It gives an enemy at night no clue to the position of your piece, as does the lighted port-fire, or slow-match.
25. What is slow-match?
A slow burning match prepared from hemp or flax slightly twisted, soaked in a strong lye, or in water holding in solution sugar of lead. Cotton rope well twisted, forms a good match without any preparation.
26. How long does slow-match prepared from hemp or flax burn?
Four to five inches to the hour.
27. What is the use of slow-match?
It is used principally for the purpose of retaining fire in the shape of a hard-pointed coal, to be used in firing cannon, fire-works, &c. It was formerly used in field batteries for lighting the port fires with which the pieces were discharged; but both are now entirely superseded by the friction tube.
28. What is quick-match?
It is a match made of threads of cotton, or cotton wick, steeped in gummed brandy or whisky, then soaked in a paste of mealed powder and gummed spirits, and afterwards strewed over with mealed powder.
29. How long does it burn?