Scaling ladders are made in portions, 12 feet, and 7½ feet long; which are joined together by placing the end of one portion into staples at the end of another, and securing them together with a lashing of rope. Four men are sufficient to carry an 18 feet scaling ladder.
PART XI.
FIREWORKS.
CANDLES, ROMAN.
When the case has been properly finished, and the end secured with strong twine, ram in a little dry clay, then put in a small quantity of corned powder, and over this a small piece of paper; after which as much of the composition is to be put in as will, when rammed down, fill the case about one-sixth of the length. Over this a piece of paper is placed, covering about two-thirds of the diameter, on which a little powder is laid, and then a ball, or star. Some more composition is then poured in, and pressed lightly down till the case is about one-third full, when it is to be rammed down by gentle strokes; after which, put in another small piece of paper, powder, and star, over which pour in some more composition, ram down gently, and continue thus until the case is filled, when it will contain about five stars; after which it is capped, and primed. Roman candles should be placed in rows on a stand, some of them being perpendicular, and others at angles, not, however, exceeding 45 degrees.
Compositions.
1. Mealed powder, ½ lb. Sulphur, ½ lb. Saltpetre, 2½ lb. Glass dust, ½ lb.
2. Mealed powder, 1 lb. Charcoal, ½ lb.
3. Signal rocket composition.