160 MINERALOGY AND 



pieces of a large size ; specimens from two and a 

 half to three inches, and about an inch and a half 

 thick are sufficient. He will only take large masses 

 when they contain a fossil animal. 



To pack the specimens, we first cover them with 

 fine paper ; above this paper we put that on which 

 the note is written, then a second fine paper, which 

 we cover with tow, and envelope the whole in brown 

 paper. We then arrange all the specimens in a 

 case, close upon one another, filling the interstices 

 with cut paper or tow, so that the whole forms a 

 mass, which nothing can disturb. The case should 

 be covered with pitch, to defend it from air and 

 damp. 



We have a few words to add respecting the 

 packing. When the cases are filled, closed, and 

 covered with pitch, they should be enveloped in 

 an oiled canvass, and placed in a part of the vessel 

 where they may remain until their arrival ; shel- 

 tered as much as possible from excessive heat, and 

 out of the reach of rats. It is desirable that they 

 should not be opened or unpacked at the Quays, or 

 Custom-houses, or until they reach their destin- 

 ation, as there is always a risk of their being bro- 

 ken or injured.* 



* Having separated a specimen from the rock, its sides or 

 edges should be broken or reproduced with the small hammer, 

 (striking the specimen as it rests in the palm of your hand,) in 



