404 Proceedings of the Society of Arts. 



Sec, R.S.E., M.S. A. — Thanks. Referred to a committee. The object of 

 tins interesting paper, was to shew the advantages that would result from 

 the formation of such establishments in Great Britain, which, by the faci- 

 lity they afforded to the diffusion throughout the country of the purest 

 models for instruction and imitation, would improve the taste and execu- 

 tion, not merely of artists, but of artisans and manufacturers, and at the 

 same time raise the standard of public feeling, and create a demand for 

 works of a superior class, in every department of the arts. The benefits 

 which had resulted from the adoption of this plan in France were satis- 

 factorily shewn, where the artisan, when he wants to aid his invention, 

 can easily procure from the Louvre, at a cheap rate, such classic models 

 US suit his purpose, and, working with these before his eyes, fresh in his 

 recollection, or within reach of constant reference, his hand becomes ac- 

 customed to obey the eye and the imagination in producing chaste and 

 "beautiful forms with fidelity, promptitude, and facility. 



After remarks from the President and several members in approbation 

 of Mr Wilson's communication, and of the measure it proposed, a com- 

 mittee was appointed to consider in what manner the Society could best 

 promote its success. The Society unanimously resolved that Mr Wilson's 

 paper should be printed. 



It appears that the formation of such establishments in this country 

 had been suggested by the author's father, Mr Andrew Wilson, now re- 

 siding in Italy, and well known as a distinguished artist and man of 

 taste, in a communication made to the Board of Trustees here last sum- 

 mer. It is understood that this board, which deserves so much credit for 

 the taste and judgment with which they have selected the admirable col- 

 lection of casts in the gallery of the Institution, and which they have 

 opened with so much liberality to the public, are taking a warm interest 

 in the promotion of the measures. 



2. A Substitute for a Mortoise Lock was exhibited, being an im- 

 proved specimen of a construction which was formerly shewn to the So- 

 ciety. By Sir John Roblson. Thanks. 



3. On a mode of depriving the Mucilage of Lichens of disagreeable 

 taste and odour. By Mr G. Black, College Post-Office, Edinburgh. 

 With illustrative specimens in phials. Referred to a committee. 



4. Description of an improved Nut for leading screws. By Edward 

 Sang, civil-engineer and machinist, Edinburgh, F.R.S.E., M.S.A. The 

 nut and drawings were exhibited. Referred to a committee. 



5. Letter on the subject of Alphabets for the Blind ; with specimens 

 of an alphabet, the letters of which are raised with a stllletto, which she 

 has employed in teaching the blind to read. By Miss Margaret Banks, 

 formerly of Newlngton, Edinburgh, now at Bewdley. — Thanks. Re- 

 mitted to the standing committee. 



6. Donation. — The eleventh Report by the Directors of the Asylum for 

 the Blind, Glasgow ; dated 15th January 1838. Presented by John Al- 

 ton^ Es(j. of Rosemount^ Hon. M.S.A. — Thanks. 



