n
old processes, in which time is a large factor, showing always a more
rapid deterioration. But, the methods being the same, morocco, the
oiliest of the common leathers and the one having the firmest cuticle,
endures the best.

"The order of endurance of leather (as observed by librarians) against
atmospheric effects is as follows, descending from the first to the last
in order: Parchment, light-colored morocco, sheep, russia, calf. Cloth
wears out quickly by use, but appears--the linen especially--to be
affected by the atmosphere only in loss of color. These observations all
refer to the ordinary humidity of the air in frequented rooms.

"This, then, is the result of my inquiries: I found the shrinking and
breaking resulting from heat much the same in all the libraries, but
most in that where the heating is from the outer air brought in over
hot-water pipes, the two other libraries examined being warmed by
steam-pipes having a higher temperature. I found the mealy structure--or
instead thereof flakiness--to prevail most in the Athenaeum, next in the
Public Library: in the latter, however, many volumes have been rebound,
thus raising the average of condition. In the Harvard College Library no
gas--in fact, little if any artificial light--is used, and here, too,
the mealy structure and disintegration are mostly absent. I conclude,
therefore, from these limited observations, that heat is responsible for
a large part of the damage to leather bindings, its effects being
evidently supplemented and hastened by gas-combustion.

"The ventilating lamps before described, though rather cumbrous to eyes
accustomed to the small and simple apparatus commonly used, might prove
valuable in rooms containing fabrics liable; to be injured by the gases
from open burners."

As the chemist concluded his reading the traveller remarked to the
somewhat weary listeners, "You now see the vast amount of study and care
required to use gas with economy and safety. I could not have argued the
cause of a new, clean, gasless and vaporless light like electricity any
better myself."

"It will be found," responded the chemist, "that there are more troubles
and dangers connected with the electric light--besides the larger
expense--than are thought of now."

"That is so!" ejaculated the young fellow.

"At any rate," said the old gentleman, "gas stock won't go lower for
twenty years than it has been this winter."

"You are all wedded to your idols