The Complacent Vizier.
Among the novelties which scientific investigation has added to our toys, are several figures which will raise themselves upright when thrown down, and regain the erect position, notwithstanding their equilibrium is disturbed. The figures themselves are made of the pith of elder trees, or any other very light substance. Each is placed on half a bullet, or may be made to stand on its head, by making its cap of lead. Their appearance is very droll when they are moved about, as they seem every moment to be falling over, and yet continually right themselves. The philosophy of this is, that the center of gravity being in the base, and always trying to assume the lowest position, it keeps the figures upright. However much the equilibrium is disturbed, it will always try to regain its original position.