White sewing-silk, put into an alcoholic solution only once, received a fine strong purple.
Part of a skein of the same material, was put into a solution of potash, which produced a purple deeper in hue than the former.
Cotton thread and worsted yarn, immersed only once in the same solution, produced very nearly the same colors.
The part of a skein of silk died in the alcoholic solution was immersed in a solution of muriate of tin, which produced a beautiful lilac, approaching to dove-colored blue. The same substance died in a solution of potash, and immersed in a solution of muriate of tin, became a few shades darker, and rather more of a pink hue. These are not unfavorable results from a quantity so minute; and I feel confident that this substance may be rendered a very valuable article of trade.
A few weeks ago, I received another sample of excellent lichen, very full of color, which I hope may be turned to some advantage.
[61] In many parts of the coast, the plant which produces the barilla would probably florish abundantly, if introduced, and would form an excellent article of commerce, not only for exportation, but for home consumption.
[62] There are several rivulets in various parts that bear this name.
[63] If necessary, another channel might be made at a convenient distance from the first.
[64] It cannot be too much recommended to Government to introduce the process of amalgamation generally throughout the mines.
[65] Bucking-irons, are pieces of cast-iron with wood handles, used at the lead mines, to break the ore from what it adheres to.