produces a very intense heat by the
combustion of hydrogen in contact with oxygen gas.
Notwithstanding Professor Clark of England has laid claim to
the apparatus, and the use of hydrogen gas in this way, the
merit of the discovery is due to our learned and ingenious
countryman."

The next few years in the life of Cutbush were most interesting. He
enjoyed mingling with his fellows, and it is recorded that in 1810 he
became a member of Lodge No. 2, Free and Accepted Masons, comprising
in its membership General Peter Muhlenberg and many other
distinguished Philadelphians in various walks of life. Upon them he
made an exceedingly favorable impression, because in June of 1811,
Cutbush was made presiding officer of his Lodge and frequently
thereafter he was invited to address his brethren upon some of the
topics of the moment. It is quite certain that he also availed himself
in his dignified position to inculcate a knowledge of science, and his
favorite science chemistry in particular, for on the pages of the
_Freemason's Magazine_ for 1811 may be seen "Subjects and Importance
of Chemistry"--an article for laymen in which is plainly set forth how
the science enters every walk of life. In many respects it recalls the
introductory chapter of Parke's Chemical Catechism, for it advises how
chemistry

"removes the veil from the fabric of Nature, and makes us
acquainted with all the phenomena which happen around us."

The offerings of Cutbush were fitting and most timely. They aroused
the interest of his audience and induced many to enter upon scientific
pursuits. At one place he enlarged upon the wonderful medicinal
properties of a chalybeate water near Colestown, N. J., giving its
analysis and the healthful effect it seemed to produce on those who
used it.

Again, in the December issue of the _Freemason's Magazine_ (1881), he
presented a most interesting, readable and succinct historical sketch
of our science which concludes as follows:

"Thus chemistry is become an entirely new science. It is no
longer confined to the laboratory of the arts: it has
extended its flights to the sublimest heights of philosophy,
and pursues paths formerly regarded as impenetrable
mysteries. Placed forever in the elevated rank it now holds,
rich with all its new conquests, it is become the science
most adapted to the sublime speculations of philosophy, the
most useful in advancing a