No. n^.] 855 



the produce of grain scanty. The bones of animals contain this 

 phosphate of lime, and it has for half a century been customary 

 to apply them in a crushed or broken form to the soil to fit it for 

 the healthy growth of luxuriant crops of corn. But chemistry 

 established the fact that certain stones and rocky masses which 

 occur in various parts of the earth, contain the same phosphate 

 of lime. It has recently, therefore advised the grower of grain 

 to take advantage of these mineral masses. And now, after pre- 

 vious preparation, by a simple chemical process, they ale exten- 

 sively employed to impart fertility to the soil. The proportions 

 constituting the phosphate of lime are 23 lime added to 28 of 

 phosphoric acid. In the account of the temptation of our Sav- 

 ior, the tempter said, " If thou be the Son of God, command 

 that these stones be made bread." It is done. 



It is a matter of great gratification that this subject now occu- 

 pies journals of such distinguished rank as the Edinburgh and 

 London Reviews. H. Meigs, Secretary. 



Maj. Farrington was introduced by Prof. Mapes, and said: — 

 Mr. Chairman — In describing the mine of phosphate of lime, 

 located in Morris county, New Jersey, I shall not long detain 

 you in giving a geographical description. It will be sufficient to 

 state that it is in Jefferson township near the head of Erookland 

 Pond, and that boats navigating the Morris canal, can load within 

 a few hundred yards of the mine. Its geological position is in- 

 teresting, as it appears to be an intrusive mass or vein cutting, 

 through primitive formations. Sienite lies each side of it, and 

 is the prevailing rock of the district. Its course is from N. E. 

 to S. W., having a dip to the southeast. The phosphate of lime 

 is associated with magnetic pyrites. The vein of lime is over 

 four feet in width and widens as it descends. The shaft has not 

 been sunk more than 30 feet. This mine and the mining rights, 

 covering an area of several thousand acres around it, are the 

 property of an incorporated company who are making arrange- 

 ments to work or mine the phosphate on an extensive scale. 

 The supply, hoAvever, will be limited until time is expended in 

 sinking larger and deeper shafts. Not more than one thousand 

 tons per month can be mined at one shaft, working night and day. 



