650 TRANSACTIONS OF THE 



style, inasmuch as it was less labor for man, and saved the lives 

 of useful animals, being much cheaper every way. He then ex- 

 plained his machine and its peculiar structure, at some length. 

 Its construction is similar to a locomotive, only on a miniature 

 scale. Four plows abreast follow the locomotive; then comes a 

 tender containing fuel; connected with this, is a harrow and 

 seed planter, so that all the operations, plowing, harrowing and 

 planting, can be conducted at one time. Only one man is required 

 to work the machine. 



Mr. Tilman remarked, that it was astonishing that England 

 had taken such decided action in reference to steam plows, as 

 that kingdom swarmed with laborers whose wages were a mere 

 trifle; but he thought there was little danger of the plows driving 

 out the laborers. He spoke of a plan consisting of two engines, 

 one on each side of the field, drawing the plows from side to side 

 by means of wires. Also of the plan of the locomotive running 

 about the field drawing the plow, harrow, and feeder. He 

 thought the weight of the macliine would be an insuperable 

 objection; mentioned the State of Illinois as specially adapted to 

 these plows, if they can be only made practicable. 



The President made a few remarks on the subject. Mr. Fisher 

 moved that Mr. Dyack be requested to leave a plan of his inven- 

 tion to be placed in the archives of the society, which was carried. 



The subject for the next meeting is, " The cut-off of steam 

 engines." 



The Club adjourned. H. MEIGS, Secretary. 



January 27, 1858. 



Present — Messrs. Tillman, Stetson, Waterman, Fisher, Butler, 

 Haskell, Genio Scott, Allen, Wm. B. Leonard, Roosevelt, and oth- 

 ers — twenty members in all. 



Mr. Thomas B. Stillman being absent on account of indisposi- 

 tion, Mr. Tillman was in the chair. Henry Meigs, Secretary. 



The subject being " The cut-ott" in steam engines," several mem- 

 bers requested Mr. Stetson to open the discussion. 



Mr. Stetson illustrated by drawings on the black board the sci- 

 ence of cut-offs, and explained their construction and operation. 



