receivers, and thoroughly heat them and their contents. Patent completed.

2762. T. BAILEY. A mechanical movement applicable to loading fire-arms and other purposes. Dated Dec. 3, 1858.

This consists in the adaptation and application of a toothed wheel or pinion on a travelling centre working between guides, and also working between and in gear with a pair of racks, one of which is stationary, the centre of the wheel changing its position or travelling in the same plane with the guides as the wheel works in the teeth of the racks, such centre not being fixed as usual. Patent completed.

2763. M. TOOкE. Improrements in apparatus for measuring the human figure, and applying the same for tracing out garments for the human figure. Dated Dec. 3, 1838.

This consists in the use of certain metal bands for encircling the body, in combination with suitable tapes, measures, and indexes, together with other arrangements. Patent abandoned.

2764. G. E. NOONE. Certain improvements in machinery for generating gas from coal. Dated December 3, 1858.

This consists, 1, in the application of a cylindrical back to kitchen ranges, &c. 2. In a kind of semi-circular cylinder called a feeder with perforated moveable front to be charged with coal for gas making. 3. In an apparatus for placing the feeders in position in cylinder back when charged with coal, and for relieving the same from coke; and also in a kind of sheet iron shield to keep dust from the gearing. 4. In a portable apparatus for purifying gas, which by a peculiar application is rendered a wet and dry purifier, combining also a mode of sealing to prevent explosion. 5. In a mode of regulating the pressure for consumption of gas, and for self-supplying the whole machine with water for cleaning &c., with the means of communicating motion to the call bell when coal is required. 6. In a peculiar construction of furnace to generate gas and steam at the same time and with the same coal. 7. In a kind of iron truck for withdrawing hot feeders from the furnace and replacing others. The invention is not described apart from the drawings. Patent completed.

2765. S. PETERS. Improvements in the manufacture of pipes and tubes, and in the apparatus employed therein. Dated December 3, 1858.

Here the sheet metal is first heated in an oven or furnace, and then passed between rollers of which the lower is grooved with grooves of different sizes, and the upper has corresponding projections, so that as the heated strip or sheet of metal is passed between the two in one or other groove according to the size of the pipe or tube to be made, it may be pressed into the form of a U. The bent sheet or strip then passes between other grooved rollers in the same machine which impart to it a tubular form. The partially formed pipe or tube is then again heated in an oven or furnace to a welding heat, and passed through a pair of grooved rollers, the grooves of one of which are larger than the corresponding grooves of the other, and the former roll is driven at a less velocity than the latter. During its passage through these welding rollers the pipe or tube is supported by a double mandril. Patent abandoned.

2766. E. S. JONES. Improvements in cornets, trumpets, horns, and similar musical wind instruments. Dated December 3, 1858.

This consists in a mode of connecting the main tube of the instruments with the small tubes for allowing the current of propelled air to pass direct from the main tube to one or other of the small tubes, and by appropriate mechanism to bring the main tube into direct communication with the side tubes, without the aid of a perforated piston. Patent abandoned.

2767. C. COATES. Improvements in mandrils for printing. Dated December 3, 1858.

Here the body of the mandril is made so that it goes casy into the copper printing roller, and is made conical at each of its ends. Over each of these conical ends a hoop of iron or steel is placed, the external diameter of which is turned to about the internal diameter of the copper roller, and its interior is made to fit the conical part of the mandril. The iron or steel hoop is also cut longitudinally in one or more places. When the mandril is put into a copper roller the hoop is forced up the conical part of the mandril, by nuts screwing on to the ends of the mandril, which expands the hoop and causes it to press against the inside of the roller, which will thus be held securely. The nuts screwing on to the ends of the mandril are made circular, and may have a

screw thread cut in their outside, on to which another nut can be screwed, so as to act as a collar to prevent the copper roller moving endways on the mandril. If the hoops are cut in more than one place so as to form two or more wedges, a pin is passed through each end of the mandril, and the ends of the pins work in recesses in the wedges. The wedges are also retained by a flexible hoop or spring which passes around them and presses them against the mandril. Thus the wedges are prevented from turning round, and also from falling off the mandril. Patent abandoned. 2768. C. F. VASSEROT. An improved apparatus for ventilating mines, or other similar purposes. (A communication.) Dated December 3, 1858.

This consists of a cylinder formed of strong sheet zinc having an air passage attached to its side, with valves opening out from or into the cylinder according as it is to be used for ejecting and injecting air. To the one extremity of this chamber the hose or tubes are attached which convey the air from or to the cylinder. In each end or each cover of the cylinder is fixed a valve opening inwards or outwards, and which serve as the means either to expel or take in the air. The cylinder has a piston and rod which works within it, the piston having its face covered with a stuffing of india-rubber which is arranged so as to form two lips or rubbing parts, and the space in the middle being bent or compressed hollow so that there is always a pressure upon the outer edges. Patent abandoned.

2769. C. F. VASSEROT. Improved arrangements to be applied to window sashes to prevent draughts and the infiltration of water. (A communication.) Dated Dec. 3,

1858.

Here a movable iron band is mounted upon hinges, and has at each end a spiral spring which is intended to cause the band to fall on the sill or frame when the window is opened. When the window is closed the movable band will be raised to a vertical position by two or more projections placed upon the frame of the window, and being kept in this position by the said projections it will prevent any water or draught from the outside. Patent abandoned.

2770. H. BEVAN. New or improved machines for effecting or facilitating arithmetical operations. Dated Dec. 3, 1858.

This consists of machines in which a series of figures are arranged either on the peripheries of discs, or on plane surfaces, the said dises or surfaces being capable of such changes of position as to produce under proper manipulation, and the mere process of simple addition, the product of any two numbers which it may be wished to multiply, as well as to effect or facilitate other arithmetical operations. Patent completed.

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1508. J. Luis, of Welbeck-st. A machine for corking bottles. A communication from J. Peury.

Improve

1509. C. F. and C. J. Varley, of Kentish-town. ments in proving electric conductors, and in the apparatus connected therewith.

1511. E. T. Hughes, of Chancery-lane. Improvements in the manufacture of artificial sand-stone, bricks, tiles, and similar articles. A communication from L. and E. P. de Lafarge.

1513. A. Prince, of Trafalgar-sq. Improvements in alarum locks and latches.

1514. H. Doulton, of Lambeth. Improvements in earthenware jars and bottles.

1515. A. V. Newton, of Chancery-lane. Improvements in springs for resisting sudden and continuous pressure. A commanication from C. Perratone, and Messrs. J. F. Cail and Co.

Dated June 24, 1859.

1516. W. Lister, jun., Master Mariner, and T. G. Garrick, Agent, of Sunderland. Improvements in ships' windlasses, and other like apparatuses, applicable also to the steering of ships.

1517. J. Mills, of Heaton Norris, Machinist. Improvements in the manufacture of keys and gibs, and in the machinery employed therein.

1518. A. Chesneau, of Paris, Merchant. Improvements in paddle-wheels.

1519. W. Clark, of Chancery-lane. Improvements in sewing machines. A communication from J. S. Goodridge. 1520. G. Redrup, of Loughborough, Brewer. Machinery for the cutting of shives, bungs, corks, spiles, and vent or other pegs.

1521. R. Hornsby, jun., of Grantham. Improvements in ploughs, and in giving motion to ploughs and other agricultural implements by steam-power.

1522. P. Faure and J. Pernod, of Avignon, France. An improved process for utilising the residues of madder in

the manufacture of garancine and other preparations of
madder.

1523. J. Drury, of Exley, near Halifax, Engineer. Im-
provements in steam-engines and boilers.

Dated June 25, 1859.

1524. T. Howard, of King and Queen Iron Works, Rotherhithe, Engineer. Improvements in condensing steam in engines where superheated steam is used.

1525. W. J. Sluce, of Bethnal Green-road, O. Murrell, of Bethnal Green-road, and W. Hudson, of Hackney-road. An improved method of generating steam.

1526. C. W. Williams, of Liverpool. Improvements in steam-boilers.

1527. W. E. Newton, of Chancery-lane. Apparatus for exhibiting stereoscopic pictures. A communication from J. S. Perry.

1528. J. Roberts, of Upnor, Terra Cotta Manufacturer. Improvements in filters.

1529. J. Boden, of Southampton, Engineer, and W. Clark, of Southampton, Boiler Maker. Improvements in apparatus for superheating steam.

1530. S. Russell, of Sheffield, Manufacturer. Improvements in breech-loading fire-arms, and in projectiles to be used therewith.

1531. W. Coppin, of Londonderry, Marine Architect. Improvements in apparatus for raising sunken and stranded vessels and their cargoes, and for raising and lowering other bodies into, and out of, the water, parts of which improvements are applicable to raising weights generally. Dated June 27, 1859.

1533. G. Wrigley, of Dunkinfield, Machine Maker, and
T. H. Wrigley, of Mossley, Overlooker. Improvements in
self-acting mules for spinning and doubling.

1534. D. J. Fleetwood, of Birmingham, Copper Agent.
An improvement or improvements in shaping metals.
1535. B. Burton, of Brooklyn, U.S. Improvements in
breech-loading fire-arms.

1536. G. Smith, of Orange County, U.S., Engineer. An
improved construction of primer for fire-arms.

1537. T. Leigh, of St. Mary Cray, Millwright, and J. Line, of the same place, Paper Maker. An improvement in paper-making machinery.

Dated June 28, 1859.

1540. A. V. Newton, of Chancery-lane. Improved machinery for cutting corks. A communication from E. Conroy.

PATENT APPLIED FOR WITH COMPLETE
SPECIFICATION.

1561. L. L. Tower, of Massachusetts. A new and useful
machine for damping and wetting paper, &c. A communi-
cation from J. A. Lynch. Dated June 30, 1859.

NOTICES OF INTENTION TO PROCEED WITH
PATENTS.

(From the London Gazette, July 12, 1859.)
543. J. Templeman. Artificial fuel.
545. D. Lichtenstadt. Paper and other fabrics.
551. W. F. Dearlove. Chopping machine.
563. J. Harrison. Rotating window sashes.
573. C. F. Dennet. Bayonets.

575. J. Cowban and E. Andrews. Spinning.
576. R. A. Brooman. Boiler stays. A communication.
586. G. Leach. Reeling yarn.

598. J. P. Clarke. Reels for cotton, &c.

610. J. A. Williams. Cultivating land.
621. J. Yuill. Saddle-trees.

623. H. Lodge. Protecting ships' batteries.
643. T. Lightfoot. Fixing colours on fabrics.

655. J. Dixon and R. Clayton. Rolling iron and steel.
664. W. Avery. Screws.

665. J. Michel-Denys. Railway crossings.

753. W. Clark. Separating oats from chaff. A commu

nication.

770. B. and C. L. Smith. Dyeing and printing.
810. F. Morton. Fences and posts.

811. W. E. Newton. Cleaning rice. A communication.
881. W. Hooper. Insulating conductors.

882. W. Hooper. India-rubber.

921. R. A. Brooman. Red dyes. A communication.
981. F. and W. Edwards. Looms.
1033. T. A. Weston. Pulley.

1060. J. Holroyd. Finishing cloths.

1335. A. Mickelthwate, J. Peace, and S. J. Hobson. Coating springs and bands.

1350. G. H. and H. R. Cottam. Stable fittings.

1372. A. V. Newton. Millstones. A communication.
1392. R. R. Fairgrieve and S. Bathgate. Winding yarns.
1394. J. and W. Henderson, T. Bagley, and S. Holds-
worth. Looms.

1420. F. A. T. de Beauregard. Generating steam.
1428. A. V. Newton. Boats. A communication.
1437. A. V. Newton. Polishing wheels, &c. A commu-
nication.

1488. G. Tonkins. Coating metals.
1497. R. Smith. Looms.

1501. C. Clarini. Metal nails.

lasses, steering, &c.
1516. W. Lister, jun., and T. G. Garrick. Ships' wind-

1520. G. Redrup. Cutting shives, bungs, &c.
1521. R. Hornsby, jun. Ploughs.

1529. J. Boden and W. Clark. Superheating steam.
1561. L. L. Tower. Wetting paper. A communication.
The full titles of the patents in the above list can be as-
certained by referring back to their numbers in the list of
provisional protections previously published.

Opposition can be entered to the granting of a patent to
any of the parties in the above list who have given notice of
their intention to proceed, within twenty-one days from the
date of the Gazette in which the notice appears, by leaving
at the Commissioners' office particulars in writing of the
objection to the application.

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Yellow Metal Sheathing........ per lb. 0 0 9
STEEL, Swedish Keg ... pr. ton 19 0 0.
Faggot
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TIN, English, Block
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TINPLATES, Charcoal, I.C...pr. box 1 14 0
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LEAD, Pig, English

1 7 0.

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Spanish Sheet SPELTER, on the spot for arrival. ZINC, English, Sheet QUICKSILVER ...per btl. 7 00 REMARKS. The more speculative articles of Metals have iron has advanced upwards of 5s. per ton. Spelter is been materially affected by the peace news. Scotch Pighigher by about £2 per ton. English Tin has been successively advanced £9 and £4 per ton-the whole of the quantity of Baca put up for sale by the Dutch Company having been taken at a price equal to about £142 per ton here, and the article is now firm at about £146 per ton. Copper and Lead are as yet without change.

LAWRIE AND HAGGER, Metal Brokers. 33 Lombard-street, E.C.

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MECHANICS' MAGAZINE. scarcely be doubted that the French Govern

LONDON, FRIDAY, JULY 22, 1859.

RIFLED GUNS FOR THE NAVY. THROUGH all the mists of doubt and perplexity which envelope the subject of our national defences one clear principle shines steadily forth for our guidance, viz, that at no time, and for no cause, must we permit any nation whatever to surpass us in the selection or production of naval and military weapons. There is no class of politicians in this country, we believe, who will for a moment question the truth of this principle, nor is there any who will deny that of the various services, the navy is that which least of all must be permitted to be inferior in any respect. Yet there are grave reasons, we regret to say, for believing that the French are silently assuming a vast superiority to us in one very important particular.

More than a month since we were privately informed, by a gentleman whose authority in all matters relating to guns, whether cannon or small arms, we have great cause to trust implicitly, that a large number of naval guns were being rapidly rifled in the French ports. This information had not long been received when the Marseilles correspondent of the Times, in visiting the arsenal at Toulon, discovered several of the rifled guns on the wharves there, and learnt that many more smooth-bore guns were undergoing the process of rifling. This intelligence he duly communicated to the public in the columns of the leading journal. More recently on July 9th) the same gentleman, through the same channel, has afforded further information upon this important subject. He says (speaking again of Toulon) "the most noticeable

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feature in the Arsenal is the effort made to

prepare rifled ordnance for the navy. Twelve 30-pounders had just arrived, and were wait"ing to be fitted with locks preparatory to being sent to the fleet. The system which appears "to be definitely adopted, after repeated expe"riments, consists of three grooves, about three “inches broad and an eighth of an inch in depth, with a twist of one-sixth. More guns "of the same kind were being landed on the "quays. From the exertions made to provide

ment are really preparing to arm a fleet with
rifled cannon. Not with a very efficient form of
that instrument, it is true, because a mere ordi-
nary service gun with twisted grooves formed
in it can scarcely be expected to be so. But
the fact to be observed is that, whatever these
guns may be, we have nothing of equal effi-
ciency to bring against them. Even if we had
a good prospect of getting an early supply of
Armstrong guns which we have not-we
could not forget that these are really untried
weapons, and weapons which in naval warfare
may scarcely be found to suit our purpose.
Sailors above all men need have simple instru-
ments to handle, and the Armstrong gun is very
far from this. But whether fit for sea service
or unfit, reliable or otherwise, we have no Arm-
strong guns at present. Nor have we any but
the old-fashioned smooth-bore cannon to occupy
their place. Ought this to be the case? Are
we to see armaments of rifled cannon sent on
board French fleets, and take no corresponding
step ourselves? This we are doing now; but
are we to continue thus supine? We put these
questions-and we can do no more with the
earnest hope that the necessity for them may
speedily cease.

ANCHORS FOR THE ROYAL NAVY.

Now, all these gentlemen proceed upon three

assumptions: first, that the committee of 1852 were appointed to finally determine by experiment the best of several existing forms of anchor; secondly, that the trials made were amply sufficient for that purpose; and, thirdly, that the Admiralty were bound to adopt throughout the naval service the anchor which the committee pronounced the best. In reference to the first of these assumptions it is necessary to remark that the committee were appointed in deference to the expressed desire of certain private shipowners and others prompted doubtless by the owners of some of the competing anchors exhibited in the Great Exhibition of 1851-rather than in consequence of any chor; in reference to the second assumption it glaring proofs of defect in the Admiralty anis to be remarked that the committee themselves put forth their report in 1853 with manifest misgivings, carefully inviting a reconsideration of their decisions by others, and furnishing the materials requisite for the purpose; and, in reference to the third assumption, it should be observed that the Admiralty gave no promise whatever to bind themselves to act upon the decision of the committee, who were only appointed, as we have said, in consequence of requisitions urged upon the Admiralty by

others.

will not thank us for saying so were the gen-
Nor, we submit-although the Admiralty
tlemen appointed to that committee in any way
competent, of themselves, to determine the
question submitted to them. Who were they?
Admirals Sir Montague Stopford, G.C.B., George
R. Munday, and C. Hope; the Master-Atten-
dants of Her Majesty's dockyards at Sheerness
and Portsmouth-Mr. J. Aylen and Mr. J.
Tonkin; also Mr. W. S. Lindsay, M.P., Mr.
Duncan Dunbar, chairman of the General Ship-
owners' Society: Mr. Anthony Ridley, deputy
chairman of the Mercantile Marine Board;
the following members of Lloyd's Committee-
Messrs. William Drew, William Phillips, and
George Marshall. Very good men most of these
doubtless; but in the practical trials of anchors
many questions of importance questions of
material, manufacture, &c.-must, or should,
them was in the least degree competent to
have been raised respecting which not one of
pronounce an opinion. The Admiralty were
doubtless themselves to blame for the defective

and

constitution of the committee; but that consideration in no way helps us to place our confidence in the results arrived at.

MR. LINDSAY from his place in Parliament, Mr. Busk in his Navies of the World, Mr. Trotman in the Times and elsewhere, and many other interested and disinterested gentlemen, are just now doing their best to make us believe that the Admiralty almost deserve impeachment for not adopting the Trotman anchor in the Royal Navy. On the 8th instant, during the debate on the Navy Estimates, Mr. Lindsay informed us that nine years ago he devoted a considerable portion of his time as a member of a committee to inquire into the best description of anchors. Seven anchors were brought, he said, before the committee. They tested them in every possible way, and unanimously arrived at the decision that the Admiralty anchor was the worst of the seven. For nine years that report had been in possession of the Admiralty, and the same description of anchor still continued in use. But, more than that; for 17 anchors, from 20 cwt. to five tons weight, the Admiralty It may suit the purpose of Mr. Trotman and paid £3,434 17s. 6d., whereas the market price his friends to endeavour to make the decision of the most eminent firms was only £1,428. of this committee binding upon the Admiralty; "When he found the Admiralty wrong in these but sensible men are not apt to deem the reFrench men-of-war each with a certain num"two items, he thought there was great reason ports of such bodies at all times sufficient to "ber of rifled guns, the question naturally sug- to fear they were wrong in many others, and authorise great changes. And in this particular gests itself whether it is prudent for English "that they paid far too much for stores and case the Admiralty have many-we do not say "materials. Why was it so? The answer sufficient-grounds for inaction. "ships to wait until they can be supplied with In the first Armstrong guns. The immense superiority "he had received to that question in the matter place the Report of 1852 has been seriously "of anchors was, that the Admiralty had been weakened by the criticism to which it has been “of rifled ordnance may be accepted now as an "in the habit of dealing with a particular firm. subjected by a practical anchor-smith-Mr. -established fact. Yet so enormous is the de- "One firm had a monopoly-and a very nice George Cotsell, the master smith of Chatham "mand, that for the protection of English in- "monopoly it was for them-at the expense of Dockyard. This gentleman, although a ser"terests I believe many years must elapse be- "the poor taxpayers." Mr. Busk, in his work vant of the Admiralty, is not to be con"fore Armstrong guns can be supplied to all before-mentioned, tells (curiously enough, considered a partizan, for he has more than "our ships, land batteries and field batteries." sidering the ostensible nature of his volume) once been snubbed, and had his writings disthe same tale as Mr. Lindsay, with even less countenanced by the Board. Despite of this, He further suggests that it would be a wise pre-moderation, introducing it as a little piece however, he has doubtless exerted a strong incantion to rifle all the smooth-bored guns of "of Admiralty jobbery," although he afterwards fluence in favour of the Admiralty (or Sir small calibre as far as possible.-"It will be a inconsistently "disavows all intention of im- William Parker) anchor, at present in use "long time, I apprehend, before the 68- "puting improper motives to the members of in the service, and has likewise done much in "the different Boards of Admiralty." pounders -(solid shot) are superseded, but, Trotman himself, in the Times of the 13th inst., mittee of 1852. We cannot here recapitulate Mr. the way of discrediting the report of the com"here is no reason why the lighter guns, 32 almost rivals Mr. Busk in his manner of stating all the facts and arguments adduced by him; and 24-pounders, now supplied to ships should the case. The subject is one, therefore, which they can all be seen in an eighteenpenny "not be rifled." will bear a little intelligent discussion. volume, published by Mr. Weale, of Holborn.

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