and Laboratory Methods. 



2639 



from a model with frequent liftings of the pen or 

 with a stopping of its motion. Such lapping of 

 lines and uneven ink distribution is shown by the 

 microscope with astonishing clearness, especially 

 under transmitted light observation. 



Fraudulent documents are frequently brought 

 forward, purporting to be several years of age, which 

 in reality are only a few days or weeks old, and on 

 which the writing fluid or iron nutgall ink still re- 

 tains a distinct blue color and has not nearly reached 

 its ultimate degree of blackness. A view of such 

 writing under magnification in good daylight shows 

 its exact tint, which, when made a matter of record 

 may be compared with the tint and shade of the 

 same ink at a later period when it may have turned 

 entirely black, which would show conclusively that 

 the document is fraudulent and not several years of 

 age. 



In the examination of questioned typewriting the 

 microscope is necessary to show comparisons, 

 measurements and numerous conditions bearing 

 upon the genuineness and identity of such docu- 

 ments. 



There are many other uses for the microscope 

 in such examinations, but enough has been specified 

 to show its importance. In many instances it is the 

 compass that guides to the truth. 



High power magnification in these various ex- 

 aminations is not usually required nor desirable, 

 and the process of microscopic examination is very 

 simple, and, with properly constructed instruments, 



judge and jury or any unskilled but intelligent observer can, with proper as- 

 sistance, verify all testimony based upon microscopic examinations so that such 



Fig. 2. — Crossed lines showing 

 that amount in the case of a 

 raised note was written after 

 the name of the bank below it. 

 Actual lines only i/ioo of an 

 inch in width. Without the 

 microscope the facts could not 

 be shown. 



Fig. 3. — Crossed lines; vertical lines first made. Narrowest line 1/150 

 of an inch in width. Phenomena invisible without the microscope. 



