46 HISTOLOGY OF MEDICINAL PLANTS 
well to accustom oneself to one type, for by so doing one may 
become dexterous in its use. 
NEEDLES 
Two dissecting needles (Fig. 48) should form a part of the 
histologist’s mounting set. The handles mav be of any material, 
Fic. 48.—Dissecting Needle 
but the needle should be of tempered steel and about two inches 
long. 
SCISSORS 
Almost any sort of scissors (Fig. 49) will do for histology 
work. but a small scissors with fine pointed blades, are preferred. 
Fic. 49.—Scissors 
Scissors are useful in trimming labels and in cutting strips of 
leaves and sections of fibrous roots that are to be embedded 
and cut. 
SCALPELS 
Scalpels (Fig. 50) have steel blades and ebony handles. 
These vary in regard to size and quality of material. The 
cheaper grades are quite as satisfactory, however, as the more 
expensive ones, and for general use a medium-sized blade and 
handle will be found most useful. 
TURNTABLE 
Much time and energy may be saved by ringing slides on a 
turntable (Fig. 51). There is a flat surface upon which to rest 
the hand holding the brush with cement, and a revolving table 
