same time, entire power over every part.

The instrument is divided into fourths, that is, into four sets of
chords. The first only of these four sets is touched by the player, but
on any of the first set being intoned, each corresponding string of the
three other sets, all of which are stouter and more powerful than the
set played upon, resounds in harmony.

The power given out by the three sets of strings is proportioned to the
sound produced on the first set by the performer, as the force of an
echo is stronger or weaker according as the sound producing it is
increased or diminished in volume.

In the framework of the harp there are conducting strings of
electricity, which unite all the rest with the first set and with each
other. The electricity is generated by a liquid contained in a small
tube, and is set in motion by the movement of the strings of the first
set of chords. The tube can be placed in or removed from the instrument
with the greatest ease; without it, the first set alone responds to the
player's touch.

The musician has the power of varying and depressing the notes of the
instrument in a marvellous manner, so as to produce instantaneously the
most delicate or the most powerful sounds, with endless modulations and
variety of tone. I have heard echoes and responses given out as though
the music had been breathed from a great distance;--the gentlest
whispers were alternated with all the force of a band of music.

I could not, without much expenditure of time and labour, and without
explaining our science of music, which is altogether different to yours,
convey to you an adequate notion of the effect produced by a skilful
player. I have seen a multitude turned away from evil designs by the
exquisite playing of the harpist--their passions calmed, their thoughts
raised from earth to heaven.

By the aid of little knobs on the instrument, the diapason can be
changed to an extent that you would not credit, for it has reference to
a system different to yours. The compass and extent of sound given by
our harps is very considerably higher than the notes produced by your
violins, and deeper than the lowest notes given by your contrabassi.

We do not count by octaves, but by touching twos or threes different
characters of sounds are produced, indicated by names such as--gaiety,
joy, melancholy, truthfulness, fickleness in some things, fickleness in
all things, an exalted mind, poetry, domestic peace, hatred,