The fibres are cylindrical collections of numerous cells, and present each the appearance of a tube covered with epidermic scales which overlap each other. The zigzag markings are characteristic.
Cotton, for various reasons, may be regarded as next in importance, providing consideration be given to the manner of application, in combination with wool.
This is fully verified by Krieger's experiments.
MAGNIFIED—COTTON FIBRE.
SECTION SAME—COTTON FIBRE.
The fibres of cotton appear to be made up of flat, ribbon-shaped cells, thicker at the edges than in the middle. They are irregularly twisted, with a broad longitudinal cavity more or less well defined. There is frequently a kind of net-work striation apparent on the surface.
With regard to the comparative value of these fibres in application we refer here to the Tables of Mattieu Williams, page 31 of this Treatise. It remains, therefore, to have a material of these fibres so constructed that it will embody all scientific essentials. The first satisfactory material of the "Jaros Hygienic Wear" was laid before the Medical Profession in Chicago, November, 1884, and, guided by their suggestions, the "Wool Fleece Fabric" was so materially improved that, on January 4, 1886, L. L. McArthur, M.D., in a paper before the Chicago Medical Society, states: "Now, gentlemen, this device was a particularly 'happy one,' in that all the requirements of a truly hygienic wear are provided—porosity, warmth, absorbent powers and elasticity."