METHOD OF
CLEANSING
SHELLS.
"Most willingly: but tell me if you know the easiest method of cleaning shells when they become soiled, or when you purchase them in the natural state?"
"That is a question I wished to ask."
"A little warm water and soap will cleanse and render them bright. Some collectors rub Florence oil over their shells, which prevents them from becoming dry. A weak solution of gum-arabic is sometimes applied, in order to produce a polished and bright appearance.
"Nitric or muriatic acid, diluted, is used to take off the epidermis, or any extraneous matter; but it must be done carefully, and the shell plunged in water after the acid has been applied. But do not make a practice of polishing; shells are best in their natural state, generally speaking."
"Thank you, father!" said both the young people.
"You are welcome to any instruction I can give you," he replied; "and now farewell for to-night."