be so replete with minute cracks on the tension side as to expose
the embedded metal in innumerable places. Such cracks do not occur in
work because, under ordinary working loads, the concrete is able to
carry the load so well, by arch and dome action, as to require very
little assistance from the steel, which, consequently, is never stressed
to a point where cracking of the concrete will be induced. This being
the case, why not recognize it, modify methods of design, and not go on
assuming stresses which have no real existence?

The point made by Mr. Godfrey in regard to the fallacy of sharp bends is
patent, and must meet with the agreement of all who pause to think of
the action really occurring. This is also true of his points as to the
width of the stem of T-beams, and the spacing of bars in the same. As to
elastic arches, the writer is not sufficiently versed in designs of this
class to express an opinion, but he agrees entirely with the author in
his criticism of retaining-wall design. What the author proposes is
rational, and it is hard to see how the problem could logically be
analyzed otherwise. His point about chimneys, however, is not as clear.

As to columns, the writer agrees with Mr. Godfrey in many, but not in
all, of his points. Certainly, the fallacy of counting on vertical steel
to carry load, in addition to the concrete, has been abundantly shown.
The writer believes that the sole legitimate function of vertical steel,
as ordinarily used, is to reinforce the member against flexure, and that
its very presence in the column, unless well tied across by loops of
steel at frequent intervals, so far from increasing the direct carrying
capacity, is a source of weakness. However, the case is different when a
large amount of rigid vertical steel is used; then the steel may be
assumed to carry all the load, at the value customary in structural
steel practice, the concrete being considered only in the light of
fire-proofing and as affording lateral support to the steel, increasing
its effective radius of gyration and thus its safe carrying capacity. In
any event the load should be assumed to be carried either by the
concrete or by the steel, and, if by the former, the longitudinal and
transverse steel which is introduced should be regarded as auxiliary
only. Vertical steel, if not counted in the strength, however, may on
occasion serve a very useful practical purpose; for instance, the writer
once had a job wher