8 Anthracite formation of Wilkesbarre, &c. 
scientific, but with mercantile views, we have every reason 
to confide in the truth of the statement of facts, having often 
heard them from other, and those disinterested persons, of 
probity and intelligence. As the subject is one of national 
importance, and appears not to be extensively understood, 
we subjoin some certificates of practical men as to the value 
of this coal in different arts, depending on fire.-—Eprror. } 
LEHIGH COAL. 
The importance and value of this coal for manufacturing 
as well as for domestic purposes, is not generally known ; 
but its use is rapidly extending, it having been found equal, if 
not preferable, to other fuel for most of the purposes to 
which it has been applied. For nailing, for the rolling and 
slitting of iron, malting, distilling, evaporation of salts, for 
steam engines, where the furnace is properly constructed ; 
for all these purposes it is entitled to a decided preference. 
It produces a regular, steady heat, without smoke or un- 
pleasant smell, and makes a most durable fire. Producing 
no soot, the pipe or chimney can never become foul, or be 
in danger of taking fire. Neither will the misery of a smoky 
chimney ever be endured where this fuel is used. 
For blacksmiths use, it is superior to the bituminous coal 
for all general purposes, except, perhaps where a large 
hollow fire is required, for very heavy work. Some alteration, 
however, is necessary in the tue (twyer?) iron. The gud- 
geons of the bellows ought to be placed four or five inches 
above the level of the nose of the pipe; the back of the 
fireplace should be brought up slanting back, so that part 
of the fire may rest on it; the hearth should be filled up to 
nearly level with the bottom of the tue iron, and some little 
skill is requisite to keep the fire open, which is soor 
acquired. 
When we take into view the trouble attending the making 
of charcoal, that not every kind of wood will answer, 
(hickory, maple, gum and chesnut being the wood generally 
used for this purpose,) the nightly watching while in the pit. 
where even in spite of every care it is often entirely con-~ 
sumed ; the waste and destruction it causes of timber, which: 
might be applied to more valuable purposes; and that with 
one bushel of this mineral charcoal, as much work may be 
