762 SCIENTIFIC RECREATIONS. 



vincial districts, where lamp-glasses are not plentiful, this characteristic 

 will be appreciated. The lamp can only be filled when it is extinguished, 

 and thus the chances of explosion are practically obviated. A burner of 

 twelve lines will give double the light of a moderator of the same capacity, 

 and cost only a penny or less per hour. The light is perfectly still and 

 clear. 



A NEW TAP. 



This new tap is the invention of M. Guyonnet, a Frenchman. The 

 illustration (fig. 890) gives a very good idea of its construction, and it 

 permits the gradual release of the liquid without any of the sudden rush 

 which ordinary taps, or " bungs," are apt to do. The plug is covered with 



Fig. 890. A new tap. 



indiarubber, and follows a double curve, which reduces the force of the 

 liquid, and the indiarubber removes any incrustation from the bung hole 

 into which it may be fitted, and closes the aperture effectively without 

 force. 



In order to guard against a contingency, which, however, is an unlikely 

 one, the " envelope " (casing) has been made in two pieces, one of which can 

 never be displaced ; the head only can be moved, and it is easily de- 

 tached. The plug adapts itself to the aperture as a button to the button- 

 hole,, and only costs about three halfpence (15 centimes). Ice has no effect 

 upon the aperture of the barrel, thanks to the indiarubber covering of the 

 plug. So, altogether, such a tap will be found useful and very cheap. 



THE TRAPEZE AND SWING. 



We may here notice the simple trapeze and swing for children, which 

 can be easily fitted up in any house between two rooms. The advantages 

 of gymnastics for the young are incontestable, but practically there are 

 difficulties in the way, particularly for those living in towns, but a skilful 



