Combined Ruler, Blotter, and Paper Cutter.—Hugh S. Ball, Spartanburgh, S. C.—This invention relates to a new and useful improvement in a combined ruler, blotter, and paper cutter, three articles indispensable for the desk, combined in one.

Reed for Organs and Melodeons.—Augustus Newell, Chicago, Ill.—The object of this invention is to so construct the tongue-butts, or shanks, of musical reeds, that the same cannot, during the vibratory motion of the tongues, be raised from their seats.

Anti-Friction Compound.—Victory Purdy, Poughkeepsie, N. Y.—This invention relates to a new and useful compound for lubricating railroad car axle journals, and other journal bearings.



[We present herewith a series of inquiries embracing a variety of topics of greater or less general interest. The questions are simple, it is true, but we prefer to elicit practical answers from our readers, and hope to be able to make this column of inquiries and answers a popular and useful feature of the paper.]


1.—Emery Wheels.—Can I make emery wheels similar to those used in a foot lathe, that will answer for sharpening fine tools, such as gouges, rounds, and hollows, and if so, how shall I proceed?—F. W.